Side by side
GarageBand vs OpenStudio
Both stand on audio editing software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan iPhoneMac
GarageBand offers music creation, lessons, and sharing at no cost across Apple devices. Mac supports up to 255 tracks, while the iOS version supports up to 32.
Visit GarageBand Free plan LinuxMacWindows
Choose OpenStudio if you want a free desktop DAW with recording, MIDI, mixing, and plugin support across the three listed operating systems. Look elsewhere if you need a managed local AI runtime for an Intel Mac or require signed builds.
Visit OpenStudioThe facts
| GarageBand | OpenStudio | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | iPhone, Mac | Linux, Mac, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 2 | 1 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | apple.com | openstudio.org.in |
| On audio editing software | #16 of 131 | #20 of 131 |
GarageBand: what it does well
- Free on Mac, iPhone, and iPad
- Mac projects support up to 255 audio tracks
- iOS supports up to 32 tracks
- Includes 40 guitar and piano lessons
- Supports MIDI sequencing and third-party plugins
What to know first
- Does not support video synchronization
- iOS projects support fewer tracks than Mac projects
OpenStudio: what it does well
- Free, open-source app with no account required.
- Available for Windows, macOS, and Linux.
- Supports multitrack recording and MIDI sequencing tools.
- Hosts VST3, CLAP, and LV2 plugins.
- Exports stems and masters in five audio formats.
What to know first
- AI tools are separate from the base installer.
- Managed AI runtime currently targets Apple silicon, not Intel Macs.
- Builds are unsigned, according to the maker.
Alternatives to GarageBand Alternatives to OpenStudio The whole list