Side by side
Surge XT vs Virtual Drummer
Both stand on virtual instruments. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan Open source LinuxMacWindows
Surge XT offers a broad synthesis and modulation feature set at no cost, with plugin and standalone use. Check the available plugin formats for your operating system and note that plugin operation requires a compatible host.
Visit Surge XT Free plan MacWindows
Virtual Drummer combines drum plug-ins, MIDI routing, and per-drummer mixing controls across a range of styles. Check the free trial for compatibility, and note that personal sample import is not available.
Visit Virtual DrummerThe facts
| Surge XT | Virtual Drummer | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Yes | Not published |
| Runs on | Linux, Mac, Windows | Mac, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Virtual Drummer HEAVY 2: $9.52, paid once |
| Plans published | 1 | 10 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | surge-synthesizer.github.io | ujam.com |
| On virtual instruments | #2 of 33 | #6 of 33 |
Surge XT: what it does well
- Free and open source under GPL3.
- Includes over 2,800 patches and 700 wavetables.
- Supports MPE and two microtuning systems.
- Standalone executable is available.
- Users may commercially license output made with it.
What to know first
- Plugin use requires a DAW or compatible host.
- AAX builds are not distributed.
- Stable release identified is version 1.3.4.
Virtual Drummer: what it does well
- MIDI drag and drop into a DAW and Direct MIDI Out.
- Bundle lists eight drummers and 301 styles.
- Five kits and six mix presets per drummer.
- Free Odd Meter MIDI Pack has over 30 styles.
- Runs on macOS and Windows.
What to know first
- Does not currently allow importing personal samples.
- Requires 64-bit software.
- Virtual Drummer 2 Rack Extension lacks newer features, including MIDI drag and drop.
Alternatives to Surge XT Alternatives to Virtual Drummer The whole list