Cubase vs Studio One: Pricing and Ratings Compared (2026)
Entry prices and free plans as read on each vendor's pricing page, and user ratings as published on review sites, for Cubase and Studio One side by side. This page compares data; it is not a hands-on review.
On the data: On the data below, Cubase leads on higher user rating; Studio One leads on a free plan. We do not name an overall winner for this pair.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
Based on published vendor pricing and features and on public review data, here's who should pick what:
Cubase
Create, record, mix, and master music with a powerful digital audio workstation.
Best for you if:
- • You want extensive feature set for all aspects of music production
Studio One
Create, record, mix, and master your music with an intuitive, all-in-one DAW.
Best for you if:
- • You want a free tier before you commit
| At a Glance | Cubase | Studio One |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | Not published | Free plan |
Category | Audio Editing Music Production | Audio Editing Music Production |
Rating | 4.5/5 Capterra 4.6 · G2 4.3 171 reviews | 3.4/5 Trustpilot 1.4 · G2 4.4 · Capterra 4.8 200 reviews |
Free plan | No | Yes |
Choose Cubase or Studio One?
Choose Cubase if
- You want extensive feature set for all aspects of music production
- You want high-quality audio engine
Choose Studio One if
- You want a free tier before you commit
- You want user-friendly interface and workflow
- You want excellent sound quality
In-Depth Analysis
Cubase
Create, record, mix, and master music with a powerful digital audio workstation.
Strengths
- Pro: Extensive feature set for all aspects of music production
- Pro: High-quality audio engine
- Pro: Flexible and customizable workflow
- Pro: Large library of included instruments and effects
- Pro: Strong MIDI editing capabilities
Weaknesses
- Con: Can have a steep learning curve for new users
- Con: Higher price point compared to some entry-level DAWs
- Con: Resource-intensive, requiring a powerful computer
Key features
Studio One
Create, record, mix, and master your music with an intuitive, all-in-one DAW.
Strengths
- Pro: User-friendly interface and workflow
- Pro: Excellent sound quality
- Pro: Comprehensive feature set for entire production process
- Pro: Regular updates and new features
- Pro: Good value for money, especially with Sphere subscription
Weaknesses
- Con: Steep learning curve for some advanced features
- Con: Native instruments and effects can be less extensive than some competitors
- Con: Requires a powerful computer for demanding projects
Key features
Key Takeaways
Cubase
- Higher user rating: 4.5/5 vs 3.4/5
Studio One
- Has a free plan
What the data shows
On the data below, Cubase leads on higher user rating; Studio One leads on a free plan. We do not name an overall winner for this pair.
- Cubase has the higher user rating (4.5/5 from 171 reviews for Cubase, 3.4/5 from 200 reviews for Studio One).
- Only Studio One has a free plan.
Criteria: user rating (only above 20 reviews on both sides, gap of 0.2 or more), entry price (only on the same billing basis), free plan. How we rate
Frequently Asked Questions
How do Cubase and Studio One compare in 2026?
On the data below, Cubase leads on higher user rating; Studio One leads on a free plan. We do not name an overall winner for this pair. Cubase has the higher user rating (4.5/5 from 171 reviews for Cubase, 3.4/5 from 200 reviews for Studio One). Only Studio One has a free plan.
What are Cubase and Studio One used for?
Cubase: Create, record, mix, and master music with a powerful digital audio workstation. Studio One: Create, record, mix, and master your music with an intuitive, all-in-one DAW.
What does Cubase cost vs Studio One?
Cubase has no public paid-plan price on file. Studio One has no public paid-plan price on file. Prices read on the vendors' pricing pages, latest check Oct 15, 2026.
What's the main difference between Cubase and Studio One?
Cubase's main strength: extensive feature set for all aspects of music production. Studio One's main strength: user-friendly interface and workflow.