REAPER vs Audacity: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between REAPER and Audacity comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
REAPER
Digital audio workstation
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.7/10 vs 8.5/10)
- • Affordable professional digital audio workstation
- • Highly customizable with scripting
Audacity
Free audio editor
Best for you if:
- • You need something completely free
- • Free audio editing
- • Multi-track recording
| At a Glance |  REAPER |  Audacity |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Free |
Best For | Audio Editing | Audio Editing |
Rating | 87/100 | 85/100 |
| Feature | REAPER | Audacity |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Free |
| Editorial Score | 87 | 85 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 71 | 0 |
| Categories | Audio EditingMusic Production | Audio EditingMusic Production |
Understanding the Differences
Both REAPER and Audacity solve similar problems, but they approach them differently.REAPER positions itself as "digital audio workstation" while Audacityfocuses on "free audio editor". These differences matter depending on what you're trying to accomplish.
When to Choose REAPER
REAPER makes sense if you're looking for a comprehensive paid solution. With a score of 87/100, it's our top pick in this comparison.
When to Choose Audacity
Audacity is worth considering if you need a free tool.
Who Should Use What?
Bootstrapped or small team?
Audacity won't cost you anything to start, which is exactly what early-stage teams need.
We'd pick: Audacity
Growing fast?
Your team doubled last quarter and you need tools that won't break when you add 50 more people. REAPER handles scale better in our testing.
We'd pick: REAPER
Enterprise with complex needs?
You need SSO, compliance certifications, and a support team that picks up the phone. REAPER is built for organizations like yours.
We'd pick: REAPER
Still not sure? Answer these 3 questions
How much can you spend?
Zero budget? Audacity won't cost you anything.
Do you care what other users think?
Both have similar review counts. Read a few before you commit.
Expert opinion or crowd wisdom?
Our team rated REAPER higher (87/100). But the community has upvoted REAPER more (71 votes). Pick your source of truth.
Key Takeaways
What REAPER Does Better
- Higher overall score (87/100)
- More community upvotes
- Our recommendation for most use cases
Consider Audacity If
- You need a completely free solution
- Its specific features better match your workflow
- You prefer its interface or design approach
The Bottom Line
If we had to pick one, we'd go with REAPER (87/100). But the honest answer is that "better" depends on your situation. REAPER scores higher in our analysis, but Audacity might be the right choice if its specific strengths align with what you need most. Take advantage of free trials to test both before committing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is REAPER or Audacity better?
Based on our analysis, REAPER scores higher with 87/100. REAPER ispaid while Audacity is free. The best choice depends on your specific needs and budget. We recommend testing both with free trials if available.
Can I switch from REAPER to Audacity easily?
Migration difficulty varies. Check if both tools support data export/import in compatible formats. Some tools offer migration assistance or have integration partners who can help with the transition.
Do REAPER and Audacity offer free trials?
Most software in this category offers free trials or free tiers. REAPER is paid with potential trial.Audacity is completely free. Visit their websites for current trial offers.