REAPER

Name: REAPER
Brand: REAPER
Price: 60 USD
Rating: 4.7 (88 reviews)

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Record, edit, mix, and master audio and MIDI with a customizable DAW

Audio Editing Music Production Video & Media

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4.7(88 across the web)

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Reviews onG2Capterra

88 reviews tracked

The Bottom Line

Entry price

Paid plans only

Biggest pro

Very affordable

Biggest con

Steeper learning curve

TL;DR - REAPER

Affordable professional digital audio workstation
Highly customizable with scripting
Low resource usage with full features

Pricing: Paid only

Best for: Enterprises & pros

4.7/5 across review platforms

What is REAPER?

Editorial review

REAPER is a complete digital audio production application offering multitrack audio and MIDI recording, editing, processing, mixing, and mastering. Known for its tiny footprint, fast performance, and deeply customizable interface. Supports VST, AU, and other plugin formats. Features scripting for automation and custom actions. Affordable licensing with a generous trial period. Trusted by professionals and hobbyists who want powerful DAW capabilities at a fraction of the cost.

Available on: Windows, macOS, Linux

LCLouis CorneloupUpdated Jul 20, 2026 · how we evaluateSourcereaper.fm ↗

Pros & Cons

Pros

Very affordable
Lightweight
Powerful

Cons

Steeper learning curve
UI takes getting used to

Ratings Across the Web

4.7(88 reviews)

REAPER holds an aggregate rating of 4.7 out of 5 from 88 reviews across G2 and Capterra, last checked September 17, 2026.

Ratings aggregated from independent review platforms. Learn more

Key Features

Multi-track recordingMIDI supportVST pluginsCustomizable UILow CPU usageAffordable licensing

Pricing Plans

60-day Free Trial

Pricing checked Sep 14, 2026

Discounted

$60/one-time

Under $20K revenue
Full features
Updates through v8.99
Cross-platform

Commercial

$225/one-time

Over $20K revenue
Full features
Updates through v8.99
DRM-free

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Is REAPER worth the price?

98/100

REAPER's pricing is exceptionally fair and generous compared to the market.

A one-time payment of $60 for the Discounted license or $225 for Commercial provides full features and updates for a major version cycle, which is a steal for a professional DAW. It's best for anyone from hobbyists to professional studios looking for a powerful, cost-effective audio production solution.

Hidden Costs & Gotchas

No overage fees or seat minimums.

How REAPER's pricing compares

At $60/mo, REAPER is mid-range of its 3 direct competitors ($4.08 to $79/mo across the set).

Logic Pro

$4.08

Adobe Audition

$22.99

REAPER

$60

Ableton Live

$79

Entry paid plan, monthly. Pricing checked Sep 14, 2026.

Reviews

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4.7/5

Across 88 verified user reviews on Capterra, G2

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Best REAPER Alternatives

Top alternatives based on features, pricing, and user needs.

View full list →

Adobe AuditionPaid

Professional audio workstation

4.5

Logic ProPaid

The ultimate music creation experience for Mac and iPad with extensive instruments and effects.

4.7

AudacityFree

Record, edit, and mix audio with powerful, free tools

4.5

Ableton LivePaid

Create, produce, and perform music with innovative tools for MIDI, sound design, and live performance.

4.7

FL StudioPaid

Create, mix, and master professional-quality music with a complete digital audio workstation.

4.7

CubasePaid

Create, record, mix, and master music with a powerful digital audio workstation.

4.5

Studio OneFreemium

Create, record, mix, and master your music with an intuitive, all-in-one DAW.

3.4

See all audio editing tools →

Still deciding?

Most buyers shortlist 2 or 3 tools before committing. Pull a side-by-side comparison or browse the full alternatives shortlist below.

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REAPER FAQ

How does REAPER support comprehensive audio production workflows?

REAPER is a complete digital audio production application that supports multitrack audio and MIDI recording, editing, processing, mixing, and mastering. It offers a full suite of tools for creating and refining audio projects from start to finish.

Which teams or individuals would benefit most from using REAPER?

REAPER is ideal for both professionals and hobbyists who require powerful digital audio workstation (DAW) capabilities without the high cost. Its deep customization options also appeal to users who prefer to tailor their software environment.

How does REAPER compare to Ableton Live regarding user interface and learning?

While Ableton Live is known for its intuitive interface, REAPER has a steeper learning curve and its user interface may take some getting used to. However, REAPER offers extensive customization options once a user becomes familiar with it.

Can REAPER integrate with existing audio plugin libraries?

Yes, REAPER supports a wide array of plugin formats, including VST and AU. This allows users to integrate their existing collection of audio effects and instruments seamlessly into their production workflow.

What kind of customization options does REAPER provide for advanced users?

REAPER offers deep customization capabilities, including scripting for automation and custom actions. This allows users to tailor the software's behavior and interface to their specific production needs and preferences.

How is REAPER priced, and does it offer a free trial?

REAPER is a paid product, but it includes a generous trial period for users to evaluate its features. There is no permanently free tier available for the software.

What are the main trade-offs when choosing REAPER for audio production?

The primary trade-offs for REAPER include a steeper learning curve and a user interface that may require some adjustment. However, these are balanced by its affordability, lightweight design, and powerful features.

Source: reaper.fm

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