Audacity vs REAPER: which should you use on Windows?
Audacity is a free audio editor, and REAPER is a full digital audio workstation with a low-cost licence after its evaluation period. They overlap for recording, but aim at different users.
Short answer
For podcasts, voice-overs and quick clean-up, Audacity is enough and free. For music production with many tracks, instruments and plugins, REAPER is far more capable. Check REAPER's licence terms on its site before you commit.
Side by side
| Audacity | REAPER | |
|---|---|---|
| Made by | Audacity Team | Cockos Incorporated |
| Licence | Free | Trial |
| Latest version we list | 4.0.2 | 7.84 |
| Last updated | 3 Nov 2026 | 2 Nov 2026 |
| Download size | 15 MB | — |
| Windows versions | Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8 | Windows 11, Windows 10 |
| Recommended for | Video Creators & YouTubers, Musicians & Audio | Musicians & Audio |
| Install with winget | Audacity.Audacity | Cockos.REAPER |
| Official site | audacityteam.org | reaper.fm |
Choose Audacity if
- You record and edit voice, podcasts or interviews
- You need noise reduction and simple effects
- You want software that is free with no conditions
Choose REAPER if
- You produce music with many tracks
- You use virtual instruments and VST plugins
- You want routing and mixing like a professional studio
Strengths and weaknesses
Audacity
Pros
- Powerful editing
- Lots of effects
Cons
- Interface feels old
REAPER
Pros
- Very light on resources
- Fully functional evaluation
- Highly customisable
Cons
- Busy interface for beginners
- Few built-in instruments