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Best Free Audio Editing Softwares: Top Picks for Music, Podcasts & More (2025)

In 2025, free audio editing softwares gives creators the same power once locked behind expensive studios. From noise reduction to multi-track mixing, today’s tools deliver professional results for music, podcasts, and video. This guide explores the top free options to help you find the perfect editor for your creative projects.
Supriya Sharma
Supriya Sharma
Last updated:
September 29, 2025
18
Min Read
AI Dubbing
Best Free Audio Editing Softwares: Top Picks for Music, Podcasts & More (2025)
Table of Contents
Table of Contents

High-quality audio can make or break a video, podcast, or music track. What once required expensive studio tools is now possible with free, professional-grade audio editing softwares. In 2025, creators of all kinds, such as musicians, podcasters, YouTubers, and hobbyists, have access to platforms offering multi-track editing, AI-powered enhancements, and studio-level effects without the cost barrier.

From noise reduction and vocal isolation to AI-driven dubbing and mastering, today’s free tools rival many premium solutions. Independent podcasters are producing broadcast-ready episodes, musicians are crafting release-quality tracks, and content creators are leveling up their productions, all without paying for traditional DAWs.

This guide explores the best free audio editors available right now, whether you’re a beginner experimenting with sound or an experienced creator looking for advanced capabilities.

Why Choose Free Audio Editing Tools in 2025?

Choosing the best free audio editing softwares in 2025 enables teams to reallocate substantial license budgets toward content growth while still accessing pro-grade features.

Why Choose Free Audio Editing Tools in 2025

Image Source: CyberLink

The global audio editing market is growing at a CAGR of 10.23% annually, and open-source communities match that pace with rapid releases and security patches that rival commercial cycles.

Tools like Audacity now bundle multitrack mixing, spectral repair, and VST/AU plugin support, capabilities that cost hundreds of dollars just a few years ago. This combination of zero cost and continuous innovation makes free solutions a strategic advantage for small and medium creative teams.

You don’t even need to consider the “lite” versions of popular paid tools; today’s best free audio editor options integrate AI noise reduction, cloud collaboration, and wide-gamut export formats, letting files move seamlessly into video or learning pipelines.

Also, broad plugin compatibility ensures musicians can load synths, podcasters can automate loudness, and educators can tailor voice clarity without switching apps. 

Top Picks at a Glance

If you’re in a hurry, check out our detailed comparison of the best free audio editing program options available in 2025, covering features, platforms, and ideal use cases to help you choose the perfect tool for your needs.

Tool Platform Availability Key Strengths Best For Notable Features
Audacity Windows, Mac, Linux Multi-track editing, extensive format support, plugin compatibility Podcasts, voice editing, music production Noise reduction, spectral editing, unlimited tracks
Ocenaudio Windows, Mac, Linux Fast performance, intuitive interface, real-time preview Quick edits, beginners, audio cleanup VST plugin support, cross-platform audio selection
WavePad Windows, Mac, iOS, Android User-friendly audio restoration tools and mobile support Audio restoration, simple editing Click/pop removal, echo/reverb effects, batch processing
GarageBand Mac, iOS only Complete DAW, virtual instruments, seamless Apple integration Music production, songwriting, mobile recording 255 tracks, Apple Loops library, built-in drummer
Audiotool Web browser Browser-based, collaborative features, no installation Online collaboration, electronic music Modular synthesizers, cloud-based projects, and real-time collaboration
Pro Tools Intro Windows, Mac Professional workflow, industry-standard tools, and expanded synth included Professional recording, learning Pro Tools 28 total tracks (8 audio + 8 MIDI + 8 instrument + 4 aux), 15 effects plugins
Cakewalk by BandLab Windows only Unlimited tracks, 64-bit audio engine, professional mixing console Advanced music production, multi-track recording VocalSync tool, ProChannel mixing, customizable interface
LMMS Windows, Mac, Linux Pattern-based sequencing, built-in synthesizers, and MIDI support Electronic music, beat making, loop-based composition Step sequencer, automation support, VST compatibility
AudioMass Web browser No installation required, open-source, privacy-focused Quick online edits, traveling producers Runs entirely in the browser, no backend required, waveform editing
BandLab Web, iOS, Android Cloud-based, collaborative, 16-track mobile studio Social collaboration, mobile production, and beginners 330+ MIDI instruments, auto-mastering, cross-device sync

Deep Dive: Best Free Audio Editing Softwares

Now let's explore each of the best free audio editing programs in detail, examining their unique strengths, potential limitations, and ideal use cases to help you choose the perfect tool for your specific audio editing needs.

Audacity

Audacity

According to most of its users, Audacity is the best free audio editor. It remains the gold standard of free audio editing, celebrating 25 years of continuous development and innovation.

This cross-platform powerhouse delivers professional-grade features without cost, making it the world's most popular audio editing software with millions of downloads across Windows, Mac, and Linux systems.

Audacity is 100% free and is the most popular free audio editing software. It is an open-source software with no hidden costs, subscription fees, or feature limitations.

✅ Pros ❌ Cons
  • Completely free with no limitations
  • Cross-platform compatibility (Windows, Mac, Linux)
  • Unlimited multi-track editing and mixing
  • Extensive plugin support (VST, LADSPA, LV2, VST3, Audio Units)
  • Professional noise reduction and restoration tools
  • Active community support and tutorials
  • Interface feels dated compared to modern editors
  • Export requires a separate FFmpeg installation for some formats
  • Limited built-in virtual instruments
  • No native cloud sync or collaboration features
  • CPU-intensive for complex projects
  • Mobile app not available

Who should choose Audacity?

Podcasters seeking professional audio cleanup, musicians producing full albums, audio restoration projects, students learning sound engineering, and anyone needing powerful, free song editing software without budget constraints.

Audacity's multi-track capabilities and effect processing make it ideal for complex audio projects that rival paid alternatives.

[Download Audacity]

Ocenaudio

Oceanaudio

Ocenaudio stands out as one of the best free audio editing software for beginners seeking a professional-grade editor without complexity. It is a cross-platform tool and offers real-time effect previews and an intuitive interface that rivals paid alternatives.

Built on the powerful Ocen Framework, Ocenaudio delivers exceptional performance through advanced memory management, allowing seamless editing of files several hours long without consuming system resources.

Some users consider it a great alternative to Audacity for single-track editing, user experience, and workflow efficiency.

✅ Pros ❌ Cons
  • Real-time effect preview while adjusting controls
  • Lightweight, fast performance with large files
  • Intuitive, clean interface perfect for beginners
  • VST plugin support for expanded functionality
  • Advanced memory management system
  • Cross-platform compatibility (Windows, Mac, Linux)
  • Spectrogram view with real-time analysis
  • Limited to single-file editing (no multitrack)
  • Smaller effect library compared to Audacity
  • No built-in virtual instruments
  • Cannot open multiple files simultaneously
  • Limited mobile app availability
  • Fewer community tutorials available
  • Less extensive format support

Who should choose Ocenaudio?

Podcast editors needing quick audio cleanup, beginners learning audio fundamentals, content creators requiring efficient single-file editing, and users wanting professional results without Audacity's complexity.

Ocenaudio excels as the best free software for audio editing when speed and simplicity matter most.

[Download Ocenaudio]

WavePad

Wavepad

WavePad by NCH Software positions itself as a comprehensive, best free audio editing program that bridges the gap between basic editors and professional studios.

Just like Audacity and Ocenaudio, it is a cross-platform solution that offers sophisticated audio restoration tools, batch processing capabilities, and an extensive sound effects library, making it particularly valuable for creators who need advanced features without the complexity of full DAWs.

WavePad specializes in restoration features like click-pop removal and noise reduction that rival expensive dedicated software. The free version provides substantial functionality, though advanced features require upgrading to the Master's Edition.

✅ Pros ❌ Cons
  • Advanced audio restoration tools (click-pop removal, noise reduction)
  • Batch processing for multiple file operations
  • Extensive sound effects library with royalty-free clips
  • VST plugin support (Master's Edition)
  • Cross-platform availability (Windows, Mac, iOS, Android)
  • Professional spectral analysis and FFT tools
  • Support for 50+ audio formats
  • The free version has watermarks on video exports
  • Some professional features are locked behind a paywall
  • The interface can feel overwhelming for beginners
  • Text-to-speech requires email registration
  • Voice changer requires a separate app installation
  • Limited free trial period for advanced features
  • Occasional stability issues with large projects

Who should choose WavePad?

Audio restoration specialists who want to clean up old recordings, podcast producers needing batch processing workflows, content creators requiring royalty-free sound effects, and users transitioning from basic editors to professional tools.

WavePad can be a good choice when you need good restoration qualities and workflow efficiency.

[Download WavePad]

GarageBand

GarageBand

Apple's GarageBand remains the undisputed champion of best free song editing software for Mac and iOS users, offering a complete digital audio workstation that rivals expensive professional software.

Exclusively available on Apple platforms, GarageBand transforms music creation from complex studio work into an intuitive, touch-based experience, making it the perfect entry point for aspiring musicians and seasoned creators alike.

The iOS version introduces unique Live Loops functionality and touch instruments that feel more natural than traditional MIDI controllers, while the Mac version provides advanced automation and mixing capabilities.

✅ Pros ❌ Cons
  • Completely free with no limitations or watermarks
  • Massive library of 7,000+ royalty-free Apple Loops
  • Professional-quality virtual instruments included
  • Seamless integration with Logic Pro for upgrades
  • Touch instruments on iOS feel incredibly natural
  • 255 audio tracks support on the Mac version
  • Built-in amp simulators and effects
  • Apple ecosystem only (Mac/iOS exclusively)
  • Projects don't transfer from the Mac to the iOS version
  • Limited third-party plugin support compared to competitors
  • Only three time signatures are available on iOS
  • No master track automation on the iOS version
  • Steeper learning curve for advanced features
  • Export options are more limited on iOS

Who should choose GarageBand?

Mac and iOS users who want to create original music, or someone who wants to learn music production, and songwriters experimenting with arrangements.

GarageBand excels as the best free audio editing software when seamless Apple integration, extensive loop libraries, and professional virtual instruments matter most for creative projects.

[Download GarageBand]

Audiotool

Audiotool

Audiotool revolutionizes music production as the world's most advanced free audio editing software that runs entirely in your browser without any installation required.

It works inside your web browser as a professional recording studio, offering modular synthesizers, drum machines, and real-time collaboration tools that rival expensive desktop DAWs.

The standout feature is Audiotool's unique modular approach, users can drag and connect virtual cables between devices just like early electronic music producers.

✅ Pros ❌ Cons
  • Completely browser-based with no installation needed
  • Real-time collaboration with multiple users simultaneously, with integrated video, audio, and text chat
  • Over 1 million samples from partners like Loopmasters and 200,000 community-created presets
  • Modular workflow mirrors classic electronic music setup
  • Cloud storage ensures project access from any device
  • Active community for sharing and remixing tracks
  • Requires a stable internet connection for optimal performance
  • Limited to electronic music production styles
  • Browser-based interface can experience latency issues
  • Learning curve for modular synthesis concepts
  • Limitations on mobile devices
  • No offline editing capabilities

Who should choose Audiotool?

Audiotool excels as the best free software for audio editing for electronic music producers seeking collaborative workflows, beatmakers wanting instant access to professional tools, educators teaching modular synthesis concepts, and traveling musicians needing studio access from any computer.

[Signup for Audiotool]

Avid Pro Tools Intro

Avid Pro Tools Intro is a powerful entry point into professional audio engineering for beginners. For users seeking professional recording workflows, Pro Tools Intro offers industry-standard features that mirror real studio environments.

Unlike discontinued Pro Tools First, Intro runs on the same code base as the full Pro Tools suite, ensuring compatibility with industry-standard workflows while providing aspiring engineers access to the software that shapes commercial recordings worldwide.

✅ Pros ❌ Cons
  • Industry-standard Pro Tools workflow and interface
  • Same codebase as full Pro Tools versions
  • 35 professional Avid effects included
  • Full AAX plugin compatibility with third-party tools
  • Xpand! 2 virtual instrument with 2,500+ presets
  • Standard .ptx session format compatibility
  • Up to 192kHz/32-bit recording quality
  • No iLok hardware dongle required
  • Track limitations (8 audio, 8 instrument, 8 MIDI, 4 aux)
  • Stereo-only recording (no surround sound)
  • No video tracks or VCA support
  • Maximum 4 simultaneous recording inputs
  • No offline bounce feature
  • Cannot create cloud collaboration invites

Who should choose Avid Pro Tools Intro?

Aspiring audio engineers seeking to master industry-standard techniques, musicians transitioning from basic editing tools to professional software, students preparing for careers in recording studios, and freelance producers collaborating with Pro Tools users.

[Download Avid Pro Tools Intro]

Cakewalk by BandLab

Cakewalk by BandLab

Cakewalk by BandLab stands as Windows' most powerful and best free audio editing software, offering a complete professional Digital Audio Workstation that rivals expensive competitors like Pro Tools and Logic Pro.

BandLab acquired the entire codebase of SONAR Platinum and made it completely free, delivering unlimited tracks, a 64-bit audio engine, and professional mixing capabilities without any restrictions.

Cakewalk's legendary ProChannel, a modular mixing console featuring vintage console emulations, tape machine models, and premium effects that can be applied to any track.

✅ Pros ❌ Cons
  • Completely free with no track limitations or watermarks
  • Professional 64-bit mixing engine with unlimited tracks, professional MIDI editing, and step sequencer
  • ProChannel modular mixing console with vintage emulations
  • Full VST/VST3 plugin compatibility and ARA support
  • VocalSync technology for automatic vocal alignment
  • Limited built-in virtual instruments compared to competitors
  • Requires a BandLab account for download and updates
  • Steeper learning curve for beginners
  • Can be resource-intensive on older systems
  • Interface feels complex compared to simpler editors

Who should choose Cakewalk by BandLab?

Music producers seeking free audio editing software with professional-grade recording capabilities, multi-track composers working with bands or orchestras, and audio engineers learning industry-standard mixing techniques.

[Download Cakewalk by BandLab]

LMMS

LMMS

LMMS (formerly Linux MultiMedia Studio) emerges as the ultimate best free audio editing software for electronic music production, offering complete open-source flexibility that rivals expensive commercial DAWs.

LMMS delivers unlimited tracks, 16+ built-in synthesizers, and comprehensive MIDI support, making it the go-to choice for electronic music producers who value creative freedom over budget constraints.

The software's modular design allows producers to craft everything from simple beats to complex orchestral arrangements using its extensive plugin ecosystem and automation capabilities.

✅ Pros ❌ Cons
  • Completely free and open-source with unlimited features
  • 16+ built-in synthesizers, including vintage emulations
  • Cross-platform support (Windows, Mac, Linux)
  • Pattern-based workflow similar to FL Studio
  • Full VST/VST3 plugin support and MIDI compatibility
  • Primarily designed for electronic music genres
  • Audio recording capabilities are limited compared to full DAWs
  • The interface can feel overwhelming for complete beginners
  • CPU-intensive with complex projects
  • No official mobile app version

Who should choose LMMS? 

Electronic music producers creating EDM, techno, or hip-hop beats, bedroom producers experimenting with synthesized sounds, musicians transitioning from FL Studio to free alternatives, and open-source enthusiasts who value customizable workflows.

[Download LMMS]

AudioMass

Audiomass

Need instant audio editing without downloads? Try AudioMass. This is a browser-based editor that packs professional features into just 65KB of vanilla JavaScript, smaller than most images on the web.

Simply drag-and-drop any audio file and start editing immediately. No registration barriers. No upload delays. Your audio never leaves your browser, ensuring complete privacy for sensitive projects.

Beyond basic trimming, you'll find parametric EQ, compression, reverb, delay, and distortion effects, all processing in real-time. You can even record directly from your microphone, transforming it into a complete voice memo studio.

✅ Pros ❌ Cons
  • Zero installation, works instantly in any browser
  • Complete privacy, audio processed locally
  • Spectrum analyzer for detailed frequency analysis
  • Professional effects: EQ, compression, reverb
  • Real-time waveform visualization and editing
  • Works offline once loaded
  • Single-track editing only (no multitrack support)
  • Requires a stable browser environment
  • Limited to browser-supported audio formats
  • No project save/load functionality
  • Mobile editing experience is limited
  • No advanced MIDI or synthesis capabilities

Who should choose AudioMass?

Travelers needing quick edits on any computer, podcasters requiring instant audio cleanup, students working on Chromebooks, voice-over artists making rapid adjustments, and privacy-conscious users handling confidential recordings.

[Try AudioMass]

BandLab

Forget traditional DAW limitations, BandLab transforms your browser into a complete recording studio. This cloud-based digital audio workstation is now used by over 100 million creators worldwide. Rising artists like Luh Tyler began their journeys on BandLab, recording tracks directly on their phones before hitting the charts (GQ).

Users love its seamless device synchronization. Your projects live in the cloud with unlimited storage, accessible anywhere with an internet connection.

BandLab's AI-powered SongStarter generates complete musical ideas from simple prompts. Type "chill vibes" and receive three unique compositions with drums, melody, and harmony ready for customization. Such AI content creation tools can boost your creativity and maximize the output.

✅ Pros ❌ Cons
  • Completely free with no track or time limitations
  • Cross-device sync with unlimited cloud storage
  • 370+ virtual instruments and 100K+ royalty-free samples included
  • AI SongStarter for instant musical inspiration
  • Works on Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android
  • Recording latency issues due to cloud processing
  • Some features require a BandLab Membership subscription
  • Limited offline functionality
  • Fewer advanced mixing tools than desktop DAWs
  • Export options are limited compared to professional DAWs

Who should choose BandLab?

Mobile musicians seeking inspiration on the go, collaborative artists working with remote partners, beginners exploring music production, social media creators needing quick backing tracks, and traveling producers requiring studio access from any device.

[Try BandLab]

Choosing the Right Tool for Your Needs

Selecting the best free audio editor depends on your experience level, project goals, and workflow preferences. Here's your personalized roadmap:

  • Beginners & Podcasters: If you are starting a new podcast, consider using Ocenaudio for its intuitive real-time preview or AudioMass for instant, browser-based editing without installation barriers. Both offer professional results while maintaining simplicity.
  • Musicians & Producers: BandLab excels in cloud collaboration and mobile creation. Cakewalk by BandLab delivers unlimited professional features on Windows. LMMS suits electronic music producers, while GarageBand provides Mac users with comprehensive loop libraries and virtual instruments.
  • General Editing & Multitrack Work: Audacity remains the versatile standard for complex projects. It consistently ranks among the best free audio editing software, offering professional features without cost. WavePad offers advanced restoration tools for damaged audio. Pro Tools Intro provides industry-standard workflow training for aspiring engineers.
  • Online Workflows: Choose Audiotool for browser-based modular synthesis and collaboration, AudioMass for quick privacy-focused edits, or BandLab for cross-device music production with cloud sync.

Match your choice to your environment: desktop power users favor Audacity or Cakewalk, while mobile creators thrive with BandLab or GarageBand.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Which free audio editor is easiest for beginners?

Ocenaudio tops the list for beginners, offering an intuitive interface with real-time effect previews that make learning effortless. AudioMass offers instant, browser-based editing without installation barriers, making it ideal for newcomers seeking immediate results.

Does Audacity support plugins?

Yes, Audacity supports extensive plugin compatibility, including LADSPA, LV2, VST, VST3, and Audio Units. This allows users to expand functionality with thousands of third-party effects and instruments, making it as powerful as paid alternatives.

What is the most used audio editing software?

While Audacity leads free downloads globally due to its 25-year legacy and cross-platform availability, newer cloud-based options like BandLab are rapidly gaining popularity among modern creators. Professional studios typically use paid DAWs like Pro Tools, Logic Pro, or Cubase for commercial work.

Author’s Profile
Supriya Sharma
Supriya Sharma
Supriya is a Content Marketing Manager at Murf AI, specializing in crafting AI-driven strategies that connect Learning and Development professionals with innovative text-to-speech solutions. With over six years of experience in content creation and campaign management, Supriya blends creativity and data-driven insights to drive engagement and growth in the SaaS space.
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