Best DAW Software for Windows

What is DAW Software?

DAW stands for Digital Audio Workstation, but it encompasses various other meanings. Initially, DAWs simply served as digital replacements for analog tape machines used in music recording. With advancing technology, DAWs have undergone certain transformations. They now feature additional functionalities allowing users to create songs without needing to play a musical instrument.

Compilation of the Best DAW Software for Windows

Most DAW software focuses on recording music performances using microphones or creating music from scratch. While many DAWs handle both aspects, each application typically emphasizes a specific feature.

Top Best DAW Software for Windows

1. Cakewalk by BandLab

Initially developed by Cakewalk and formerly known as Sonar until 2017 when its parent company, Gibson, declared cessation. In 2018, BandLab acquired the software and released it for free under its current name (Cakewalk by BandLab).

While it may not encompass all the features of Sonar, Cakewalk by BandLab still boasts most of its notable functionalities. It might not be the best DAW for Windows, but it certainly stands as the best free DAW.

Most free DAW software imposes certain limitations such as track quantity, saving compositions, etc., but BandLab's Cakewalk doesn't impose such restrictions. You're free to unleash your musical creativity without bounds, with added integration of numerous tools and effects. Cakewalk by BandLab remains ad-free as there's currently no premium version to worry about.

- Get your hands on Cakewalk by BandLab here.

2. Traktion T7

Traktion might be better known for its Waveform DAW or its digital audio instruments, but it also offers a fully-featured free digital audio workstation. Similar to Cakewalk's BandLab, this version provides unlimited audio tracks, allowing for boundless experimentation. While it still lacks some features found in Waveform 8 and 10, many of these features, such as changing track colors, seem unnecessary.

Another plus point for Traktion T7 is its user-friendly Blue Steel interface, making it an ideal choice for beginners.

- Grab Traktion T7 from this link.

3. Pro Tools First

Pro Tools is one of the biggest names in the audio industry and has maintained its reputation for many years. Pro Tools First was introduced in 2015 and unlike many free versions of paid DAW software, you don't need to purchase any hardware to use it.

However, this also means you'll encounter some limitations. You're restricted to 16 simultaneous voice tracks and a maximum of four hardware inputs. You're also limited to 16 instrument tracks and virtual instrument tracks. The number of included sample instruments is fewer compared to Pro Tools or Pro Tools Ultimate.

- Get Pro Tools First from this source.

4. Studio One Prime

First released in 2009, Presonus Studio One is among the finest DAW software but remains lesser-known. However, it has garnered more recognition in recent years by offering the free DAW - Studio One Prime. This software encompasses many features of paid versions, and like Pro Tools First, you don't need to purchase any hardware to try the free version.

Studio One Prime imposes no restrictions on the number of compositions or virtual instrument tracks you can utilize. While lacking some premium tools, Studio One Prime offers features such as the virtual instrument player Presence XT, 9 native Effects plugins, and 1GB of loops and samples to help kickstart your creative journey.

- Obtain Studio One Prime from this location.

5. Audacity

While technically a DAW software, Audacity differs significantly from other free DAW software. Audacity is primarily built for audio editing. It boasts excellent editing tools, but recording in Audacity isn't as robust as in other software.

Another distinguishing factor is Audacity's limited support for virtual instruments. Therefore, if you require virtual instruments for music production, you may need to rely on your computer's sound system as well as some supporting applications.

- Get Audacity from this link

In general, if you're seeking a good audio editing software and you only require basic DAW functionality, Audacity might be a good choice. This software is also open-source.