If you’ve been looking into getting a digital audio workstation (DAW) then you will have noticed that two of the most popular software names are Reaper and Audacity. A DAW is a piece of software that allows you to record, edit and produce audio files on your computer.
Whether it is music, vocals, or a podcast, a DAW can help you make your audio sound professional. (Also see, ‘Best DAW For Podcasting‘)
But which is better, Reaper or Audacity (see also our comparison of Audacity and Pro Tools)? In this article, we will look at the strengths and weaknesses of each DAW.
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Comparison
Let’s begin by looking at different categories and how Reaper and Audacity stack up (see also our comparison of Audacity and WavePad).
Ease of Use
It’s important that any software you choose is easy to use. This is especially the case if you’re new to audio editing and recording.
Audacity has fewer features than most DAWs, including Reaper, as it is a free program that is aimed at beginners. As it has fewer features, this makes it very easy to use.
Reaper has many more advanced features so it will take longer for beginners to the program to figure everything out. It has a lot of different screens and each screen has many different options. If you have multiple monitors, you can spread Reaper out across more than one monitor to make it easier to navigate.
Both Reaper and Audacity (see also our comparison of Audacity and Ocenaudio) have user manuals and plenty of guides that you can consult if you do need some support.
If you’re looking for a DAW that is easy to pick up then Audacity is the better choice. However, you will be missing out on some features.
Features
As we briefly mentioned the features of the two programs in the last section, let’s now look at these in more detail.
Reaper gives you the option of manipulating both audio and video. It uses ReaScript, which is a customizable form of scripting language that gives you the ability to debug and code what Reaper does.
This may not be a feature that will appeal to beginners, but as you become more confident with the software and what you want it to do, it can become a big selling point.
You can hook up physical mixing desks to Reaper so if you prefer to do your mixing and mastering with physical sliders instead of just virtual ones, Reaper will be able to do this. It also supports plug-ins, including ones created by third parties.
If Reaper doesn’t have a function naturally, you may be able to find a plug-in that will add it. When audio editing in Reaper, you can choose from hundreds of different studio-quality effects to add to your recordings, too.
ALSO SEE: What Is Reaper DAW Used For
Audacity is far more limited in its features. It can only edit audio and doesn’t have the wide range of plug-ins that Reaper does. You can organize and sort instruments, however, which can make your editing easier as the setup for any instrument will remain the same without needing to be set again.
Like Reaper, Audacity also has an extensive library of media that you can use in your editing. It doesn’t support physical mixing decks, however.
If you’re looking for a simple DAW that isn’t overwhelmed with features, then Audacity is the best option for you. It has all you need for audio recording and editing audio files, for example.
However, if you want a more complicated audio editor and want more options, then you might find Audacity lacking and should opt for Reaper.
Price
Audacity is a free software. There is no premium tier or subscription fees required to use the software. It’s completely free and always has been. You can choose to donate if you wish, but this is not necessary to use Audacity.
Reaper, on the other hand, requires to be purchased. When you first download the software you will get a 60-day free trial so you have plenty of time to try Reaper and decide if it is for you before you pay.
As far as paid DAWs go, Reaper is one of the cheapest options available. It is a one-off purchase and not a subscription. Personal licenses only cost $60, whereas a commercial license is $225.
For most music producers and podcasters, a personal license will be sufficient. With your license, you also get any future upgrades included and you can even install the DAW on a new computer as long as you have your activation code.
Frequently Asked Questions
Now let’s look at some more details regarding Reaper and Audacity.
What Is The Best Daw For Recording Voice-Overs and Podcasts?
If you’re just beginning to record voice-overs and podcasts, then Audacity is probably the best place to start. It’s easy to learn and use and is also free, so beginning with Audacity is a good idea.
You might find that it has all of the features that you need and even as you become more experienced, Audacity still might do everything you want. (Also see, ‘Best Podcast Editing Software‘)
However, if you’re looking for more control over your recording, editing, and mixing, then Reaper is the better option. If you do choose Audacity first and then decide you need more features, you can always change to Reaper afterward.
Which Program Is Best for Producing Audio?
When it comes to music production or any audio project, however, Reaper is definitely the better choice. Audacity is too limited in its features for music production but Reaper has a wide range of functions that will help you.
Reaper can support third-party plug-ins, full midi editing, and physical mixing desks, making it more suitable for music recording and production.
Final Thoughts: Audacity vs Reaper
Both Reaper and Audacity are quality digital audio workstations. They both have their own strengths and weaknesses and are suitable for different circumstances of recording audio. Audacity is a free program that is best suited to voice-over and podcast work.
Reaper can also be used for this purpose and is suitable for music recording, also. Reaper has many more features compared to Audacity but does require a one-off payment to buy.
We hope that this article has helped you decide whether Reaper or Audacity is best for you.
