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ChucK vs Tidal Cycles: catalog facts
ChucK	Tidal Cycles
Free Free and open source.	Free Free and open source.
Windows, macOS, Linux, Command line	Windows, macOS, Linux
Precise, sample-level control over timing Code can be changed while it is running	Expressive pattern language for polyrhythmic and generative sequences Patterns can be changed live during a performance
Requires programming rather than a graphical editor ChuGL graphics extension is still in alpha	Requires installing Haskell and SuperCollider Music is written as code, which takes time to learn
Downloadable app	Downloadable app
Open source	Open source
License: GPL-2.0	License not stated
No account needed	No account needed
Works offline	Works offline
Official website Full listing and sources Checked October 2, 2026	Official website Full listing and sources Checked October 2, 2026

Catalog facts only. Anything “not stated” is unconfirmed. Check full listings for details.