Compare software

Csound vs plugdata: catalog facts
Csound	plugdata
Free Free and open source.	Free Free and open source under the GPL-3.0 licence.
Windows, macOS, Linux, Web	Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS
Decades of development and a long history in computer music Runs on desktop, mobile, embedded, server and web platforms	Runs standalone or as a VST3, AU, CLAP or LV2 plugin Bundles ELSE, Cyclone and Gem libraries
Sound is made by writing code, which takes time to learn Not a point-and-click audio editor	Visual patching has a learning curve for newcomers to Pure Data Some Pure Data externals may need checking for compatibility
Downloadable app, Web application	Downloadable app
Open source	Open source
License not stated	License: GPL-3.0
Not stated if an account is needed	No account needed
Not stated if it works offline	Not stated if it works offline
Official website Full listing and sources Checked September 24, 2026	Official website Full listing and sources Checked October 1, 2026

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