Compare software

CubaseAbleton Live
Paid

Commercial software sold by Steinberg.

 Paid

Paid software sold in multiple tiered editions.

Windows, macOS Windows, macOS
  • Long-established recording and production environment
  • Handles both audio and MIDI
  • Session View clip launching suits live performance uniquely well
  • Long-standing standard in electronic music production
  • Paid software
  • Large and complex for simple editing tasks
  • Paid software with tiered editions that gate features
  • Windows and Mac only
Downloadable app Downloadable app
Closed source Closed source
License not stated License not stated
Not stated if an account is needed Not stated if an account is needed
Not stated if it works offline Not stated if it works offline

Checked September 23, 2026

Checked September 22, 2026

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