Compare software

Pure Data vs VCV Rack: catalog facts
Pure Data	VCV Rack
Free Free and open source.	Freemium Rack 2 is free; VCV+ and some modules are paid.
Windows, macOS, Linux	Windows, macOS, Linux
Visual patching with no text code needed Real-time audio processing for performance and installations	Large library of free and paid modules Runs on Windows, macOS and Linux
Patching has a steep learning curve The official site uses a bot-protection challenge that some browser plugins break	Some modules and features require payment Modular patching has a learning curve
Downloadable app	Downloadable app
Open source	Open source
License not stated	License not stated
No account needed	Not stated if an account is needed
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 September 23, 2026

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