You have the quiet area, the top-quality microphone, excellent speakers, and a reliable recording platform -- but without the right audio editing software or Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) to back you, your new audio production might fall short.
Many of us now expect clear, quality sound when we listen not only to songs, but also when we listen to podcasts, social media videos, YouTube content, film and TV shows, and marketing materials. Listeners -- and potential subscribers -- are far more likely to turn off if audio tracks are unpleasant to listen to and not up to scratch (think how plosives can hurt your ears!), and so investing in the right audio editor for high-quality production is vital for ensuring your project succeeds.
What is the best audio editing software right now?
The best audio editing software is Adobe Audition. Available for Windows and macOS, Adobe Audition is a professional-grade editor with a wide array of customization options and workflow management setups. If you're an industry professional, this solution is one you should seriously consider. Subscriptions start from $23/month, and a free trial is available.
Alternatively, I would recommend either Audacity or Ocenaudio if you are looking for an entry-level, free audio editor to learn the ropes.
Also: Best photo editing software 2025
The ZDNET team has tracked the ebb and flow of consumer technologies for decades. We've covered everything from TVs and laptops to audio equipment, and audio editing software is no exception.
Some of us are actively involved in podcasts and video projects, so we know a thing or two about editing -- and while I was compiling my top recommendations for audio editing software suites, I have tested many solutions personally. I also consider customer feedback and the company's level of activity in providing updates.
Read on to find out the rest of my favorite audio editing software packages in 2025.
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The best audio editing software in 2025
Show less View now at Adobe Adobe Audition is a popular audio editing software suite that is my favorite choice overall in 2025. Why we like it: It's a great all-rounder DAW with both basic and advanced tools suitable for podcasting, voiceover editing, and creating or mixing audio tracks. Adobe has provided an extensive array of audio editing tools, and as an audio editor first -- creator second -- this software focuses on editing improvements and polishing up existing audio files. Features include audio cleanup, multi-track mixing, restoration, diagnostics, and support for third-party plugins. There's also an Essential Sound panel for streamlining the audio editing process. There's also plenty of tutorials available through Adobe to help you get started. Who it's for: Professionals who need an extensive toolkit and a clean DAW for their next project. Adobe Audition is part of Creative Cloud and is available on an annual subscription for $23/month. You can pay month-by-month, too, but the price will increase. Who should look elsewhere: If you are new to the world of audio editing, you might find this solution overwhelming at first. In that case, consider either Audacity or Ocenaudio to get a feel for audio editing workstations and tools before signing up for Adobe Audition. In addition, there's no MIDI support, so it might not be the best choice for musicians. Adobe Audition features: Works on Windows, macOS | Spectral display | Diagnostics | Multi-track editing | Plugin support | Free trial, or $23/month Pros Clean interface
Extensive basic and advanced toolkit
Third-party plugin support Cons Subscription-only
No MIDI support Adobe Audition Best audio editing software overall Adobe Audition is a popular audio editing software suite that is my favorite choice overall in 2025. Why we like it: It's a great all-rounder DAW with both basic and advanced tools suitable for podcasting, voiceover editing, and creating or mixing audio tracks. Adobe has provided an extensive array of audio editing tools, and as an audio editor first -- creator second -- this software focuses on editing improvements and polishing up existing audio files. Features include audio cleanup, multi-track mixing, restoration, diagnostics, and support for third-party plugins. There's also an Essential Sound panel for streamlining the audio editing process. There's also plenty of tutorials available through Adobe to help you get started. Who it's for: Professionals who need an extensive toolkit and a clean DAW for their next project. Adobe Audition is part of Creative Cloud and is available on an annual subscription for $23/month. You can pay month-by-month, too, but the price will increase. Who should look elsewhere: If you are new to the world of audio editing, you might find this solution overwhelming at first. In that case, consider either Audacity or Ocenaudio to get a feel for audio editing workstations and tools before signing up for Adobe Audition. In addition, there's no MIDI support, so it might not be the best choice for musicians. Adobe Audition features: Works on Windows, macOS | Spectral display | Diagnostics | Multi-track editing | Plugin support | Free trial, or $23/month Read More Show Expert Take Show less
Show less View now at Audacity Audacity is my favorite open source audio editor and will appeal to anyone who wants a cross-platform option. Why we like it: Available for Windows, Mac, and Linux machines, Audacity is a popular audio editor that provides all of the basic (and some advanced) functions audio editors may need for their podcasts, interviews, social media content, and school projects. Features include live recording, non-destructive editing, equalization, mixing, applying effects, multi-track editing, and file importation in formats such as WAV and FLAC. As it is open source, Audacity also supports many third-party plugins. In Audacity's latest release, version 3.7.4, the developers have included Intel OpenVINO AI plugin macOS support, which provides effects such as music separation, noise suppression, and transcription using the OpenAI Whisper model. Who it's for: Audacity is free and, as an open source project, will likely always remain so. If you want to avoid a subscription-based DAW or editing platform, Audacity might suit you. Who should look elsewhere: It's not the most beginner-friendly option around and it doesn't have the full features of some other DAWs, and so if you want a free solution, check out Ocenaudio, or if you want a more advanced solution, Adobe Audition might suit you. Audacity features: Runs on Windows, macOS, Linux | Live recording | File exports | Equalization | Cut-and-paste edits | Plugin support | Open source | Free Pros Free
Open source
Powerful tools
Suitable for a range of projects Cons No mobile option Audacity Best open source, cross-platform audio editing software Audacity is my favorite open source audio editor and will appeal to anyone who wants a cross-platform option. Why we like it: Available for Windows, Mac, and Linux machines, Audacity is a popular audio editor that provides all of the basic (and some advanced) functions audio editors may need for their podcasts, interviews, social media content, and school projects. Features include live recording, non-destructive editing, equalization, mixing, applying effects, multi-track editing, and file importation in formats such as WAV and FLAC. As it is open source, Audacity also supports many third-party plugins. In Audacity's latest release, version 3.7.4, the developers have included Intel OpenVINO AI plugin macOS support, which provides effects such as music separation, noise suppression, and transcription using the OpenAI Whisper model. Who it's for: Audacity is free and, as an open source project, will likely always remain so. If you want to avoid a subscription-based DAW or editing platform, Audacity might suit you. Who should look elsewhere: It's not the most beginner-friendly option around and it doesn't have the full features of some other DAWs, and so if you want a free solution, check out Ocenaudio, or if you want a more advanced solution, Adobe Audition might suit you. Audacity features: Runs on Windows, macOS, Linux | Live recording | File exports | Equalization | Cut-and-paste edits | Plugin support | Open source | Free Read More Show Expert Take Show less
Show less View now at Ocenaudio If you're looking for an audio editor that will help you learn the ropes and allow you to be as creative as you want, Ocenaudio should be on your radar. Why we like it: It's beginner-friendly, and best of all -- completely free. Ocenaudio originated as a project developed by a Brazilian university research group, which was subsequently released to the public. It isn't open source, but it does offer many of the basic audio editing tools that beginners and casual creators need, including the ability to import and export audio files, clean up and rebalance content, check levels, multi-select streams, and apply effects. Who it's for: Anyone new to the world of audio track editing, those who want to learn the basics for free, or students who need an editor for school projects. Who should look elsewhere: Ocenaudio is fun to use and will serve basic use cases, but it doesn't match the capabilities of a fully-fledged DAW. If you need advanced editing tools, consider Adobe Audition or Avid Pro Tools. Oceanaudio features: Runs on Windows, macOS, Linux | Spectral view | Basic editing tools | VST plugin support | Free Pros Beginner-friendly
Cross-platform
Basic editing tools
Plugin support Cons Lacks advanced tools
Infrequent updates Ocenaudio Best free audio editor for beginners If you're looking for an audio editor that will help you learn the ropes and allow you to be as creative as you want, Ocenaudio should be on your radar. Why we like it: It's beginner-friendly, and best of all -- completely free. Ocenaudio originated as a project developed by a Brazilian university research group, which was subsequently released to the public. It isn't open source, but it does offer many of the basic audio editing tools that beginners and casual creators need, including the ability to import and export audio files, clean up and rebalance content, check levels, multi-select streams, and apply effects. Who it's for: Anyone new to the world of audio track editing, those who want to learn the basics for free, or students who need an editor for school projects. Who should look elsewhere: Ocenaudio is fun to use and will serve basic use cases, but it doesn't match the capabilities of a fully-fledged DAW. If you need advanced editing tools, consider Adobe Audition or Avid Pro Tools. Oceanaudio features: Runs on Windows, macOS, Linux | Spectral view | Basic editing tools | VST plugin support | Free Read More Show Expert Take Show less
Show less View now at GarageBand View now at Logic Pro Mac users who are just starting out in audio editing but intend to graduate to professional-grade tools should consider trying out Apple's GarageBand suite. Why we like it: GarageBand is downloaded by default and is available in the macOS and iOS ecosystems. If you own a MacBook, for example, you've likely seen the iconic guitar icon in your Launchpad. It's slick, clean -- as you expect from many Apple apps -- and easy to use. The dashboard includes an equalizer and you can take advantage of virtual instrumentalist and loop presets, a relatively large sound library, a mixer, MIDI support, and compression to create or improve your audio tracks. The latest of GarageBand focused on bug fixes and usability improvements, including fixing a swathe of issues with the software's VoiceOver functionality. Who it's for: Mac users or anyone hoping to transition from an easy-to-understand studio to professional tools. While GarageBand is free, when you feel like you are ready, you can upgrade to Logic Pro -- Apple's answer to a more established DAW. Logic Pro, available for $200, offers a far more extensive range of editing functions, including Dolby Atmos tools, plugins, pitch correction, a 200-step undo history, and virtual studio assistants. Who should look elsewhere: Windows users won't be able to enjoy using either GarageBand or Logic Pro, and so they will need to look elsewhere. Apple GarageBand features: Runs on macOS, iOS | Virtual assistants | MIDI functionality | Clean interface | Lessons | Remote control | Preset library | Free, upgradable Pros Free
Powerful
Preset library
Extensive mixer tools Cons Apple ecosystem only Apple GarageBand Best transitional audio editor Mac users who are just starting out in audio editing but intend to graduate to professional-grade tools should consider trying out Apple's GarageBand suite. Why we like it: GarageBand is downloaded by default and is available in the macOS and iOS ecosystems. If you own a MacBook, for example, you've likely seen the iconic guitar icon in your Launchpad. It's slick, clean -- as you expect from many Apple apps -- and easy to use. The dashboard includes an equalizer and you can take advantage of virtual instrumentalist and loop presets, a relatively large sound library, a mixer, MIDI support, and compression to create or improve your audio tracks. The latest of GarageBand focused on bug fixes and usability improvements, including fixing a swathe of issues with the software's VoiceOver functionality. Who it's for: Mac users or anyone hoping to transition from an easy-to-understand studio to professional tools. While GarageBand is free, when you feel like you are ready, you can upgrade to Logic Pro -- Apple's answer to a more established DAW. Logic Pro, available for $200, offers a far more extensive range of editing functions, including Dolby Atmos tools, plugins, pitch correction, a 200-step undo history, and virtual studio assistants. Who should look elsewhere: Windows users won't be able to enjoy using either GarageBand or Logic Pro, and so they will need to look elsewhere. Apple GarageBand features: Runs on macOS, iOS | Virtual assistants | MIDI functionality | Clean interface | Lessons | Remote control | Preset library | Free, upgradable Read More Show Expert Take Show less
Show less View now at Avid Avid Pro Tools is another professional-grade audio editor that works best on dedicated workstations. Why we like it: Available for Windows and Mac machines, Avid Pro Tools is a top-notch digital audio workstation that may be essential if you are working on complex pieces and music projects as a sound engineer or composer. Pro Tools isn't for the faint-hearted, and it will take time and study to use this software to its full potential. But when combined with a dedicated workstation, this DAW will give you all of the advanced tools you need to record, edit, mix, splice, and balance your audio tracks. Features of Avid Pro Tools include rendering, simultaneous recording inputs, instrument and MIDI tracks, video editing, over 130 plugins pre-installed, track compiling, Dolby Atmos mixing, batch file management, and more. The latest update, Pro Tools 2025.6, includes a new AI speech-to-text analysis tool, ARA support for Dreamtonics Synthesizer V and Waves Sync Vx plugins, and Splice integration enhancements. Who it's for: A close associate of mine pointed me toward Avid Pro Tools and allowed me to test the software on their dedicated workstation. As an industry professional who travels and works in music and live events, he told me that while he started his journey with Adobe Audition, he now relies on this suite instead. If you're a working professional, access to Avid Pro Tools may be a necessity. Who should look elsewhere: The cost may deter some users, and many customers complain about the firm's business practices rather than the DAW itself. While the basic Pro Tools Artist subscription works out cheaper than Adobe Audition, priced at $9.99/month or $99/year, subscriptions with full workflow setups and immersive mixing will cost you $35/month (or $299/year), or up to $99/month ($599/year), depending on the featurs you need. If you want something that is more affordable, or even free, check out my other recommendations. Avid Pro Tools features: Runs on Windows, macOS | Immersive mixing | Instrument & effect library | Speech-to-text analysis | AI tools | Plugin support | $99+/year Pros Advanced editing tools
Frequent updates
Vast plugin support
Clean interface Cons Expensive beyond basic plans
Perpetual licensing phase out Avid Pro Tools Best industry-grade audio editor Avid Pro Tools is another professional-grade audio editor that works best on dedicated workstations. Why we like it: Available for Windows and Mac machines, Avid Pro Tools is a top-notch digital audio workstation that may be essential if you are working on complex pieces and music projects as a sound engineer or composer. Pro Tools isn't for the faint-hearted, and it will take time and study to use this software to its full potential. But when combined with a dedicated workstation, this DAW will give you all of the advanced tools you need to record, edit, mix, splice, and balance your audio tracks. Features of Avid Pro Tools include rendering, simultaneous recording inputs, instrument and MIDI tracks, video editing, over 130 plugins pre-installed, track compiling, Dolby Atmos mixing, batch file management, and more. The latest update, Pro Tools 2025.6, includes a new AI speech-to-text analysis tool, ARA support for Dreamtonics Synthesizer V and Waves Sync Vx plugins, and Splice integration enhancements. Who it's for: A close associate of mine pointed me toward Avid Pro Tools and allowed me to test the software on their dedicated workstation. As an industry professional who travels and works in music and live events, he told me that while he started his journey with Adobe Audition, he now relies on this suite instead. If you're a working professional, access to Avid Pro Tools may be a necessity. Who should look elsewhere: The cost may deter some users, and many customers complain about the firm's business practices rather than the DAW itself. While the basic Pro Tools Artist subscription works out cheaper than Adobe Audition, priced at $9.99/month or $99/year, subscriptions with full workflow setups and immersive mixing will cost you $35/month (or $299/year), or up to $99/month ($599/year), depending on the featurs you need. If you want something that is more affordable, or even free, check out my other recommendations. Avid Pro Tools features: Runs on Windows, macOS | Immersive mixing | Instrument & effect library | Speech-to-text analysis | AI tools | Plugin support | $99+/year Read More Show Expert Take Show less
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Best audio editors, compared To help you decide on the best audo editor for your next project, consider each of our favorite recommendations and their notable features, as below: Audio editing software Suitable for.. Notable features Price Adobe Audition Advanced users Professional-grade tools, accessible, recording, remixing, effects, repairs $23/month Audacity Mid level+ Open source, plugin support, multi-platform, preset packs Free Ocenaudio Beginners Plugin support, effect and editing previews, spectrogram review Free GarageBand Beginners+ MacOS compatible, easy-to-understand UI, large sound library Free, upgradable Avid Pro Tools Advanced users Professional-grade tools, industry focus, workstation UI $99/year+ Show more
How we test and choose audio editing software When we were compiling our recommendations for the best audio editing software, we explored each of the following: Hands-on testing : Where possible, we conduct hands-on testing and utilize our experiences, along with feedback from experts, in our overall recommendations.
: Where possible, we conduct hands-on testing and utilize our experiences, along with feedback from experts, in our overall recommendations. Use cases : We included a range of audio editing software solutions suitable for various use cases, including post-event production, live events, marketing, voiceovers, podcasts, and social media.
: We included a range of audio editing software solutions suitable for various use cases, including post-event production, live events, marketing, voiceovers, podcasts, and social media. Workflows : We considered how each audio editor sets up workflow management, which is especially important for professional users.
: We considered how each audio editor sets up workflow management, which is especially important for professional users. Operating systems : We included options suitable for more than just one operating system and included solutions suitable for both Windows and Mac machines.
: We included options suitable for more than just one operating system and included solutions suitable for both Windows and Mac machines. Template resources : While they are not required, template libraries and resources -- such as instrumental sounds -- can be extremely useful in some productions and they can be invaluable for beginners to learn from. We prefer to see some type of library available to users.
: While they are not required, template libraries and resources -- such as instrumental sounds -- can be extremely useful in some productions and they can be invaluable for beginners to learn from. We prefer to see some type of library available to users. Customer feedback : We have considered user feedback with each of our recommendations
: We have considered user feedback with each of our recommendations Cost: We have included a range of audio editing solutions that will suit every budget, including free editors and professional-grade software on lifetime, monthly, and annual subscription structures. We also like to see free trials. Show more
Choosing the right audio editing software Choose this audio editing software... If you want... Adobe Audition The best audio editing software overall. Adobe Audition provides almost every tool an audio professional could ask for, including recording, editing features, remixing, cleanups, and compatibility with video creation and editing software. Audacity An open source audio editing software solution. Audacity is frequently updated with new tools and features, and as a bonus, it works on Windows, macOS, and Linux. While its user interface is a tad dull, you have a vast range of tools and third-party plugins to explore. Ocenaudio A free audio editing software option that is great for beginners. I prefer this option for short skits and social media content, and while you lack advanced tools, it's a great way to learn the basics. GarageBand A transitional audio editor in Apple's ecosystem. If you prefer Macs and want to eventually learn enough to move on to more advanced audio editing, start with GarageBand, and then upgrade to Logic Pro. Avid Pro Tools End-to-end audio production software. Avid Pro Tools is an industry favorite, backed by a vast range of tools and now AI assistance. Show more
Factors to consider when choosing audio editing software When you're trying to decide what audio editor is right for you, consider the following factors: The learning curve : If you are new to the world of audio editing software, consider testing a beginner-friendly solution. Perhaps download a free solution first to learn the ropes, and then subscribe to a paid, professional suite.
: If you are new to the world of audio editing software, consider testing a beginner-friendly solution. Perhaps download a free solution first to learn the ropes, and then subscribe to a paid, professional suite. Use cases : What do you plan to use audio editing software for, besides the clue in the name? Consider whether or not a solution is suitable for live events, podcasts, music production, or otherwise.
: What do you plan to use audio editing software for, besides the clue in the name? Consider whether or not a solution is suitable for live events, podcasts, music production, or otherwise. Plugins and add-ons : You may want software that supports plugin compatibility or third-party software and add-ons. Check for any support issues before making a purchase.
: You may want software that supports plugin compatibility or third-party software and add-ons. Check for any support issues before making a purchase. Free options : If you are a new, casual, or hobbyist editor and only want software for experimentation or school projects, for example, a free editor might be sufficient. However, you might not be able to access many of the tools that give audio that extra polish.
: If you are a new, casual, or hobbyist editor and only want software for experimentation or school projects, for example, a free editor might be sufficient. However, you might not be able to access many of the tools that give audio that extra polish. Platform : Are you a Mac, Windows, or mobile-first user? Some audio editors are only compatible with one kind of operating system, and so you'll need to check their compatibility first.
: Are you a Mac, Windows, or mobile-first user? Some audio editors are only compatible with one kind of operating system, and so you'll need to check their compatibility first. File format support : If possible, consider what file formats you like or will be working with. It's best to work with lossless formats for the best editing possible, so check your software is compatible.
: If possible, consider what file formats you like or will be working with. It's best to work with lossless formats for the best editing possible, so check your software is compatible. Video : Do you also want video support and compatibility? If so, a dedicated audio editor might not fit your needs.
: Do you also want video support and compatibility? If so, a dedicated audio editor might not fit your needs. Price: You need to decide what you are comfortable paying, and how. Some audio editors are free, others require one one-off payment for a lifetime license, and some are subscription-based and will require a monthly or yearly licensing fee. Show more
Latest news
Ableton 12.2 has been released
Amazon has published a set of blogs
Audacity's latest version
FAQs on audio editing software Is editing audio files easy? It can be! While using some audio editors can be overwhelming at the start, if you pick a beginner-friendly option first, they can help guide you through the basics. I also recommend exploring YouTube videos to teach you the fundamentals -- and in particular, focus on the style of project, such as podcasting or live show production editing. It's also easier if you have access to raw audio files rather than files imported into compressed formats, as you have more information to work with. Show more Can GarageBand edit audio? Apple's GarageBand is a great audio editor that will suit many casual projects -- as long as you are a Mac user. It's simple, easy to learn, and works well for editing songs, creating voiceovers, and for marketing or social media use. Show more Can I edit audio in Canva? Canva is a great online resource for anyone who needs to create logos, graphics, marketing materials, and short social media reels or videos. When you are creating video content, you can add audio tracks by uploading your own files or by using audio resources available in Canva's template library, which can then be trimmed, volume balanced, synced, and faded. In short, you can perform basic audio edits in Canva, but don't expect advanced editing tools. Show more What file format is best for audio editing? You want a file format that is lossless -- in other words, a file format that preserves all audio data rather than compresses it to reduce the file's overall size. In the same way that photographers prefer .RAW files that preserve image data, lossless audio files -- including .WAV, .AIFF, and potentially .FLAC. Show more
Latest updates
August 2025: In August, we published our guide on the best audio editing software.
Other audio editing software to consider
Show less View now at Reaper Reaper is an excellent alternative that has gathered positive reviews as a flexible, stable solution, great for mixing and synthesizing multiple audio tracks. Some of its tools are on the level of advanced Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs), and there is support for countless third-party plugins. It's very reasonably priced, too, at $60 for individuals and very small businesses, or $225 for a commercial license. Pros Affordable
Flexible Cons Cluttered user interface Reaper Reaper is an excellent alternative that has gathered positive reviews as a flexible, stable solution, great for mixing and synthesizing multiple audio tracks. Some of its tools are on the level of advanced Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs), and there is support for countless third-party plugins. It's very reasonably priced, too, at $60 for individuals and very small businesses, or $225 for a commercial license. Read More Show Expert Take Show less
Show less View now at Ableton Ableton Live is an excellent alternative audio editor if you are involved in professional-grade projects. In particular, users say that Ableton is a great option for live performances and events as well as post-production mixing and compilation. However, it can quickly become expensive, with plans beginning at $99/year and rising to $749 annually. Pros Versatile
Widely applauded as a great DAW Cons Expensive Ableton Live Ableton Live is an excellent alternative audio editor if you are involved in professional-grade projects. In particular, users say that Ableton is a great option for live performances and events as well as post-production mixing and compilation. However, it can quickly become expensive, with plans beginning at $99/year and rising to $749 annually. Read More Show Expert Take Show less
Show less View now at Image-Line Image‑Line's FL Studio is another popular audio editor with a focus on being user-friendly. It's flexible, highly customizable, and comes with instruments and effects as well as plugins for audio recording and other functions, depending on your plan. Subscriptions begin at $99 for a license with all future updates included. Pros Beginner-friendly
Affordable Cons Audio recording is paywalled behind premium plans FL Studio Image‑Line's FL Studio is another popular audio editor with a focus on being user-friendly. It's flexible, highly customizable, and comes with instruments and effects as well as plugins for audio recording and other functions, depending on your plan. Subscriptions begin at $99 for a license with all future updates included. Read More Show Expert Take Show less
Show less View now at WavePad WavePad is an audio editing software suite you should consider if you want a simple, beginner-friendly solution for basic editing work. Although you won't find all the advanced features of premium software solutions, it does support a variety of file formats. This software is compatible with Windows and macOS -- and it is free for non-commercial use. Pros Free option
Beginner-friendly Cons Limited plugin support WavePad WavePad is an audio editing software suite you should consider if you want a simple, beginner-friendly solution for basic editing work. Although you won't find all the advanced features of premium software solutions, it does support a variety of file formats. This software is compatible with Windows and macOS -- and it is free for non-commercial use. Read More Show Expert Take Show less
If you're also interested in what the best online video editing solutions are on the market, check out ZDNET's guide. We've also found the best photo editing suites around.