Pro Tools review

Pro Tools is the DAW Avid describes as trusted by the world's top studios, and its editing and comping tools show why. Loop recording, punch-in and playlist comping make it quick to build a perfect vocal or guitar take from several passes. For home producers, the entry point is Pro Tools Intro, which Avid says is free forever and includes 36 effects and instrument plugins plus Splice integration with more than 2,500 free loops and samples. Paid tiers are sold mainly as monthly or annual subscriptions. Artist gives 32 audio tracks, 64 MIDI tracks and 110+ instruments and effects, while Studio raises that to 512 audio tracks with immersive Dolby Atmos mixing. Perpetual licenses are also available. Pro Tools is less focused on beat-making and sound design than Ableton Live or FL Studio, and its interface assumes some recording knowledge. Avid's store showed EUR prices from our location, so check the US store for USD prices.

Who it is for

Home recordists who want the same DAW many commercial studios use.

Price

See vendor pricing (USD check pending).

US price check pending. See the vendor pricing page.

Key features

• Pro Tools Intro is free forever, with 36 effects and instrument plugins
• Artist tier: 32 audio tracks, 64 MIDI tracks and 110+ instruments and effects
• Studio tier: 512 audio tracks and immersive Dolby Atmos mixing
• Playlist comping, loop recording and punch-in
• Monthly or annual subscriptions, plus perpetual licenses

Strengths and weaknesses

• Strength: Free Intro version to learn on
• Strength: Sessions move easily between home and commercial studios
• Strength: Strong comping and editing tools for recorded performances
• Weakness: Paid tiers are mostly subscriptions
• Weakness: Artist caps you at 32 audio tracks
• Weakness: Avid's store showed EUR prices from our location, so we could not confirm USD prices

Key facts

• Free version: Pro Tools Intro
• Artist tracks: 32 audio, 64 MIDI
• Studio tracks: 512 audio, 1,024 MIDI
• Billing options: Monthly or annual subscription; perpetual licenses
• Splice loops with Intro: 2,500+ free loops and samples

Where it ranks

Pro Tools is No. 10 in our Best DAW Software verdict.