Free and open source music production software
LMMS is a free, open source digital audio workstation for composing music on Windows, macOS and Linux. It provides a song editor, a beat and bassline editor, a piano roll and built-in synthesizers and samplers, and it can load VST instruments on Windows and Linux. It is a common starting point for beginners and hobbyists who want a no-cost alternative to FL Studio.
- features
- 3
- alternatives
- 8
- platforms
- 3
- Updated
- Oct 12, 2026
Features
Our take
Pros
- Free and open source on Windows, macOS and Linux
- Beat and bassline editor and piano roll suit electronic music beginners
- Built-in synthesizers and samplers to start without extra plugins
Cons
- Audio recording is very limited, as it focuses on sequencing
- VST instruments are not supported on macOS
- Interface feels dated next to commercial DAWs
Editorial assessment by the Alternatives.tools team, based on what the product is known for. Not a user review.
Best LMMS alternatives
See all 8 alternatives
FL StudioFree trialPattern-based music production software from Image-Line
3.8(620) · Mac App Store
Ableton LiveFree trialMusic production and live performance software
BandLabFreemiumFree music creation app and social network for musicians
4.7(508.9K) · App Store
GarageBandFreeFree music creation studio from Apple for Mac, iPhone and iPad
4.1(117.7K) · App Store
REAPERFree trialLightweight and highly customizable digital audio workstation
AudacityFreeOpen sourceFree, open source audio editor and recorder
18.7Kstars
User reviews
No reviews yet. Be the first to share your experience with LMMS.
