Audio

Most recommended

• SpotifyRecommended for its huge catalog, strong music discovery and apps that work on every device, though critics say recommendations get repetitive and artists are poorly paid.299recommend
• Apple AirPodsRecommended for setup that just works, easy switching between Apple devices, good call mics and solid sound, though many features and smooth pairing are limited outside Apple's ecosystem.257recommend
• BandcampPeople buy music on Bandcamp to pay artists directly and get DRM-free, high-quality downloads, though many find its search, app and recommendations poor.132recommend
• Apple MusicRecommended for strong recommendations and discovery playlists, and for handling local and uploaded music libraries; the most common complaint is a clunky app that launches unprompted.131recommend
• Last.fmPeople use it to log decades of listening history and find new music through similar listeners and neighbors, though many feel features have been stripped over the years.120recommend
• Apple AirPods ProRecommended for excellent noise cancellation, strong sound for wireless earbuds and useful hearing-assist features, but many report rattling or failures and limited repair or warranty help.115recommend
• Apple iPodLoved for its click wheel and simple, polished offline interface, with old units still working years later; critics cite clunky iTunes-dependent syncing and glitchy, unreliable hard drives.102recommend
• AudacityFree, open-source editor people recommend for quick trims, simple post-production and a much improved UI. Critics say it is not a full DAW and struggles with complex mixes.78recommend
• StrudelFree, browser-based music programming language with a visual REPL and no setup needed. Critics say it confuses people without music theory and slows on complex pieces.77recommend
• PipeWireReplaces PulseAudio on Linux with broad compatibility, low latency and fewer audio problems. Common caveat: some users still hit bugs and find it hard to debug.70recommend
• GuitoroFun, well-designed virtual guitar played on a keyboard; people say it feels like a real guitar. Common caveat: chord display and auto-strumming confuse some players.66recommend
• WinampPeople recommend Winamp for its fast, simple, customizable interface, and old versions still run on Windows 11; the main caveat is that it feels dated.60recommend
• Reaper by CockosRecommended for its generous licensing, light and stable performance, and strong Linux support; the most common caveat is a cumbersome, unintuitive interface.58recommend
• AirPods MaxRecommended for comfortable over-ear fit, strong noise cancelling, and seamless switching across Apple devices. Critics cite fragility, weight, and connection dropouts.56recommend
• iTunesPraised for simple CD ripping, library management and iPhone syncing, especially in early versions. Critics say it became bloated, pushes Apple Music and sometimes deletes library files.55recommend
• foobar2000People recommend it for its simple, customizable layout, broad format support, and long-running reliability, and it has no real equivalent. Critics say it is Windows-first and weaker on other platforms.54recommend
• Ableton LiveLong-running music production software praised for fast, smooth creative workflow. Main caveat: poor Linux support, with no native version.54recommend
• TidalPeople recommend it for better sound quality, higher artist royalties, and as a Spotify alternative; critics most often report artist mislabeling and a clunky interface.48recommend
• FastpotifyPeople recommend it as a fast Spotify client with a Winamp mode and classic skins that feels snappier than the official app. Common caveats are high memory and CPU use and dependence on Spotify's service.47recommend
• NavidromeSelf-hosted server that streams your own music library to many apps, praised for simple setup and its focus on audio. Critics say it is weak for audiobooks.45recommend
• Sony MiniDisc playerPraised for easy recording, compact re-recordable discs and random access versus cassettes. Most critics say it was too expensive and poorly marketed.40recommend
• Bose SoundTouch smart speakersPraised for solid build and sound, and for Bose's open API docs and keeping old speakers usable after end-of-life. Critics say the app is sluggish and the docs are incomplete.37recommend
• Bitwig StudioRecommended for its native Linux support, Pipewire audio integration, and an Ableton Live-like workflow at a lower price; the main caveat is cost and weaker fit for recording guitar or drums.35recommend
• BeetsFree, powerful toolbox for importing and tagging large music libraries, with MusicBrainz lookups and flexible configuration. Critics cite a steep learning curve and occasional crashes.33recommend
• Sonic PiFree live-coding music tool that teaches programming and music together, with a large community. Common caveat: no sound from some Linux Flatpak and AppImage builds.32recommend
• Beats drum machineFree, open-source browser drum machine with an instant, fun step sequencer and a retro look. Caveat: some hear crackling or odd sounds in Firefox.32recommend
• QobuzPeople recommend Qobuz for lossless audio, a large catalogue, DRM-free downloads and good artist pay. Critics most often say its discovery features, search and app interface are weak.31recommend
• PlexampMusic player valued for discovery in large libraries and smooth Plex server use. Main caveat: it costs money, and critics call the price too high.31recommend
• Logic ProRecommended as a smooth, approachable, full-featured music studio with free upgrades and a large plugin bundle. Main caveat: it ties you to Apple's ecosystem and limits Windows use.29recommend
• RockboxFree open-source firmware for many MP3 players, offering drag-and-drop file management and FLAC support, without vendor gatekeeping.29recommend