10 Best DAWs for Chromebook: Music Production on the Go
If you’re using a Chromebook and want to get into music production, you’ll be glad to know that there are several DAWs available that can help you create, edit, and produce music.
While Chromebooks aren’t traditionally known for supporting heavy software, there’s a growing list of DAWs compatible with these devices.
Here’s a look at some of the best options, each offering unique features suited for different levels of experience and types of music projects.
1. Soundtrap
Soundtrap is an accessible, web-based DAW perfect for musicians at any level. It offers a user-friendly interface and a variety of virtual instruments, making it a great starting point forYou can record vocals, add loops, and even connect MIDI devices for more control.
What sets Soundtrap apart?
Its collaboration feature. It allows multiple users to work on the same project in real-time. This makes it ideal for bands or music classes.
It’s versatile enough for creating anything from simple podcasts to full music tracks, making it a fantastic all-around tool.
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Easy to use | Limited free version |
Collaboration features | Requires internet access |
Variety of instruments | Subscription needed for full access |
Works on any device | |
Educational tools available |
2. FL Studio Mobile
FL Studio Mobile is the mobile version of the popular desktop DAW, FL Studio. It offers a rich set of features including multi-track recording, a range of virtual instruments, and a variety of effects.
This app is excellent for creating complex beats and melodies, making it a favorite among electronic music producers.
While it’s a paid app, it provides robust capabilities for serious music creators. The interface is designed to be touch-friendly, making it easy to use on a Chromebook.
Despite being a mobile version, it still packs a punch with its performance and feature set.
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Multi-track recording | Not free |
Wide range of features | Can be complex for beginners |
High-quality effects | Limited compared to desktop version |
Touch-friendly interface | |
Supports MIDI controllers |
3. BandLab
BandLab is a free, cloud-based DAW that provides a seamless music creation experience. It’s perfect for all levels, offering tools for recording, mixing, and mastering music.
One of its standout features is its integrated social network, where users can share their projects and collaborate with others worldwide.
BandLab supports both audio and MIDI recordings, making it versatile for different music styles. The platform also offers a variety of loops and virtual instruments to enhance your compositions.
It’s a great option for those who want a comprehensive DAW without spending a dime.
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Completely free | Desktop version can be slow |
Social network integration | Limited advanced features |
Supports MIDI and audio | Requires internet access |
Wide range of loops | |
Collaboration tools |
4. JAMBL
JAMBL is a unique and fun DAW designed for quick and creative music-making. It features a smart-note looper system that allows you to create beats and loops effortlessly.
The app’s intuitive design makes it accessible even for beginners, while still offering enough features for more experienced users.
JAMBL also lets you create music videos by adding visuals to your tracks, which is a great feature for social media sharing.
Although it doesn’t offer the advanced features of some other DAWs, it excels in making the music creation process enjoyable and straightforward.
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Intuitive and fun interface | Limited advanced editing |
Great for quick music-making | Some features may be buggy |
Smart-note looper system | Basic compared to other DAWs |
Free to use | |
Music video creation |
5. AudioTool
AudioTool is a comprehensive online DAW that offers a full suite of music production tools. It includes a wide array of virtual instruments, effects, and mixers, all of which can be connected via a modular interface.
This DAW is ideal for those who enjoy customizing their workflow and experimenting with sound design.
AudioTool is completely free and runs entirely in the browser, making it highly accessible. Its community features allow users to share their work and access a vast library of presets and samples.
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Extensive instrument library | Can be overwhelming |
Modular interface | Requires internet access |
Free and web-based | |
Large community and resources | |
High-quality sound |
6. Flat.io
Flat.io is not a traditional DAW but a powerful tool for creating and sharing sheet music. It’s perfect for educators, students, and composers who need to write music scores.
Flat.io offers real-time collaboration, allowing multiple users to work on the same piece simultaneously.
The platform is easy to use, with a clean interface that simplifies the process of writing music. While it’s primarily focused on notation, it also offers playback features so you can hear your compositions.
It’s an excellent tool for those who want to focus on composing rather than producing.
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Real-time collaboration | Limited to sheet music |
Easy-to-use interface | Not for audio recording |
Great for education | |
Supports multiple instruments | |
Free version available |
7. Splash
Splash is designed for easy and creative music production, making it ideal for beginners and casual creators. The platform frequently updates its sound packs, providing fresh material for your projects.
One of Splash’s standout features is that it offers 100% copyright-free music, making it perfect for content creators who want to share their work without legal concerns.
It’s a straightforward tool that allows you to drag and drop elements to create music quickly. While it may not have the depth of some other DAWs, it’s perfect for quick projects and exploring new ideas.
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Free sound packs | Basic features |
Copyright-free music | Limited customization |
Easy drag-and-drop interface | Not ideal for advanced users |
Frequently updated content | |
Great for quick projects |
8. Looplabs
Looplabs is a user-friendly, cloud-based DAW that caters to beginners. It offers a vast library of royalty-free loops, making it easy to create tracks quickly.
The platform’s interface is reminiscent of GarageBand, which is not available on Chromebooks, making it a great alternative.
Looplabs is perfect for those who want to experiment with music production without a steep learning curve.
However, it’s important to note that creations made on Looplabs are under their license and can only be used for personal projects.
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Easy to use | Limited to personal use |
Large library of loops | Not suitable for commercial projects |
Web-based, no installation | |
Simple interface | |
Free to use |
9. Song Maker
Song Maker is part of the Chrome Music Lab and is an excellent tool for creating simple loops and melodies. It’s a web-based DAW that requires no installation, making it accessible to anyone with a Chromebook.
Song Maker’s interface is extremely user-friendly, making it suitable for children and beginners. It’s primarily focused on creating loop-based music, which can then be shared easily.
While it lacks advanced features, it’s a great starting point for anyone new to music production.
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Simple and intuitive | Very basic features |
Free and accessible | Limited to loops |
Great for beginners | Not suitable for advanced production |
Web-based | |
No installation needed |
10. Music Maker JAM
Music Maker JAM is a versatile DAW that offers a wide range of genres and sound packs. It’s user-friendly and suitable for beginners who want to explore different styles of music.
The app allows for easy music creation with its intuitive drag-and-drop interface. Music Maker JAM is particularly useful for those interested in making beats, as it includes a variety of loops and samples.
While the basic features are free, additional sound packs and advanced tools are available as in-app purchases.
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Genre variety | In-app purchases |
User-friendly interface | Limited advanced features |
Good for making beats | |
Free to start | |
Includes a variety of samples |
Wrapping Up – Best DAWs For Chromebook
These music production apps for Chromebooks provide a wide range of options for music production on Chromebooks.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced producer, there’s a tool on this list that can meet your needs.
Each DAW offers unique features, from simple loop-based creation to complex multi-track recording, allowing you to choose the best fit for your project.
FAQs
Can I run a DAW on a Chromebook?
Yes, you can run DAWs on a Chromebook, but they are usually web-based or Android apps available on the Google Play Store.
Can I run Ableton Live on a Chromebook?
No, Ableton Live is not natively supported on Chromebooks. It requires a Windows or macOS operating system.
Can Chromebooks run MIDI files?
Yes, Chromebooks can run MIDI files using web-based DAWs or MIDI-capable Android apps.
Can you get GarageBand on Chromebook?
No, GarageBand is not available on Chromebooks as it is exclusive to Apple’s macOS and iOS platforms.
Can I run DJ software on a Chromebook?
Yes, you can run DJ software on a Chromebook using web-based platforms or Android apps available on the Google Play Store.
Can a Chromebook run an audio interface?
Some audio interfaces work with Chromebooks, but compatibility varies. Check the manufacturer’s specifications for Chrome OS support.
Is BandLab good on Chromebooks?
Yes, BandLab is a good option on Chromebooks. It’s a web-based DAW that works well for music creation and collaboration.