Head-to-head · Drum Machine Software
0x808 vs Patterning 3
0x808 leads on 0 checks, Patterning 3 on 0, and 4 are even. Who comes out ahead on the 4 yes/no, price and count checks where we have data for both products. The editor score weighs everything else too.
Our verdict
- Highest score0x808 · 9.2/10
- Most features0x808 · 3 of 3
0x808 scores higher on our rubric for drum machine software: 9.2 against 8.5 out of 10; our editors rank them #2 and #7.
0x808 is the better fit for free open-source synthesis and sequencing. Patterning 3 is the better fit for mobile and Mac circular sequencing.
- 0x808 fits best
Free open-source synthesis and sequencing
- Patterning 3 fits best
Mobile and Mac circular sequencing
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Side by side
| Feature | 0x808 9.2/10 Visit ↗ | Patterning 3 8.5/10 Visit ↗ |
|---|---|---|
| At a glance | ||
| Editor score | 9.2 | 8.5 |
| Ranking | #2 in Drum Machine Software | #7 in Drum Machine Software |
| Best for | Free open-source synthesis and sequencing | Mobile and Mac circular sequencing |
| Pricing model | Free | Paid |
| Starting price | Open source | $29.99 one-time |
| Free plan | Not checked yet | — |
| Free trial | — | — |
| Deployment | Desktop | Desktop, Mobile |
| Platforms | Windows, macOS, Linux | iOS, macOS |
| Support | Docs | Email, Community |
| Built for | Solo, Small business | Solo, Small business, Mid-market |
| Features 0x808 3/3 · Patterning 3 2/3 | ||
| MIDI support | ✓ | ✓ |
| Sample import | ✓ | ✓ |
| Live performance tools | ✓ (best) | Not checked yet |
| Specs | ||
| Platform | Desktop | Not checked yet |
| Sequencing mode | Hybrid | Not checked yet |
| Pattern tracks | 16 tracks | Not checked yet |
| Our review | ||
| Pros |
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| Cons |
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| Our verdict | 0x808 is an open-source desktop drum machine and synth workstation for producers, electronic musicians, and sound designers who want sequencing, synthesis, sampling, effects, and MIDI in one application. Its 16-track step sequencer… Read the review → |
Patterning 3 is a drum machine and beat-making app for iPad and Apple Silicon Mac. Its circular sequencer provides eight drum tracks, independent loop lengths up to 512 steps, and multiple timelines for building songs and loop sections.… Read the review → |
Strengths and trade-offs
0x808 — where it wins
- 16-track sequencing with pattern chaining and performance controls
- Subtractive, FM, and wavetable synthesis with sample loading
- Windows, macOS, and Linux support plus VST3 and CLAP formats
Where it doesn't
- Desktop software only, with no listed mobile platform
- Its broad feature set may exceed the needs of simple beat makers
- Plugin use depends on a compatible DAW
Patterning 3 — where it wins
- Independent loops support up to 512 steps
- AUv3 multichannel output and MIDI integration
- Exports audio, MIDI files, and Ableton Live Sets
Where it doesn't
- Available only on iOS and macOS
- Limited to eight drum tracks
- No free plan is included
- 0x8089.2/10 · Open source
A broad desktop drum machine for free synthesis, sequencing, sampling, and MIDI work.
Visit 0x808Full verdict → - Patterning 38.5/10 · Paid
A focused eight-track sequencer with deep pattern control and strong export options.
Visit Patterning 3Full verdict →
More comparisons
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- 0x808 vs mpump
- Atlas 2 vs Patterning 3
All drum machine software comparisons → · Full ranking →
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
Last updated · How we research and update