Head-to-head · Audio Equalizer Software
Equalizer APO vs SteelSeries Sonar
Equalizer APO leads on 0 checks, SteelSeries Sonar 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 scoreEqualizer APO · 9.3/10
- Free planboth
- Most featuresEqualizer APO · 3 of 4
Equalizer APO scores higher on our rubric for audio equalizer software: 9.3 against 9.0 out of 10; our editors rank them #1 and #4.
Equalizer APO is the better fit for windows users needing a powerful free system EQ. SteelSeries Sonar is the better fit for windows gamers and streamers.
- Equalizer APO fits best
Windows users needing a powerful free system EQ
- SteelSeries Sonar fits best
Windows gamers and streamers
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Side by side
| Feature | Equalizer APO 9.3/10 Visit ↗ | SteelSeries Sonar 9.0/10 Visit ↗ |
|---|---|---|
| At a glance | ||
| Editor score | 9.3 | 9.0 |
| Ranking | #1 in Audio Equalizer Software | #4 in Audio Equalizer Software |
| Best for | Windows users needing a powerful free system EQ | Windows gamers and streamers |
| Pricing model | Free | Free |
| Starting price | Free plan | Free |
| Free plan | ✓ | ✓ |
| Free trial | — | — |
| Deployment | Desktop | Desktop |
| Platforms | Windows | Windows |
| Integrations | 2 integrations | 5 integrations |
| Features Equalizer APO 3/4 · SteelSeries Sonar 0/4 | ||
| System-wide control | ✓ (best) | Not checked yet |
| Per-app controls | ✓ (best) | Not checked yet |
| Parametric EQ | ✓ (best) | Not checked yet |
| Device profiles | Not checked yet | Not checked yet |
| Specs | ||
| Desktop operating systems | Windows | Not checked yet |
| EQ band count | Not checked yet | Not checked yet |
| Our review | ||
| Pros |
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| Cons |
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| Our verdict | Equalizer APO is open-source audio equalizer software for Windows. It operates through the Windows Audio Processing Object infrastructure, applying system-wide processing to supported audio applications and selected devices. Its audience… Read the review → |
SteelSeries Sonar is Windows audio software for gamers and streamers who need more than a basic equalizer. It combines a parametric equalizer with up to 10 bands, 360° spatial audio, ClearCast AI noise cancellation, microphone processing,… Read the review → |
Strengths and trade-offs
Equalizer APO — where it wins
- System-wide parametric and graphic equalization
- Virtually unlimited filters with very low latency
- VST support plus Room EQ Wizard and Voicemeeter integrations
Where it doesn't
- Windows-only availability
- Does not support ASIO or WASAPI exclusive mode
- Advanced configuration may suit experienced desktop users better
SteelSeries Sonar — where it wins
- Free access to EQ, spatial audio, routing, mixing, and AI noise cancellation
- Routes applications into separate game, chat, media, and microphone streams
- Works with any microphone and integrates with Discord, OBS, Twitch, and XSplit
Where it doesn't
- Available only on Windows
- Distributed through SteelSeries GG
- Advanced audio controls may require more setup than basic equalizers
- Equalizer APO9.3/10 · Free plan
A powerful free Windows system EQ with deep filtering, low latency, and VST support.
Visit Equalizer APOFull verdict → - SteelSeries Sonar9.0/10 · Free plan
A free Windows audio suite with EQ, routing, spatial audio, and AI noise cancellation.
Visit SteelSeriesFull verdict →
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All audio equalizer software comparisons → · Full ranking →
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
Last updated · How we research and update