Head-to-head · Beat Making Software
MASCHINE vs BeatMaker 3
MASCHINE leads on 0 checks, BeatMaker 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 scoreMASCHINE · 9.2/10
MASCHINE scores higher on our rubric for beat making software: 9.2 against 8.4 out of 10; our editors rank them #2 and #6.
On platforms, BeatMaker 3 gives you Mobile where MASCHINE offers Desktop.
MASCHINE is the better fit for beatmakers wanting hardware-style production workflows. BeatMaker 3 is the better fit for advanced iPad production and live sampling.
- MASCHINE fits best
Beatmakers wanting hardware-style production workflows
- BeatMaker 3 fits best
Advanced iPad production and live sampling
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Side by side
| Feature | MASCHINE 9.2/10 Visit ↗ | BeatMaker 3 8.4/10 Visit ↗ |
|---|---|---|
| At a glance | ||
| Editor score | 9.2 | 8.4 |
| Ranking | #2 in Beat Making Software | #6 in Beat Making Software |
| Best for | Beatmakers wanting hardware-style production workflows | Advanced iPad production and live sampling |
| Pricing model | Paid | Paid |
| Starting price | $39 one-time | — |
| Free plan | — | — |
| Free trial | — | — |
| Deployment | Desktop | Mobile |
| Platforms | Windows, macOS | iOS |
| Support | Docs | Email, Docs |
| Integrations | 11 integrations | 9 integrations |
| Built for | Solo, Small business, Mid-market, Enterprise | Solo, Small business |
| Features MASCHINE 3/3 · BeatMaker 3 3/3 | ||
| Plugin support | ✓ | ✓ |
| MIDI support | ✓ | ✓ |
| Sample import | ✓ | ✓ |
| Specs | ||
| Platforms | Desktop | Mobile |
| Track limit | Not checked yet | Not checked yet |
| Audio export | audio files in 16-, 24-, and 32-bit depth; MIDI files | WAVE, AAC |
| Our review | ||
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| Our verdict | MASCHINE is Native Instruments’ beat-making and music production system for producers and performers. It supports beat and pattern creation, audio sampling, sample slicing, clip-based arrangement, mixing, sound design, and performance. The… Read the review → |
BeatMaker 3 is an iPad music-production workstation from INTUA for musicians and producers building beats, sampled instruments, patterns, and complete songs. It brings together a drum machine with 128 trigger pads across eight banks, a… Read the review → |
Strengths and trade-offs
MASCHINE — where it wins
- Combines sampling, slicing, arrangement, mixing, instruments, and effects
- Supports DAW plug-ins, MIDI sequencing, export, and stem separation
- Works with major DAWs and Windows or macOS desktop systems
Where it doesn't
- There is no free plan
- The $39 option is update-only for Maschine 2 users
- Platform support is limited to Windows and macOS
BeatMaker 3 — where it wins
- 128 trigger pads across eight banks support detailed beat programming
- Unlimited tracks, audio recording, MIDI sequencing, and full mixing tools
- Audio Unit V3, Audiobus, Ableton Link, and MIDI support broaden its workflow
Where it doesn't
- Available on iOS, with the product focused on iPad production
- Sound-store purchases are separate from the main app
- Audio export is limited to WAVE and AAC formats
- MASCHINE9.2/10 · Paid
A capable beat-making system for producers who want sampling, sequencing, and hardware-style workflows.
Visit MASCHINEFull verdict → - BeatMaker 38.4/10 · Paid
A deep iPad workstation for beat makers who need sampling, sequencing, and live control.
Visit INTUAFull verdict →
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- Serato Studio vs BeatMaker 3
All beat making software comparisons → · Full ranking →
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
Last updated · How we research and update






