openDAW
openDAW: A free collaborative browser DAW with broad built-in production tools. Ranked #57 of 128 in Audio Editing Software by our editors (3.7/10); pricing: Free plan; best for free browser-based collaborative audio production.
At a glance
- Editor score3.7 / 10
- PricingFree plan
- Best forFree browser-based collaborative audio production
- Free planYes
- Paid fromFree
- Facts checked20 Sep 2026
Where it wins
- Free and open source under AGPL-3
- Multitrack audio, MIDI, mixing, routing, and stem export
- Live collaboration with self-hosted Nextcloud storage
Where it doesn't
- Web-browser access only
- No verified third-party plugin support
- Limited maturity evidence versus established DAWs
Our verdict on openDAW
openDAW is a browser-based digital audio workstation for music creation, recording, arrangement, and sound design. It is aimed at individual creators, educators, students, and schools that want free, open-source audio production without a required login. The feature set covers multitrack audio editing and mixing, recording from multiple devices, MIDI note editing and sequencing, built-in instruments and effects, and project collaboration.
The published model is straightforward: openDAW is free and open source under AGPL-3. Its production tools include synthesizers, samplers, a drum machine, effects, mixer sends, auxiliary busses, routing, and stem export. JavaScript scripting adds a path for custom audio effects and MIDI processors, while real-time audio and MIDI visualizer export supports projects that need visual output. This breadth makes it suitable for learning, classroom use, and creators who prefer browser-based workflows over a traditional desktop installation.
Collaboration and storage are central to its platform fit. Live project collaboration supports shared work, and the self-hosted Nextcloud option gives institutions a way to keep project storage under their control. The trade-off is that openDAW runs only in a web browser, which may not suit users seeking a desktop-native DAW workflow. There is also no verified third-party plugin support, so users who depend on established external plugin ecosystems should consider an alternative. Choose openDAW for accessible, collaborative production with built-in tools; choose another DAW when plugin compatibility, desktop access, or a more established platform matters most.
Your product? Our editors can test openDAW in depth and publish a review, labelled as paid · from $149/mo →
openDAW pricing
openDAW fact sheet
| Free plan | Yes |
|---|---|
| Paid from | Free |
| Supported platforms | Web browser |
| Multitrack editing | Yes |
| MIDI sequencing | Yes |
| Third-party plugins | Not verified |
| Noise reduction | Yes |
| Video synchronization | Not verified |
| Cloud collaboration | Yes |
| Deployment | Self-hosted |
| Platforms | Web |
| Support | Email, Community |
| Built for | Solo, Small business, Enterprise (editorial estimate) |
| Integrations | 1 integrations: Nextcloud |
| Pricing | Free plan |
| Website | opendaw.org |
| Facts checked | 20 Sep 2026 |
openDAW integrations
openDAW lists 1 integrations on its own site.
- Nextcloud
Alternatives to openDAW
- Pro ToolsA broad workstation for studios spanning music production, audio post, and immersive mixing.9.4
- REAPERA flexible desktop DAW with broad audio and MIDI tools and a one-time license from $60.9.3
- Logic ProA broad audio and MIDI workstation for Apple-based producers and video composers.9.2
See all openDAW alternatives →
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openDAW is listed in our Audio Editing Software directory. Add the badge to your site — it links back to this page.
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
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