FL Studio vs Cubase: Which Music Production Software Is Right For You? 2024

Are you looking for the perfect music production software to bring your musical ideas to life?

Do you find yourself stuck between FL Studio and Cubase, not sure which one is right for you? You’ve come to the right place!

In this article, we’ll be exploring both of these popular pieces of music production software so that you can make an informed decision on which program will suit your needs.

We’ll look at user-friendliness, features, sound quality, and more – so read on to get started!

FL Studio vs Cubase
Table Of Contents
  1. What We Know About FL Studio
  2. What We Know About Cubase
  3. FL Studio vs Cubase: What's The Difference?
  4. FL Studio Vs Cubase FAQs
  5. Comparing FL Studio & Cubase To Other DAWs
  6. Don't Have It Yet? Get FL Studio
  7. Get A Head Start – Learn Music Production From The Best
  8. Recommended Sample Packs & Plugins

What We Know About FL Studio

FL studio

FL Studio is a DAW that is used by music producers and DJs to create, record, and edit music. It is available for Windows and Mac and offers a wide range of features for creating and manipulating audio.

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What can you do with FL Studio?

FL Studio is a powerful tool for creating music, and it can be used for a variety of purposes. Some of the things you can do with FL Studio include:

  • Record and edit audio tracks
  • Create and edit MIDI tracks
  • Mix and master audio tracks
  • Add effects and processing to audio tracks
  • Create and edit loops
  • Create and edit drum patterns
  • Create and edit music notation

Is FL Studio easy to use?

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FL Studio has a user-friendly interface and offers a wide range of tutorials and resources to help new users get started.

However, it is a complex and powerful tool, and it may take some time to learn all of its features and functions.

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What are the different versions of FL Studio?

FL Studio comes in several different versions, ranging from the basic Fruity Edition to the more advanced Producer Edition.

The Fruity Edition is the entry-level version and is suitable for beginners. The Producer Edition includes more advanced features and is suitable for more experienced users.

How much does FL Studio cost?

The cost of FL Studio depends on which version you choose. The Fruity Edition costs $99, while the Producer Edition costs $199. There are also subscription options available, starting at $9.99 per month.


FL Studio is a powerful and popular DAW that is used by music producers and DJs around the world. It offers a wide range of features and is suitable for a variety of music production tasks.

If you are considering purchasing FL Studio, it is important to consider which version is right for you and whether the cost is worth it for your needs.

FL Studio Price: $99-$899

FL Studio Specs: 

  • Operating system: Windows
  • Processor: 2 GHz or higher
  • Minimum RAM: 1 GB
  • Recommended RAM: 4 GB or more
  • Disk space: 1 GB
  • Minimum screen resolution: 1024 x 600
  • Supported file formats: Audio: WAV, MP3, Ogg Vorbis, FLAC; MIDI: MIDI, SMF

FL Studio Official Site / Where To Download:  FL Studio Official Website

What We Know About Cubase

cubase

Cubase is a DAW used by music producers, audio engineers, and DJs to create, record, and edit music. It is available for Windows and Mac and has a range of features for creating and manipulating audio.

What can you do with Cubase?

Cubase is a powerful tool for music creation, and can be used for various purposes such as:

  • recording and editing audio tracks,
  • creating and editing MIDI tracks,
  • mixing and mastering audio,
  • adding effects and processing to audio,
  • creating and editing loops and drum patterns,
  • and creating and editing music notation.

Is Cubase easy to use?

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Cubase has a user-friendly interface and provides a range of tutorials and resources to assist new users.

However, it is a complex and powerful tool, and may take time to learn all its features and functions.

What are the different versions of Cubase?

Cubase has various versions, ranging from the basic Elements version to the more advanced Pro version.

The Elements version is suitable for beginners, while the Pro version is suitable for more experienced users and includes advanced features.

How much does Cubase cost?

The cost of Cubase depends on the version chosen. The Elements version costs $99, while the Pro version costs $599. Subscription options are also available starting at $19.99 per month.

When considering purchasing Cubase, it is important to consider which version is right for you and whether the cost is worth it for your needs.

Cubase Price: $99-$599

Specs: 

  • Cubase works on Windows and macOS
  • Offers audio recording, editing, mixing, and virtual instruments/effects
  • Supports WAV, AIFF, MP3, and MIDI
  • Includes virtual instruments such as HALion Sonic SE and Groove Agent SE
  • Features a variety of audio and MIDI editing tools, including the Score Editor for creating sheet music
  • Includes the VST3 plug-in format for use with third-party virtual instruments and effects
  • Integrates with Steinberg's Nuendo software for post-production work
  • Available in several versions: Cubase Elements, Cubase Artist, and Cubase Pro
  • Minimum system requirements for Cubase on Windows:
    • Intel Core i5 processor or higher
    • 8 GB RAM
    • 40 GB free hard drive space
    • Windows 10 64-bit
    • ASIO-compatible audio interface or built-in sound card
  • Minimum system requirements for Cubase on macOS:
    • Intel Core 2 Duo processor or higher
    • 8 GB RAM
    • 40 GB free hard drive space
    • macOS 10.13 (High Sierra) or higher
    • Core Audio-compatible audio interface or built-in sound card

Cubase Official Site / Where To Download:  Cubase Official Website

They have many useful tutorials over on the  Cubase Official Youtube Channel

FL Studio vs Cubase: What's The Difference?

FeatureFL StudioCubase
Price$99 – $899$99 – $599
Operating SystemWindowsWindows, macOS
Audio InterfaceUp to 256 inputs/outputsUp to 64 inputs/outputs
MIDI InterfaceUp to 512 inputs/outputsUp to 32 inputs/outputs
Audio EditingMulti-track with effects, EQ, etc.Multi-track with effects, EQ, etc.
MIDI EditingMulti-track editing, sequencing, quantizingMulti-track editing, sequencing, quantizing
AutomationAudio and MIDI automationAudio and MIDI automation
Plug-insThird-party VSTThird-party VST, AU, VST3
Online SupportOnline forum and video tutorialsOnline forum, video tutorials, online help documentation
Loop RecordingUnlimited overdubsUp to 32 overdubs
Audio CompressionYesYes, and audio normalization
Score EditingYesYes, and notation
MixerChannel and master levels, panning, effectsChannel and master levels, panning, sends, effects
VST SynthsWide range of built-in VST synthsWide range of built-in VST synths and instruments
SamplerBuilt-in sampler and drum machineBuilt-in sample editor and drum machine
Export OptionsAudio, MIDI, videoAudio, MIDI, video, audio CD

FL Studio and Cubase are two popular tools used for recording, editing, and producing music by music producers, singers, and audio engineers.

Both applications contain a wide range of capabilities and tools for composing and editing music, but there are some major distinctions that may make one more ideal for a specific user or use situation.

Pricing:

FL Studio is often thought to be less expensive than Cubase. FL Studio includes several pricing options, including a free demo version and three paid versions: Fruity Edition, Producer Edition, and Signature Bundle.

The Fruity Edition is the most basic and cost-effective edition, whereas the Signature Bundle includes all features and tools.


Cubase has a wider price range, with four different versions available: Cubase Elements, Cubase Artist, Cubase Pro, and Cubase Ultimate.

Cubase Elements is the most basic and cost-effective edition, whereas Cubase Ultimate includes all features and tools.

Ease of use:

FL Studio and Cubase are both strong DAWs with a wide range of capabilities and tools; yet, they may be rather sophisticated and may necessitate a learning curve for new users.


However, some users, particularly those new to music production, may find FL Studio to be more intuitive and easier to learn.

FL Studio offers an easier-to-use interface and contains tutorials and tips to assist users get started.


Cubase, on the other hand, may be more powerful and professional, but also more complex and difficult to learn for some users.

Cubase offers a more traditional DAW interface, and mastering all of its features and capabilities may take more time and effort.

Tools and features:

FL Studio and Cubase both include a comprehensive set of features and tools for recording, editing, and producing music.


FL Studio comes with a variety of virtual instruments, effects, and editing tools, as well as a robust sequencer for music arrangement and composition.

It also has audio warping, time stretching, and pitch shifting capabilities, as well as support for VST and AU plugins.


Cubase also features a comprehensive set of virtual instruments, effects, and editing tools, as well as a robust sequencer for music arrangement and composition.

It also has audio warping, time stretching, and pitch shifting capabilities, as well as support for VST and AU plugins.

Furthermore, Cubase includes certain advanced capabilities that FL Studio does not have, such as score editing, a mixing console, and surround sound capability.

Ideal for:

FL Studio and Cubase are both suited for music producers, singers, and audio engineers, as well as classroom use.


FL Studio may be better suited to beginners or those searching for a low-cost DAW with a user-friendly interface and tutorials.


Cubase might be better suited to expert users or those seeking a more sophisticated and professional DAW with advanced features and capabilities.


Finally, the choice between FL Studio and Cubase will be determined by the user's specific demands and tastes. Both are capable DAWs with a vast range of capabilities and tools, and each has its own set of advantages and disadvantages.


  Try out the demo versions of both applications to discover which one feels more intuitive and matches your personal needs.

mo versions of both applications to discover which one feels more intuitive and matches your personal needs.

If you found this comparison useful, but are still undecided on what tool is best for you, you might want to check out my other FL Studio comparison articles. A DAW isn't a small investment, so take your time and make sure you are getting the best bang for your buck!

FL Studio Vs Cubase FAQs

Is Cubase better than FL Studio?

Both Cubase and FL Studio are popular digital audio workstation (DAW) programs, and each has its own strengths and weaknesses.

It's difficult to say whether one is definitively better than the other, as the best DAW for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.

Some people may prefer Cubase for its advanced mixing and editing features, while others may prefer FL Studio for its intuitive user interface and wide range of virtual instruments and effects.

Which DAW is better than FL Studio?

It's difficult to say which DAW (digital audio workstation) is better than FL Studio, as the best DAW for you ultimately depends on your personal preferences and needs.

Some popular alternatives to FL Studio include: Ableton Live, Logic Pro, Pro Tools, and GarageBand.

Do professionals use FL Studio?

Yes, many professional musicians and producers use FL Studio for creating and producing music. Some well-known artists and producers who use FL Studio include Martin Garrix, Deadmau5, and Avicii.

Why is Cubase the best?

Cubase has a long history and a large community of users, which may contribute to its reputation as one of the best DAWs available.

Comparing FL Studio & Cubase To Other DAWs

I cannot stress enough, that when it comes to choosing a DAW, in this day and age prettty much any of the top DAWs on the market are going to be high-quality, professional standard.

And, if you head over to a few music studios, you will see they each have multiple DAWs installed with engineers having their preference of one or two.

That being said, depending on what you hope to accomplish on your chosen DAW, some will be better suited than others.

I have put together another table below that outlines which DAW might be more appropriate for whom.

WhoBest DAWReason
Rappers recording vocalsPro ToolsPro Tools offers extensive editing capabilities and a wide range of plugins for vocal production.
Singers recording vocalsLogic ProLogic Pro has an intuitive user interface and offers a great selection of sounds for vocal production.
Music producersFL StudioFL Studio offers a comprehensive suite of tools for creating and producing music, and is suitable for beginners.
EngineersCubaseCubase has a powerful mixing console and a wide range of audio effects and plugins for mixing and mastering.
Live bandsAbleton LiveAbleton Live is ideal for live performance, with its flexible routing, real-time effects, and intuitive interface.
BeginnersFL StudioFL Studio offers an easy-to-use interface and a comprehensive set of tools for producing music.

Get A Head Start – Learn Music Production From The Best

ready to learn music production from the best

Whichever DAW you choose, be sure to watch all of the tutorials they provide free of charge – make the most of that knowledge so you can reduce the learning curve and get straight into doing what you want to do – recording and making beats

If you want to kickstart your DAW learning and skills even further; I highly recommend Timbaland's Masterclass! It is like being mentored by the best in the industry and having him right there in the room with you as your personal producer!

You will learn everything from how he uses different types of software, to advanced mixing techniques, sound selection, and more. I cannot recommend it enough!

Recommended Sample Packs & Plugins

lofi hip hop megapack 2
Genre: Hip Hop, Lofi Hip Hop, Chill
Moombahton megapack
Genre: Trap, Pop, Moombahton
Pumping Summer Bundle
Genre: Dubstep, EDM, Future Bass, Trap, Hip Hop

About Author

Arielle P

Arielle P

Songwriter | Music Producer | Engineer.

With a background in music production and a strong passion for education, Arielle is dedicated to helping emerging artists navigate the music industry. She has worked with a diverse range of artists, from indie rock bands to well-known hip-hop and grime artists. Arielle's unique approach to teaching focuses on empowering artists to take control of their brand, ensuring they retain creative ownership throughout their journey. In her free time, she enjoys experimenting with new sounds in her home studio and sharing her insights through music production tutorials and workshops.

📧 Email Arielle