Pro Tools vs Studio One: The Ultimate Showdown! 2025

Have you ever wondered which DAW is the best for your music production needs? Well, look no further! Today we’re settling the debate between two of the top DAWs on the market: Pro Tools and Studio One.

From workflow to sound design capabilities, we’ll break down all that each has to offer so you can make an informed decision when it comes to choosing a DAW.

So sit back, relax, and get ready – it's time for Pro Tools vs Studio One: The Ultimate Showdown!

Pro Tools vs Studio One: The Ultimate Showdown! 2025

What We Know About Pro Tools

PRO TOOLS

Many audio professionals record, edit, and mix audio using Pro Tools, a DAW. Along with programmes like Logic Pro and Ableton Live, it is widely regarded as one of the DAWs that set the standard in the industry.

Pro Tools has a large selection of features and tools for working with audio, such as support for various audio formats, the capacity to import and export audio, and the capacity to record and edit multiple tracks at once.

It also features support for third-party plug-ins and virtual instruments, as well as a variety of plug-ins and effects for enhancing audio.

There are several versions of Pro Tools, including a free version called Pro Tools First and paid versions like Pro Tools and Pro Tools Ultimate.

It's critical to carefully compare the various versions to decide which one is best for your needs because the precise features and tools included in each version differ.

An appropriate audio interface for connecting any external microphones or instruments, as well as a computer running a compatible operating system (like macOS or Windows), are required in order to use Pro Tools.

To input MIDI data, a keyboard or pad controller that is compatible with Pro Tools is also required.

Pro Tools provides a wealth of tutorials and resources to assist users in getting started and learning how to use the programme. These resources include an online community where users can exchange tips and advice.

Overall, it is a capable and experienced DAW that works well for a variety of audio production tasks.

Don't Have It Yet? Download Avid Pro Tools

Pro Tools Price: $29.99/month or $599

Pro Tools Specs: 

  • Pro Tools works on Windows and macOS
  • Offers audio recording, editing, mixing, and virtual instruments/effects
  • Supports WAV, AIFF, MP3, and MIDI
  • Uses non-destructive audio editing system
  • Includes Xpand!2, AIR virtual instrument suite, and Avid Channel Strip plug-in
  • Integrates with Avid Video Engine and Avid S6 control surface
  • Available in three versions: Pro Tools First (free), Pro Tools, and Pro Tools Ultimate
  • Minimum system requirements for Pro Tools on Windows:
    • Intel Core i5 processor or higher
    • 8 GB RAM
    • 15 GB free hard drive space
    • Windows 10 64-bit
    • ASIO-compatible audio interface or built-in sound card
  • Minimum system requirements for Pro Tools on macOS:
    • Intel Core 2 Duo processor or higher
    • 8 GB RAM
    • 15 GB free hard drive space
    • macOS 10.14 (Mojave) or higher
    • Core Audio-compatible audio interface or built-in sound card

Pro Tools Official Site / Where To Download:  Pro Tools Official Website

They have many useful tutorials over on the  Pro Tools Official Youtube Channel

What We Know About Studio One

STUDIO ONE

Studio One was developed and is maintained by PreSonus, a company that specializes in music production software and hardware.

Features and Functionality

Features and Functionality

Studio One is known for its user-friendly interface and wide range of features, making it a popular choice for both beginners and professional producers. It offers a variety of virtual instruments and effects, as well as advanced mixing and editing tools. Studio One also has a range of built-in templates and project templates to help users get started on their music projects quickly and efficiently.

Suitable for a Variety of Users

Suitable for a Variety of Users

Studio One is suitable for a wide range of users, including electronic music producers, recording musicians, and podcast creators. It is also used by music educators and students, making it a great option for anyone looking to get into music production or improve their skills.

Overall, Studio One is a powerful and versatile DAW that is suitable for a variety of users, from beginners to professionals. Its user-friendly interface and wide range of features make it a popular choice for anyone looking to create and produce music.Studio One is a DAW that was developed and is maintained by PreSonus, a company that specializes in music production software and hardware.

Studio One Price: $99-$499

Studio One Specs: 

  • Studio One 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 Impact XT and Sample One XT
  • Features a range of audio and MIDI editing tools, including the Scratch Pad for quickly trying out ideas
  • Includes the VST2 and VST3 plug-in formats for use with third-party virtual instruments and effects
  • Integrates with PreSonus' Notion software for scoring and notation
  • Available in several versions: Studio One Free, Studio One Prime, Studio One Artist, and Studio One Professional
  • Minimum system requirements for Studio One on Windows:
    • Intel Core 2 Duo processor or higher
    • 4 GB RAM
    • 30 GB free hard drive space
    • Windows 7 64-bit or higher
    • ASIO-compatible audio interface or built-in sound card
  • Minimum system requirements for Studio One on macOS:
    • Intel Core 2 Duo processor or higher
    • 4 GB RAM
    • 30 GB free hard drive space
    • macOS 10.11 (El Capitan) or higher
    • Core Audio-compatible audio interface or built-in sound card

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

They have many useful tutorials over on the  Studio One Official Youtube Channel

Pro Tools vs Studio One: What's The Difference?

FeaturePro ToolsStudio One
DAW typeDigital audio workstationDigital audio workstation
PlatformMac, WindowsMac, Windows
PricingSubscription-based, starting at $29.99/monthSubscription-based, starting at $9.99/month or one-time purchase, starting at $299
Audio editingOffers advanced audio editing features, such as Elastic Time and Elastic PitchOffers advanced audio editing features, such as Elastic Audio and Audio Bend
MIDI editingOffers advanced MIDI editing capabilities, including step sequencing and score editingOffers advanced MIDI editing capabilities, including piano roll and event list editing
PluginsOffers a wide range of virtual instruments and effects pluginsOffers a wide range of virtual instruments and effects plugins
CollaborationOffers collaboration features, such as track sharing and cloud integrationOffers advanced collaboration features, such as real-time collaboration and integration with PreSonus Sphere
InterfaceStraightforward interface with a traditional layoutIntuitive interface with a modern layout

Overall, Pro Tools and Studio One are both capable DAWs for recording and producing audio.
Pro Tools, on the other hand, is more focused on recording and production, whereas Studio One is known for its ease of use and library of MIDI instruments and sample packs.

Pro Tools, on the other hand, is more focused on recording and production, whereas Studio One is known for its ease of use and library of MIDI instruments and sample packs. 

Pro Tools is also more expensive than Studio One, but it has more sound effects and recording features.

Finally, the decision between these two DAWs will come down to your individual needs and preferences as a musician or audio engineer.

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 Pro Tools 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!

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