So, you’ve got the rhythm. The ideas are flowing. Maybe you’ve even tapped out a beat on your kitchen table more than once. Now what?
Well, obviously, you want to create music but with so many options, it’s hard to know where to begin. Whether you're an aspiring music producer, a bedroom beatmaker, or just curious about digital music creation, the right tools make all the difference. This guide cuts through the noise—highlighting the best beatmaking apps in 2025 to help you find the right fit for your style, setup, and musical goals.
Before we get into names and recommendations, let’s talk about what actually matters. Because “best” is subjective. Are you after polished, radio-ready production? Or just trying to get a groove down while you’re on the bus?
Here’s what to look for in top beatmaking apps:
Decide what you are looking for in your beatmaking companion and let’s get into it.
A favourite among lo-fi producers and sample lovers. Koala turns your phone or tablet into a playful, powerful beatmaking tool.
Why it’s great: You can record sounds on the fly, chop them up, and sequence beats—all with a touch interface that’s oddly addictive. It also features AI-powered “Split Stems” for isolating vocals, bass, drums and more, and you can export sessions directly as Ableton Live Sets (iOS).
Best for: Sample-based producers, mobile beatmakers, creators on the go.
Platform: iOS, Android
Price: One-time low-cost purchase
If Koala sounds like your vibe, make sure to check out our article on Getting Started in Lo-Fi beats
FL Studio Mobile offers a portable way to build beats on the go, while the desktop version remains a heavyweight DAW used by professionals across genres.
Why it’s great: Both versions have deep production features and a wide range of instruments. That said, they are separate purchases, and not every feature translates across. You can transfer project files, but expect some limitations.
Best for: Intermediate to advanced producers who want flexibility and power.
Platform: iOS, Android, Windows, macOS
Price: Mobile and desktop apps sold separately; desktop has tiered pricing
A real classic, and don’t let the “free” tag fool you—GarageBand is powerful. Especially for beginners looking to dip their toes into music creation apps without getting overwhelmed.
Why it’s great: Preloaded sounds, easy-to-use drum machines, AI drummer features, and a slick interface make it an easy first DAW.
Best for: Beginners and casual creators
Platform: iOS, macOS
Price: Free
Built with DJs in mind, Serato Studio is a loop-based music creation app that feels fast, fluid, and intuitive—especially for those familiar with DJing software.
Why it’s great: You can make beats quickly using time-stretching, key-matching, and drag-and-drop simplicity. However, it’s not a full DAW—it’s more focused on creating short ideas and loops.
Best for: DJ-producers and loop-based beatmakers
Platform: Windows, macOS
Price: Free tier available, with subscriptions for advanced features
A rising star that’s making music creation very accessible. BandLab is cloud-based, collaborative, and full of free features like auto-tune, AI mastering, and community tools.
Why it’s great: For a free tool, the quality and versatility are seriously impressive. You can collaborate in real-time with friends around the world (meaning that long-distance band you're still in can finally make their debut EP!)
Best for: Beginners, producers, and remote collaborators
Platform: iOS, Android, web
Price: Free
A professional-grade beatmaking app for iPad, favoured by finger drummers and sample-heavy producers.
Why it’s great: It combines a powerful sampler with full MIDI and automation support—ideal for serious mobile production.
Best for: Advanced iPad users, finger drummers
Platform: iOS
Price: One-time purchase
A collaborative, cloud-based DAW from Soundtrap AB that makes music production and podcasting easy and accessible.
Why it’s great: Great for recording, sequencing, and collaborating. Built-in auto-tune, loops, and AI features make it user-friendly.
Best for: Beginners to intermediate users, remote teams
Platform: iOS, Android, web
Price: Free tier with premium plans
A mobile version of the Cubase DAW, Cubasis offers a professional environment on tablets and phones. Making the professional portable.
Why it’s great: High-resolution audio export, automation, third-party plugin support, and more make this ideal for mobile professionals.
Best for: Professional mobile producers
Platform: iOS, Android
Price: Paid
An entry-level beatmaking tool that’s fun, approachable, and we found surprisingly satisfying.
Why it’s great: A live pad interface lets you perform tracks by triggering loops and samples. It’s not for full track production, but it’s a gateway for beginners.
Best for: Newcomers, casual users
Platform: iOS, Android
Price: Free with in-app purchases
A browser-based beatmaking tool from Splice, great for quickly sketching out ideas using royalty-free samples. Great for getting on the go ideas down.
Why it’s great: You can build loops with high-quality sounds and export them straight into your DAW.
Best for: Loop creators, producers using Splice Sounds
Platform: Web
Price: Free (with Splice account)
Here’s the truth: even the most powerful beatmaking software won’t get you far without practice. The real magic happens when your timing, touch, and musical instincts grow sharper. And that’s where Melodics comes in.
Melodics isn’t a DAW. It’s your musical mentor. With gamified lessons, real-time feedback, and a structured learning path, it helps you build the skills that will let you become a better musician, performer and producer.
For beatmaking, you’ll learn to:
So when it’s time to open up your favourite beatmaking tool, you won’t be staring at pads wondering what to do. You’ll be ready—both physically and creatively.
Unlock your musical potential. Practice doesn’t have to feel like work. With Melodics, it feels like play.
Whether you’re jamming on your phone or crafting full tracks in a home studio, the best beatmaking apps are the ones that let you shine. There’s no one-size-fits-all. Try a few. See what clicks. And whatever you choose—keep learning, keep creating, and above all, keep playing.
Need a partner in your practice? Melodics is here to help you turn every tap into progress.
Music’s not just something you listen to. It’s something you do. So go out there and do it!
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NEW LESSON DROP!
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