Before we delve into the array of options, there’s a few key factors that you should take on board.

We’ve also mentioned this over in our Music Production Software guide, so go give that a read too.

Trials/Demos

First, you’ll want to download trials of a few options to test them out. This is a risk-free way to work in a number of DAWs, to get to know the workflow and to see if it’s the right option or not.

Many of the DAWs we get into today either have a demo or trial.

Instead of spending hours upon hours researching which DAW to use, download a trial version of a DAW and start playing with it.

The way I would recommend approach this is to try one out at a time for 2-3 weeks and get to know it. Then move onto the next, and repeat.

This way you’ll get to know all the options that looked appealing to you, and make an informed decision.

Decide for Yourself

Secondly, make your choice based on your personal preference, not on what your favourite producer uses or what your buddy uses.

This is a trap many producers (myself included) have fallen into.

Here’s a secret.

DAWs don’t help you make a certain type of music. They help you with a certain type of workflow.

You could arrive at the same endpoint in a number of different pieces of software.

Additionally, don’t make an arbitrary decision. That’s why we recommend trying out a few.

Availability of Resources

Thirdly, find some great resources that will allow you to learn your DAW. A structured course is normally far more valuable than random YouTube videos, but in the decision-making process, free resources are fine.

This will get you acquainted with the most-important features. I say this because you don’t need to know every feature before you start making music.

It’s also enough experience to know the DAW to a point where you can say ‘yes’ or ‘no’ to it.

At this time, it’s good to gauge the amount of information available on your DAW. It might be harder to learn a more obscure one in comparison to a popular option like Logic Pro. This is important to consider for down the track.

A quick Google or YouTube search should give you a rough idea:

Pricing

Of course, affordability is an important factor for a lot of us. We don’t necessarily have the money to fork out for the most expensive DAW.

To counteract this, you’ll want to do some research into the pricing tiers for each DAW. Some only have the one edition, but others have a couple of options to meet you where you’re at.

If you’re a student, see if there is a discount available as well.

Regardless, DAWs aren’t cheap, but the cost is justified.

You’re investing in a high-quality, professional-grade program that you’ll use throughout your entire career.

Each of these DAWs is beginner friendly, but they’re also top quality software used by the best producers in the world.

Sure, you could save money by purchasing a cheaper DAW. That said, I can guarantee it will take you longer to get to where you want to be using a more affordable DAW than if you purchased Ableton Live or FL Studio from the beginning.

Invest in yourself and invest in your career by purchasing a professional grade DAW.

We’ll cover it a bit in this article.

Don’t Hesitate Too Long

Lastly, don’t spend too long trying to figure out which DAW is best. This is why I’m suggesting you focus on one at a time for a short period, then try another and repeat.

The aim here is to delve into it enough so you can make a decision, not to learn each DAW in its entirety.

You want to spend minimal time on this process, and instead spend more time creating music.