Making music doesn’t require expensive studio gear or years of training. Today, anyone can craft great beats using just a phone, tablet, or computer. Beat maker apps are packed with features that help you create, record, mix, and share your tracks—no matter your skill level.

If you’re new to making beats, or just looking to switch things up, here are 10 top beat maker apps to try. Each review includes a short description, clear pros and cons, and an image reference point. You’ll find everything you need to decide which app best fits your style.

1. FL Studio Mobile

FL Studio Mobile brings studio power to your pocket. It gives users multi-track recording, editing, mixing, and export options all on one mobile device. You can record vocals, layer sounds, and play with all kinds of instruments and effects.

Highlights

• Record many tracks for full songs.
• Edit melodies easily in a piano roll.
• Add effects like delay, reverb, and filters.
• Save files as WAV, MP3, AAC, FLAC, or MIDI.
• App supports both touch controls and MIDI devices.

Pros

• Huge library of sounds and effects for nearly every style.
• Works on Android, iPhone, iPad, and desktop.
• Intuitive design with easy navigation for basic tasks.
• Can export tracks in different audio formats.

Cons

• Some advanced features and instruments cost extra.
• Interface takes time to learn for new users.
• Fewer ready-made loops compared to competitors.

2. BandLab

BandLab is a free app that focuses on making music social. Users can create tracks, share with friends, or collaborate in real time. Everything is saved in the cloud, so storing and sharing projects is simple.

Highlights

• Unlimited project saves—never run out of space.
• Royalty-free samples and loops in tons of genres.
• Multi-track studio for full songs with effects.
• Built-in auto-tune, metronome, and tuner for fine-tuning work.
• Global community for sharing and feedback.

Pros

• Everything is free: samples, mixing tools, and cloud saves.
• Easy teamwork: start songs with friends from anywhere.
• Available on desktop, mobile, and tablet.
• User feedback and collaboration make learning fast.

Cons

• Most major features require internet access.
• Editing tools are basic compared to professional apps.
• Less suited to complex arrangements.

3. Soundtrap

Soundtrap makes online collaboration smooth and creative. It’s built for making beats, producing songs, or even recording podcasts. You can use it straight from your browser or its dedicated app.

Highlights

• Record, mix, and edit on web or app.
• MIDI editor for digital instruments.
• Built-in auto-tune, robot voice, and other cool effects.
• Cloud-based project storage to keep work safe.
• Google Classroom integration for music teachers with students.

Pros

• Friendly for beginners and groups.
• Lots of effects and loops included.
• Collaborate live with video chat built in.
• Projects are auto-saved on the cloud.

Cons

• Some handy features cost money.
• Free version is limited and has fewer sounds.
• Occasional glitches with web-based recording.

4. Koala Sampler

Koala Sampler shines for people who love sampling sounds and creating custom beats. Record anything, chop it up, and play it back on easy-to-use pads.

Highlights

• Capture sounds using built-in phone microphone.
• Up to 64 sample pads for instant creativity.
• Simple, clear layout for arranging and tweaking samples.
• Special effects like reverb, delay, and slicing.
• Export tracks as high-quality WAV or Ableton Live sets.

Pros

• Quick and easy sampling experience.
• Fast export for sharing or further editing.
• Budget-friendly app.
• Beginner-friendly controls.

Cons

• Focused on sampling, not full song production.
• Simple design may not satisfy expert users.
• Limited arrangement options.

5. GarageBand

GarageBand comes bundled with almost every Apple device. It has a huge library of virtual instruments, loops, and drum kits to choose from.

Highlights

• Audio and MIDI tracks for recording and editing.
• Tons of built-in loops for all styles.
• Virtual instruments: keys, drums, guitars, and synths.
• Effects for mixing and polishing final tracks.
• Drummer feature for smart rhythm creation.

Pros

• Free for Apple users.
• Simple controls make building ideas fast.
• Professional virtual instruments sound realistic.
• Tracks are easy to layer and edit.

Cons

• Only available on iOS and macOS.
• Fewer deep editing tools than paid DAWs.
• Not ideal for advanced mixing.

6. Splice Beat Maker

Splice Beat Maker puts millions of royalty-free sounds right at your fingertips. You can test loops before adding them to projects.

Highlights

• 16-step sequencer for quick, loop-based tracks.
• Massive library of professional samples.
• Try samples before downloading or buying packs.
• Export tracks to MIDI or audio format.

Pros

• Web-based and simple: no need to download an app.
• Endless genre options for loops and samples.
• Safe, royalty-free tracks for your own music.
• Fast process for sketching ideas.

Cons

• Not a full music production software.
• Requires a Splice account and internet connection.
• Lacks effects and mastering features.

7. Serato Studio

Serato Studio is made for beat making. It has a DJ-style interface that’s familiar to those who mix music live.

Highlights

• Scenes and song mode for organizing tracks.
• Master Key makes sure everything sounds good together.
• Drum sequencer lets you record live beats.
• Built-in effects (EQ, filter, reverb).

Pros

• Great for quick loops and remixes.
• Easy to learn for new users.
• Free tier lets you start right away.
• Good option for DJs making simple edits.

Cons

• Not built for big, complex projects.
• Lacks advanced arranger functions.
• Better for short ideas and sections.

8. Melodics

Melodics is a learning tool. It helps users practice finger drumming, keyboard skills, and rhythm through fun, game-like lessons. You play, get feedback, and see your progress.

Highlights

• Lessons for MIDI pads, keyboard, and electric drums.
• Tracks progress in rhythm, timing, and coordination.
• Instant feedback on your performance.

Pros

• Makes practice fun with clear goals.
• Improves timing and technique for new producers.
• Works with most MIDI gear.
• Keeps you motivated and learning.

Cons

• Not a beat maker or song arranger.
• Must pay for more lessons and features.
• Not useful for sound editing or track production.

9. Cubasis

Cubasis brings full-featured DAW power to mobile devices. It’s inspired by Cubase, the popular desktop program.

Highlights

• Multi-track recording, editing, and mixing.
• Supports third-party plugins and audio routing.
• Advanced automation for effects and mixes.
• Exports professional audio formats for sharing.

Pros

• True mobile DAW: brings professional tools to phones and tablets.
• Flexible interface with deep routing options.
• Supports hi-res audio and heavy editing.

Cons

• Paid app and can be pricey.
• Much harder to learn for beginners.
• Some desktop DAW features missing.

10. Groovepad

Groovepad is all about instant fun. Pick the style you want—EDM, hip-hop, pop—and start making music by tapping colored pads.

Highlights

• Huge selection of genres and loops.
• Pad controller makes creating music quick and easy.
• Monthly updates add fresh sounds and styles.

Pros

• Free to try, with paid features.
• Simple controls for all ages.
• Makes music instantly for casual creators.

Cons

• Limited song-building and editing options.
• Better for quick beats than full tracks.
• Not meant for deep professional use.

Pros and Cons Summary Table

App	Major Pros	Major Cons
FL Studio Mobile	Lots of features, pro sound, multi-device	Paid extras, tough for beginners
BandLab	Free, collaborative, wide loop library	Needs internet, basic editing
Soundtrap	Easy, cloud saves, real-time teamwork	Subscription needed, app bugs
Koala Sampler	Fast sampling, cool effects, easy export	Simple focus, no full song arranging
GarageBand	Free (Apple), big loops, easy layering	Only on Apple, fewer advanced controls
Splice Beat Maker	Huge samples, quick loops, royalty-free	Needs web, limited editing
Serato Studio	Fast, DJ-friendly, free tier available	Not for deep song editing
Melodics	Fun lessons, skill building, gamified	Not a DAW, needs subscription
Cubasis	Powerful DAW, pro audio plugins	Expensive, hard for new users
Groovepad	Quick tap music, free, good genres	Not for full tracks, simple editing

What Makes a Beat Maker App Useful?

• Ease of Use: Good apps let you make music fast. Simple layouts and touch controls help beginners get started. Advanced makers like FL Studio Mobile and Cubasis cater to pros who want more control.
• Sample Libraries: Apps like Splice and GarageBand stand out for their massive sample and loop collections. The more choices you have, the easier it is to shape songs the way you want.
• Collaboration: BandLab and Soundtrap let you work with friends or fellow musicians. Cloud storage and sharing features help everyone stay up to date and keep projects safe.
• Learning Tools: Melodics offers skill-building lessons, turning practice into a game. This helps beat makers improve timing and technique before jumping into heavy apps.
• Price and Platform: Some are free, some cost money. Apple users get GarageBand free. Others like Cubasis, FL Studio Mobile, and Koala Sampler have upfront costs or optional upgrades. Always check if your device is supported before buying.

How to Pick the Right App

Start by thinking about your needs:

• Want the most powerful features? Try FL Studio Mobile or Cubasis.
• Prefer teamwork? Go with BandLab or Soundtrap.
• Like making music quick and easy? Groovepad or Koala Sampler are great choices.
• Need to learn more? Consider Melodics.
• Want access to thousands of professional sounds? Splice Beat Maker is ideal.
• If you’re already working with Apple devices, GarageBand is an easy pick.

Don’t be afraid to test several apps before settling on your favorite!

Each App’s Icon Reference

While specific images can’t be shown here due to technical limitations, each app can be recognized easily in stores by its bright, bold logo. Watch for icons with:

• FL Studio Mobile: Orange fruit logo.
• BandLab: Red circle with white lab flask.
• Soundtrap: Purple sound wave.
• Koala Sampler: Cartoon koala face.
• GarageBand: White guitar on red background.
• Splice Beat Maker: Green and black “S” logo.
• Serato Studio: Purple disc with white lines.
• Melodics: White “M” over orange.
• Cubasis: Red triangle inside a square.
• Groovepad: Colorful pad grid.

Each app logo is a quick way to spot them in the app store or your device’s home screen.

Final Thoughts

With all these options, making beats has never been easier or more exciting. Each app brings something different to the table—whether it’s pro-level features, massive sample libraries, direct collaboration, or fun practice sessions. You can start small or go big, try things solo or work with friends, focus on learning or jump into professional production.

Choose your app based on what you want to make, how you like to work, and what your device can handle. Download one, open it up, and start crafting the perfect track. The next killer beat could be just a tap away!