BandLab review

BandLab is the strongest free alternative to GarageBand, and it adds tools GarageBand lacks. The App Store listing counts 385+ VST instruments, 300+ vocal, guitar, bass and audio presets, and a Sampler that browses 250K+ royalty-free BandLab Sounds samples. Free AI features include SongStarter for song ideas, AutoPitch with 6 free effects for vocal tuning, and Splitter, which separates a song into vocals, drums, bass and other stems. Four free Mastering presets prepare MP3, MP4 or WAV files for streaming. A built-in social platform lets you collaborate and share. The catch is the paywall line: 28 instruments, extra AutoPitch effects, AutoMix, Voice Cleaner and finer stem extraction are Members-only, and Membership Pro is listed at $14.99 per month or $149.99 per year. The app carries a 13+ rating because of social features. For anyone who wants free stem splitting and mastering on an iPad, it is the best starting point.

Who it is for

collaborators and creators who want free AI tools

Price

Free app; BandLab Membership Pro is $14.99 per month or $149.99 per year in the US App Store.

BandLab Membership Pro - 1 Month $14.99
Quoted from the vendor pricing page on November 14, 2026.

Key features

• 385+ VST instruments and 300+ vocal, guitar, bass and audio presets
• Sampler with access to 250K+ royalty-free BandLab Sounds samples
• SongStarter AI idea generator and AutoPitch vocal tuning with 6 free effects
• Free Splitter stem separation into vocals, drums, bass and others
• 4 free Mastering presets for MP3, MP4 and WAV tracks

Strengths and weaknesses

• Strength: Core recording, beat making, stem splitting and mastering are free
• Strength: Social platform for collaborating with other creators
• Strength: Membership adds AutoMix, Voice Cleaner and up to 7 extracted stems
• Weakness: Several FX, instruments and AI tools are Members-only
• Weakness: Membership Pro costs $14.99 per month in the App Store
• Weakness: Rated 13+ on the App Store because of user-generated content and social features

Key facts

• Price: Free; Membership Pro $14.99 per month
• Instruments: 385+ VST instruments
• Samples: 250K+ royalty-free
• Devices: iPhone, iPad

Where it ranks

BandLab is No. 2 in our Best Music Production Apps for iPad verdict.