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Transitioning from entry-level DAWs towards software products that offer a more comprehensive set of audio recording and editing features is a natural step in the process of becoming a professional sound engineer. You’ll inevitably face the choice between Logic Pro vs Pro Tools during that process.
Both of these DAWs have been at the forefront of the digital audio recording revolution since its beginning in the late 1980s and early 1990s and years later they are still among the best tools a musician or an audio engineer can use to record music.
This Logic Pro vs Pro Tools comparison will take you through the most important features these DAWs offer and help you determine which software best fits your needs.
Bottom Line Up Front Summary:Â While Logic Pro offers some nice usability and a simple one-time fee, the more professional-grade (and fully featured) DAW is definitely the legacy Pro Tools system here.
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Main Differences Between Logic Pro vs Pro Tools
The Main Differences Between Logic Pro vs Pro Tools are:
- Logic Pro is compatible with the macOS, whereas the Pro Tools can be used on Mac and PCs.
- LogicPro was released in 1993, whereas Pro Tools was released in 1985.
- Logic Pro can be purchased for a one-time fee, whereas Pro Tools is available in several pricing options
- Logic Pro can have up to 256 buses, whereas the number of buses in Pro Tools is not limited
- Logic Pro only allows you to replace soundtracks of video files, whereas Pro Tools lets you use up to 64 video tracks
With the latest release, you can now work with up to 10 collaborators in the cloud on a single project, including Pro Tools | First users. You can also choose to save projects locally or in the cloud using Selective Project Sync, giving you easy access to all of your cloud-based work from any Pro Tools-equipped computer—from anywhere you log into your account.
Key Specifications
| Â | Logic Pro | Pro Tools |
| Operating system | macOS 10.15.7 or later | macOS 10.13.6 or later
Windows 10 |
| Hard Disk Space | 72GB for full installation | 15GB minimum |
| External MIDI tracks | 1000 | 1024 |
| Sound library | 30GB | 5.4GB |
| Maximum sample rate | 64-bit, 192kHz | 32-bit, 192kHz |
| Surround support | Supports all standard surround configurations | Supports all standard surround configurations |
| Latest price | Check latest price here | Check latest price here |
Logic Pro vs Pro Tools feature comparison
Logic Pro
We’ve seen countless iterations of the Logic Pro DAW in the last thirty years, and each of them was stacked with features that provided users with a broad spectrum of audio recording and editing options.
Although initially compatible with Windows and macOS operating systems, the Logic Pro has been an exclusively macOS software since 2002. Consequently, this DAW is an obvious choice for musicians and sound engineers that prefer using a Mac to record and master sound.
It is also worth noting that Logic Pro was never aimed at novice users, as the abundance of features it offers can be overwhelming for someone who isn’t accustomed to using them.
The current Logic Pro X version of this DAW can help you take your sound production to the professional level, but only if you know how to make the most of its features.
David Nahmani is the founder of LogicProHelp.com, the largest online community of Logic users. As an expert Logic Pro consultant and teacher, he has worked for Steve Porcaro, Toby Gad, Coco Morier, the Record Plant in Los Angeles, the Winter Music Conference in Miami, the Grammy foundation, ASCAP, Apple, and many more.
Key Features
- 1929 definable key and MIDI controls
- The maximum length of a project is 6 hours at 96kHz
- Features more than 4000 predefined chord grids
- 24 instrument plugins
- 70 effect plugins
- The sound library features 10.500 Apple Loops
- Offers up to a thousand audio channel strips
System requirements and user Interface
You can use the Logic Pro on almost any Mac that is powerful enough to run a macOS Catalina or any of the more recent versions of the OS. You’ll also need a minimum of 6GB of free hard disc space for the basic installation of this software or 72GB of space on your hard disc if you want to install its sound library.
The software’s interface hasn’t seen major changes over the course of the last decade, and you won’t need much time to get used to it if you used any of the previous versions of the Logic Pro.
All features are neatly organized into menus and submenus, while the software also lets you set keyboard shortcuts that grant you quick access to different tools. Consequently, adding or removing tracks, accessing the media library, or starting an audio recording is a straightforward process you can complete by pressing a single button.
Sound recording and sound editing properties
Whether you want to record live music or create music from live loops and samples, the Logic Pro provides you with everything you need to accomplish stunning results. You can also control an audio recording session from your iPhone using the Logic Remote app that lets you record or mix sound even if you’re not near your computer.
Recording audio in Logic Pro is remarkably easy as you just have to position the playhead at the exact location on the track where you want the recording to start and click on the Record button.
The software comes with an extensive audio file library that contains 4300 patches for audio, auxiliary, software instrument, and output tracks. It also features 2000 sampler instruments, 90 drum machine designer kits as well as 100 Ultrabeat electronic drum kits.
You’ll have complete creative freedom while editing the music you record since the software lets you manipulate audio files in any way you see fit.
Other noteworthy features
The Logic Pro is compatible with a broad spectrum of third-party plugins and audio control surfaces that expand the range of applications for which you can use this software. In addition, this DAW supports all common types of surround configurations which enables you to design the sound for specific audio playback setups.
You can use the Smart Tempo feature to automate the timing on each track in a project, while the FlexTime option enables you to jump to a particular beat without having to cut a sample. Also, the Flex Pitch feature allows you to adjust each note in accordance with the demands of a project so that you don’t have to search for another sample or create a new recording if just a few notes sound off.
Besides, the software offers up to a thousand external midi tracks, auxiliary channels, stereo audio channels, and software instrument channel strips.
ReliabilityÂ
The quality of the recordings and sound you produce with the Logic Pro doesn’t only depend on the software as the headphones, microphones, and monitors you’re using affect the sound quality.
The Logic Pro is stacked with features that enable you to produce genres of music that range from jazz to electronic while it is also compatible with AAF and XML Final Cut Pro files and you can use it to create soundtracks for video projects.
This DAW costs $199.99 and there is no subscription-based model as it is only available through a one-time purchase. However, you can try using this software during a 90-day free trial if you need some time to decide if it is the right option for you.
It is safe to say that the Logic Pro is one of the most reliable and most stable DAWs for Macs, as there are only a handful of software products that are capable of similar performances.
Avid Pro ToolsÂ
The Pro Tools and the Logic Pro are similar in terms of their audio recording and audio editing capacities, as both DAWs are aimed at music industry professionals. Hence, if you are an aspiring musician or sound technician you will experience a steep learning curve once you start using the Pro Tools.
The Pro Tools is also one of the first DAWs used by major recording studios in the early 1990s and nearly 30 years later this DAW is still considered to be the industry standard.
Unlike the Logic Pro, the Pro Tools can be used on Macs and PCs, although the latest version of the software is only compatible with Windows 10. It is also more accessible than the Logic Pro, as you can use the free but limited version of the Pro Tools for an unlimited period of time.
With the latest release, you can now work with up to 10 collaborators in the cloud on a single project, including Pro Tools | First users. You can also choose to save projects locally or in the cloud using Selective Project Sync, giving you easy access to all of your cloud-based work from any Pro Tools-equipped computer—from anywhere you log into your account.
Key Features
- Windows 10, macOS High Sierra, or some more recent version of the OS
- Requires an Intel i5 processor or higher and at least 4GB RAM
- 15GB of free hard disc space
- Offers up to 384 tracks
- Paid versions of the DAW let you use 1024 MIDI tracks and 512 instrument tracks
- There are 116 bundled plugins on paid versions of the Pro Tools
- The size of the sound library is either 3.1GB or 5.4GB depending on the version of the DAW you’re using
System requirements and user Interface
The Pro Tools DAW has high technical requirements, as you’re going to need a powerful processor and lots of RAM to run this app on a PC smoothly. Besides, you will need access to a stable internet connection to complete the installation process successfully.
The user interface looks a bit outdated, which isn’t a huge problem as it is easy to navigate through the DAW and locate all features you may need while recording, editing, or mastering sound.
The maximum number of tracks you can use simultaneously is limited and on the free version of the Pro Tools, you can use the maximum of 16 tracks to the timeline. Despite these limitations, the free version of the Pro Tools is still powerful enough to enable you to produce sound at the professional level.
Also, there are countless keyboard shortcuts that let you speed up the workflow and avoid wasting time jumping from one menu to another searching for options you want to use.
Sound recording and sound editing properties
Installing the Pro Tools to your Mac or PC will grant you access to a powerful sequencer stacked with high-end audio recording and editing features.
The software can offer 4, 32, or 192 inputs depending on the version you’re using which enables you to record anything from garage bands to symphonic orchestras. Also, paid versions of the Pro Tools let you use up to 512 instrument tracks so that you can record hundreds of instruments simultaneously.
In addition, the DAW comes with a 5.4GB built-in audio library that grants you access to a vast amount of sounds you can use to enrich the project you’re working on.
The editing options the Pro Tools provides are seemingly endless, as you can make nondestructive edits to original audio files, adjust their tempos with the Elastic Audio feature or use the MIDI editor to edit the MIDI data.
Other noteworthy features
Besides recording and editing audio, you can also use the Pro Tools to mix or master sound. This DAW lets you automate plugin parameters, solo, pans, or volume, while you can also freeze, bounce and commit tracks.
The software is also suitable for online collaborations, as it allows you to create an unlimited number of projects and save them on the cloud. However, it only offers 1GB of cloud storage space which may not be enough to store a large number of projects online.
The Pro Tools is compatible with devices like Pro Tools MTRX or Pro Tools Carbon that enable you to have better control over your audio recording equipment. This DAW is also compatible with professional control surfaces such as AVID 6 which makes it suitable for use in a professional audio recording studio.
Besides, the software supports 4K and UHD videos and it lets you create up to 64 video tracks.
ReliabilityÂ
The Pro Tools was used to record Massive Attack’s Mezzanine, Bjork’s Homogenic, and numerous other albums released by some of the most influential musicians of our era. That’s why there’s no point in talking about the DAW’s reliability as its performance capabilities are well documented.
The best part is that you can use this software for free, although in a limited capacity as some of its high-end features are only available if you purchase a monthly or annual subscription.
Pro Tools Artist is perfect for those new music production software who want to get the hang of the technical aspects and learn how to make killer music they can share with the world—offered at 9.99$/month or 99$/year.Â
Pro Tools Studio was previously known simply as Pro Tools. The mid-tier subscription is perfect for serious musicians and indie producers who are trying to leave their mark on the music scene. Coming in at 299$/year or 31.99$/month, Pro Tools Studio is affordable even for those who are juggling a budget.Â
Pro Tools Flex is geared towards music production houses and music studios. Previously known as Pro Tools Ultimate, this tier offers the best you can get from Avid. It has many features not found in the other tiers, but that comes at a huge price point of 99$/month or 999$/year. If you are a student, you can score a flex membership for 30$/month or 299$/year, which is the same as the Studio tier, a great discount! Â
However, if you want to get a perpetual license for the Pro Tools Ultimate, you’ll have to spend $2.599, while the perpetual license for the standard version of the DAW costs $599.
Logic Pro vs Pro Tools – Pros and Cons
Logic Pro
Pros
- Extensive audio library
- Professional audio recording features
- Intuitive and modernly designed interface
- Large selection of plugins
Cons
- Only compatible with macOS
- Full installation takes 72GB of hard disk space
Pro ToolsÂ
Pros
- Industry-leading audio recording features
- Compatible with numerous control surfaces
- A large number of tracks at 48 kHz, 96 kHz, and 192 kHz
- 4K and UHD video support
Cons
- High technical requirements
- More expensive than DAWs with similar performance capabilities
The best alternatives to Logic Pro and Pro Tools DAWs
There aren’t a lot of DAWs around that can provide you with such a diverse set of audio recording, editing, mixing, and mastering features like the Logic Pro and the Pro Tools.
Even so, you should choose a DAW that is best suited to your needs and that you feel the most comfortable using. That’s why we selected several alternative options that may better fit your needs and your budget.
Ableton Live
Developed by a well-known duo of German electronic music sound design artists, Ableton Live is designed to cater to the needs of DJs during live performances. However, you can still use this DAW to edit, master, and mix sound.
You can switch between Arrangement and Session views depending on whether you want to compose or record music, while the DAW comes with a number of built-in instruments. Also, there are a number of instruments that are designed to be used solely with Ableton Live.
The DAW features an impressive collection of audio effects that enable you to modulate sound in any way you want, and you can also use VST plugins regardless of the OS you’re using. Go through our Pro Tools vs Ableton comparison to learn more about the differences between DAWs.
Image-Line FL Studio
Nearly two decades after its first version hit the market, the Image-Line FL Studio is still one of the most versatile audio recording software products. The FL studio comes with a powerful mixer that lets you create effects chains, advanced automations, or audio sends.
It also features a broad spectrum of native instruments that enable you to create any genre of music, while it also allows you to record analog instruments, but only if you have the necessary audio interface.
The software grants you access to a number of audio visualization features that can be very useful if you want to promote your work on social media. Check out our Logic Pro vs FL Studio comparison to find out which DAW is better.
All the features you need to create today's most complex productions including, effects chains, audio sends, sidechain control, advanced automation, plug-in delay compensation and more.
Steinberg Cubase
Like Logic Pro and Pro Tools, Steinberg Cubase has gone through countless changes over the course of the last three decades. Today, it is widely accepted as one of the most powerful DAWs on the market that is aimed at music industry professionals.
Besides offering an advanced set of audio recording features, Cubase is also stacked with composing, sequencing, and mixing features that enable you to produce a track from start to finish. The DAW features several built-in synths you can use to create different types of sounds.
Cubase 10 delivers many impressive new features in a remarkably powerful software package. It includes many new tools to enhance your creativity and speed your workflow.
Read our Cubase vs Logic Pro comparison for more information about these audio recording and editing software products.
FAQs
Question: Does the Logic Pro have a visualizer?
Answer: The Logic Pro doesn’t have a built-in visualizer and you must use another app if you want to create accompanying visuals for your music. The DAW is compatible with Final Cut Pro X which makes it easier to create the visuals for a project you completed in the Logic Pro.
Question: Can I use the Logic Pro for free?
Answer: Yes, you can, but only during the free trial period. After the free trial expires you will have to purchase the license in order to continue using it.
Question: Can I use the Pro Tools on a PC?
Answer: The latest version of the Pro Tools is only compatible with the build 1909 of the Windows 10 and if you have any other version of this OS you won’t be able to use this DAW.
Question: Is it possible to use all versions of Pro Tools with third-party hardware?
Answer: The Unlimited version of Pro Tools can be used with numerous control surfaces, systems, and interfaces that may not be available on the Standard and Free versions of the software.
Our Verdict: Which DAW has more to offer Logic Pro or Pro Tools?
Producing music with Logic Pro and Pro Tools enables you to have complete control over the creative process, as both DAWs are equipped with professional audio recording and editing features.
With the latest release, you can now work with up to 10 collaborators in the cloud on a single project, including Pro Tools | First users. You can also choose to save projects locally or in the cloud using Selective Project Sync, giving you easy access to all of your cloud-based work from any Pro Tools-equipped computer—from anywhere you log into your account.
Ultimately, you can use either of these DAWs to make excellent music, but the Logic Pro is a more natural choice for Mac users, as the PC version of the software isn’t available.
Bottom Line Summary: While Logic Pro offers some nice usability and a simple one-time fee, the more professional-grade (and fully featured) DAW is definitely the legacy Pro Tools system here. That said, an easy way to decide is MAC vs PC preference!
Despite offering a Free version, Pro Tools is the more expensive option as you must spend a couple of thousands of dollars to gain access to the full scope of the DAW’s features. Was this Logic Pro vs Pro Tools comparison useful?
Let us know in the comments or continue reading our Reaper vs Pro Tools comparison to learn more about the differences between these DAWs.