Quick answer: Choose Logic Pro if you own a Mac and want one program for recording vocals, mixing and producing, with a large library of instruments and effects included. Choose FL Studio if you work on Windows or Mac and build beats from patterns and the piano roll. FL Studio sells from $99 with lifetime free updates. Logic Pro is a Mac-only purchase from Apple.
Also choosing between FL Studio and Ableton? See our FL Studio vs Ableton Live comparison.
Deciding between the two programs? See Logic Pro vs GarageBand for vocals for a direct comparison.
Both programs make professional records. The better pick depends on your computer, your workflow and whether vocals matter more than beats. Prices change, so check Image-Line and the Mac App Store for current figures.
Side-by-side comparison
| FL Studio | Logic Pro | |
|---|---|---|
| Platforms | Windows and Mac | Mac only (plus an iPad version) |
| Price model | One-time purchase by edition, from $99, lifetime free updates | One-time purchase on the Mac App Store |
| Best known for | Pattern-based beat making and the piano roll | Recording, mixing and a deep included sound library |
| Vocal recording | Audio recording needs Producer Edition or higher | Included, with comping and pitch tools |
| Learning curve | Quick to start a loop | More menus to learn, more depth in mixing |
| Plug-in formats | VST, VST3, AU and CLAP | Audio Units |
Making beats
FL Studio's Channel Rack and piano roll make it fast to sketch drums and melodies. Many trap and hip-hop producers like it for this reason. Logic Pro makes beats well too, with Drum Machine Designer, Sampler and Step Sequencer. If you already know FL Studio's workflow, it is hard to beat for speed. If you are starting fresh, Logic's tools are enough for anything.
Recording and mixing vocals
Logic Pro is the stronger choice for vocals. It includes Channel EQ, Compressor, DeEsser 2, Flex Pitch and Pitch Correction, ChromaVerb and Echo, and it lets you record several takes and combine the best parts. FL Studio can record vocals, but only from Producer Edition up, and you will usually add more third-party plug-ins. For a Logic vocal chain, see Logic Pro vocal chain, step by step.
For a third option, read our Reason 11 and 12 review.
Cost over time
FL Studio's lifetime free updates mean you pay once for your edition, and you can upgrade to a higher edition for the difference. Logic Pro costs a single payment too, and it adds a large library of instruments and loops. Neither has a subscription for the desktop program. Compare the actual prices on the vendors' sites before you decide.
Which one should you pick?
- On Windows: FL Studio. Logic does not run on Windows.
- On a Mac, recording vocals: Logic Pro.
- On a Mac, beat-first: either one. Try the FL Studio trial and see which feels natural.
- On a budget: GarageBand on Mac is free, and FL Studio Fruity edition starts at the lowest price.
Some producers use both: beats in FL Studio, vocals in Logic. The editions are explained in FL Studio Producer Edition vs other editions, and our guide to the best DAWs for vocals compares more programs.
Vocal presets for Logic Pro
If you choose Logic, you can load a finished vocal chain in one click. Start with the free Toronto Warmth preset, then compare the Logic Pro Starter Pack ($19) and the Vocal Preset Mega Bundle ($49). See best vocal presets for Logic Pro and the Logic Pro vocal presets collection. We do not sell FL Studio presets.
FL Studio vs Logic Pro X: which should you choose?
In the FL Studio vs Logic Pro X choice, pick Logic Pro if you use a Mac and want recording, mixing and a large included sound library in one place. Pick FL Studio if you work on Windows, or if you build beats on the pattern and piano roll workflow. Both make professional music, so the better choice is the one you will open every day.
Frequently asked questions
Is Logic Pro X the same as Logic Pro?
Apple now sells the program as Logic Pro. Logic Pro X was the name used for version 10, and many people still search for it by that name.
FL Studio vs Logic Pro X: which is better for rap and hip-hop?
Both are used for rap. FL Studio's pattern workflow suits beat making, and Logic Pro's recording tools and included vocal processing suit recording the vocal. You can build the beat in one and record in the other.
Is FL Studio or Logic Pro better for beginners?
FL Studio gets you to a first loop quickly. Logic Pro has more built-in tools. Try the FL Studio trial and Logic's free trial from Apple, and keep the one you enjoy using.
Can FL Studio run on Mac?
Yes. FL Studio supports both Windows and macOS.
Can Logic Pro run on Windows?
No. Logic Pro runs on Mac, plus a separate version for iPad.
Which is better for vocals?
Logic Pro, thanks to its recording tools and included vocal plug-ins. FL Studio works for vocals from the Producer Edition upward.
Do I have to pay for FL Studio updates?
No. Image-Line states that every edition includes lifetime free updates.
