Windows 10/11 • 64‑bit

Audacity for Windows: Features & Compatibility

A quick overview of what you can do with Audacity on Windows — from WASAPI loopback recording to VST3/LV2 effects — plus system requirements and supported formats.

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At a glance

  • Record: MME, DirectSound, and WASAPI loopback.
  • Edit: Multi‑track, spectral view, fades, noise removal, normalize.
  • Effects: VST3, LV2, LADSPA, Nyquist; real‑time on supported effects.
  • Formats: WAV, FLAC, AIFF, MP3 export; import more via FFmpeg.
  • Free & 64‑bit: Optimized for modern Windows 10/11 PCs.

Key features

Recording on Windows

Choose WASAPI to capture system audio (loopback) or use MME/DirectSound for microphones and line‑in.

Editing toolkit

Multi‑track timeline, spectral view, precise selection tools, fades, silence, noise reduction, and clip repair.

Effects & plugins

Supports VST3, LV2, LADSPA, and Nyquist. Many effects run in real time; expand your toolbox with third‑party plugins.

Format support

Work with WAV, AIFF, FLAC, OGG; export MP3. Add FFmpeg to import AAC, AC3, AMR and more.

64‑bit performance

Modern 64‑bit build for Windows 10/11, improved stability on large sessions and long recordings.

Accessibility

Keyboard shortcuts, zoom controls, and high‑contrast UI help you work faster and more comfortably.

System requirements

  • Windows 10 or Windows 11 (64‑bit)
  • 4 GB RAM minimum (8 GB recommended)
  • ~200 MB for installation; extra space for projects
  • Optional: FFmpeg library for extended import formats

Plugin support on Windows

  • VST3 effects and instruments
  • LV2, LADSPA, and Nyquist plugins
  • Third‑party VST folders can be scanned from Preferences → Effects
  • ASIO builds are not bundled due to licensing constraints

Ready to try Audacity?

Get the free 64‑bit Windows installer and start recording today.

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Quick answers

Does Audacity support WASAPI on Windows?

Yes. Select WASAPI as the host to record system audio (loopback) or low‑latency input from supported devices.

Which plugins work on Windows?

VST3, LV2, LADSPA, and Nyquist plugins are supported. Some older VST may require bridging; ASIO builds are not bundled due to licensing.

What formats can I import or export?

WAV, AIFF, FLAC, OGG are supported natively, and you can export MP3. Install FFmpeg to import AAC, AC3, AMR and more.