Install Audacity on Windows in 3 steps
- 1
Download the installer
Click the download button above. The file is
audacity-win-3.7.3.exe, about 35 MB. - 2
Run and follow the wizard
Double-click the .exe. If Windows SmartScreen appears, click More info → Run anyway. Accept the licence and click Install.
- 3
Set up your audio device
Open Audacity → Edit → Preferences → Devices. Set Host to Windows WASAPI for best quality, or MME for compatibility.
Audacity Windows guides
| Guide | What it covers |
|---|---|
| Install guide | Full install walkthrough, SmartScreen, first launch |
| System requirements | Minimum and recommended specs |
| Windows 11 | Windows 11 specific setup |
| WASAPI setup | Best audio driver for recording |
| ASIO setup | Low-latency ASIO driver |
| Microphone setup | Configure mic for recording |
| Fix latency | Recording latency correction |
| Not recording | Fix recording failures |
| Plugins | VST, LV2, LADSPA, FFmpeg |
| VST3 plugins | VST3 specific setup |
| Noise reduction | Remove background noise |
| Export to MP3 | MP3 export with LAME |
| Vinyl to MP3 | Digitise records and tapes |
| Update Audacity | Update to latest version |
| Troubleshooting | All error fixes |
| Features | What Audacity can do |
| Getting started | First recording guide |
| Audacity vs Audition | Compare with Adobe Audition |
| FAQ | Common questions answered |
Common questions
Is Audacity free?
Yes. Audacity is completely free and open source software released under the GPL licence. There are no paid tiers, subscriptions or feature locks. The full application including all built-in effects and recording capabilities is free.
What is the latest Audacity version for Windows?
Audacity 3.7.3 is the current stable release for Windows as of mid-2026. Download it from the button above or from audacityteam.org.
Which audio host should I use in Audacity on Windows?
Windows WASAPI is recommended for most users — it provides higher quality recording and playback than MME. Use MME if WASAPI causes issues with your device. ASIO is for professional audio interfaces with dedicated drivers. See the WASAPI guide.