Filtered ranking
Best Free Music Notation Software in 2026
5 of the 6 music notation software ranked on listme.name match: they can be used without paying (a free plan or free version). The order uses the same scores as the full ranking.
The ranking
- 1
MuseScore
Free, open-source notation software for Windows, macOS, Linux, iPhone, iPad and Android, with MIDI input and no limitations described. Its engraving tools are less complete than Sibelius's.
Best for Free notation for students and hobbyists
WindowsmacOSLinuxiOSAndroidFree and open sourceOpen source
- 2
Flat
Browser-based notation with real-time sharing, a free desktop app for Mac and Windows, and web and mobile apps. Advanced features sit behind a subscription, and its engraving controls are lighter than Sibelius's.
Best for Shared scores in the browser
macOSWindowsWebiOSAndroidFree plan, paid upgrades
- 3
StaffPad
Handwriting recognition turns pen notes into typeset scores on iPad and Windows 10, with audio import and tempo mapping. It needs a pen-enabled device, and Go Pro unlocks more features.
Best for Handwritten composition on iPad
iPadOSWindowsFree plan, paid upgrades
- 4
Noteflight
An online notation editor with a free start, cloud sharing and a sheet music library in its Premium plan. Scores live in the cloud, and the free tier is less capable than paid desktop notation.
Best for Browser notation with a sheet music library
WebFree plan, paid upgrades
- 5
LilyPond
Free GPLv3 text-based engraving that produces printed scores with exact control. It has a steep learning curve, and its download page lists Linux and Windows builds only.
Best for Exact typeset scores from text files
LinuxWindowsFree and open sourceOpen source
At a glance
| Product | Score | Price | Platforms |
|---|---|---|---|
 MuseScore | 90.5 | Free and open source | WindowsmacOSLinuxiOSAndroid |
 Flat | 85.5 | Free plan, paid upgrades | macOSWindowsWebiOSAndroid |
 StaffPad | 83.0 | Free plan, paid upgrades | iPadOSWindows |
 Noteflight | 80.0 | Free plan, paid upgrades | Web |
| LilyPond | 78.5 | Free and open source | LinuxWindows |