Comparison · Music theory learning resources
EarMaster vs musictheory.net: which is better in 2026?
EarMaster82.0#4 in best music theory learning resources
musictheory.net90.5#1 in best music theory learning resourcesmusictheory.net ranks higher in our list of music theory learning resources (#1 against #4, score 90.5 against 82.0).
- 82.0Editorial score90.5
- 5Platforms1
- YesFree to useYes
- NoOpen sourceNo
Which should you choose?
Choose EarMaster if you want
Ear training and sight-singing practice.
Ear training, sight-singing and rhythm exercises in an app for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android and Chromebook. It is paid, with free tools alongside, and teaches ear skills more than written theory, so it ranks below the theory sites.
Choose musictheory.net if you want
Structured theory lessons from the basics up.
Structured lessons, drills, ear trainers and calculators that move from the basics to intermediate theory. It is the most direct path for a beginner, though it goes less deep into history and analysis.
The main differences
- Only EarMaster runs on Windows.
- Only EarMaster runs on macOS.
- Only EarMaster runs on iOS.
- Only EarMaster runs on Android.
- Only musictheory.net runs on Web.
- EarMaster is free plan, paid upgrades; musictheory.net is free.
Side by side
| EarMaster | musictheory.net | |
|---|---|---|
| Score | 82.0 | 90.5 |
| Rank in list | #4 of 8 | #1 of 8 |
| Price | Free plan, paid upgradesPaid app with subscriptions; free tools on the site | FreeNo paywall on the pages checked |
| Free to use | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | No | No |
| Platforms | WindowsmacOSiOSAndroidChromeOSWindows, macOS, iOS, Android, ChromeOS | WebWeb |
| Made by | Not stated | musictheory.net, LLC |
| Main focus | Ear training, sight-singing and rhythm | Theory lessons and drills |
| Instruments covered | Ear training for all musicians | Theory for any instrument |
| Format | Apps and EarMaster Cloud for education | Lessons, exercises and calculators |
| Best for | Ear training and sight-singing practice | Structured theory lessons from the basics up |
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| Links | Visit site | Visit site |
Questions about EarMaster vs musictheory.net
- Is musictheory.net better than EarMaster?
- musictheory.net ranks higher in our list of music theory learning resources (#1 against #4, score 90.5 against 82.0). EarMaster is best for: ear training and sight-singing practice. musictheory.net is best for: structured theory lessons from the basics up.
- Which is cheaper, EarMaster or musictheory.net?
- EarMaster: Paid app with subscriptions; free tools on the site. musictheory.net: No paywall on the pages checked.
- Do EarMaster and musictheory.net run on the same platforms?
- EarMaster supports Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, ChromeOS. musictheory.net supports Web.
Choosing between the two
Learning Center
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