Max vs Pure Data

Max is an interactive visual patching environment for musicians, artists, and people prototyping software. It runs on macOS and Windows as a standalone app, supports sample import, and works with Audio Unit, VST, VST3, and AMXD formats. Users can build synthesizers, manipulate samples, and create layered multichannel sound with MC objects. Jitter adds expandable video and graphics tools for realtime audiovisual work. Max connects to development boards and accesses sensors, knobs, and switches for interaction prototypes. Gen creates audio, matrix, or texture processes and can output source code for use elsewhere. Package Manager offers over 50 add-ons, including Novation, Monome, and ROLI support. Extensions can be written in C++, NodeJS, Java, or JavaScript. Cycling '74 develops Max for Live with Ableton, and Max 9 adds sound-processing objects based on Ableton's audio library. The 30-day trial unlocks all features without restrictions on opening, editing, saving, or creating.

Pure Data (Pd) is a free graphical programming environment for combining media processing in real time. Its patch-based workflow supports audio and graphical processing, and it runs on Windows, macOS, and Linux. Artists use Pd for visual arts, theatre, dance, audio, installations, performance, and media art. It can also control hardware and electronics or develop interfaces for other programs. Pd's built-in Deken package manager installs external libraries that extend its functionality. Deken is mainly intended for Pd vanilla, though some other Pd flavors, including Plug Data, can use it. Package listings specify availability for macOS, Linux, Windows, or source compilation, and some packages are limited to particular architectures. Users can find a library or object and install a downloaded DEK package through Pd's Find externals tool. The listed plan is free; no paid plans or usage limits are stated.