Loopcloud vs Splice: Which Sample Library is Better for Music Producers?
Compare Loopcloud and Splice for music production samples and sounds. See pricing, library size, workflow features, and which platform offers better value for producers.
Updated 2026-09 · 2026
Loopcloud
AI-powered sample browser with integrated DAW workflow
Strengths
- +AI-powered search and matching finds samples by sound similarity
- +Integrated drum sequencer and sampler built into the app
- +One-time purchase option available for samples (no subscription required)
Weaknesses
- -Smaller overall library compared to Splice (4+ million vs 5+ million)
- -Desktop app can be resource-intensive on older machines
- -Less integration with third-party plugins and DAWs
Best for
Producers who want AI-assisted sample discovery and prefer one-time purchases over subscriptions
Splice
Industry-standard sample subscription with massive library
Strengths
- +Largest sample library with 5+ million royalty-free sounds
- +Credits roll over month-to-month (unused credits don't expire)
- +Splice Plugins included with higher tiers (Rent-to-own instruments)
Weaknesses
- -More expensive than competitors for similar credit amounts
- -Requires ongoing subscription to keep downloaded samples
- -Search can be overwhelming with so many results
Best for
Professional producers who need the largest library and want access to premium plugins through rent-to-own
Feature Comparison
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Free Tier | Yes - 100 sounds, limited features | No - 7-day free trial only |
| Starting Price | $7.99/mo (30 credits) | $9.99/mo (100 credits) |
| Library Size | 4+ million samples | 5+ million samples |
| AI-Powered Search | Yes - sound similarity matching | Yes - CoSo variations |
| Built-in Instruments | Yes - drum machine & sampler | Via Splice Plugins (separate) |
| Credit Rollover | No - use or lose monthly | Yes - credits never expire |
| Purchase Model | Subscription or one-time buy | Subscription only |
| Offline Access | Yes - downloaded samples | Yes - but requires active sub |
| Plugin Rent-to-Own | No | Yes - Splice Plugins included |
| DAW Integration | Drag-and-drop to most DAWs | Deep integration with major DAWs |
| Mobile App | No | iOS only (limited features) |
| Collaboration Features | No | Splice Studio (project sharing) |
The Verdict
Splice wins for professionals who need the largest library and plugin access, while Loopcloud offers better value for budget-conscious producers who prefer one-time purchases. If you want to own your samples outright without ongoing subscriptions, Loopcloud is the clear choice. For those who need maximum selection and don't mind subscription-only access, Splice's larger library and credit rollover justify the higher price.
How to switch from Loopcloud to Splice
- 1In Loopcloud desktop, open 'My Loopcloud' > 'Downloads' and verify every sample you own has been fully downloaded as a WAV/AIFF file to your local Loopcloud folder - there is no separate export button, your purchased files are your export.
- 2Copy that local Loopcloud sample folder to a permanent backup location (external drive or cloud storage) so it isn't deleted if you uninstall the app.
- 3Install the Splice desktop app and use its 'Local Files' tab to import and tag your backed-up Loopcloud WAV files alongside Splice's own library, so old and new samples live in one searchable place.
- 4Reconnect your DAW to Splice by enabling the Splice plugin/tab in Ableton, FL Studio, or Logic under the app's integration settings, replacing any Loopcloud drag-and-drop workflow.
- 5Recreate any project templates or sample crates you relied on in Loopcloud manually inside Splice, since crates/playlists don't transfer between the two platforms.
- 6Once verified, cancel the Loopcloud subscription (one-time purchased samples remain usable) and assign Splice seats/credit budgets to each team member for the cutover.
Loopcloud vs Splice: common questions
How do I export my samples from Loopcloud before switching?+
Loopcloud doesn't have a single bulk-export button, but every sample you've downloaded or purchased is already saved locally as a standard WAV or AIFF file in your Loopcloud folder (default: Documents/Loopcloud on Mac and PC). Open the app, go to 'My Loopcloud' > 'Downloads', and confirm everything you want to keep has finished downloading before you cancel your plan.
What do I lose if I switch from Loopcloud to Splice?+
You lose Loopcloud's AI similarity search, its built-in drum sequencer/sampler, and the ability to buy samples one-time without a subscription. Samples you already downloaded and own from Loopcloud stay usable forever since they're plain WAV/AIFF files on your drive, but any new Splice downloads only remain usable while your subscription is active.
Is Splice's free trial enough to evaluate it for a small team?+
No - Splice only offers a single 7-day free trial per account, not a team plan, so you can't test it with multiple members at once. For a real team evaluation you'll likely need to pay for at least one month on the Sounds+ plan ($9.99/mo) and share findings internally.
Does Splice work with the same DAWs Loopcloud supports?+
Yes, both work with all major DAWs (Ableton, FL Studio, Logic, Pro Tools, etc.) via drag-and-drop, but Splice has deeper native integration, including a dedicated Splice tab inside Ableton and FL Studio. You don't need to rebuild any DAW-specific automations - it's the same drag-and-drop workflow.
How does the cost compare after a year of switching to Splice?+
Loopcloud's 30-credit plan runs about $95.88/year versus Splice's 100-credit plan at $119.88/year - roughly $24 more per year for more credits and a larger library. If you also rent-to-own a Splice plugin, factor in that additional monthly cost on top.
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