8.7Great
Kontakt 8 is Native Instruments' software sampler platform for hosting and building virtual instruments, available as a plugin or standalone app.
Plugin comparison
Kontakt 8 vs Spitfire LABS
Specs, price and the Dubspot Score, side by side — with our verdict on which sampler to buy.
Independent score / workflow fit / buying signal
Contenders
The side-by-side
8.9Great
Spitfire LABS is a free instrument platform of high-quality sampled sounds—pianos, strings, pads, and more—now also available via Splice INSTRUMENT as LABS' new home.
Score verdict
Which should you buy?
On the Dubspot Score, Spitfire LABS comes out ahead (8.9). That said, the right pick depends on your workflow and budget — read both reviews before deciding.
Technical matrix
Specs compared
| Signal | Kontakt 8 | Spitfire LABS |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $299 | Free |
| Dubspot Score | 8.7 | 8.9 |
| Formats | Standalone, VST3, AU (macOS), AAX | VST3, AU, AAX |
| macOS formats (64-bit) | Standalone, VST3, AU, AAX | — |
| Windows formats (64-bit) | Standalone, VST3, AAX | — |
| Factory Library 2 | 40 GB ready-to-use instrument toolset included | — |
| CPU / RAM | Intel Core i5 or equivalent / Apple Silicon; 4 GB RAM (6 GB recommended) | — |
| Disk space | 2 GB free; 52 GB for complete installation | — |
| Free Player version | Kontakt 8 Player hosts NI and third-party Kontakt instruments at no cost | — |
| Type | — | Free sampled instrument platform |
| Price | — | Free instruments available (optional paid LABS+/subscription content exists) |
| Formats | — | VST3, AU, AAX (plugin host dependent on current player) |
| Catalog | — | Pianos, strings, pads, choir, drums, experimental textures, and more |
| Legacy installer | — | https://legacylabs.spitfireaudio.com/download |
| New home | — | Splice INSTRUMENT hosts LABS content for many users |
See the full plugin database for more comparisons.