# GranSample vs GrainHeads

The clearest difference is monetization model: GrainHeads at free against GranSample's free with in-app purchases. On price, rating, ratings volume and update cadence there is nothing between them.

Both are free to download. GranSample sells 1 one-off in-app purchase and GrainHeads sells 1 one-off in-app purchase. Whichever you choose, the download price is not the number that matters.

On the App Store both sit at effectively the same score — 4.6 for GranSample against 4.7 for GrainHeads. Both are backed by a comparable volume of ratings — 16 and 14 respectively.

GranSample ships an update every 4 days, GrainHeads every 3 days. The most recent releases landed on September 29, 2026 and September 21, 2026 respectively.

## The numbers

| Metric | GranSample | GrainHeads |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Price | Free | Free |
| Rating | [4.6 (16 ratings)](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/gransample-granular-sampler/id6760527944/reviews) | **[4.7 (14 ratings)](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/grainheads/id6760582834/reviews)** |
| Number of ratings | **16** | 14 |
| Positive reviews | 33.3% of reviews | — |
| In-app purchases | Yes | Yes |
| Ads | No | No |
| Update frequency | Every 4 days | **Every 3 days** |
| Monetization | Free with in-app purchases | **Free** |
| Size | 16 MB | 113 MB |
| Requires iOS | **16.0** | 17.6 |
| Devices | iPhone, iPad | iPhone, iPad |
| Age rating | 4+ | 4+ |
| Developer | [Chih Han Lin](https://appshunter.io/developer/1800248325) | [Andrei Nevar](https://appshunter.io/developer/1885164055) |

## What reviewers say

### GranSample

[App page](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/gransample-granular-sampler/id6760527944)

This app offers a 16-pad sampler with a powerful granular engine for sculpting unique audio textures and sequencing patterns. It functions as a standalone application and an AUv3 plugin for popular DAWs. Unlock advanced features with a one-time purchase.

**Highlights:** 16-pad granular sampler, AUv3 plugin support, Step sequencer, Modulation matrix, Sample chopping, Kit sharing, Per-pad effects

**Features:** macOS Compatibility, Vision Pro support

**In-app purchases (1)**

| Purchase | Price | Billing |
| --- | --- | --- |
| GranSample Pro | $3.99 | one-time |


### GrainHeads

[App page](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/grainheads/id6760582834)

Transform any sound into unique textures and evolving sonic landscapes. This granular synthesizer offers deep control over individual sound grains, complex modulation, and a powerful step sequencer for experimental music creation.

**Highlights:** Multi-source granular engine, Shape individual grains with envelopes, Summing modulation matrix, Step sequencer with parameter lanes, Macros for expressive control, Re-routable effects chain

**Features:** macOS Compatibility, Vision Pro support

**In-app purchases (1)**

| Purchase | Price | Billing |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Unlock GrainHeads Pro | $11.99 | one-time |


## Frequently asked questions

### Is GranSample free?

GranSample is free to download, with in-app purchases available.

### Is GrainHeads free?

GrainHeads is free to download, with in-app purchases available.

### Which has better reviews, GranSample or GrainHeads?

GrainHeads is rated higher. GranSample averages 4.6 out of 5 from 16 ratings, while GrainHeads averages 4.7 from 14 ratings.

### Do GranSample or GrainHeads have ads?

Neither GranSample nor GrainHeads shows ads.

### Which is updated more often, GranSample or GrainHeads?

GranSample ships an update every 4 days, and GrainHeads every 3 days. Most recently, GranSample was updated on September 29, 2026 and GrainHeads on September 21, 2026.

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*Compared by [AppsHunter](https://appshunter.io/) from daily US App Store data. Review summaries are generated from verbatim App Store reviews.*