Free BPM and Key Detection Without a Samplab Subscription
Samplab is a powerful AI audio editor, but its full features require a subscription. If you just need BPM, key, and Camelot code, BeatKey gives you that for free, no account required.
Try BeatKey FreeWhat is Samplab?
Samplab is an AI-powered audio editing platform with features like audio-to-MIDI conversion, individual note editing in audio, stem separation, chord detection, and BPM and key matching between samples. It is designed for producers who want to manipulate audio at a deep level.
The limitation for simple BPM and key workflows: Samplab requires an account, uploads your audio to its servers, and charges a subscription for full feature access. For DJs and producers who only need BPM, key, and Camelot code, it is a heavy platform for a simple task. BeatKey gives you the core detection features without the account, subscription, or server upload.
Different Tools for Different Jobs
BeatKey is best for
- Fast BPM and key detection from any audio file
- Harmonic mixing with Camelot codes
- Sample flipping (key lookup for your bassline)
- DJ set prep and track tagging
- Privacy-first analysis (files never leave your browser)
- Free, no account, zero friction
Samplab is better for
- Audio-to-MIDI conversion
- Editing individual notes inside an audio file
- AI-powered stem separation
- Changing chords in existing audio
- BPM and key matching between multiple samples
- Advanced AI audio manipulation
BeatKey vs Samplab: Feature Comparison
| Feature | BeatKey | Samplab |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Free (forever) | Free tier + paid subscription |
| Account required | No | Yes |
| BPM detection | Yes | Yes |
| Key detection | Yes | Yes |
| Camelot code output | Yes | No |
| Interactive Camelot Wheel | Yes | No |
| Chord detection | Yes (Chord Finder tool) | Yes (paid) |
| Audio-to-MIDI | No | Yes (paid) |
| Note editing | No | Yes (paid) |
| Delay calculator | Yes (Delay Calculator tool) | No |
| Scale finder | Yes (Scale Finder tool) | No |
| Files stay on device | Yes (browser processing) | No (server upload) |
| Ads | No | No |
Who Should Use BeatKey Instead of Samplab
DJs who just need BPM and key
Samplab is a powerful platform but most of its value is in paid AI editing features. If you only need BPM and key for harmonic mixing, BeatKey gives you both plus Camelot codes, completely free and with no account.
Producers analyzing unreleased music
Samplab uploads your audio to a server for AI processing. BeatKey runs entirely in your browser. For client tracks, demos, or unreleased music, BeatKey keeps your files private.
Quick workflow checks
No login, no project setup, no waiting for server processing. Drop a file into BeatKey and get BPM, key, and Camelot code in seconds. Faster than creating a Samplab account and project.
Budget-conscious users
Samplab charges a subscription for full access. BeatKey is free forever. If your workflow only needs BPM and key detection, there is no reason to pay a monthly fee.
The BeatKey Tools Suite
6 free music tools built for DJs and producers, all integrated and browser-based.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Samplab free?
Samplab offers a limited free tier but charges for full access to its AI audio editing features. BeatKey is completely free with no subscription, no account, and no feature limits. If you only need BPM and key detection, BeatKey gives you both at no cost, permanently.
What does Samplab do that BeatKey does not?
Samplab is an AI-powered audio editing platform with features like audio-to-MIDI conversion, individual note editing, stem separation, and chord changing. BeatKey focuses on BPM detection, key detection, and Camelot code output for DJs and producers. If you need advanced AI audio editing, Samplab is worth evaluating. If you need fast, free BPM and key analysis, BeatKey is the better choice.
Does BeatKey show Camelot codes?
Yes. BeatKey shows the Camelot code (like 8A or 4B) alongside every key detection result. This is essential for DJs doing harmonic mixing. BeatKey also includes an interactive Camelot Wheel tool where you can click any key to see all compatible mixing keys highlighted. Samplab does not show Camelot codes.
Does BeatKey upload my files to a server?
No. BeatKey processes all audio entirely in your browser using WebAssembly. Your files never leave your device. Samplab uploads audio to its servers for AI processing. For unreleased tracks, client music, or private sessions, BeatKey is the privacy-first choice.
Just Need BPM and Key? Start Here.
No account, no subscription, no server upload. Drop your track into BeatKey and get BPM, key, and Camelot code in seconds.
Analyze Your Track Free