Beat Making Tools/supporting

Focusrite Scarlett series comparison

Complete comparison of Focusrite Scarlett interfaces from Solo to 18i20. Understand differences between models, which generation to buy, and which model fits your studio needs.

Updated 2025-12-20

Focusrite Scarlett Series Comparison

FocusRite's Scarlett line represents the most popular audio interface series worldwide. Understanding the differences between models helps you choose the right one for your needs without overspending on unnecessary features or underpaying for required capabilities. This guide breaks down every Scarlett model, explains the real differences between generations, and helps you make an informed decision about which Scarlett interface suits your specific recording needs.

Understanding the Scarlett Lineup

FocusRite organizes Scarlett interfaces by input/output count:
  • Solo: 1 input, 2 outputs (2 channels)
  • 2i2: 2 inputs, 2 outputs (4 channels)
  • 4i4: 4 inputs, 4 outputs (8 channels)
  • 8i6: 8 inputs, 6 outputs (14 channels)
  • 18i8: 18 inputs, 8 outputs (26 channels)
    • Naming convention: "2i2" means 2 inputs, 2 outputs.

    Generation History and Importance

    FocusRite released multiple Scarlett generations. Understanding generation differences matters for buying decisions. Scarlett 3rd Generation (2017-2022):
  • Most common model still in use
  • Excellent value, still recommended
  • 96kHz maximum (no 192kHz)
  • Often available used or discounted
    • Scarlett 4th Generation (2022-present):
  • Current generation
  • Updated preamps with slightly better specs
  • Same 96kHz maximum
  • Better driver support for newest OS versions
  • Ableton Live Lite 11 included
    • Scarlett 1st and 2nd Generation:
  • Older models
  • Avoid unless buying used very cheap
  • Driver support fading
    • Key Point: 3rd and 4th generation differences are minor. 3rd gen models are excellent value if you find them discounted.

    Detailed Model Comparison

    Scarlett Solo (Budget Entry Point)

    Specifications:
  • 1 XLR combo input + 2 RCA line outputs
  • Dedicated stereo headphone output
  • 24-bit/96kHz operation
  • Phantom power for microphone recording
  • Compact metal chassis
  • Mix Control monitoring software
  • Price: $99-129
    • Who It's For:
  • Solo vocalists recording one voice at a time
  • Podcasters and spoken word creators
  • Single-instrument recording (guitar, synth)
  • Streamers and content creators
  • Budget-conscious learners
    • Strengths:
  • Absolutely affordable entry point
  • Excellent FocusRite preamp (identical to 2i2)
  • Compact and portable
  • Phantom power enables quality microphone use
  • Strong community documentation and tutorials
  • Excellent value for money
    • Limitations:
  • Single microphone input (no simultaneous stereo recording)
  • Limited routing options
  • Only RCA line outputs (unbalanced)
  • Can't record stereo pair (room mics, acoustic guitar)
  • Headphone amp is adequate but not exceptional
    • Realistic Assessment: Perfect for learning and recording single-source vocals/instruments. The primary limitation isn't preamp quality but inability to record stereo pairs. If you never need simultaneous multi-channel recording, Scarlett Solo is genuinely adequate forever.

    Scarlett 2i2 (The Industry Standard)

    Specifications:
  • 2 XLR combo inputs (both with phantom power)
  • 2 XLR outputs + dedicated stereo headphone output
  • 24-bit/96kHz operation
  • Compact metal chassis
  • Mix Control monitoring software
  • Included Ableton Live Lite 11
  • Price: $99-199 depending on generation
    • Why It's the Standard: The Scarlett 2i2 is the default recommendation for bedroom producers worldwide. Used in countless YouTube tutorials, owned by more home studios than any other interface. Who It's For:
  • Vocalists recording with guitar/synth backing track
  • Singer-songwriters recording acoustic + vocal
  • Podcast recording with two hosts
  • Beginners and learners
  • Anyone wanting FocusRite quality at budget price
    • Strengths:
  • Excellent quality FocusRite preamps
  • Two channels enable stereo recording (room mics, acoustic guitar)
  • Ableton Live Lite 11 included (legitimate software value)
  • Enormous community documentation (thousands of tutorials)
  • Phantom power on both inputs
  • Mix Control is excellent monitoring software
  • Strong resale value (hold 60-70% value)
    • Limitations:
  • Only 2 simultaneous input channels
  • Limited to 96kHz maximum (no 192kHz option)
  • Can't record 4+ musicians simultaneously
  • RCA outputs only (mixing requires balanced outputs for proper setup)
  • No MIDI connectivity
    • When It's Overkill: Only if recording single source at a time and no need for stereo recording. In that case, Scarlett Solo offers same preamp quality for less money. When It's Inadequate: Need 4+ simultaneous recording channels. Upgrade to 4i4 in that case. Realistic Assessment: The Scarlett 2i2 is genuinely good. You could record professional albums with this interface if you understand mic placement and mixing. The limitations are real but don't affect most home recording scenarios.

    Scarlett 4i4 (Serious Home Studio)

    Specifications:
  • 4 XLR combo inputs (all with phantom power and preamps)
  • 4 XLR outputs + dedicated stereo headphone output
  • 24-bit/96kHz operation
  • Compact metal chassis
  • Mix Control monitoring software
  • Included Ableton Live Lite 11
  • Price: $179-249
    • Who It's For:
  • Small studios recording multiple sources simultaneously
  • Bands recording demos (drums, bass, guitars, vocals separate takes)
  • Podcast studios with multiple hosts and guests
  • Producers wanting flexibility for future growth
  • Anyone expecting to outgrow 2i2
    • Strengths:
  • 4 simultaneous input channels (real multi-track recording capability)
  • All inputs have FocusRite preamps (excellent quality)
  • Separate stereo headphone output (mixing engineer scenarios)
  • Two routing options enable complex monitoring
  • Same preamp quality as higher Scarlett models
  • Excellent driver support and community
  • Good expansion path (can add more gear later)
    • Limitations:
  • Only 96kHz maximum (some competitors offer 192kHz)
  • Larger footprint than 2i2
  • RCA outputs (less professional than XLR)
  • No MIDI connectivity
  • Relatively expensive compared to 2i2 for what you use
    • Expansion Path: Staying at 4i4 indefinitely makes sense. Most home recording doesn't need more inputs. Realistic Assessment: The 4i4 is sweet spot for serious home studio. You get professional-quality preamps on 4 channels, enough for nearly all home recording scenarios. Excellent upgrade from 2i2 if you find yourself wanting more input flexibility.

    Scarlett 8i6 (Serious Studio/Semi-Pro)

    Specifications:
  • 6 XLR combo inputs (all with preamps and phantom power) + 2 RCA line inputs (8 total)
  • 8 RCA outputs
  • 24-bit/96kHz operation
  • Larger metal chassis
  • Mix Control monitoring software
  • Price: $249-349
    • Who It's For:
  • Professional recording studios
  • Small labels recording multiple artists
  • Bands recording full arrangements simultaneously
  • Mixing and mastering-focused studios
  • Podcast studios with multiple monitoring setups
    • Strengths:
  • 6 XLR inputs with FocusRite preamps (professional quality)
  • 8 total inputs (flexibility with RCA line inputs)
  • Dual headphone outputs (separate monitoring for engineer + talent)
  • Professional build quality
  • Excellent driver support
  • Perfect for band recording scenarios
    • Limitations:
  • Only 96kHz maximum
  • All outputs are RCA (less professional than all-XLR)
  • Larger footprint (requires more desk space or rack mount)
  • Overkill for solo recording workflows
  • More complex routing than smaller models
    • Professional Considerations: The 8i6 is professional-standard interface. Used in real recording studios for professional work. The 6 XLR inputs with phantom power enable recording drums, bass, guitars, and vocals from separate instruments. Realistic Assessment: Excellent interface if you actually need 6+ inputs. Represents significant jump in capability from 4i4. Not worth buying if you rarely use all 4 inputs of a 4i4.

    Scarlett 18i8 and 18i20 (Large Format)

    Specifications (18i8):
  • 18 analog inputs (mix of XLR and RCA)
  • 8 analog outputs
  • Requires USB 3.0 for full functionality
  • Dante networking option
  • Large rack-mount format
  • Professional build quality
  • Price: $349-499
    • Who It's For:
  • Professional recording studios
  • Audio post-production facilities
  • Large podcast studios
  • Music venues with recording capability
  • Small record labels
    • Strengths:
  • 18 simultaneous input channels (can record everything simultaneously)
  • Dante networking enables virtual unlimited expansion
  • Professional build quality
  • Designed for 24/7 studio operation
  • Excellent driver support
    • Limitations:
  • Only for truly large recording setups
  • Requires significant workspace
  • Requires Dante infrastructure (additional cost)
  • Overkill for home recording
  • Complex setup and routing
    • Realistic Assessment: Professional equipment for professional facilities. Home studios need this only if recording full orchestras or large live events.

    Scarlett Generation Comparison (Which Version to Buy?)

    4th Generation vs 3rd Generation

    When to Buy 4th Gen:
  • Want latest driver support for newest OS
  • Need Ableton Live Lite 11 (newer version than 3rd gen)
  • Willing to pay full price
  • Want maximum support and warranty
    • When to Buy 3rd Gen:
  • Can find discounted price (often $30-50 less)
  • Don't need newest OS support yet
  • Adequate preamp quality for your needs
  • Want to save money on identical audio quality
    • Real Difference: Audio quality is essentially identical. 4th generation has marginally better specs and newer software, but 3rd generation remains professional-quality equipment. Recommendation: Buy 3rd generation if you find it discounted by 20%+. Otherwise, 4th generation's newer driver support justifies higher price.

    Key Differences Across Models

    Input Count Matters Most

    | Model | XLR Inputs | Total Inputs | Best For | |-------|-----------|--------------|----------| | Solo | 1 | 1 | Single source (vocals) | | 2i2 | 2 | 2 | Stereo pair (vocals + guitar) | | 4i4 | 4 | 4 | Multi-source (full band tracking) | | 8i6 | 6 | 8 | Professional studio work |

    Output Configuration Differences

  • Solo/2i2: RCA outputs (adequate for home monitoring)
  • 4i4: RCA outputs with separate headphone out
  • 8i6: RCA outputs with dual headphone outs
  • 18i8+: Mix of XLR and RCA (professional consistency)

    • Monitoring Software

    All Scarlett models include Mix Control monitoring software, which is excellent. No significant differences across models.

    Specific Scenarios and Recommendations

    Bedroom Pop Vocalist

    Choose: Scarlett Solo or 2i2
  • Solo for absolute budget consciousness
  • 2i2 for stereo recording capability
  • Either enables professional-quality vocal recording

    • Singer-Songwriter (Acoustic + Vocal)

    Choose: Scarlett 2i2
  • 2 XLR inputs enable recording guitar and vocal simultaneously
  • Excellent preamp quality
  • Ableton Live Lite for simple mixing

    • Small Band Recording

    Choose: Scarlett 4i4 or 8i6
  • 4i4 if recording separately (drums one session, guitars another)
  • 8i6 if recording simultaneously (drums, bass, guitars, vocals at once)

    • Podcast Studio

    Choose: Scarlett 2i2 or 4i4
  • 2i2 for single host podcast
  • 4i4 for multi-host podcast (two hosts + two guests)

    • Mixing and Mastering

    Choose: Any model (preamps less relevant)
  • 2i2 sufficient for mixing/mastering workflow
  • Better to invest in monitoring headphones and room treatment

    • Professional Recording Studio

    Choose: 8i6 or larger
  • 8i6 handles most professional work
  • 18i8 for large-format work (full orchestras, live events)

    • Scarlett vs Competition at Each Tier

    Scarlett Solo vs Competitors

  • vs FocusRite Clarett 2Pre: Clarett better preamps, more expensive ($300)
  • vs Audient EVO 4: Audient warmer preamps, similar price
  • vs MOTU M2: MOTU offers 4 inputs at similar price (better value)

    • Scarlett 2i2 vs Competitors

  • vs Audient iD44: Audient better preamps, more expensive ($400)
  • vs MOTU M2: MOTU offers 4 inputs at lower price
  • vs Universal Audio Apollo Twin: UA offers better software at higher price

    • Scarlett 4i4 vs Competitors

  • vs MOTU 8PRE: MOTU offers 8 inputs at similar price
  • vs RME Fireface UFX: RME better software, much more expensive
  • vs Behringer UMC404: Behringer cheaper but noisier preamps

    • Scarlett 8i6 vs Competitors

  • vs Audient ASP800: Audient better preamps at similar price
  • vs MOTU 8PRE-ES: MOTU same capability, slight price difference
  • vs RME Fireface UFX: RME better software, much more expensive

    • Buying Used Scarlett Interfaces

    Excellent marketplace for used Scarlett equipment: What to Look For:
  • 3rd or 4th generation (not 1st or 2nd)
  • 2i2 and 4i4 models most common used
  • Verify all inputs and outputs work (test if possible)
  • Check for cosmetic damage (doesn't affect function)
  • Confirm included cables and accessories
    • Expected Used Prices:
  • Scarlett Solo 3rd gen: $65-85
  • Scarlett 2i2 3rd gen: $80-120
  • Scarlett 4i4 3rd gen: $120-160
  • Scarlett 8i6 3rd gen: $150-220
    • Resale Value: Scarlett interfaces hold value well. 2i2 models sell readily on used markets.

    Software Bundle Value

    All Scarlett models include Ableton Live Lite, which includes:
  • Full DAW capability (simplified version)
  • 45-minute limit per project (save and reload to continue)
  • Sufficient for learning and basic recording
  • Can upgrade to full Ableton later
    • Practical Value: The included Ableton Live Lite ($99 if purchased separately) offsets much of the interface cost.

    The Clear Recommendation by Scenario

    Learning Recording (Under $100): Scarlett Solo or 2i2 3rd generation used Bedroom Vocalist (Under $130): Scarlett 2i2 4th Generation ($99) Singer-Songwriter Studio ($130-200): Scarlett 2i2 4th Generation ($99) or Scarlett 4i4 if buying new Small Band Recording ($200-250): Scarlett 4i4 4th Generation ($199) Professional Studio ($250-350): Scarlett 8i6 3rd or 4th Generation Multi-Channel Facility ($350+): Scarlett 18i8 or equivalent

    Why Scarlett Dominates

    FocusRite Scarlett represents excellent balance of:
  • Quality: Professional-grade preamps in affordable packages
  • Compatibility: Works with Mac, Windows, Linux reliably
  • Support: Drivers updated regularly, excellent documentation
  • Value: Preamp quality exceeds price point
  • Community: Massive user base means abundant tutorials and support
  • Reliability: Scarlett interfaces are proven, used in thousands of studios

    • Conclusion

    The Scarlett series offers something for every budget and need:
  • Solo: Ultra-budget learning option ($99)
  • 2i2: Industry-standard value model ($99-199)
  • 4i4: Serious home studio step-up ($179-249)
  • 8i6: Professional studio standard ($249-349)
  • 18i8: Large-format professional ($350+)
    • Choose based on how many simultaneous inputs you actually need, not aspirational needs. Most home studios are adequately served by a 2i2 or 4i4. Professional studios choose 8i6 for proven reliability. Don't overthink the decision. Any Scarlett model delivers professional-quality preamps and reliable operation. The differences are real but marginal compared to the core quality you get at any price point.
    Affiliate Disclosure: This page contains affiliate links. When you purchase through these links, we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you.

    Related Guides

  • Return to Audio Interface Guide
  • Best Audio Interfaces Under $100
  • Best Audio Interfaces Under $200
  • Best Audio Interfaces Under $300
  • More helpful guides
    • *Last updated: 2025-12-20*

    Enjoyed this? Level up your production.

    Weekly gear deals, technique tips, and studio hacks, straight to your inbox.