Sketch Pad is a free browser beat maker — a 16-step sequencer with sixteen sample pads and MIDI controller support, basically a browser MPC. Load sounds from the cleared catalog or upload your own, finger-drum the pads, program a pattern, and export to WAV or MP3. No plugin, no download.
How making a beat works
- Load your pads. Drop in sounds from the cleared Selekt catalog, upload your own files, or chop a longer sample into slices.
- Program the pattern. Click steps across the sixteen-step grid for each pad; set BPM and add swing for feel.
- Play it in. Connect a MIDI controller to finger-drum the pads with velocity, or tap them with the mouse.
- Export. Bounce your beat to WAV or MP3 — your pattern auto-saves in the browser between sessions.
Common ways producers use it
- Sketch a beat fast in the browser when an idea hits, with no DAW to boot up.
- Finger-drum on a MIDI pad controller for a looser, more human feel than clicking.
- Build a kit from your own samples by uploading or chopping audio onto the pads.
- Pull cleared sounds from the catalog to keep everything royalty-free.
Frequently asked questions
Is there a free online beat maker?
Yes. Sketch Pad is a free browser beat maker — a 16-step sequencer with sixteen sample pads, basically a browser MPC. Load sounds from the cleared catalog or upload your own, program a pattern, set tempo and swing, and export to WAV or MP3. No plugin, no download.
Can I use a MIDI controller in the browser?
Yes. Sketch Pad supports MIDI controllers through the Web MIDI API, so you can finger-drum the pads on a hardware pad controller or keyboard. Connect your device and the pads respond to velocity, so softer and harder hits come through.
How does the step sequencer work?
Each of the sixteen pads has its own row of sixteen steps. Click a step to place a hit, and the playhead loops across the bar at your chosen BPM. Add swing for a looser feel, mute or level individual pads in the mixer, and your pattern auto-saves in the browser so it is there when you come back.
Can I load my own samples?
Yes. Upload your own audio files to any pad, or browse the cleared Selekt catalog and load sounds straight in. You can also chop a longer sample into slices and drag them onto pads to build a custom kit.
What is a browser MPC?
A browser MPC is a pad-based beat maker that runs in your web browser instead of as standalone hardware or a desktop app. Sketch Pad gives you the core of that workflow — sample pads, a step sequencer, MIDI input, and WAV/MP3 export — so you can sketch a beat fast from anywhere.
Want kits and grooves to drop in? Build one in Drum Kit, explore sounds in Sound Lab, or browse the cleared catalog.
