When comparing Finale vs Dorico, the Slant community recommends Dorico for most people. In the question“What is the best music notation software?” Dorico is ranked 4th while Finale is ranked 6th.
Specs
Ranked in these QuestionsQuestion Ranking
Pros
Pro There’s nothing it can’t do
Pro Improved professional program
Improved program from the early years. If it wasn't for Sibelius competition, Finale wouldn't be as good as it is now and improving.
Pro Nice sounds
Although violins still sound very synthetic, overall Finale has very nice instrumental sounds.
Pro Great support team
Pro Produces high quality scores
The scores produced by Dorico look really nice on paper and on the screen, and much better than any other software I've used, making this an ideal software for engravers.
Pro An intuitive interface
The interface makes the use very intuitive. Easy to use, for musicians.
Pro Suitable for contemporary music
Developers are aware of the needs of contemporary music (experimental notation, accidentals on each note, nested tuplets) and will add even more features to meet them.
Cons
Con Not straightforward rules
Con A little heavy on the wallet
Although students can get a special deal, Finale comes in a little pricey.
Con Expensive
Ranging from $150 to $844 (depending on the version), Dorico is by no means a cheap application. The price can be rather painful for students, or people who just want to try notation.
