Free Lossless Audio Codec (FLAC) is a high-quality audio format that compresses audio files with no loss in audio quality. FLAC is open source and a royalty-free codec, making it widely accessible and popular for audio professionals.
Meanwhile, MP3s are digital audio files that use MPEG Audio Layer III compression: a "lossy" form of compression that results in a minor loss in quality, but dramatically reduces the file size. MP3s essentially remove parts of the audio data that are less perceptible to human hearing.
MP3s are often the better file type for audio you want to publish and host online. Fortunately, Kapwing's free audio editor makes it easy to convert FLAC to MP3 in just a few clicks—all for free.
Add your FLAC file to the Kapwing editor. Or, drag and drop a FLAC file into the editor.
Select the 'Export Project' button in the top right. Then, click “MP3” from the dropdown to convert your FLAC to MP3. This will happen automatically.
Your new MP3 file will begin downloading. That's it, you're ready to do!
The MP3 format was created in the early 1990s and quickly gained popularity as a lightweight file type for sharing digital audio and music. But, why would you convert FLAC to MP3? There a number of reasons:
1. File size: MP3 files are significantly smaller files compared to lossless formats like FLAC. MP3s are ideal for media like songs andpodcasts.
2. Streaming: MP3 files require less bandwidth to stream over the internet, which makes for smoother stream and fewer connectivity issues.
3. Compatibility: MP3s are widely supported and compatible with nearly all audio and software tools—including old devices.
4. Fair trade offs: MP3 files still offer good quality audio for the tradeoffs of smaller file sizes and greater compatibility. Casual listeners aren't likely to notice the difference between a high-quality MP3 and a FLAC file on standard audio devices.
There's a reason why Kapwing's audio and video converter tools default to MP3 and MP4 exports, and that's because these files are best-fitted for the web.
1. Upload a FLAC file to Kapwing. 2. Click the 'Export Project' button. 3. Choose the MP3 file type. 3. Your MP3 will automatically download. You're done!
Modern devices and programs are compatible with FLAC files most of the time, but older devices and software (like previous editions of iTunes) will not play FLAC files. MP3s are often preferred over FLAC files for this reason.
No, FLAC files offer clearer audio quality than MP3s. However, FLAC files come with many drawbacks. The main drawbacks are the file size and inconsistent compatibility with older devices and software programs. MP3s are preferred for files published to the web and that prioritize reach and accessibility over the highest-possible quality.
Kapwing is free to use for teams of any size. We also offer paid plans with additional features, storage, and support.