How to convert M4A to MP3
- Drop your M4A file on the box above or click the box to choose it.
- MP3 is already selected. Pick a quality, and trim the start or end if you need to.
- Click Convert and watch the progress bar. Files that can be copied without re-encoding are ready in seconds.
- Click Download to save the MP3 file.
Why convert M4A to MP3?
M4A is AAC audio in an MP4 file, the format of iPhone voice memos and iTunes. It sounds as good as MP3 at a smaller size, but some older players don't support it.
MP3 is the most compatible audio format: every phone, car stereo, speaker and app plays it. Its lossy compression makes files about a tenth of the size of a WAV.
Choose MP3 when you want sound that plays everywhere in a small file.
M4A and MP3 at a glance
| Format | M4A | MP3 |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Audio | Audio |
| Compression | Lossy | Lossy |
| Typical codecs | AAC | MP3 |
| Best for | AAC audio for Apple devices | sound that plays everywhere |
| Opens in | Apple devices; fewer apps elsewhere | Every device and app |
Good to know
- Each lossy conversion costs a little quality, so choose a bitrate at least as high as the original's.
Questions about converting M4A to MP3
Is the M4A to MP3 converter free?
Yes. It is free, with no sign-up, no watermark and no limit on how many files you convert.
Is my file uploaded?
No. Your browser reads and converts the file on your own device; nothing is sent to 4Dev or anyone else.
Is there a size limit?
Files can be up to 500 MB. The result is built in your device's memory, so very large files are better converted on a computer than on a phone.
Will converting to MP3 reduce quality?
MP3 is lossy, so it drops detail that is mostly inaudible or invisible. The default settings are a good balance; choose a higher quality or bitrate for archiving.
Which browsers can do this?
Current Chrome, Edge, Safari and Firefox on a computer, and Chrome or Safari on a phone. The format list only offers what your browser can actually create.
Is this tool free?
Yes, it's free to use. No signup, no email required. Get results on this page.
How do I get my result?
Use the tool on this page. Your result appears here; no email delivery is required.