

A constant bit rate ensures the same quality throughout the audio file but results in higher file size. MP3 files can be encoded at a constant bit rate or variable bit rate. MP3s are still relatively large in size when compared to other audio file formats on this list. MP3s feature lossy compression, which means their quality will degrade over subsequent edits. MP3 files are the most common audio file around. Learn more on how to convert audio using Filestack. To programmatically convert files, Filestack offers an audio transcoding API that makes converting audio files a breeze. How do I convert an audio file from one format to another?įor converting files manually, use a program like VLC Media Player to convert between popular audio file formats. Their efficient size has made them the standard format to exchange audio on the Web. MP3’s can be created in a variety of bit rates, which is used to balance the file’s quality and size. In decades past, their ubiquity inspired an entire category of devices (MP3 Players), and their popularity continues to this day. MP3 files are the most popular audio format.

Other formats that are supported by most browsers include OGG, WebM, AAC, and WAV.

All modern browsers support this format, including IE9. MP4 are the best audio file formats for use on the Web. What audio file format is best for use on the Web?įrom a browser compatibility standpoint. The tradeoff is that these files will be very large. These types of files are considered “hi-res” because they are better or equal to CD-quality. Like in our last article The Complete Image File Extension List for Developers, and The Complete List of Video File Formats and Codecs, in this article we’ll delve into the different types of audio files, and how to choose the best audio file format for your application.įirst, let’s answer a couple of common questions: What is the best audio format for sound quality?Ī lossless audio file format is the best format for sound quality. AAC and more, there are many audio file formats you can expect to come across as a developer handling audio/video content in your application.
