Effortlessly convert WAV to MP3 with these top online tools. Discover the best WAV to MP3 converters to preserve audio quality while saving storage space as per your needs:
WAV or Waveform is an audio file format known for its lossless audio quality. Users see this format for its excellent sound quality. Due to its superior quality, WAV is widely known amongst professionals as an industry standard for audio recording. This format is ideal for editing projects and is prominently used in music production.
That said, a major downside of WAV is its size. Such files can be massive, making their storage and transfer very difficult. You’ll also run into compatibility issues with such files. However, there is an easy fix to this issue. All you have to do is convert your WAV file into MP3.
Table of Contents:
WAV to MP3 Converters: Market Trends
Unlike WAV, MP3 files are smaller and compatible with most devices. You’ll, of course, need a good audio file converter to achieve this.
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In this article, I’ll be recommending top tools that are widely recognized by many for being some of the best WAV to MP3 converters out there.
I’ve used these tools myself and feel quite confident in recommending them to you.
So, without much further ado, let’s dive in.
Who will benefit from this article?
I’ll recommend tools that are easy to use, quick in task, and affordable. As such, I believe this article will benefit any average user with a WAV file. This article can also prove useful for artists, independent creators online, podcasters, sound engineers, music producers, and artists as well.
Freelancers and businesses that work with audio files might also find these recommended tools helpful.
Things to Consider When Choosing a Converter
Here are a few factors I would suggest you keep in mind when choosing a WAV to MP3 Converter:
#1) Ease of Use: The tool or software you choose must be user-friendly. Its interface should be easy to navigate and even a novice should be able to use it to convert an audio file.
#2) Batch Processing: Batch Processing is a crucial feature that most video and audio processing tools offer today to help users save time. Choose a tool that allows you to convert multiple files in a single attempt.
#3) Speed: How fast a tool converts a given audio file will determine just how efficient it is. Go for tools that promise exceptional conversion speed.
#4) Reputation: The internet is replete with tools and online websites that promise the best for file conversion. However, only a few promise top-notch service. Only opt for tools that enjoy immense goodwill online.
#5) Customer Support: 24/7 support should be non-negotiable when you venture out in search of software. Look for converters that offer robust and responsive support via phone, live chat, or email.
#6) Price: You are going to find converters that are free to download and offer premium subscription plans. Make sure the price is reasonable and worth the value being offered.
Expert Advice
List of the Best WAV to MP3 Converters
Here is the popular list to consider:
- Movavi Video Converter
- Aiseesoft Video Converter
- Free Convert
- Wondershare UniConverter
- Audio-Convert
- Zamzar
- Freemake Audio Converter
- Convertio
- Online Audio Converte
- CloudConvert
- Hamster Free Audio Converter
Comparing Some of the Top Converters
Name | Best for | Platform | Pricing | Ratings |
---|---|---|---|---|
Movavi Video Converter | Conversion speed and editing capabilities | Windows, Mac, Web-based | Free to use, starts at $54.95/year | |
Aiseesoft Video Converter Ultimate | Hardware Accelerating Technology | Windows, Mac, Web-based | Free to use, pricing starts at $14.50/month | |
Free Convert | Free to convert a file up to 1 GB in size | Web-based | Free with limitations. Pricing starts at $12.99/month | |
Wondershare Uniconverter | Feature-rich video and audio processing | Mac and Windows | Free to use. Pricing starts at $49.99/year. | |
Audio Convert | Online lossless audio conversion | Web-based | Free |
Detailed review:
#1) Movavi Video Converter
Best for conversion speed and editing capabilities.
As far as video/audio processing tools go, Movavi is perhaps the most popular of the bunch. Professionals and casual users alike widely liked the tool for features that extend far beyond basic editing or format conversion.
The tool supports over 180 formats. This means that you can rely on the tool to convert a WAV file into MP3 and many other formats with ease.
You are guaranteed lightning-fast conversion speeds. It only took me less than 2 minutes to convert a 5-minute WAV file recording. You can either use Movavi’s online converter or opt for the desktop version that’s compatible with both Mac and Windows devices.
You can convert a file up to 100 MB in size for free. For larger files, you will need to get a subscription.
Besides simple conversion, you can also make a few adjustments to your audio before downloading the processed MP3 file.
Movavi allows you to enhance the quality of the audio being processed. You can also choose to only convert a portion of the file by entering the start and end time in the settings.
How to convert WAV to MP3 using Movavi Video Converter:
As I mentioned before, Movavi is available as a desktop and an online web-based software. For the sake of this article, I’ll explain how it uses the online version:
1. Open Movavi Online Video Converter in your browser.
2. Hit the “Add Your Media” button to upload the WAV file you wish to convert
3. Click on the drop-down menu beside the “Convert to” prompt and select MP3.
4. Once done, hit the “Convert” button.
5. You can now save the converted MP3 file onto your system.
Features:
- Batch Conversion: Movavi allows you to convert multiple files at the same time. There are no limits to how many files you can convert. However, you’ll need to purchase a subscription to enjoy this feature.
- Extensive Format Support: Movavi supports a wide range of popular video and audio file formats. You can use the software to convert or edit files in over 180 different formats. These formats include but aren’t limited to MP4, MP3, WAV, GIF, OGG, RAW, etc.
- Editing Tools: Movavi arms its users with a wide range of editing tools. You can use this tool to modify your audio and video files. You can trim, merge, add effects, extract subtitles, and do a lot more.
- AI Upscaling: The latest version of this tool comes with an intelligent AI. This AI can help users upscale their images and videos. You can increase the resolution of a picture by 4-8 times using this software.
- Find Subtitles: If you are watching a movie in a foreign language, Movavi can help you find subtitles for it. All you need to do is open the movie file using Movavi. Movavi will then find appropriate subtitles for the file and add them.
Pros:
- Free to convert up to 100 MB files.
- Compatible with Windows and Mac devices.
- Very fast
- High-quality output.
Cons:
- Nothing significant
Our Review: Movavi Video Converter shines as both a video and an audio converter. You get a sophisticated editor and converter in one easy-to-use tool. It is lightning-fast when it comes to conversion and comes loaded with editing tools that make the tool ideal for all types of users.
Price: Free to download and use. Its subscription plans are:
- 1 Year: $54.95
- Lifetime Plan: $69.95
- Video Suite: $99.95
Website: https://www.movavi.com/videoconverter/
#2) Aiseesoft Video Converter Ultimate
Best for Hardware Accelerating Technology.
Aiseesoft works and performs in the same way Movavi does. It is an excellent and user-friendly video/audio converter that supports a wide range of formats.
However, I would say that Aiseesoft does seem to have an advantage over Movavi when it comes to conversion speed. Aiseesoft may very well be the fastest software on this list.
That is in large part due to the hardware accelerating technology powering this software. The software promises a speed that is 120 times faster than your average software. This conversion speed does not compromise the picture or sound quality of the video or audio being converted.
Aiseesoft supports 1000 or so formats. As such, you can use the software to edit and convert a wide range of files.
The software is also quite great at compression and can do so with minimal quality loss. Aiseesoft also offers a free online audio converter that is simple to use but doesn’t come with the advanced features that the premium desktop version delivers.
How to Convert WAV to MP3 using Aiseesoft Video Converter Ultimate:
1. Download and install the software on your system.
2. Launch the software and add the WAV file you wish to convert
3. In the next window, choose your output format, select the output quality, and specify the path where you want the converted file saved.
4. Hit the “Convert All” button.
Features:
- Extensive Format Support: Aiseesoft supports a massive range of file formats. As such, you can rely on the software to convert, compress, and edit over 1000 audio, video, and image files.
- Enhance and Reduce Output Quality: When converting, you’ll have the option to either retain the source file’s original quality, enhance it, or reduce it. You’ll have the option to choose between low, medium, and high-quality output.
- Hardware Accelerated Technology: Aiseesoft is one of those rare tools that comes with built-in hardware accelerated tech. This tech helps the tool convert a file 120 times faster than your average converter. The speed also ensures your picture or sound quality isn’t harmed.
- File Compression: Besides conversion, you can also use Aiseesoft to compress a large file. You’ll be able to shrink a file’s size in no time with a couple of quick clicks. The compression is done with minimal quality loss.
- Adjust Audio Tracks: You can use the software to add a single or multiple audio tracks to your video file. You’ll be able to amplify or max the volume of these audio tracks. You can also use the software to add external subtitles to your movies.
Pros:
- Over 1000 file formats supported.
- 120 times faster conversion
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- Lossless quality output
Cons:
- You need to pay up for ultra-fast conversion benefits.
Our Review: In essence, Aiseesoft is simple to use and quite fast when converting files. The quality of the output remains the same. Plus, you get a plethora of editing tools to play with to further enhance the quality of your converted audio file.
Price: Free to download and use. A free online audio converter is also available. The subscription plans are as follows:
- Monthly: $14.50
- Yearly: $79
- Lifetime: $129
Website: https://www.aiseesoft.com/video-converter-ultimate/
#3) Free Convert
Best for free to convert a file up to 1 GB in size.
Free Convert is a web-based converter that you can use to convert a WAV file into MP3 online. The software is easy to use as all you have to do is upload the file, choose your output format, and hit the convert button. No need to download or install software.
The best part about this software is the fact that it allows you to convert a file as large as 1 GB in size without charging a dime.
The conversion itself is fast while also being of high quality. The high-quality output can be attributed to the software’s use of both custom and open-source software. You also have the privilege of fine-tuning the conversion parameters. For instance, you choose to encode or compress the audio stream before initiating conversion.
You can also trim a file before hitting the convert button by simply choosing the start and end times. If you have a file that is larger than 1 GB, you’ll have to sign up and pay a small subscription fee. Depending on the plan you choose, you’ll have the option to convert up to 50 files at a time.
How to use Free Convert to Convert WAV to MP3:
1. Hit the Choose Files button on Free Convert’s home page to upload a file.
2. Select output as MP3
3. Adjust settings if you like.
4. Hit the Convert button to download the converted file.
Features
- Batch Conversion: Free Convert allows you to convert multiple videos at a time. For the cheapest plan, you’ll be able to convert up to 25 files at a time. The most expensive plan will help you convert up to 100 files at a time.
- File Merge: You can use the software to merge your audio files as well. You can merge 40 files at a time with the cheapest plan. The most expensive plan will help you merge up to 100 files at a time.
- Advanced Configurations: You can do a lot more than simply convert your file. Free Convert helps you trim a video or implement fade-in and fade-out effects. You can also adjust the volume of the audio before converting it.
- Audio Extraction: Free Convert can also be used to extract an audio file from a video file. The same conversion steps can be used to upload a video file, choose an audio output format, and then transform the video file into its audio alternative.
- Reverse Audio: This is quite a unique feature that you would never find in a free audio converter. This software allows you to reverse an audio stream while converting it. You can do so with a single click.
Pros:
- Free online tool
- Advanced settings
- Secure
- Decent speed
Cons:
- Have to tolerate ads with the free version.
Our Review: Free Convert is yet another great audio converter that you can use to convert a file up to 1 GB in size for free. With a subscription plan, you can use the tool for batch conversions and file merging as well. Although the ads can be annoying, you can get rid of them for an affordable fee.
Price: Free to use. Its subscription plans are:
- Basic: $12.99/month
- Standard: $14.99/month
- Pro: $29.99/month
- 24 hr. pass: $17.99 in one-time fee.
Website: https://www.freeconvert.com/
Also Read =>> Top-rated WebM To MP4 Converter Software
Best for feature-rich video and audio processing.
Wondershare is one of the most sought-after providers of video and audio processing tools out there and UniConverter is no exception. With UniConverter, you get a free video/audio converter that works well with all Mac and Windows devices. UniConverter will let you convert a video or audio in over 1000 formats for free.
UniConverter follows the same process that Movavi and Aiseesoft follow for conversion. You simply upload the file, choose the output format, and hit the convert button. If you pay for Uniconverter’s subscription plan, you’ll be able to use all of Uniconverter’s premium features. This includes batch conversion, file merging, and GPU acceleration.
Features:
- Audio and Video Conversion: UniConverter supports over 1000 formats. This includes popular audio formats like WAV and MP3 and popular video formats like MP4 and WMV, etc. It supports almost all prominent file formats out there and will help you convert a file for free.
- Batch Conversion: UniConverter allows you to convert multiple files at the same time. You can upload multiple files at once and convert all of them simultaneously in no time. This feature is not available with the free plan. You’ll need to purchase a subscription plan.
- File Merger: Besides conversion, Uniconverter also features impressive file merging capabilities. You can use the software to merge multiple audio clips into one file. Merging files is quite simple, thanks to Uniconverter’s user-friendly editing interface.
- File Compression: Almost all conversion tools out there can compress a file. Uniconverter also offers this feature. You can use the tool to shrink an audio file in size with negligible quality loss.
- Editing Tools: UniConverter also packs in a ton of useful editing features. You can rely on the tool to trim, crop, adjust the speed of the clip, and much more. You are getting an in-built editor with your audio/video converter.
Pros:
- Free to use
- User-friendly interface
- GPU acceleration
- Supports over 1000 formats
Cons:
- Some advanced features are hidden behind a subscription plan.
Our Review: With UniConverter, Wondershare adds another feather to its illustrious portfolio of software solutions. UniConverter serves as a great editing, conversion, and compression tool, all in one. It is fast, easy to use, and will help you convert a WAV file into MP3 without hassle.
Price: Free to download and use. Its subscription plans are:
- Yearly Plan: $49.99
- 2 Year Plan: $69.99
- Perpetual Plan: $79.99
Website: https://videoconverter.wondershare.com/video-converter-free.html
#5) Audio Convert
Best for online lossless audio conversion.
Like Free Convert, Audio Convert is a web-based tool that lets you convert an audio file online. You don’t need to download or install software.
Upload the file onto Audio-Convert’s website, select the audio format, and wait for Audio-Convert to deliver the result. Besides WAV and MP3, Audio Convert can take any audio file and convert it to another format.
There is little to no loss of quality in the result, which is what convinced me to include the tool on this list. The conversion and the ensuing download is also very fast.
I could convert a small 2-minute audio file in a matter of 2-3 minutes. Audio-Convert also promises to be a safe website as your files are directly uploaded to their site and not any other third-party site online.
Features:
- Extensive Compatibility: Despite being completely free, Audio Convert supports a wide range of audio file formats. It supports a total of 12 very prominent audio file types. You can convert a WAV file to MP3 or any other format without hassle.
- Batch Conversion: Unlike some premium tools I’ve mentioned on this list, you can rely on Audio Convert to convert multiple files at the same time. The conversion remains hassle-free, no matter how many files you upload. You can download the converted audio files in a single Zip file.
- Audio Extraction: Audio Convert can extract audio from any video file. Upload a video file and choose your desired audio output to accomplish this feat. Once converted, you can download and save the audio file on your system.
- Audio Settings: Besides conversion, you can perform basic adjustments to enhance or modify the quality of your audio file. You can customize the quality of the file and perform other configurations right before you hit the convert button.
- Audio Editing: Audio Convert also features an online audio editor that can edit an audio track like a pro. You can cut, trim, and mix audio clips using this online tool. You can even record your voice online with the help of this online feature.
Pros:
- Completely free
- Safe and easy to use.
- No limits to the size of files you can convert
- Online audio editor
Cons:
- Lots of ads.
Our Review: If you don’t mind the advertisements, then you’ll find a great audio converter/editor with Audio Convert. The tool is completely free to use and lets you convert multiple files in different formats in a single attempt. Its online audio editing interface is truly impressive and earns it a top spot on this list.
Website: https://audio-convert.com/
#6) Zamzar
Best for online free file conversion.
Zamzar is yet another online file converter. Unlike most of the tools we’ve discussed so far, Zamzar is a tool that isn’t restricted to processing audio and video files online. You can rely on the tool to convert images, documents, and all sorts of other file formats as well.
Zamzar supports over 1100 file formats. To use the software, upload your file, choose the output format, and wait for the conversion to be processed. Zamzar is an online tool, so you don’t need to go through the hassle of downloading or installing a file. Besides conversion, you can use Zamzar to compress files as well.
Features:
- Extensive Compatibility: Zamzar is perhaps the most extensive in its compatibility with files. You can use it to convert or compress over 1100 file types. This includes video, audio, image, and document files.
- Compression: Besides conversion, Zamzar is also great at compressing files. There is little to no quality loss when you compress files using this software. Zamzar can compress WAV and MP3 files in the audio department.
- Text Conversion: Zamzar features an impeccable OCR. This allows it to accurately extract text from any file you feed it. You can use Zamzar to extract text from images, audio, video, and other file formats.
- Batch Conversions: Zamzar supports batch conversions. However, you will need to pay for its subscription plan. Based on the plan you choose, you will initiate anywhere around 25 to 100 concurrent conversions.
- Online Storage: With one of Zamzar’s premium plans, you can also store your documents online. With a basic plan, you’ll be able to store files up to 5 GB in size. The expensive plan will let you store files up to 100 GB in size.
Pros:
- Free file conversion
- User-friendly
- Decent conversion speed
- Supports over 1100 file formats
Cons:
- The ads
Our Review: As is the case with most free tools, you are going to encounter a lot of ads while using Zamzar. However, they do not impact your user experience. The tool is still quite simple and fast in its ability to convert a WAV file into MP3.
Price: Free to use. Subscription plans are:
- Basic: $18/month
- Pro: $30/month
- Business: $49/month
Website: https://www.zamzar.com/
#7) Freemake Audio Converter
Best for audio editing and conversion.
Since its inception, Freemake has amassed a massive user base of over 73 million users. No software can accomplish this feat if it doesn’t offer exceptional usability and functionality. Freemake Audio Converter can be used for conversion between over 50 different audio file formats. This includes WAV, MP3, M4A, AAC, etc.
It supports all modern codecs and you can even use it to transcode multiple audio files in a single attempt. Its speed is quite impressive as well. When converting, you can adjust the processed file’s sound quality. You can choose to enhance the resulting MP3’s sound quality by up to 320 kbps.
Features:
- Auto iTunes Upload: Freemake works hand-in-hand with the iTunes library. You can convert an audio file into MP3 or M4A format using this software. The converted file will then automatically be uploaded to the iTunes library.
- Lossless Audio Conversion: The conversion in no way compromises the audio file’s sound quality. You even get the option to enhance your MP3’s audio quality. You can encode tracks into AAC, MP2, and WMA.
- Batch Conversion: Like the best software out there, Freemake also facilitates batch conversion. You’ll be able to encode multiple files in the same format in no time. The converted files can be downloaded in one Zip file.
- Merge Clips: You can merge several clips for one incessant playback. You can easily merge files of the same or different outputs and qualities with ease. The merge doesn’t hinder audio quality.
- Editing Tools: You are provided with a ton of editing capabilities. You can use the software to edit bitrate, channel, and sample rate. You can also adjust the audio file volume as you deem fit.
Pros:
- 50+ Format supported
- Auto iTune upload
- User-friendly
Cons:
- The speed can sometimes be a tad bit slow.
Our Review: Freemake Audio Converter is free to use and works well with all modern Windows-operated devices. The conversion is lossless and you can perform some useful edits to the audio to enhance its quality.
Price: Free to download and use.
Website: https://www.freemake.com/free_audio_converter/
#8) Convertio
Best for online file conversion.
Convertio is similar to Zamzar concerning how it functions and what features it offers. It is a file converter. You can use it for conversion between various file formats. This, of course, includes WAV to MP3 file conversion as well.
Convertio supports over 300 different file formats. You can convert audio, documents, video, and image files using this software. It also features OCR capabilities, which means you can also use it to extract text from visual files.
Features:
- OCR: Convertio comes equipped with Optical Character Recognition. This means the tool can accurately identify and capture texts appearing in different types of files. As such, you can use the tool to convert an audio, video, or image file into text format.
- Online Conversion: You can use the software to convert a variety of files online. Uploading and converting a file up to 100 MB in size is completely free. You’ll need to pay extra for larger files.
- Batch Conversion: Batch conversion is a premium feature in Convertio. With its cheaper plan, you’ll be able to perform up to 25 concurrent conversions. There is no limit to the amount of files you can convert simultaneously with the expensive plan.
- Custom Settings: Convertio supports advanced audio configurations. You can use the software for more than just audio conversion. You can customize a file’s aspect ratio, codec, quality, and more.
- Excellent Security: Convertio takes security very seriously. All uploaded files are deleted instantly after conversion. You are guaranteed top-notch privacy.
Pros:
- Over 300 file formats supported
- Unlimited concurrent conversions
- Easy to use and fast
Cons:
- The best features are hidden behind a subscription plan.
Our Review: Convertio is great at converting a WAV into MP3. It is even better at configuring and adjusting an audio file’s quality via custom settings. It is fast, easy to use, and deserves a spot on my list.
Price: Free to use for conversion of files up to 100 MB in size. Subscription plans are:
- Light: $9.99/month
- Basic: $14.99/month
- Unlimited: $25.99/month
Website: https://convertio.co/
#9) Online Audio Converter
Best for advanced editing features.
Online Audio Converter is yet another web-based tool that makes WAV to MP3 conversion as simple as possible. The tool works with over 300 different file formats. You can take a WAV file and convert it into MP3, OGG, MP2, and other formats.
You can use the tool to extract audio from a video file as well. The extraction is fast and there is little to no quality loss. Where this tool shines is in the plethora of editing features, you are offered. From adjusting a file’s sound quality to clearing unnecessary noise from an audio file, Online Audio Converter can do it all.
Features:
- Batch Conversion: Online Audio Converter is as good as some of the best tools I’ve mentioned on this list for batch conversion. You can convert multiple files at once. The results can be downloaded in a single Zip file for convenience.
- Audio Extraction: Online Audio Converter can be quite handy when extracting a song from a movie or music video. You can use the tool for video-to-audio conversion. You’ll be able to extract audio from any type of video.
- Advanced Settings: You can perform a variety of edits to your audio file before you hit the convert button. You can adjust the bitrate, frequency, and even apply reverse playback to your audio.
- Adjust Sound Quality: Online Audio Converter will help you adjust the sound quality of your audio. You can choose the audio to have standard, good, and best quality at 320 kbps. You can also erase unnecessary voices from an audio file.
- Tag Support: You can use this software to change a track’s name, artist, or genre. Tags are supported for file types like WAV, MP3, FLAC, and OGG.
Pros:
- User-friendly
- Supports 300+ formats
- Advanced editing settings
Cons:
- The conversion speed can be a little slow.
Our Review: Online Audio Converter is completely free and makes WAV to MP3 conversion effortless. It supports a variety of other formats, will process your files without quality loss, and you don’t need to download software to use it.
Price: Free to use
Website: https://online-audio-converter.com/
#10) CloudConvert
Best for fast conversion.
CloudConvert makes it to my list for its impressive speed and online editing capabilities. As a conversion software, you can use the software to perform conversion between files in over 200 formats. The online software is ISO 27001 certified. So you can trust the software to keep your uploaded data safe.
Features:
- Extensive Compatibility: The software supports over 200 file formats. You can use it to convert audio, image, video, and document files. The end result is also spectacular, with no quality loss.
- Trim Audio: You can use the software to trim an audio file before it is converted. All you have to do is mention the start and end times. Only that portion of the file will be converted and presented to you.
- Adjust Channels: CloudConvert lets you adjust the channels on your audio file. You can choose to have the end result be mono or stereo.
- Volume Adjustment: The software can be used to effectively adjust the volume of your audio file. You can choose to make the audio louder or quieter. The volume can be adjusted to several degrees by percentage.
- API: CloudConvert offers a powerful API. This API facilitates integrations with multiple apps. For instance, the API facilitates full Amazon S3 integration.
Pros:
- Online and easy-to-use
- Advanced settings
- 200+ file formats supported
Cons:
- You need to pay to perform over 25 conversions per day.
Our Review: CloudConvert makes editing and conversion of audio files very simple. It supports more than 200 different file formats. It is quick in its conversion capabilities and shines because of its editing features.
Price: Free to use for up to 25 conversions per day. Subscription starts at $9/month.
Website: https://cloudconvert.com/wav-to-mp3
#11) Hamster Free Audio Converter
Best for a converter for Windows.
Hamster features a UI that will remind you of the software that came out in the mid-2000s. Don’t let the UI fool you, however, as Hamster is quite advanced in its converting capabilities. It can convert almost all file types beyond just MP3 and WAV. It works with all Windows devices and is quite exceptional when it comes to its speed.
Features:
- Compatibility: Hamster supports a wide range of audio formats. It can facilitate conversions between various file types, like WAV, MP3, OGG, etc.
- Customizable Interface: Although dated, you can still customize the interface’s aesthetics. This makes the user experience more convenient.
- Batch Conversion: You can use the tool to convert multiple files at the same time. However, the batch conversion hinders the software’s processing speed.
- Editing: Hamster allows you to configure the audio file before it is converted. You can adjust the bitrate, specify the resolution, and much more before hitting the convert button.
Pros:
- Free to use
- Works with all file formats
Cons:
- Dated UI
- The speed is slow
Our Review: Hamster Free Audio Converter is a tool I would recommend for one-off conversion. Although its UI is dated, you can customize it. The conversion itself is quite effective even though there is room for improvement in the speed department.
Price: Free
Website: https://filehippo.com/download_hamster-free-audio-converter/
Other Ways to Transform a WAV File into MP3
If you don’t want to bother using a tool to convert your audio files, there are other options you can try. Here are a few other ways to effectively convert a WAV file into MP3.
How to Convert WAV to MP3 with iTunes on a PC
If you have iTunes on your PC, I suggest following the below simple steps to convert a WAV file or any other audio file into a different format:
- Open iTunes
- In the menu, select “Edit” and then “Preferences”
- Hit the General tab and select Import Settings
- Now click the menu right beside “Import Using” select the encoding format that wishes to convert the audio file into and click OK.
- Now select the file in your library, select “Convert” and then “Create (format) Version).
How to Convert WAV to MP3 on Mac
Converting a WAV to MP3 on Mac is simple via its Music app. Follow the below guide:
- Open your Music app, choose the audio file you wish to convert.
- Once the audio file is added, navigate to “Music” at the top of your interface and select “Preferences”.
- In the pop-up menu, go to “Files” and click on “Import Settings”.
- Select “MP3 encoder” from the drop-down menu against “Import Using”.
- Click on OK.
- Select the added audio file again and click on “Files”. Select “Convert” -> “Create MP3 Version” from the drop-down menu.
Your file will now be converted and saved in MP3 format. You now know how to convert WAV to MP3 using Apple Music on Mac.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is a WAV File better than an MP3?
A WAV is known for better sound quality, thanks to its lossless nature. This is also why a WAV file is usually used for industry-grade recording with huge production value.
That said, a WAV file may not be ideal for your average user because of its large size. These files are also not compatible with many devices. This is where MP3 has an advantage over WAV.
2. Is WAV higher audio quality?
WAV boasts greater dynamic range and better bit depth. This is why WAV is preferred by sound engineers. WAV retains the original data when recording, and most experts for audio agree that WAV does indeed feature the highest audio quality.
3. What are the disadvantages of WAV?
There are three major disadvantages that one can associate with WAV. It comes in uncompressed form. As such, its file size is large. WAV also entails compatibility issues as it may not work with the devices that you are using.
Another major con of WAV is the fact that it isn’t open source. This means that a WAV file cannot be manipulated.
4. Is WAV outdated?
WAV is one of the oldest known audio formats out there. Despite its age, however, WAV is still used in the production of high-quality sound. WAV promises no loss of quality.
Therefore, WAV is preferred in the production of media even today, especially in cases where video and audio quality are considered to be of critical importance.
5. Should I use WAV or MP3?
The answer will depend on what you need the audio file for. If you are a casual user, you’ll probably have no use for a WAV file. As an average user, you’ll also run into compatibility issues with WAV. I would suggest using an MP3 audio file.
However, WAV is simply better for recording. I would suggest WAV if you are a professional podcaster, sound engineer, or someone in need of superior lossless audio quality.
The following comparison table should clear any doubts you may have about which format to use:
For WAV
Size: Large
Compatibility: Windows
Audio Codecs: MPEG-1/MPEG-2 Audio Layer III, PCM, GMS, etc.
Extension: .wav, .wave
For MP3
Size: Small
Compatibility: Windows, Mac, and Various portable devices.
Audio Codecs: MPEG-1/MPEG-2 Audio Layer III
Extension: .mp3
6. What is the best way to convert WAV to MP3?
The best way to convert WAV to MP3 would be in a manner that is fast, with limited quality loss. This is only possible if you are using a reliable audio conversion tool. All the tools I’ve recommended above help you accomplish a WAV to MP3 conversion in a quick manner without any loss in quality.
7. What program converts WAV to MP3 for free?
There are a plethora of WAV to MP3 converters out there that do the job for free. These are some of the very best from the bunch:
Movavi Video Converter
Aiseesoft Video Converter
Free Convert
Online Audio Converter
Although free, your ability to use them will be limited. To use them to their full potential, I suggest subscribing to one of their affordable plans.
8. What is the best quality MP3 converter?
Different people will have different answers to this question. The best MP3 converter is the one that is simple to use, facilitates batch conversion, is lightning-fast, and supports lossless conversion.
As such, these are some of the best quality MP3 converters out there:
Movavi Video Converter
Aiseesoft Video Converter
Free Convert
Wondershare Free Video Converter
Audio-Convert
9. Does Converting WAV to MP3 lose quality?
The short answer to this question is yes. MP3 files are relatively smaller than WAV. If you aren’t using a good audio converter, chances are that the final result will feature subpar sound quality.
I suggest going with a converter that promises minimal quality loss. That is what you are getting if you try any of the tools I’ve recommended in this article.
Further Reading => Comprehensive Review of UniFab Video Enhancer
Conclusion
So there you have it, some of the best WAV to MP3 converters that you can use today. Each tool that I’ve mentioned here stands out for its support of various formats, conversion speed, and high-quality output. You should have no issue converting a WAV or any other format of audio file using the software I’ve recommended above.
All of them are quite simple to use, with most of them offering their services for free or for an affordable fee. As for my recommendation, I’d suggest going with Movavi Video Converter or Aiseesoft Video Converter. Both offer web-based and desktop versions of their tool. They are both easy to use, super-fast, and come loaded with a plethora of media-processing features.
Research Process:
- I spent 23 hours researching and writing this article so you can have summarized and insightful information on which WAV to MP3 converter will serve you best.
- Total converters researched: 21
- Total converters shortlisted: 11