How do MP3 and FLACcompare? Here's everything you need to know to choose the right format — and how to convert between them.
MPEG Audio Layer III
MP3 is the most popular audio format in the world. It revolutionized digital music by compressing audio files to a fraction of their original size while maintaining good quality. Nearly every device and application supports MP3.
Free Lossless Audio Codec
FLAC is the leading open-source lossless audio format. It compresses audio files to about 50-60% of their original size without any quality loss — perfect for audiophiles and music archival.
| Specification | MP3 | FLAC |
|---|---|---|
| Full name | MPEG Audio Layer III | Free Lossless Audio Codec |
| Extension | .mp3 | .flac |
| MIME type | audio/mpeg | audio/flac |
| Category | Audio | Audio |
| Developer | Fraunhofer Society / Moving Picture Experts Group | Xiph.Org Foundation |
| Year introduced | 1993 | 2001 |
| Compression | Lossy | Lossless |
MP3 is practical for everyday listening with good compression. FLAC is essential for professional audio work where every detail matters.
Need to switch formats? Convert for free with SquishConvert.