How do MP3 and WAVcompare? 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.
Waveform Audio File Format
WAV is an uncompressed audio format that stores raw audio data at full quality. It's the standard format for professional audio editing, music production, and any application where quality is paramount.
| Specification | MP3 | WAV |
|---|---|---|
| Full name | MPEG Audio Layer III | Waveform Audio File Format |
| Extension | .mp3 | .wav |
| MIME type | audio/mpeg | audio/wav |
| Category | Audio | Audio |
| Developer | Fraunhofer Society / Moving Picture Experts Group | Microsoft / IBM |
| Year introduced | 1993 | 1991 |
| Compression | Lossy | Lossless |
MP3 is practical for everyday listening with good compression. WAV is essential for professional audio work where every detail matters.
Need to switch formats? Convert for free with SquishConvert.