10 Best Free MP3 Converters for a Mac [2024]
To convert a video to MP3 and vice versa, follow these simple steps:
1. Install Movavi Video Converter.
2. Add the files for conversion.
3. Select the output format.
4. Set the target folder and convert your file.
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List of the best MP3 converters for a Mac
OS: macOS 10.13 or later, Windows
One of the best video-to-MP3 converters for a Mac on the market, Movavi Video Converter does more than just conversions. The software has a variety of editing tools and other features that make it ideal for converting MP4 files into audio tracks or music files.
The interface is intuitive and easy-to-use, with quick click menus and drop and drag features. But more importantly, it converts quickly and with high-quality results. The program supports over 180 popular file formats, so music lovers can convert their favorite songs with ease.
Pros:
Extremely easy to use
Includes additional editing tools
Superfast conversions
Wide range of supported formats
Cons:
Can’t import videos using a URL
2. HandBrake
OS: macOS 10.13 or later, Windows, and Linux
HandBrake was originally a Mac-exclusive platform, but the program now works on PC. Known as a top-tier encoding program, it’s one of the best free MP3 converters for a Mac available.
With its robust settings, users can encode their video files with precision. It also comes with additional tools to help users apply effects, crop large videos, tweak frame rates, and change codecs.
However, for something as simple as converting an MP4 file without iTunes, the program may be a lot to handle. It’s not a turnkey program, so you may need to spend some time learning how everything works before you’re rolling out quick conversions.
But if you are looking for a freeware program, you can’t go wrong with HandBrake.
Pros:
Supports batch conversions
Offers lots of supported file formats
Loads of additional features
Cons:
Not for high pile carpets or dark flooringAdds features, but sacrifices a user-friendly interface
The program has a steep learning curve
3. FFmpegX
OS: macOS 10.3 to 10.7
FFmpegX is from the same family of FFmpeg AV converter programs that also work on Windows and Linux. Whether you’re looking to create a new ringtone or isolate audio for use on a YouTube video, FFmpegX may be the best MP3 converter for a Mac.
The interface has a solid layout that allows for a quick conversion setup, even with so many tools. Within a couple of clicks, your file will be ready. Plus, it works with a wide range of other formats, so you’ll have options on future projects.
Pros:
Fast conversions exclusive to Mac OS X
Offers 20 Unix tools in one application
Simple, straightforward interface
Cons:
Could use some better support features
Developers haven’t updated in a while
OS: macOS 10.5 or later, Windows, Android
Whether you’re a techie or novice user, everyone can navigate Switch Audio File Converter. Every process only takes a few steps, and the program is full of automation features to help you level your settings.
The clean interface removes a lot of the clutter found on other programs and actually speeds up the conversion process. Switch Audio File Converter transcodes even massive files in a matter of seconds, and converts large batches faster than many other programs on this list.
Switch also has a command line plugin that allows you to use it as an automated converter with other programs.
Pros:
Supports over 75 file formats
Preserves music tags on MP3 files
Has a free version that supports most basic formats
Cons:
Limited features
Interface feels outdated
OS: macOS 10.12 or later, Windows
With a sleek, clean layout, FonePaw makes quick video conversions easy. Users can drag-and-drop files directly into the window and have a new format ready within seconds. The program supports a wide range of file types and comes with additional tools to help users create GIFs, merge and trim videos, and compress files as well.
The only hiccup is you’ll need to pay for the full version to access the program’s full range of capabilities. The free version only allows you to convert five minutes of video and disables batch conversions.
Pros:
High-quality conversions
Offers a robust set of additional tools
Straightforward, simple conversion process
Cons:
Expensive option compared to the competition
Lots of limitations on the free version
OS: macOS 10.6.0 or later, Windows
As an open-source free converter, this is the cheapest option on our list. But you get a lot when you download this program. Miro supports a wide range of file formats and has a versatile tool set that adds a lot of perks with your download. You’re able to play back files before conversion, share files directly with others via your Wi-Fi network, and even search the web for video files and convert them directly from the site.
The interface is easy to use, and users can access tools with little confusion. Though some icons are unclear, once you go through the process a couple of times, you won’t have any issues setting things up.
Pros:
Completely free software
Superfast speeds for a mobile converter
Superb supported format set
Cons:
Lots of ads
It’s unclear what some icons do
OS: macOS 10.6 or later, Windows
Digiarity has been around since 2006 and is a leading provider of Video editing and conversion software. The latest version of MacX Video Converter Pro offers a wide range of tools not included with many other programs on this list. The software is a little expensive, but it’s a perfect example of “you get what you pay for.”
Along with conversion features for a wide variety of formats, the program allows you to capture online videos, fully edit videos, and even make slide shows. If you work with larger 4K files, MacX Video Converter Pro is a solid solution for compressing those files for transfer or easier upload.
Pros:
Captures online videos for conversion
Offers built-in video editing features
Also contains a slideshow maker program
Cons:
Free trial only allows 5 minutes of conversion
Pricey, but it comes with tons of extras
OS: macOS Ventura (13), macOS Monterey (12), macOS Big Sur (11), macOS Catalina (10.15), macOS Mojave (10.14), macOS High Sierra (10.13), macOS Sierra (10.12); Windows
If you’re looking for an all-star converter with a wide range of functionality, Vidmore Video Converter could be an excellent choice. The program supports conversions into over 200 formats and offers robust tools that work on high-quality formats to basic web videos.
The program is gaining popularity because of its fast conversion speeds and intuitive interface that’s easy for users of any level to pick up. The price point is high if you want to access its full functionality, but you’ll gain access to a wide range of features.
Pros:
Uses hardware accelerators to offer some of the fastest conversions available
High-quality conversions with no loss of quality
Paid version offers video editing tools
Cons:
Doesn’t offer mobile versions of its program
Very expensive full version
9. FileZigZag
OS: online (compatible with any version of macOS)
FileZigZag is a free online audio conversion tool, so there’s no need to download any software. The program is free to use on any device and from anywhere in the world.
But with a free program like this comes a couple of downsides. First, you can only convert up to 10 files per day at 50 MB per file. Next, as an online converter, the conversion process can be very slow.
But if you’re in a pinch and need an online tool to convert your MP4 to MP3 on a Mac, FileZigZag is a solid choice.
Pros:
Completely free
Online tool, so there’s nothing to download
Broad range of supported formats
Cons:
Slower conversion speed than a desktop program
Max 10 files conversions at 50 MB per day for free users
10. Y2Mate
OS: online (compatible with any version of macOS)
If you’re looking for a simple, online tool to convert a YouTube video into an MP3, Y2Mate is an excellent solution. You only have to type your YouTube link into the bar and the program will take care of the rest. It’s completely free to use, and you don’t have to register to use Y2Mate.
The system offers an auto-fetch system, so you won’t have to pay for a YouTube subscription to gain access to downloads on the platform. Also, Y2Mate works with any browser, and it’s also compatible for mobile browsers for converting on the go.
Pros:
Allows its users to convert YouTube videos with ease
Totally free program
Mobile-friendly program
Cons:
Only converts from YouTube links
Fast for an online program, but still has overall slow conversion speeds
How to convert video to MP3 on a Mac (or vice versa)
Changing the video’s format with Movavi Video Converter is the fastest way to get the job done. The program supports a wide range of formats – including MP4 – and offers many additional benefits like file trimming, encoding, audio adjustments, and batch conversions. Movavi offers a free trial, the program is free to download.
Read the steps below to learn how to convert your MP4 file to MP3 with Movavi Video Converter.
Step 1. Install Movavi Video Converter
Visit the Movavi Video Converter site and download the program. Run the installation file and follow the instructions. Once installed, run Movavi Video Converter.
Step 2. Select the files you want to convert
Click Add Media and then Add video. Choose the video to convert to MP3 on a Mac from the window. You can also drag files directly from the desktop into Movavi Video Converter. Either way, you can select or drag multiple files into the program if you want to do a batch conversion.
Step 3. Choose your output format
When you add files, a menu will appear at the bottom of your window with multiple tab options. Click the Audio tab and find the MP3 presets. Select the preset with your preferred bitrate – 128 kbps, 192 kbps, 256 kbps, 320 kbps, or Original. Be mindful of your bitrate as higher ones have better quality sound, but take up more disc space.
Step 4. Set your target folder and convert your file
At the bottom of the window, click the Save to button and specify where you want to store your converted file. If you don’t set a file, the default destination is the Movavi Library folder.
When you’ve chosen your target folder, click Convert to start the conversion process. After the process is finished, the program will auto-open the folder.
Converting a file from MP4 to MP3 with Movavi Video Converter is that simple. Plus, you can convert tons of other media file types with ease and save them in preset formats specific to a wide range of devices.
You can also use Movavi’s free online conversion app directly from their website. But you’ll miss out on a robust set of additional tools.
Movavi Video Converter
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