In the internet era, audio files are always on our mind: music, podcasts, audiobooks. But have you ever thought about the type of audio that is ideal for listening?
M4A and MP3 are the two favored formats and have their advantages and disadvantages. In this article, we’ll go in-depth with M4A vs MP3, what each one offers, what it’s lacking, and which one to opt for.
What is M4A & MP3?
M4A is Apple’s digital audio codec, implemented with the MPEG-4 codec. It’s usually the standard format for iTunes, but it’s used on many other machines, so it’s really adaptable for audio storage. M4A came after MP3, offering better sound with efficient compression. Both lossy compression (using AAC) and lossless compression (using Apple Lossless Audio Codec, or ALAC) are supported, with the option to select quality over file size.
MP3, or MPEG Audio Layer III, transformed digital music during the 1990s with its capacity to compress audio with minimal loss. Its lossy format erased some audio data in an attempt to reduce storage requirements, and it was perfect for the low-bandwidth, limited-storage age. Despite those changes, MP3 remains the most universal audio format, supported on virtually all hardware and software.
How M4A and MP3 Differentiate Fundamentally
Several factors are noteworthy which can affect your choice depending on your needs:
- Audio Quality: M4A, especially with AAC encoding, sounds slightly better at the same bit rate than MP3.
- File Size: M4A files are smaller for the same quality, but MP3 can be compressed to ultra-minimal sizes perfect for traveling.
- Compatibility: MP3 wins on this front because of universal compatibility, but M4A is more suitable in Apple ecosystems.
- Compression: Both use lossy compression, but M4A can also be lossless (ALAC), so it’s more adaptable.
Audio Quality: M4A vs MP3
M4A’s sound is the crowning achievement here, especially when it’s encoded in AAC. Typically, M4A will provide a cleaner, less artificial sound with lower bitrates than MP3. A 128 kbps M4A file, for instance, can sound just as good or better than an MP3 at 192 kbps; thus, M4A is the more economical option for those looking for high-quality audio.
However, for the non-audiophile or with average headphones or speakers, you might not hear this quality difference very clearly.
File Size: Which Format is More Effective?
In terms of file size, both M4A and MP3 can make high-quality compressed files, although M4A compresses with more quality. An M4A file at 256 kbps with AAC could be, for example, smaller than an MP3. That said, MP3s can be reduced to very tiny sizes (64 kbps), but not without loss of quality.
Compatibility: Which Format Supports More Devices?
The thing about MP3 is that you can use it for everything. MP3 supports virtually every audio player, whether you are playing on an Android phone, a Windows PC, or even a smart TV. M4A, meanwhile, is recommended for Apple devices, including iPhones, iPads, and MacBooks.
Yet, M4A is slowly becoming available for third-party apps, and media players also play the format. However, if you are after a universal format, then MP3 is the way to go.
Compression Techniques Explained
Both M4A and MP3 use lossy compression (some of the raw audio gets removed during encoding to make the file smaller). But M4A can also be encoded losslessly using ALAC, so all of the original audio content remains intact. This allows users to be flexible enough by requirements.
- MP3 Encoder: Loses more audio data, and often results in lower fidelity at lower bitrates.
- M4A Compression: AAC, the higher quality compression, can save you up to 5 times more than compression at this size.
Benefits of M4A
There are several advantages of M4A:
- Better audio: M4A has better sound at the same bit rate as MP3.
- Native Apple compatibility: Great for iTunes, iPhone, iPad, and macOS.
- Smaller file size: More compressed, which means better storage.
Benefits of MP3
MP3 has its own advantages:
- Universal Support: Compatible with almost any device.
- Low bitrate file size: Great for streaming or when space is a real concern.
- Good for sharing: Since it is widely used, you can easily share your audio files among different devices.
When Should You Use M4A?
Use M4A if you’re deeply invested in the Apple ecosystem or care more about sound quality than file size. It’s perfect for those who use iTunes, and since it’s compressible, you won’t have to compromise on quality. It’s also a good choice for future Apple device owners.
When Should You Use MP3?
MP3 continues to be the format of choice for best compatibility and sharing. If you’re a multi-device user or just need an audio format that is openable by all, choose MP3. It’s also a solid choice for podcasts or audiobooks where sound quality doesn’t matter quite as much as it does for music.
Conclusion
In the M4A vs MP3 race, your choice depends on your situation. M4A provides superior sound and excellent compression, making it an excellent alternative for music enthusiasts, especially those within the Apple ecosystem.
MP3, on the other hand, has the advantage of compatibility and ease of use and is ideal for distributing and playing on multiple devices.
If you enjoyed learning about M4A and MP3 make sure you check out WAV vs MP3 for some interesting findings,.
FAQs
Which has better sound quality, M4A or MP3?
M4A tends to provide superior sound at a comparable bit rate, thanks to higher-quality AAC compression.
Do all players support M4A files?
No, M4A runs on most Apple and many third-party devices, but MP3 is more universally supported.
How do I convert M4A to MP3?
It can be done with software such as iTunes, Audacity, or free online converters.
Are M4A and MP3 lossy formats?
Yes, both typically use lossy encoding, though M4A can also use lossless encoding (ALAC).
Why does Apple prefer M4A over MP3?
Apple recommends M4A because it offers higher audio quality and smaller file sizes through AAC encoding.