Need to extract an audio track from a video? Whether you’re archiving, sharing, or creating a podcast, converting video to audio is a quick and effective solution. This guide walks you through six of the most trusted free tools—desktop software and mobile apps—that let you turn any MP4 (or other video format) into MP3, M4A, or other popular audio files.
Top 6 Video‑to‑Audio Converters Reviewed
Choosing the right converter depends on your platform, workflow, and whether you need basic extraction or more advanced editing. Below we compare six well‑rated options, outlining step‑by‑step instructions, key benefits, limitations, and the audio formats each supports.
Watch a brief video demo of the tools before diving into the details.
1. Filmora (Windows & macOS)
Filmora from Wondershare is a lightweight post‑production suite that many creators use for its intuitive interface. It offers a built‑in audio extraction workflow, making it ideal for users who also want to perform quick edits.
How to convert with Filmora
- Import your video into the Media panel.
- Drag the clip onto the timeline and right‑click to Detach Audio if you wish to remove the original track.
- Export – choose Export → Video tab → select MP3 from the format list. Adjust settings with the Settings button if needed, then hit Export.
Benefits
- Simple audio separation and direct export to MP3.
- Noise reduction and voice‑over recording tools.
- Cross‑platform support (Windows & macOS).
Limitations
- Export is limited to MP3; no other audio formats directly.
Supported formats
MP3 (default export). For other formats, use an external converter.
2. VLC Media Player (Windows, macOS, Linux)
VLC is a universal media player that includes a powerful transcoding engine. It’s free, open‑source, and doesn’t require any additional plugins.
Conversion steps
- Open Media → Convert / Save, click Add to import your video.
- Choose Convert and select an audio profile (MP3, OGG, FLAC). Click the Wrench icon to fine‑tune bitrate or codec options.
- Set an output destination, then hit Start.
Pros
- No extra software needed; built‑in to VLC.
- Multiple audio formats available.
Cons
- No in‑app editing—if you need trimming or audio effects, use another tool.
Supported formats
OGG (Vorbis), MP3, FLAC.
3. Audacity (Windows, macOS, Linux)
Audacity is a professional‑grade audio editor that can import video files (after installing FFmpeg) and provide granular audio editing.
How to use Audacity
- Install FFmpeg plugin for your platform.
- File → Open, choose the video file; Audacity extracts the audio automatically.
- Make edits (cut, fade, noise removal) as needed, then File → Export → choose format (MP3, WAV, OGG, etc.) and save.
Advantages
- Full editing suite: equalization, compression, effects.
- Wide range of output formats.
- Batch processing support via scripting.
Drawbacks
- Steeper learning curve; new users may find the interface intimidating.
- Requires FFmpeg for video import.
Supported formats
MP3, WAV, OGG, FLAC, and more.
4. QuickTime Player (macOS)
QuickTime, bundled with macOS, offers a straightforward “Audio Only” export option that outputs in M4A.
Steps
- File → Open File, load your video.
- File → Export → Audio Only; name the file, choose location, and click Save.
Pros
- No extra downloads required on Mac.
- Simple, one‑click workflow.
Cons
- Only exports to M4A; no format selection.
- No editing or trimming before export.
Supported format
M4A (AAC).
5. Media Converter – Video to MP3 (iOS)
For iPhone users, Media Converter is a lightweight app that extracts audio directly from video files. It’s free and available on the App Store.
Procedure
- Open the app and tap Import to add a video.
- Select Extract Audio from the conversion menu.
- Choose your desired format (MP3, WAV, M4A, etc.) and start the conversion.
Benefits
- Works entirely on mobile—no PC needed.
- Supports common audio formats.
Limitations
- Limited editing capabilities compared to desktop software.
Supported formats
MP3, M4A, OGG, WAV, FLAC.
6. Video to MP3 Converter (Android)
This Android app turns any video into an audio file and even offers basic trimming to keep only the portion you need.
Steps
- Launch the app and tap Import to load your video.
- Trim the clip if desired.
- Set output format and quality, then tap Convert.
Pros
- Supports MP4, 3GP, WMV, and more.
- Custom bitrate options for quality control.
- Easy trimming before extraction.
Cons
- No advanced editing features.
Supported formats
MP3.
Conclusion
Converting video to audio is straightforward with the right tool. For quick, one‑off conversions, VLC or QuickTime are excellent. If you need deeper editing or batch processing, Audacity or Filmora provide robust features. Mobile users can rely on Media Converter or Video to MP3 Converter for on‑the‑go conversions.
FAQ
- How can I convert a video to an audio file for free?
Free options include VLC, Audacity, QuickTime, Filmora, and online converters. These tools let you extract audio into MP3, M4A, WAV, and more.
- Can I convert video to audio on my phone?
Yes. iOS users can use Media Converter; Android users can use Video to MP3 Converter.
- What audio formats can I convert my video to?
Most tools support MP3, M4A, WAV, OGG, FLAC, and sometimes FLAC or AAC. For example, Filmora → MP3, VLC → MP3/OGG/FLAC, Audacity → MP3/WAV/OGG, QuickTime → M4A.
- Can I convert multiple videos to audio at once?
Yes, Audacity and Media Converter support batch processing. Check each tool’s documentation for batch conversion steps.