How to Convert FLAC to MP3

Converting FLAC files is easier than you think

What to Know

  • Using Online Audio Converter, select Open Files > locate FLAC file > Choose > select file format > select quality level > Convert.
  • Using Audacity, File > Open > locate file > Open > File > Export > Export as MP3 > select quality and other settings > Save > OK.
  • Online Audio Converter is best suited for individual files while Audacity is better for multiple files.

This article explains two ways to convert FLAC to MP3. Instructions apply to all web browsers and Audacity 2.4.2.

How to Change FLAC to MP3 Using an Online FLAC Converter

There are many apps that convert FLAC to MP3 but one of the simplest methods is to use a website instead so you don't have to worry about installing anything. We recommend Online Audio Converter as a simple and free way of converting files. Here's what to do.

Online Audio Converter works in all web browsers and with all OSes, but it requires an internet connection. For an app-based solution, scroll down to read how to use Audacity.

  1. Go to https://online-audio-converter.com.

  2. Click Open Files.

    Online Audio Converter website with Open Files highlighted
  3. Find the FLAC file on your computer.

    Alternatively, you can upload a file via your Google Drive or Dropbox account, as well as by entering a URL.

  4. Click Choose or Open.

    Online Audio Converter with Open Files dialog highlighted
  5. Choose the file format you wish to convert to: MP3, while the file uploads to the site.

    Online Audio Converter with MP3 file format highlighted
  6. Choose the quality level for the MP3 file.

    The site defaults to Standard/128kbps quality which is good for most purposes, but you can adjust it to Best/320kbps if you prefer higher quality.

  7. Click Convert.

    Online Audio Converter website with Convert button highlighted

    You can also click Advanced Settings to adjust the bitrate or sample rate. It's also possible to click Edit Track Info to change the details about the track.

  8. Wait for the file to convert to MP3.

    Online Audio Converter website mid way through converting a file to MP3
  9. Click Download to download the file to your computer.

    Online Audio Converter website with Download prompt for completed converted file

    You can also save the file directly to Google Drive or Dropbox if you prefer.

How to Convert Your FLAC Files Using Audacity

Online Audio Converter is perfect for individual files and when you have a fast internet connection, but if you need to convert multiple files at once or your internet connection is unreliable, an app can be more convenient. Audacity is a great solution that's available for Windows, macOS, and Linux users. It can be a little confusing to use at first as it's a powerful audio editor tool so here's how to convert files with it.

Before you download and use Audacity, be sure to review its privacy policy to ensure you’re comfortable with its terms.

  1. Open Audacity.

  2. Click File > Open.

    Audacity app with File > Open highlighted
  3. Find the file you want to convert and click Open.

  4. Click File.

  5. Hover over Export.

  6. Click Export as MP3.

    Audacity app with Export as MP3 highlighted
  7. Choose the quality of the file and change any other settings you may desire, such as Bit Rate or the location of the exported MP3.

  8. Click Save.

    Audacity app with Save highlighted for Export Audio
  9. Click OK.

    Audacity app with Export to MP3 dialog highlighted with the option to edit Metadata Tags

    You can change any metadata connected to the track such as the artist's name or the track title here.

  10. Wait for the file to finish exporting. 

    Audacity app showing the export to MP3 process time bar
  11. You've successfully converted your file from FLAC to MP3.

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