How to use the ALAC converter
- Choose a file. Drop an ALAC file to convert it to something else, or any other audio file to convert it to ALAC.
- Check "Convert to". The converter picks MP3 for ALAC files and ALAC for everything else; change it if you need something different.
- Adjust quality if you want a smaller or higher-quality file.
- Click Convert and download the result.
What is an ALAC file?
ALAC is Apple's lossless codec, the Apple equivalent of FLAC. It is saved in .m4a files and is the format Apple Music uses for lossless streaming. Open-sourced in 2011.
ALAC is mainly used for lossless music in iTunes, Apple Music and on iPhone. It plays on iPhone, iPad, Mac, iTunes and VLC.
ALAC at a glance
| Full name | Apple Lossless Audio Codec |
|---|---|
| Type | Audio |
| Created by | Apple, 2004 |
| Compression | Lossless |
| Codec | ALAC |
| Can be created here | Yes |
Pros and cons of ALAC
Good
- Lossless quality
- Native on every Apple device
Not so good
- Large files compared with AAC or MP3
Common ALAC problems and fixes
Lossless music will not sync to an iPhone
Convert FLAC to ALAC; it stays lossless.
Popular ALAC conversions
Frequently asked questions
How do I open an ALAC file?
ALAC files play on iPhone, iPad, Mac, iTunes and VLC. If yours will not open, convert it to MP3 on this page; that format plays on any device.
How do I convert a file to ALAC?
Drop any audio file on this page. "Convert to" is set to ALAC automatically for files that are not ALAC already.
Do I have to pay or sign up to use the ALAC converter?
No. There is no account, no payment and no watermark. The only limit is 1 GB per file, set by what browsers can handle.
Are my files safe?
Yes. Files are converted locally in your browser and are never uploaded. When you close the page, nothing is left behind.
Is ALAC lossless?
No, ALAC is lossless, so it keeps the full original quality.