How to Convert WAV to MP3 (Free Methods for All Platforms)

WAV files are large (10 MB per minute) and impractical for sharing or storing large audio collections. Converting to MP3 reduces size by ~90% with minimal quality impact at high bitrates.

Method 1: Audacity (Free, All Platforms)

1. Download Audacity and the FFmpeg library (both free)
2. Open Audacity → File → Import → Audio → select your WAV
3. File → Export → Export as MP3
4. In the dialog, set Quality to 320 kbps
5. Add metadata tags if desired → click Save

Method 2: iTunes / Apple Music (Mac and Windows)

1. Open iTunes (Windows) or Music (macOS)
2. Edit → Preferences → Import Settings → Import Using: MP3 Encoder, Setting: 320 kbps
3. Drag the WAV file into your iTunes library
4. Right-click the WAV file → Create MP3 Version
5. The MP3 appears alongside the WAV in your library

Method 3: VLC (Free, All Platforms)

1. Open VLC → Media → Convert/Save
2. Add your WAV file → click Convert/Save
3. Set Profile: Audio — MP3
4. Click the wrench icon → set bitrate to 320 kbps
5. Set output destination → click Start

Method 4: Online Converter

Upload your WAV to an online audio converter (search "WAV to MP3 online"). These work without installing software. Note: WAV files can be large; make sure the service accepts your file size.

Bitrate Recommendations

For WAV → MP3 conversion, these are the most useful bitrates:

• 320 kbps: Best quality (~10 MB per song) — indistinguishable from WAV
• 192 kbps: Good quality (~6 MB per song) — suitable for most uses
• 128 kbps: Acceptable (~4 MB per song) — noticeable quality loss on headphones

Keep the original WAV for any future editing or re-encoding.