How to Extract Audio from a Video and Save It as MP3
Sometimes you only need the sound of a video: a lecture to listen to on a walk, an interview for your notes, or the audio track of your own recording. Extracting the audio gives you a small MP3 file that plays almost anywhere.
This guide explains when extracting audio is appropriate, which quality settings to use, and a few simple ways to do it.
When is it appropriate to extract audio?
Audio is protected by copyright just like video. Music in particular is usually owned by artists and labels. Extract audio only when you have the right to do so.
- Recordings you made yourself, such as interviews, meetings, lectures and voice notes.
- Podcasts, talks or audio that the creator has clearly allowed you to save.
- Content released under an open licence, following its terms.
- Audio from your own videos, for example to publish as a podcast.
Do not extract, share or sell music or audio that you do not have permission to use. See our Copyright Policy for more.
Choose the right MP3 quality
MP3 quality is set by the bitrate, measured in kilobits per second (kbps). A higher bitrate keeps more detail but makes a larger file.
| Bitrate | Good for | About per minute |
|---|---|---|
| 128 kbps | Speech, lectures, podcasts | 1 MB |
| 192 kbps | General music listening | 1.4 MB |
| 320 kbps | Best MP3 quality for music | 2.4 MB |
The result can never be better than the source. If the video has poor sound, a high bitrate will not fix it. For a wider look at file types, read our guide to video and audio formats.
Three simple ways to get an MP3
1. Choose MP3 in our downloader
For public links that you are allowed to save, the Any Video Downloader offers an MP3 option next to the video formats. Paste the link, press Start, choose MP3 and download the file.
2. Use a free desktop player
If the video is already on your computer, a free player such as VLC can convert it. In VLC, open Media, choose Convert / Save, add your file, select an audio MP3 profile and start.
3. Use an editing app
Many video and audio editors let you export only the audio track. This is handy if you also want to trim silence, adjust the volume or cut a section.
Tips for better results
- Start from the highest quality source you have.
- Use 128 kbps for speech to keep files small, and 192 to 320 kbps for music.
- Trim long silences or intros before exporting, so the file is shorter.
- Give the file a clear name, such as the topic and the date, so you can find it later.
- Keep the original video if you may need the picture again.
Common problems
The MP3 is very quiet
The source may have been recorded at a low volume. Most audio editors have a normalise or amplify option that raises the level without distortion.
The file has no sound
The video may not contain an audio track, or the player may not support the format. Test the original file first.
The file is larger than expected
A long recording at a high bitrate takes space. Lower the bitrate, or trim the recording.
I cannot find the downloaded file
Check your Downloads folder. Our guide on where downloads are saved shows how on each device.
Frequently asked questions
Does extracting audio reduce quality?
MP3 is a lossy format, so a little detail is removed. At 192 kbps or higher the difference is small for most listeners.
What is the best bitrate for speech?
128 kbps is usually enough for lectures, interviews and podcasts, and it keeps the files small.
Can I extract audio from any video?
Only from videos you own or have permission to use. Music and other creative work is usually protected by copyright.
MP3 or WAV: which should I choose?
MP3 is smaller and works everywhere. WAV is uncompressed and much larger, so it is mainly useful for professional editing.
Will the MP3 play on my phone?
Yes. MP3 is supported by practically every phone, computer and media player.
Only save videos, audio and images that you own or have permission to use. Read our Copyright Policy for what is allowed, and see the DMCA page if you are a rights holder.