How to Convert MP4 to MP3 on Mac in Three Ways

There’s a common misconception that Macbooks come with limitations, specifically when converting media from one format to another. However, this isn’t the case. In fact, there are numerous ways to convert media formats like MP4 to MP3 on Mac devices.

In this article, you will learn three easy ways to convert MP4 to MP3 on a Macbook without compromising on quality. You will also discover some tips for ensuring your final media doesn’t lose its originality and sound quality. Let’s get into it!

Part 1. Convert MP4 to MP3 with a Dedicated Video Editor

One of the best ways to convert MP4 to MP3 on Mac is by using a dedicated video editor with multiple output format options. Not only is this method easy, but it’s also quick and effective. Basically, the editor works by processing the MP4 media once it's uploaded and exporting it in your preferred format.

Wondershare Filmora is an all-in-one video editor that allows you to convert MP3 to MP4 on Mac and MP4 to MP3. In fact, it offers various media formats, so no matter your needs, there’s a solution for you. Filmora can be used on Mac devices to easily convert media from one form to another while retaining its sound quality and requiring little effort. Here is how to use this MP4-to-MP3 converter on Mac:

• Step 1: After downloading the Mac Filmora version on your device, launch it and click on New Project.

• Step 2: Click Import to import your media into the MP4 to MP3 converter on Mac. The MP4 media is essentially the video you want to convert.

• Step 3: From the right-hand panel, go to Audio to adjust media properties like duration, volume, and sound balance.

• Step 4: Click on Export and set the preferred format to MP3.

• Step 5: Tap Export at the bottom of the menu.

Part 2. Converting MP4 to MP3 with Online Converters

Online converters are ideal for converting MP4 to MP3 because they offer many capabilities of downloadable video editors without needing to be downloaded. One of the best online converters available is Zamzar, and in this section, you will discover the steps to using this platform. So, without further ado, here is how to convert MP4 to MP3 on Mac using Zamzar:

• Step 1: Go to the official website and import your files. You can either drag and drop the MP4 files or click on Choose Files.

• Step 2: Next, select the format you want to convert the media to. In this case, set it to MP3.

• Step 3: Agree to the platform’s terms and tap Convert Now

Limitations of using online converters

Though it has its benefits, converting MP4 to MP3 with online converters like Zamzar has limitations as well. Some of them include the following:

• There are high chances of errors in processing the file, especially with internet fluctuations.
• The quality of the final media might not be as high as a video converted with a dedicated video editor.
• You can’t edit the duration or properties of the media when using online converters like Zamzar.
• There is a chance of malware attacks, especially when using unprotected online converters.

Part 3. Converting MP4 to MP3 with Default Apps on Mac

Aside from dedicated video editors and online converters, you can also convert MP4 to MP3 files with default iOS software applications like iTunes and iMovie. These applications come built-in with the MacOS, so you don’t have to worry about malware or a virus attack. In this section, you will learn how to convert MP4 to MP3 with both iTunes and iMovie. Let’s begin:

How to Convert MP4 to MP3 with iTunes

Here are the steps to change MP4 to MP3 on Mac with the iTunes software application:

• Step 1: Launch the latest version of iTunes.
• Step 2: Click Edit from the top menu and select Preferences. Then, from the General tab, tap Import Settings
• Step 3: Set the Import Usingoption to MP3 Encoder. Then, set the quality according to your preference.
• Step 4: Next, ensure your MP4 files are added to your iTunes list. Then, select your desired MP4 file again and go to File at the top of your screen.
• Step 5: From the dropdown menu, click Convert. Tap Create MP3 Version. Once the app processes the MP3 version of your media, it will be saved to your iTunes list.

How to Convert MP4 to MP3 with iMovie

iMovie works by extracting the audio from your MP4 videos and saving it as an MP3 file. The following are the steps to change MP4 to MP3 on Mac with iMovie:

• Step 1: Launch the iMovie app and open the video in the iMovie library.
• Step 2: With the video selected, click Share at the top right corner of your screen.
• Step 3: Select Export File. This allows you to see the video properties and edit them to your preference.
• Step 4: Change the format to Audio Only.
• Step 5: set the file format to MP3.
• Step 6: Now, you can click Next and Save to export it to your device.

Limitations of using Default Software Applications

Using default software applications to convert MP4 to MP3 on Mac has its perks. However, it can come with limitations as well. Some of these include the following:

• Navigating the platforms can be challenging for beginners due to the steep learning curve when converting MP4 to MP3.
• Depending on how you import the media into the application, the audio quality of the MP3 file could decline.
• These default applications lack some of the features that dedicated video editors offer, such as in-app audio property editing.

Part 4. Key Tips for Converting MP4 to MP3 on Mac

Converting MP4 to MP3 on Mac is easy to do. And with the right guidance, you can create high-quality MP3 files from MP4 media. With that in mind, here are some tips you should note when turning MP4 to MP3 files on Mac:

• Explore your options: Before choosing a method to convert MP4 to MP3, you must have a good idea of the advantages and limitations of various methods. This allows you to compare them and choose the one that best suits your needs.

• Copyright: Always take note of the copyright attached to some media files, specifically if they aren’t directly recorded. For example, if you're extracting audio from a video with music in the background, there might be a copyright attached to it. Noting this helps you avoid copyright infringement.

• Use dedicated video editors: Dedicated converters are one of the best ways to retain audio quality when converting media files. As such, you should give them priority when choosing a method to convert your MP4 files to MP3. Plus, they allow you to edit specific audio qualities like duration and volume, giving you more flexibility and control over your edits.

Conclusion

Whether you're converting MP3 to MP4 or vice versa, choosing the best method can be daunting. But you don’t have to worry. By identifying your needs and trying out various methods to change MP4 to MP3 on Mac, you can filter through the options and find the best fit.

If you're searching for a great video editor to convert your MP4 to MP3, Filmora is the perfect fit. It offers extensive features for editing your audio even before you export it. Download the latest version from our official website, and let us show you how easy it is.