Step-by-step instructions
- 1
Convert with iTunes/Music app (simplest method)
Open iTunes or Music → Preferences → Files → Import Settings → choose MP3 Encoder → click OK. Drag your MP4 file into the Music library → right-click the track → Create MP3 Version. A new MP3 file appears. Right-click → Show in Finder to locate it.
Go to converter - 2
Use FFmpeg (best quality and control)
Install FFmpeg via Homebrew: brew install ffmpeg. Then: ffmpeg -i input.mp4 -vn -c:a libmp3lame -b:a 320k output.mp3. The -vn flag removes video. For variable bitrate: ffmpeg -i input.mp4 -vn -c:a libmp3lame -q:a 2 output.mp3.
- 3
Use QuickTime for AAC audio extraction
Open the MP4 in QuickTime Player → File → Export As → Audio Only → Save. This exports .m4a (AAC). If you need specifically MP3, use iTunes or FFmpeg instead.
- 4
Batch convert MP4 files to MP3
for f in *.mp4; do ffmpeg -i "$f" -vn -c:a libmp3lame -b:a 192k "${f%.mp4}.mp3"; done. Run in Terminal from the folder containing your MP4 files.
Why convert MP4 to MP3?
MP3 is the universal audio format — plays on every device, car stereo, DJ software, and streaming platform. Extracting MP3 from MP4 gives you the audio track in a format that works everywhere.
Your files never leave your device
FormatDrop runs the conversion engine entirely inside your browser using WebAssembly. No file upload. No server. Nothing stored. You can verify this by opening DevTools → Network tab and watching: zero upload requests.
Frequently asked questions
Does macOS have a built-in MP4 to MP3 converter?
What MP3 bitrate should I use for music from MP4?
No account. No upload. Works in any browser.