AAC vs M4A: What’s the Difference Between These Audio Formats?

Both the Audio coding system(ACC) and M4A are coding systems used to store audio files. Most people confuse the two and think they are the same thing frequently. So, What is the main difference between AAC and M4A? The difference between AAC and M4A is that the former refers to a file extension format, whilst the latter is an encoding technique for audio files. So let's debate the AAC vs. M4A to understand more about it.


What is AAC?

AAC stands for the audio coding system. AAC was created as an upgrade to the MP3 standard. In 1997, it made its debut. The updated version offers great capacity for audio file compression while taking up the least amount of space. The sound quality is improved while maintaining the current MP3 bit rate. By deleting extra data from the file without necessarily affecting the audio quality, it functions as a lossy file format and produces richer audio. It is utilized by several systems, including Nintendo, the PlayStation 3, and iTunes. Due to the popularity and widespread usage of the forums, high-quality versions are required. It was created as a consequence of efforts to enhance existing audio coding techniques. 

Key features of AAC:

  • It has better compression efficiency than MP3. 
  • It maintains clear sound and smaller file sizes. 
  • It is supported by most modern devices like macos, android, and iOS.
  • It is ideal for streaming platforms and online content. 

What is M4A?

AAC uses the M4A file extension format, which is the representation of MPEG-4 audio. It makes the audio file smaller while maintaining sound quality by using the AAC lossy compression formats that can be stored using them. The files may occasionally need to be renamed in order to be accessed since some platforms might not accept the specified file extension format. The extension system is solely used for audio files. Video files don't have file extensions. 

Key Features of M4A:

  • It uses lossy compression to reduce file size.
  • It offers high sound quality with efficient compression. 
  • Compatible with most devices and players, especially apple products. 
  • Ideal for streaming, mobile devices, and online sharing. 

 Learn more about AIFF Vs Wav

AAC Vs M4A  | Difference between AAC and M4A

  • AAC is an audio coding scheme. M4A is just the file extension.
  • AAC is an encoding system. M4A is a file container.
  • AAC is part of both MPEG-2 and MPEG-4 specifications, while M4 A files are part of the MPEG-4 audio system.
  • AAC is coded. M4A is not a codec.
  • AAC is a lossy compression codec. M4A can be utilized with ALAC or another lossless or lossy compression codec.
  • Unprotected AAC files have the M4A extension, while the protected version has the M4P file extension.
  • AAC is a codec system that was developed as a novel improvement over MP3. M4A is not a codec but simply a file container. There can be other file containers used with AAC like, .acc, .mp4, .m4b, etc.

Similarities between AAC and M4A:
  • Both formats may be changed into MP3s.
  • They are both audio formats.
  • Both are commonly used together.
  • The same platforms, like tunes, are responsible for popularizing both. 
Thank you for reading this article. Still, if you have any questions or queries in your mind on the AAC Vs M4A then please ask us in the comment section below. 

Conclusion:

Which format is better, M4A or AAC?

select AAC if you require optimal compatibility and effective streaming. Select M4A if you 're in the apple ecosystem and appreciate lossless audio or metadata management. The decision is based on your device choices and use case. For the majority of uses, the distinction is usually negligible because AAC is essentially the audio technology and M4A is the file that saves it. 

Explore more information: