An apple-based file format, M4A (MPEG-4), and Free lossless audio codec(FLAC) are both used in audio format. The main difference between M4A and FLAC is that M4A uses lossy compression, whereas FLAC employs lossless compression.
In this article we'll guide you to compare M4A vs. FLAC in terms of sound quality, compression, File size, and compatibility, so you can decide which is best for your music needs.
What is M4A?
An apple based file format called M4A (MPEG-4) is encoded using the advanced audio coding system (AAC). The audio quality has been compressed without loss in these files. Although M4A is used on platforms other than apple devices, it was the first audio format available in the iTunes store. In terms of size and sound quality, this file format advances. On your iPhone device, you can quickly change the M4A file format to M4R for ringtones. Additionally DRM free, M4A allows for flexible file editing and transfer.
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.
What is FLAC?
The free lossless audio codec is referred to as FLAC. A standard for lossless digital audio compression is FLAC. The open-source software project that develops the FLAC toolkit goes by the same name. It is referred to as lossless compression because it reduces file size without losing any quality or original audio data, and it is very similar to MP3 files, which are easier to distinguish.
Key features of FLAC:
- Lossless compression is used.
- generates bigger files than M4A.
- well-liked by pros and audiophiles.
- The majority of contemporary music players and gadgets support it.
M4A Vs FLAC | Difference between M4A and FLAC
- M4A is a lossy audio format, and FLAC is a lossless audio format.
- The FLAC audio format is reputed to be more error resistant in comparison to M4A files.
- M4A lacks an open source. Its distribution does not come along with its original rights. On the other hand, FLAC has an open-source file format that comes with its source code; it can be easily accessed for any use.
- Due to the DRM-free nature of M4A files, users can easily edit and transfer them. FLAC is DRM-protected, which makes using it a little difficult. FLAC makes it simple to patent and encrypt your files.
- M4A on various audio players, and it also supports operating systems like MacOS, Windows, Linux, iOS, and android. However, FLAC being a free-source format, beat the M4A format for the multitude of compatible devices, players, and operating systems.