MP3 vs WAV
Pick the right format for each job.
PortabilityEditingArchiving
MP3 vs. WAV basics
MP3 is a compressed format great for portability. Choose higher bitrates (e.g., 256–320 kbps) when possible.
WAV is uncompressed/lossless and preserves full quality, but files are larger—useful for editing or archiving.
Quality & metadata tips
- Prefer official downloads when available.
- Keep ID3 tags accurate (title, artist, year, artwork).
- Respect required attribution for Creative Commons tracks.
- Avoid upscaling bitrates—it won’t improve quality.
Recommendations
For casual listening: MP3 256–320 kbps. For editing: WAV 48 kHz/24‑bit. Keep an uncompressed master when possible.