Whether you’re a content creator repurposing videos into podcasts, a marketer extracting audio for promotional soundbites, or just someone wanting the sound from a video clip, converting video to audio is a handy skill.
The good news? It’s easier than ever. With the right tools—either on your desktop or phone—you can turn almost any video into a high-quality audio file in just minutes.
In this guide, we’ll cover:
- Why convert video to audio?
- The best desktop tools (Mac & Windows)
- The best mobile apps (iOS & Android)
- Step-by-step instructions
- Tips for quality and formats
- FAQs about video-to-audio conversion
Let’s dive in.
Why Convert Video to Audio?
Before we jump into the tools, it helps to understand the value of converting video into audio:
- Podcasting: Repurpose YouTube videos or interviews as podcast episodes.
- Accessibility: Offer audio-only versions for users on the go.
- Content repurposing: Reuse webinar audio for blog voiceovers or social posts.
- Voiceover extraction: Grab audio narration for use in other projects.
- File compression: Audio files are significantly smaller than video, making them easier to share.
Part 1: Converting Video to Audio on a Desktop
1.1 Best Desktop Tools for Video to Audio Conversion
Here are some of the most popular options for Mac and Windows:
VLC Media Player (Free, Mac & Windows)
A powerful open-source media player that doubles as a file converter.
Audacity (Free, Mac & Windows)
Open-source audio software that lets you import video files (with the right plug-ins) and export audio.
Adobe Premiere Pro (Paid)
Professional-grade video editing software with built-in export tools for high-quality audio extraction.
FFmpeg (Free, Command Line)
A powerful tool for tech-savvy users that can batch convert files quickly and with full control.
Online Tools like CloudConvert, Kapwing, or VEED
Great for quick one-offs without installing software (though usually with file size/upload limits).
1.2 How to Convert Video to Audio on a Desktop (Step-by-Step)
Method A: Using VLC Media Player
- Download and install VLC from videolan.org.
- Open VLC and go to Media > Convert/Save.
- Click Add and select your video file.
- Click Convert/Save at the bottom.
- Under Profile, select Audio – MP3 (or WAV/OGG as needed).
- Choose a destination file and click Start.
- VLC will export the audio in the format you selected.
Best for: Quick, reliable conversions without needing extra software.
Method B: Using Audacity
Note: You’ll need to install the FFmpeg plug-in to import video files.
- Install Audacity and the FFmpeg Library (instructions here).
- Open Audacity, then drag and drop your video file in.
- Audacity will extract the audio track.
- Go to File > Export > Export as MP3 (or WAV).
- Choose your quality settings and click Save.
Best for: Creators who want to edit audio before exporting.
Method C: Using Online Tools (e.g. CloudConvert)
- Visit CloudConvert.com.
- Click Select File and upload your video.
- Choose MP3 or WAV under “Convert to.”
- Adjust settings (bitrate, channels, etc.) if needed.
- Click Convert, then download the result.
Warning: These tools require uploading your video—don’t use them for sensitive content.
Part 2: Converting Video to Audio on a Phone
On the go? No problem. You can convert video to audio directly from your iPhone or Android device.
2.1 Best Mobile Apps for Video to Audio Conversion
iPhone (iOS) Options
- Video to MP3 Converter – Intuitive and clean interface for fast exports.
- iMovie + Voice Memos – A creative workaround for free.
- GarageBand – For advanced users wanting to layer and tweak sound.
Android Options
- Video to MP3 Converter by InShot – Popular, free, with batch mode.
- Timbre – Allows trimming and format conversion.
- MP3 Video Converter – Quick and simple.
2.2 How to Convert Video to Audio on Mobile (Step-by-Step)
Method A: Using “Video to MP3 Converter” (Android)
- Download from the Google Play Store.
- Open the app and choose “Video to Audio.”
- Select the video from your gallery.
- Choose output format: MP3 or AAC.
- Tap Convert.
- File saves automatically in your audio library.
Best for: Social content creators who work on the move.
Method B: Using “Video to MP3 Converter” (iPhone)
- Download from the App Store.
- Open the app and allow access to your video library.
- Pick a video, choose MP3 or WAV, and press Convert.
- Save the audio or share it via AirDrop, Email, etc.
Method C: Using iMovie and Voice Memos (iPhone)
- Open iMovie, import the video.
- Trim or edit if needed.
- Play the video and record it using the Voice Memos app (on another device or using screen record workaround).
- Save the audio memo and share/export as needed.
A bit clunky—but useful if you want to avoid downloading third-party apps.
Audio Formats Explained: MP3 vs WAV vs AAC
When converting video to audio, you’ll often see these formats:
| Format | Best Use | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| MP3 | Streaming, sharing, podcasting | Small size, widely supported | Lossy compression |
| WAV | Editing, archiving | High quality, uncompressed | Large file size |
| AAC | Apple devices | Better quality than MP3 at same size | Not universally supported |
Pro Tip: Use WAV for editing and convert to MP3 when distributing.
Tips for High-Quality Audio Extraction
- Record in high video quality – the better the source, the better the audio.
- Avoid background noise – especially if you’re planning to repurpose the audio.
- Normalize volume – tools like Auphonic or Audacity can help.
- Trim silence or errors – even basic editing will make your content more engaging.
Common Use Cases for Video-to-Audio Conversion
Here’s how people commonly use this technique:
- Repurposing YouTube interviews as podcast episodes
- Extracting webinar soundbites for social media
- Turning educational videos into audio learning
- Publishing interviews as both video and audio for accessibility
- Creating voiceover narration from previously recorded clips
FAQs
Q: Will converting video to audio reduce quality?
A: Only if you choose a low-quality output format like 64kbps MP3. Choose 128–256kbps for standard use or WAV for editing.
Q: Can I extract audio from YouTube videos?
A: Yes, but make sure you have the rights. Use tools like 4K Video Downloader or download your own YouTube Studio videos.
Q: What if the audio is out of sync?
A: Use editing tools like Audacity or Premiere Pro to shift the track slightly. Online tools usually preserve sync unless the video is corrupted.
Final Thoughts
Converting video to audio is a simple, powerful way to repurpose content and reach more people. Whether you’re on a desktop with advanced tools or on your phone between meetings, the process is faster and more accessible than ever.
Here’s what to remember:
- Use VLC or Audacity on desktop for free and flexible options.
- Try Video to MP3 Converter or Timbre on mobile.
- Choose the right format for your needs—WAV for quality, MP3 for sharing.
- Don’t forget to edit and normalize your audio for the best listener experience.
With just a few clicks, you’ll have a crisp audio file ready to share with the world.
Want help turning your videos into polished podcast episodes or branded content?
Contact us to learn how we make repurposing easy, professional, and stress-free.