How to Convert MP4 to MP3 on Windows: A Comprehensive Guide

Converting an MP4 file to an MP3 is a common task, especially when you need to share or manage audio without the video part. This article will walk through several methods to help you accomplish this on a Windows operating system. Whether you prefer the power of a tool like VLC Media Player, the convenience of online converters, or the built-in features of Windows 10/11, we’ve got you covered.

Method 1: Using VLC Media Player

Step 1: Download and Install VLC

If you do not already have it installed, download and install VLC Media Player from the official website ().

Step 2: Open VLC and Launch Conversion

After installation, open VLC Media Player. From the menu, go to Media > Convert / Save. This will open the conversion wizard.

Step 3: Select Your MP4 File

Click on the Add button to locate and select your MP4 file from your computer.

Step 4: Choose Audio Profile

In the Convert window, choose Audio - MP3 from the dropdown under the Profile section. This will ensure the output is in the MP3 format.

Step 5: Set the Output Path

Click on Browse to choose a location and name for your output MP3 file. This will be the final destination of the converted file.

Step 6: Start the Conversion

Once everything is set, click Start. The conversion will begin, and the MP3 file will be saved in the specified location once the process is complete.

Method 2: Using Online Converters

For a quick and hassle-free approach, online converters can be a very useful tool. Here’s how to use them:

Step 1: Visit an Online Converter

Go to a trusted website like Online Audio Converter or Convertio.

Step 2: Upload Your MP4 File

Click on the upload button on the website to select your MP4 file from your computer.

Step 3: Choose Output Format

Select MP3 as the desired output format from the dropdown menu provided on the website.

Step 4: Convert and Download

Click the convert button, and wait for the process to finish. Once the conversion is done, you can download the MP3 file to your preferred location.

Method 3: Using Windows 10/11 Built-In Apps

While not as straightforward, Windows 10/11 has some hidden features that can be utilized to accomplish this task:

Step 1: Open the Photos App

Locate the MP4 file you want to convert and right-click it. Select Open with > Photos.

Step 2: Extract Audio

Unfortunately, the Photos app does not have a direct export feature for audio. Instead, you can use the Video Editor in the Photos app to create a simple video and then export the audio as an audio file. However, for more advanced audio editing, consider using a tool like Audacity, which uses the FFmpeg library for importing and exporting MP4 files as MP3.

Free App Alternatives

For those seeking additional tools, here are some free and shareware options that can help you with your needs:

VLC Media Player Format Factory Handbrake (mainly used for video conversion, but can be utilized for audio as well)

Conclusion

Choose the method that best suits your needs. VLC is a powerful tool for this purpose, offering flexibility and control. Online converters are perfect for quick and seamless conversions, especially when you don’t want to install additional software on your computer. And if you’re looking for a more integrated solution within your operating system, utilizing the built-in Photos app combined with an external audio editor can also get the job done.