Best Free M4A Converters

Converting M4A files to other formats (or vice versa) is a common need. Here are the best free tools available, tested and reviewed for 2025.

Online Converters

1. m4a.in - Our Top Pick

Best for: Quick, high-quality conversions without software installation

Features:

• Completely free, no registration required
• Fast conversion with WebAssembly technology
• Supports M4A to MP3, WAV, FLAC conversions
• Secure processing with automatic file deletion
• No software download required

Pros:

• Works in any web browser
• Fast processing with modern technology
• Privacy-focused (files deleted after conversion)
• Clean, ad-free interface

How to Use:

1. Visit m4a.in
2. Upload your M4A file
3. Select output format
4. Download converted file

2. VLC Media Player

Best for: Users who already have VLC installed

Features:

• Convert between many audio formats
• Batch conversion support
• No additional software needed
• Cross-platform compatibility

How to Convert:

1. Open VLC
2. Media → Convert/Save
3. Add your M4A file
4. Choose output format
5. Start conversion

Pros:

• Free and open-source
• No ads or limitations
• Multi-platform support
• Additional media features

Desktop Software

3. Freemake Audio Converter

Best for: Windows users wanting a dedicated converter

Features:

• Supports 50+ audio formats
• Batch conversion
• Audio editing features
• Direct import from CDs

Pros:

• User-friendly interface
• Fast conversion speeds
• Additional audio editing tools
• Free for personal use

Cons:

• Windows only
• Installer includes optional adware
• Watermark on free version

4. Audacity

Best for: Users who need audio editing + conversion

Features:

• Full audio editing suite
• Support for multiple formats (with FFmpeg)
• Advanced audio processing
• Plugin support

How to Convert:

1. Install Audacity and FFmpeg
2. File → Import → Audio
3. File → Export → Choose format
4. Adjust export settings

Pros:

• Professional editing features
• Open-source and free
• Cross-platform
• Extensive plugin ecosystem

Cons:

• Requires FFmpeg for M4A support
• Steeper learning curve
• Overkill for simple conversions

Mobile Apps

5. The Audio Converter (iOS)

Best for: iPhone/iPad users

Features:

• Convert audio files on device
• Import from cloud storage
• Share converted files
• Multiple output formats

Pros:

• Works offline
• Cloud storage integration
• Simple interface
• Regular updates

Cons:

• Limited free version
• iOS only
• In-app purchases required

How to Choose

For Occasional Users

• m4a.in: Quick, no-installation conversions
• CloudConvert: Multiple format needs

For Regular Users

• VLC: If already installed
• MediaHuman: Clean, dedicated converter

For Professionals

• Audacity: Full editing capabilities

Best Practices

Before Converting

1. Backup original files
2. Check quality requirements
3. Verify format compatibility
4. Consider file size needs

During Conversion

1. Use appropriate bit rates
2. Maintain sample rates when possible
3. Test converted files
4. Keep conversion logs

Conclusion

The best M4A converter depends on your specific needs:

• For most users: m4a.in offers the best balance of quality, speed, and simplicity
• For power users: Desktop software like VLC or Audacity provides more control
• For mobile users: Dedicated apps handle on-device conversion needs

Choose the tool that best fits your workflow and requirements. With these options, you're well-equipped to handle any M4A conversion task!