An interesting thing to note when converting a YouTube video to MP3 format is that the downloaded MP3s have different file sizes and speeds. In addition, some of these MP3s will be in different formats and have different levels of audio quality. At first, it may seem confusing to know why converting the same video to multiple separate files would result in different-sized files, if a larger file always gives you better sound, and what format you should choose.
In this guide, we will understand YouTube to MP3 file size, quality, and format options. At the end of this article, you will know what you should be looking for and what will suit your needs best.
Understanding File Size
The file size of your MP3 is the amount of storage space it occupies on your device. Typically stored in Megabytes (MB), somewhere between 3 and 8 MB for short songs and around 20MB for longer podcasts.
One of the biggest contributors to file size is the amount of audio data per second, which means Bitrate. The higher the Bitrate, the more audio data there is in a single second, thus creating a larger file. For example, an MP3 at 320 kbps will have a much larger file size than the same MP3 at 128 kbps.
Longer durations of video result in larger amounts of data. When taking a two-hour class lecture and converting to audio, the file size will be significantly larger than a 3 minute piece of music.
What Audio Quality Really Means
Audio quality can be defined as how clearly and richly your sound will sound when you are playing it. High-quality audio retains more of the original sound information. Therefore, vocals sound fuller, instruments have a balance, and background details can be heard more clearly.
Lower-quality files eliminate data to free up storage space. Since many high-quality speakers and headphones will expose the deficiencies of low-quality source material, you’ll notice more differences in superior headphones and speakers than you will through your phone’s speakers.
Bitrate is a major factor in determining playback quality. Most common MP3 bitrates are:
128 kbps – Smaller size, basic quality
192 kbps – Balanced size and sound
320 kbps – Larger size, higher quality
If you care about sound quality, choose a higher bitrate. If storage is more important than sound, then a lower bitrate should work fine.
Format Choices Explained
MP3 is the most widely used file format on all types of media players and has an ideal combination of small file size and reasonable audio quality. Additionally, many other file formats can be converted by some converters, such as AAC and WAV.
As a result, WAV files tend to be larger because they don’t get compressed as much as other audio formats. Although WAVs have a great sound, they occupy greater amounts of memory than compressed formats like MP3. With AAC files being compressed as well, they occasionally produce somewhat superior audio quality when compared at matching bitrates.
For the majority of users, MP3 is the easiest and safest format option. MP3s will work perfectly on most devices, including mobile phones, tablets, personal computers, and mp3 players.
Why Different Converters Give Different Results
Many YouTube to mp3 conversion tools do not have the same file size or quality. Certain tools emphasize using more compression to give smaller sized mp3s, while others are focused on producing an mp3 of higher quality by keeping more data.
Some converters will use a default bitrate that can’t be changed. When this occurs, the files generated with this setting will be smaller because of sound quality loss. In contrast, other converters give the user the ability to select different bitrates, thereby providing more flexibility in producing the final output.
Two different MP3s can come from the same video file and sound different because of the conversion tool used.
How Flvto Handles Size and Quality
Flvto has established a reputation for ease of use and speed. It generally produces “Standard” MP3 format audio outputs that are compatible with most music players; therefore, no technical settings are required by the user.
When it comes to daily listening, the balance of file size to audio quality that Flvto provides works across all mp3’s produced. They are usually clear enough for music, spoken word, and lectures, all while maintaining a manageable file size.
Conclusion
There is no “best” solution for selecting between the size of a file, its quality, or its format. The choice depends upon your needs and priorities. If you want the smallest files possible that will download quickly and save space on your device, lower bit rate MP3s should work for you. If you prefer better sound quality with greater dynamic range, use a higher bit rate file.
Flvto provides an easy-to-use solution for converting video files into MP3 files. Flvto is a fast converter that produces dependable results with every conversion you make. If you want a quick and simple way to convert videos into MP3 files, Flvto could be a good choice. However, if you require more control over formatting and quality of your converted files, you may wish to consider a more sophisticated converter. Whatever option you choose will result in the best experience based on how and when you listen.
