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AAC vsFLAC: Key Differences & Best Format for You

Compare the features of AAC and FLAC file formats to choose the best option for your needs.

Basic Information

AACFLAC
CategoryThe general type of file (audio, image, etc.).
audioaudio
CompressionMethod used to reduce file size (Lossy, Lossless, Uncompressed).
LossyLossless
Relative SizeTypical file size compared to other formats.
SmallMedium
MIME TypesCommon MIME types associated with the format.
  • audio/aac
  • audio/flac
Open FormatIs the format specification publicly available and free to use?
NoYes

Technical Details

AACFLAC
Bit DepthNumber of bits used to represent color or audio sample amplitude (higher means more detail).
1624
ResolutionImage dimensions (pixels) or audio sample rate/video dimensions.
--
Max QualityHighest achievable quality level or characteristic.
Up to 96 kHz sample rateLossless (matches source)
Encoding MethodSpecific algorithm or standard used for encoding the data.
Advanced Audio Coding (AAC)FLAC (Free Lossless Audio Codec)
Max File Size LimitAny known maximum file size limitations.
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Features & Usage

AACFLAC
CompatibilitySoftware, devices, or platforms that support the format.
  • Apple devices
  • YouTube
  • iTunes
  • Spotify
  • Android
  • Windows
  • Web Browsers
  • Windows
  • macOS
  • Linux
  • Android
  • Most modern audio players
  • Hi-Fi systems
Use CasesCommon applications and scenarios where the format is used.
  • Music streaming
  • Podcasts
  • Mobile audio
  • Web audio
  • High-fidelity music listening
  • Archiving audio
  • Lossless streaming
Metadata SupportCan the format store additional information (tags, descriptions, etc.)?
YesYes
Transparency SupportDoes the format support transparent backgrounds (for images)?
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Editing FriendlyIs the format suitable for easy editing without significant quality loss?
NoYes
Encryption SupportDoes the format support password protection or encryption?
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Pros & Cons

AACFLAC
ProsAdvantages and strengths of the format.
  • Efficient compression
  • Good quality at low bitrates
  • Widely supported, especially by Apple
  • Lossless audio quality
  • Smaller size than uncompressed formats
  • Open-source and royalty-free
ConsDisadvantages and weaknesses of the format.
  • Lossy compression (quality loss)
  • Can be computationally intensive to encode
  • Larger file size than lossy formats
  • Not supported by all older devices/players (e.g., older Apple devices)