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AAC vsWAV: Key Differences & Best Format for You

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

Basic Information

AACWAV
CategoryThe general type of file (audio, image, etc.).
audioaudio
CompressionMethod used to reduce file size (Lossy, Lossless, Uncompressed).
LossyUncompressed
Relative SizeTypical file size compared to other formats.
SmallLarge
MIME TypesCommon MIME types associated with the format.
  • audio/aac
  • audio/wav
  • audio/x-wav
Open FormatIs the format specification publicly available and free to use?
NoNo

Technical Details

AACWAV
Bit DepthNumber of bits used to represent color or audio sample amplitude (higher means more detail).
1632
ResolutionImage dimensions (pixels) or audio sample rate/video dimensions.
--
Max QualityHighest achievable quality level or characteristic.
Up to 96 kHz sample rateStudio quality (depends on source)
Encoding MethodSpecific algorithm or standard used for encoding the data.
Advanced Audio Coding (AAC)Pulse-Code Modulation (PCM)
Max File Size LimitAny known maximum file size limitations.
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Features & Usage

AACWAV
CompatibilitySoftware, devices, or platforms that support the format.
  • Apple devices
  • YouTube
  • iTunes
  • Spotify
  • Android
  • Windows
  • Web Browsers
  • Windows
  • macOS
  • Linux
  • Professional DAWs
  • Media Players
Use CasesCommon applications and scenarios where the format is used.
  • Music streaming
  • Podcasts
  • Mobile audio
  • Web audio
  • Professional audio editing
  • Mastering
  • Archiving
  • System sounds
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

AACWAV
ProsAdvantages and strengths of the format.
  • Efficient compression
  • Good quality at low bitrates
  • Widely supported, especially by Apple
  • Lossless audio quality
  • Standard for professional audio editing and mastering
  • Widely supported
ConsDisadvantages and weaknesses of the format.
  • Lossy compression (quality loss)
  • Can be computationally intensive to encode
  • Very large file sizes
  • Not suitable for streaming or portable devices