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AIFF vsFLAC: Key Differences & Best Format for You

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

Basic Information

	AIFF	FLAC
CategoryThe general type of file (audio, image, etc.).	audio	audio
CompressionMethod used to reduce file size (Lossy, Lossless, Uncompressed).	Uncompressed	Lossless
Relative SizeTypical file size compared to other formats.	Large	Medium
MIME TypesCommon MIME types associated with the format.	audio/x-aiff audio/aiff	audio/flac
Open FormatIs the format specification publicly available and free to use?	No	Yes

Technical Details

	AIFF	FLAC
Bit DepthNumber of bits used to represent color or audio sample amplitude (higher means more detail).	32	24
ResolutionImage dimensions (pixels) or audio sample rate/video dimensions.	-	-
Max QualityHighest achievable quality level or characteristic.	Studio quality (depends on source)	Lossless (matches source)
Encoding MethodSpecific algorithm or standard used for encoding the data.	Pulse-Code Modulation (PCM)	FLAC (Free Lossless Audio Codec)
Max File Size LimitAny known maximum file size limitations.	-	-

Features & Usage

	AIFF	FLAC
CompatibilitySoftware, devices, or platforms that support the format.	macOS Windows Professional DAWs (Logic Pro, Pro Tools)	Windows macOS Linux Android Most modern audio players Hi-Fi systems
Use CasesCommon applications and scenarios where the format is used.	Professional audio recording Mastering Archiving	High-fidelity music listening Archiving audio Lossless streaming
Metadata SupportCan the format store additional information (tags, descriptions, etc.)?	Yes	Yes
Transparency SupportDoes the format support transparent backgrounds (for images)?	-	-
Editing FriendlyIs the format suitable for easy editing without significant quality loss?	Yes	Yes
Encryption SupportDoes the format support password protection or encryption?	-	-

Pros & Cons

	AIFF	FLAC
ProsAdvantages and strengths of the format.	Lossless audio quality High fidelity Standard for professional audio recording	Lossless audio quality Smaller size than uncompressed formats Open-source and royalty-free
ConsDisadvantages and weaknesses of the format.	Very large file sizes Not suitable for streaming or web use	Larger file size than lossy formats Not supported by all older devices/players (e.g., older Apple devices)