My Sample Files

Download high-quality sample files for your projects

OPUS vsWMA: Key Differences & Best Format for You

Compare the features of OPUS and WMA file formats to choose the best option for your needs.

Basic Information

OPUSWMA
CategoryThe general type of file (audio, image, etc.).
audioaudio
CompressionMethod used to reduce file size (Lossy, Lossless, Uncompressed).
LossyLossy
Relative SizeTypical file size compared to other formats.
SmallSmall
MIME TypesCommon MIME types associated with the format.
  • audio/opus
  • audio/x-ms-wma
Open FormatIs the format specification publicly available and free to use?
YesNo

Technical Details

OPUSWMA
Bit DepthNumber of bits used to represent color or audio sample amplitude (higher means more detail).
1616
ResolutionImage dimensions (pixels) or audio sample rate/video dimensions.
--
Max QualityHighest achievable quality level or characteristic.
Transparent quality at moderate bitratesVariable (WMA Standard, Pro, Lossless)
Encoding MethodSpecific algorithm or standard used for encoding the data.
Opus codecWindows Media Audio
Max File Size LimitAny known maximum file size limitations.
--

Features & Usage

OPUSWMA
CompatibilitySoftware, devices, or platforms that support the format.
  • Web Browsers (Chrome, Firefox, Edge)
  • Android
  • iOS
  • VoIP applications (Discord, WhatsApp)
  • Windows Media Player
  • Windows
  • Some portable devices
Use CasesCommon applications and scenarios where the format is used.
  • Real-time communication (VoIP)
  • Streaming audio
  • WebRTC
  • Voice messages
  • Windows Media ecosystem
  • Older portable players
  • DRM-protected audio
Metadata SupportCan the format store additional information (tags, descriptions, etc.)?
YesYes
Transparency SupportDoes the format support transparent backgrounds (for images)?
--
Editing FriendlyIs the format suitable for easy editing without significant quality loss?
NoNo
Encryption SupportDoes the format support password protection or encryption?
--

Pros & Cons

OPUSWMA
ProsAdvantages and strengths of the format.
  • Excellent quality across a wide range of bitrates
  • Very low latency
  • Ideal for real-time communication and streaming
  • Open-source and royalty-free
  • Good compression, potentially better than MP3 at low bitrates
  • Supports DRM
ConsDisadvantages and weaknesses of the format.
  • Newer format, less hardware support than MP3/AAC
  • Not as widely used for music files yet
  • Proprietary Microsoft format
  • Limited compatibility outside Windows ecosystem