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ALAC vs FLAC: What's the Difference?

Kirk McElhearn

Published: November 19, 2020

Updated: November 1, 2024

6 min read

It’s time to put an end to the everlasting fight between the two biggest lossless formats out there!

Let’s face it, guys. High-resolution music is more accessible today than ever before. But what happens if you are new to this audio ocean? Should you choose FLAC or ALAC? — It’s time to find it out!

The History Behind FLAC vs ALAC Lossless Music

What is an FLAC File?

FLAC (Free Lossless Audio Codec) was initially released in 2001 and is today's most popular lossless audio codec. Launched as an open-source high-resolution music format, it is currently supported by the majority of audio devices on the market. FLAC files offer the same audio quality as the original source while providing better compression than uncompressed formats.

If you're ever in a situation where you need to convert FLAC files to another format for better compatibility, you can easily convert FLAC to MP3 using WALTR PRO.

What is an ALAC File?

ALAC stands for Apple Lossless Audio Codec. ALAC files are designed to provide the original audio data with bit-for-bit accuracy while reducing the file size compared to uncompressed audio formats like WAV. Many users have trouble transferring music from their Apple devices to their computers, but it is still a very favorable audio format.

Apple Inc. developed ALAC files in 2004 for lossless data compression of digital music. Originally, it was proprietary, but seven years later, in 2011, Apple made it open source since hackers were already reverse engineering it. Naturally, ALAC files are primarily used in Apple devices and software, including iTunes and iOS devices.

ALAC vs. FLAC: Comparison Table

	ALAC	FLAC
Format	Open source from 2011	Open source from 2001
Sound Quality	High (same to FLAC)	High (same to ALAC)
Device Support	Mostly Apple device, limited support for other devices.	Supported by most device, with exception for Apple products.
Compression Rate	Slightly higher than FLAC	Slightly lesser than ALAC
Meta data support	Full	Full

How much do they compress?

FLAC and ALAC compress equally well. They can usually squeeze up to 40%—60% of the original music file size, with ALAC having slightly better results overall. Keep in mind that this is lossless compression, which means that the quality is preserved, resulting in crystal-clear sound and no missing details.

This can be incredibly useful when transferring files across networks with restricted bandwidth or when you have limited storage space.

If you need to transfer your music between devices, check out how can you transfer music from PC to iPhone using WALTR PRO—it simplifies the process without needing iTunes.

Which one plays better?

Don’t expect me to write that one is better in highs while the other wins in lows. It’s not the case. If recorded at the same sampling rate, there is no difference in sound quality between FLACs and ALACs. They are both great.

Both have a good 'Bit' support

ALAC and FLAC support several bit levels, including 16-bit and 24-bit. The source content and the capability of your playback device will determine which bit depth you should use. Greater bit depths can catch tiny variances in the audio and offer a wider dynamic range.

Same with the Sampling Rate

Yet again, both ALAC and FLAC support a wide range of sampling rates, including popular rates like 44.1 kHz (CD quality), 48 kHz, and 96 kHz and higher. The sample rate you choose will depend on your device's capabilities and the particular requirements of your audio material. Higher sampling rates can capture more details and provide a more precise recreation of the source audio.

If you need to convert FLAC to M4A for better compatibility on Apple devices, WALTR PRO makes it a breeze to ensure flawless playback.

Should you stick with FLAC or ALAC?

Ultimately, the choice comes down to your preferences and the audio devices you own.

If you're deeply embedded in the Apple ecosystem, go with ALAC to ensure compatibility across all your devices, such as iPhones, iPads, and Macs. You'll also find it easier to add music to iPhone with WALTR PRO.
If you have a wide range of non-Apple devices, FLAC is a more versatile option, as it is the most widely supported lossless format. It will work on most audio players and devices without any hassle.

FAQ

What is the difference between FLAC and ALAC?

FLAC and ALAC are both lossless audio formats that provide high-quality sound without compromising the original data. The main difference lies in device compatibility – FLAC is supported by most devices, while ALAC is mainly used with Apple devices. Both offer similar sound quality and compression rates.

Which format has better sound quality, FLAC or ALAC?

There is no difference in sound quality between FLAC and ALAC when recorded at the same sampling rate. Both formats provide the same high-quality, lossless audio experience, maintaining the original audio data without any loss in quality.

Does FLAC compress better than ALAC?

FLAC and ALAC both offer excellent compression, reducing file sizes by about 40% to 60% without losing audio quality. ALAC may have a slightly better compression rate, but the difference is minimal. Both formats preserve the original sound perfectly.

Which format is better for Apple devices, FLAC or ALAC?

ALAC is better suited for Apple devices since it is natively supported by the Apple ecosystem, including iPhones, iPads, and iTunes. If you primarily use Apple products, ALAC is the recommended format for seamless playback and compatibility.

Should I choose FLAC or ALAC for non-Apple devices?

FLAC is the better choice for non-Apple devices. It is widely supported by various music players, audio devices, and platforms outside the Apple ecosystem, making it the most versatile lossless audio format.