# Convert WAV to MP3

WAV files from recorders, DAWs and voice apps are huge: about 10 MB per minute. As an MP3 the same recording is a fraction of that and plays everywhere.

_Source: https://sharelargefilesfree.com/tools/wav-to-mp3 · Updated 2026-09-29_

## How to use it

1. Choose one or more WAV files.
2. Pick the quality: 256 kbps for music, 128 kbps for speech.
3. Press Convert WAV to MP3.
4. Listen on the page and download the MP3s.

## How much smaller

CD-quality WAV (16-bit, 44.1 kHz, stereo) is 1,411 kbps, so one minute takes about 10.6 MB. At 256 kbps an MP3 is about 5.5 times smaller; at 128 kbps about 11 times smaller. 24-bit or 48 kHz recordings shrink even more.

| Length | WAV (CD quality) | MP3 256 kbps | MP3 128 kbps |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| 1 minute | 10.6 MB | 1.9 MB | 0.96 MB |
| 1 hour | 635 MB | 115 MB | 58 MB |

## Before you convert

Keep the WAV if you will still edit or master the recording: every MP3 encode removes a little detail, so edit first and convert last. For sending a mix for review, 256 or 320 kbps MP3 is standard. Need the untouched WAV files delivered instead? [Send them with a link](https://sharelargefilesfree.com/), free up to 20 GB.

## Encoded with LAME, on your device

The MP3s are made with LAME, the long-standing reference MP3 encoder, compiled to run in your browser. Your recordings are not uploaded, which matters for unreleased music and private voice notes.

## Frequently asked questions

### What bitrate should I use for WAV to MP3?

256 or 320 kbps for music, 128 kbps for speech. The page shows the estimated size before converting.

### Can I convert 24-bit WAV files?

Yes. 16, 24 and 32-bit WAV files work; MP3 itself has no bit depth.

### Can I convert many WAV files at once?

Yes. Add them all and download the MP3s as a ZIP.

### Are my recordings uploaded?

No. They are converted in your browser.