If you spend a lot of time listening to audiobooks, you probably rely on Audible. Many hours can pass during commutes, workouts, or quiet evenings while building a large audiobook library.
Audible works well on phones, tablets, and computers, but not every device supports it. MP3 players, car USB systems, and other simple devices often cannot open Audible files. That is why many people wonder if Audible books can be downloaded as MP3.
The answer involves Digital Rights Management. Audible audiobooks are saved in AA or AAX formats with DRM protection, which keeps them tied to authorized apps and devices.
The good news is that converters such as ViWizard Audible Audiobook Converter, OpenAudible, and Libation can remove DRM and convert Audible books to MP3. After conversion, the audiobooks can play on almost any device without the Audible app.
Convert any protected Audible audiobook to lossless audio, MP3, FLAC, M4A, M4B, WAV, and AIFF formats with full ID3 tags.
Method 1: Convert Audible Books to MP3 with an Audible Converter (Fastest & Best Method)
Convert Audible Audiobooks to MP3 with ViWizard Audible Converter
Platforms: Windows, macOS
Input formats: AA, AAX
Output formats: MP3, M4A, M4B, WAV, FLAC
Conversion method: Convert Audible files directly
Conversion speed: Up to 100× faster than real-time
Core functions: DRM removal, batch conversion, chapter splitting
Pricing: Free trial; paid license required
Popular features: Keeps chapters and audiobook details after conversion
One of the fastest ways to convert Audible books to MP3 is with a dedicated converter like ViWizard Audible Converter. This desktop software for Windows and Mac can convert Audible audiobooks into MP3 and other formats such as M4A, M4B, WAV, AIFF, and FLAC.
After installing the program, you sign in to your Audible account to access your library. You can then select any audiobook and download it as an MP3. The software removes Digital Rights Management automatically while keeping chapters, metadata, and cover art. ViWizard can run at up to 100x speed, supports lossless conversion, and can split files, making it efficient for both single titles and large libraries.
Key Features of ViWizard Audible Audiobook Converter
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- Convert Audible audiobook to unprotected audio formats like MP3
- Split Audible book into several smaller segments by chapter or by time
- Support playing Audible audiobooks on any device or media player
- Handle the conversion of Audible audiobooks up to 100× faster speed
Step 1Launch ViWizard and Sign in to Audible
Make sure you've downloaded and updated ViWizard Audible Converter to the latest version. Open the software on your computer, and it will automatically open the Audible web player within the converter. Log in to your Audible account to access your purchased audiobooks and start browsing the library.
Step 2Set the Output Format and Preferences
Click the three-line menu icon in the top-right corner and go to Preferences. In the settings window, choose your preferred output format such as MP3, M4A, M4B, WAV, FLAC, AIFF, or Lossless. You can also adjust the sample rate, bitrate, channels, and set the output folder and file naming format. Click OK to save the changes.
Step 3Add Audible Audiobooks to the Converter
Use the built-in Audible web player to search for titles or browse your library. Click the Plus icon at the bottom-right corner. ViWizard will fetch your audiobooks on the current page and pop up a window where you can select a specific title or your entire Audible library for download. When selected, click the Add to List button to confirm.
Step 4Convert and Download Your Audible Books
Once you've added your audiobooks, click the Convert button at the bottom right. ViWizard will begin converting the selected titles based on your output settings and save them to the designated folder.
- Pros
- Easy Audible AA/AAX to MP3 conversion
- Fast batch conversion for many audiobooks
- Keeps chapters and audiobook details
- Beginner-friendly interface
- Cons
- Full version requires payment
- Desktop software installation required
Method 2: Convert Audible AA/AAX to MP3 with Online Tools (No Software Required)
Online tools provide another way to convert Audible audiobooks to MP3. Instead of installing software, you upload the AA or AAX audiobook file to a website. The file is processed on the server, and after a short wait the converted MP3 becomes available to download.
This is convenient for smaller audiobooks or one time conversions, but uploading large files may take time, and some sites limit file size, format, or the number of conversions.
It is also worth noting that not all online converters are reliable, so results may vary. For a more stable approach, dedicated software like ViWizard Audible Audiobook Converter is recommended, although it requires installation to integrate with an Audible library.
Convert Audible AAX Audiobooks to MP3 with AConvert Audio Converter
Platforms: Web browser (Windows, Mac, Linux, mobile)
Input formats: AAX and many audio formats
Output formats: MP3, WAV, AAC, FLAC
Conversion method: Upload and convert files online
Pricing: Free
Core functions: Basic audio format conversion
Popular features: No installation needed, works directly in a browser
Open your web browser and go to the AConvert Audio Converter website.
Click Choose Files and select the Audible AAX audiobook from your computer.
Open the Target Format dropdown menu.
Select MP3 as the output format.
(Optional) Adjust Audio bitrate or Sample rate if needed.
Click the Convert Now! button to start the conversion.
Wait for the conversion to complete.
In the Conversion Results section, locate the converted MP3 file.
Click the Download icon or right‑click the file and select Save link as… to save the MP3 to your computer.
- Pros
- Easy web-based converter
- No installation required
- Works in any browser
- Simple upload and convert process
- Cons
- Large audiobook files may not upload
- Slow for long audiobooks
- Often cannot handle DRM-protected files
Method 3: Convert Audible AA/AAX to MP3 with Open Source Software (Free Method)
Open source tools offer another way to convert Audible audiobooks. Some connect to your Audible account, while others work with downloaded AA or AAX files. These programs decode the files, remove DRM, and convert them to MP3, often keeping chapters, cover art, and metadata intact so the audiobook remains organized after conversion.
Because they are open source, setup can take more time than dedicated software like ViWizard Audible Audiobook Converter. Tutorials or instructions may need to be followed carefully. Once configured, these tools can be powerful for converting and managing a large Audible library.
Convert Your Audible Library to MP3 with Libation
Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux
Input formats: Audible library downloads
Output formats: MP3, M4B
Conversion method: Download and convert from Audible library
Pricing: Free and open-source
Core functions: Audible library download and conversion
Libation is a free, open-source tool that can convert Audible books to MP3 or M4B and help you manage your Audible library. Libation removes the DRM (Digital Rights Management) protections from Audible so you can listen to the converted MP3 Audible files on any device or media player you like.
Besides converting, Libation also preserves the metadata (such as title, author, album art, etc.), downloads the accompanying PDFs, exports your Audible library to XLSX, and splits the audiobook into chapters.
Visit the Libation GitHub Release page and download it on your device.
In Libation, go to the "Settings" tab and select "Accounts" from the dropdown menu.
Enter your Audible email address, select the correct Audible region, and click "Save."
Navigate to "Settings" > "Audio File Settings" and check the box for "Download my books as .MP3 files."
Click the "Import" tab and select "Scan library" to load your Audible audiobooks.
To download and convert a book, click the traffic light icon next to the desired audiobook.
Libation will automatically download the audiobook and convert it to MP3 format.
- Pros
- Free and open-source tool
- Downloads and converts Audible library
- Supports MP3 and M4B output
- Works on Windows, macOS, and Linux
- Cons
- Setup may feel technical
- Interface is less beginner-friendly
- Requires Audible account login
Convert Audible AAX Files to MP3 with AAX Audio Converter
Platforms: Windows
Input formats: AAX, AA
Output formats: MP3, M4A, M4B
Conversion method: Convert downloaded Audible files
Pricing: Free
Core functions: Audiobook conversion and chapter splitting
Popular features: Lightweight tool focused on AAX conversion
AAXAudioConverter is another open-source solution found on GitHub, focused on converting Audible AAX audiobooks to MP3. It preserves sound quality throughout the conversion process and supports batch conversion, allowing you to convert multiple files at once, which is ideal for large audiobook libraries. Although it doesn't offer extensive customization options, its reliability and efficiency make it a practical choice for users seeking an easy way to access their Audible content, also at no cost.
Download and install AAX Audio Converter on your Windows PC.
In AAX Audio Converter, click Add Files to import your AAX Audible books.
Choose between single file or chapter-based conversion.
Click Convert to start the process.
- Pros
- Free tool for AAX audiobook files
- Converts to MP3 or M4A
- Supports chapter splitting
- Lightweight software
- Cons
- Requires Audible activation code
- Mostly available for Windows
- Limited advanced features
Convert Audible AA or AAX Audiobooks to MP3 with AAX Converter Pro
Platforms: Windows
Input formats: AA, AAX
Output formats: MP3 and other audio formats
Conversion method: Convert downloaded audiobook files
Pricing: Paid software (trial available)
Core functions: Batch conversion and chapter splitting
Popular features: Simple interface for basic conversions
AAX Converter Pro is an app developed by x2Core Tech and is now available for download in the Microsoft Store. It supports converting Audible files to MP3, M4A, and FLAC formats. Unlike other Audible converters that require Audible credentials, you can directly drag and drop your Audible files into the AAX Converter Pro interface and click Convert, and you're all set.
The reliability of AAX Converter Pro has received positive feedback and has been trusted by thousands of AAX file users. The free version of AAXConverter allows you to convert only 2 files at a time, limited to 3 minutes. If you need more features, the advanced version provides unlimited batch conversion, the ability to split files into smaller chapters, and eliminates restrictions on file length. But it will cost $20.99 in its lifetime.
Download AAX Converter Pro from the Microsoft Store.
Launch the application.
Drag and drop your AAX files into the converter window.
Select MP3 as the output format.
Click the Convert button to start the process.
- Pros
- Converts AA and AAX audiobooks to MP3
- Supports batch conversion
- Easy to use interface
- Cons
- Paid software
- Requires downloaded audiobook files
- Fewer customization options
Convert Audible AAX or AAXC Files to MP3 with AAXtoMP3
Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux
Input formats: AAX, AAXC
Output formats: MP3, M4A, FLAC, OGG
Conversion method: Command-line conversion using FFmpeg
Pricing: Free and open-source
Core functions: Audiobook decryption and format conversion
Popular features: Flexible settings for advanced users
AAXtoMP3 is an open-source tool on GitHub that converts Audible AAX and AAXC audiobooks to MP3 format. It offers a simple, drag-and-drop interface, making it easy to use. While it may lack advanced features, it effectively maintains audio quality during conversion.
However, before AAXtoMP3 converts Audible files to MP3, it requires Audible's authentication code (AuthCODE) to decode and convert AAXf files. Therefore, you need to use some tools such as audible-activator or audible-cli, which can be obtained from GitHub.
Download AAXtoMP3 from its GitHub release page.
Download the Audible AAX files from audible.com and put them into the same folder as AAXtoMP3.
Use a tool like audible-activator or audible-cli to get your activation bytes. Log in with your Audible credentials to receive the code.
Before running AAXtoMP3, ensure that you have installed FFmpeg on your computer.
Open the terminal or command prompt and navigate to the folder containing AAXtoMP3 and the Audible audiobook files.
Run the command:
Wait for the conversion, and once complete, the Audible MP3 files will appear in the same folder.
- Pros
- Free and open-source
- Supports MP3 and other formats
- High-quality conversion using FFmpeg
- Good for advanced users
- Cons
- Command-line tool
- Requires manual setup
- Not beginner friendly
Convert Audible Library or AAX Audiobooks to MP3 with OpenAudible
Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux
Input formats: AA, AAX
Output formats: MP3, M4B
Conversion method: Sync and download from Audible library
Pricing: Free trial; paid license required
Core functions: Audible library download and conversion
Popular features: Combines audiobook management and conversion
OpenAudible is another great option to convert from Audible to MP3. This software helps you download, view, and convert Audible audiobooks into MP3, M4A, or M4B formats, making them accessible on various devices. A key feature is its ability to connect directly to your Audible account, simplifying the download process. OpenAudible also supports splitting and joining chapters, catering to listeners who prefer shorter segments. While the application is free to try, you may need a paid license for full functionality, available for a one-time purchase of around $12 for Windows, Mac, and Linux.
Download OpenAudible from the official website and install it on your Windows, Mac, or Linux computer.
Launch OpenAudible.
Click the Controls tab and select Connect to Audible.
Choose the Audible region and log in to your Audible account in the redirected web browser window.
Once logged in, OpenAudible will load your Audible library.
Right-click the Audible title you want to convert and choose Convert to MP3.
After the conversion is complete, right-click the converted title and select Show MP3 to open the folder containing the converted files.
- Pros
- Downloads and converts Audible library
- Converts to MP3 or M4B
- Keeps audiobook metadata
- Works on Windows, Mac, and Linux
- Cons
- Full features require payment
- Setup may be complex
- Requires Audible account login
Method 4: Record and Convert Audible Audiobooks to MP3 with Audio Recording Software
Recording programs like Audacity are usually the last option because they capture system audio while the book plays in Audible or a browser player instead of decoding the original file. This method works with almost any playback source but runs in real time, so a ten hour audiobook takes about ten hours to record.
It is less efficient than direct conversion but can be used when other methods are not available. The recorded audio can then be exported as an MP3 file.
Record and Save Audible Audiobooks as MP3 with ViWizard Audio Capture
Platforms: Windows, macOS
Input formats: System audio playback
Output formats: MP3, WAV, AAC, FLAC
Conversion method: Real-time recording
Pricing: Free trial; paid version available
Core functions: Record audio from Audible or other apps
Popular features: Works with many streaming platforms
If you're looking for a way to download Audible books to MP3 without direct conversion, ViWizard Audio Capture is an excellent alternative. Unlike traditional Audible to MP3 converters, this tool allows you to capture any audio that plays on your computer, meaning you don't need to download Audible files first. As long as the audiobook can be played, ViWizard can record and save it in MP3, WAV, AAC, and other formats. Additionally, it supports multi-track recording, enabling you to capture multiple audio sources at once. To enhance your listening experience, it also provides editing features, allowing you to split, trim, or merge recordings effortlessly.
A multifunctional audio recording tool that captures any sound playing on your computer, including streaming music, live radio, game sounds, background music, and online meetings, with built-in auto-splitting and advanced editing features to save recordings in MP3, WAV, and other formats while maintaining the highest quality and embedding track details.
Step 1Install and Launch ViWizard Audio Capture
First, download and install ViWizard Audio Capture on your computer. In the audio source selection, choose the web browser you use for Audible playback. Then, go to the Audible website, log into your account, and access your audiobook library.
Step 2Set Up Recording Preferences
Click on the "Format" button at the bottom-right corner of the ViWizard interface. Select MP3 as the output format for better compatibility. Once done, click "OK" to save your settings.
Step 3 Start Recording the Audible Audiobook
Go back to the Audible website, play the audiobook you want to record, and switch back to ViWizard Audio Capture. The software will automatically detect the audio playback and begin recording in real-time. Click the "Stop" button when the playback ends.
- Pros
- Records Audible playback to MP3
- Works with many streaming platforms
- Flexible recording settings
- Simple recording process
- Cons
- Records in real time
- Requires playing the audiobook
- May need manual editing
Record and Export Audible Audiobooks to MP3 with Audacity
Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux
Input formats: System audio recording
Output formats: MP3, WAV, AIFF, OGG
Conversion method: Real-time recording
Pricing: Free and open-source
Core functions: Audio recording and editing
Popular features: Powerful editing tools for audio files
Audacity is a free and open-source digital audio recorder, available for Windows, Mac, Linux, and other Unix-like operating systems. It keeps regular updates so that users can experience better performance. With Audacity, you can record the Audible book while it plays in the web browser. After the recording, you can save the records as MP3 files and use audio editing features, such as the customizable spectrogram mode, frequency analysis, amplitude envelope editor, noise removal, etc.
However, the software can be complicated for beginners because its interface is complex, and the output audio is compressed.
At the top of Audacity, click Edit > Preferences.
Select Device > Host > Windows WASAPI, then choose Recording.
Open an Audible audiobook and start playback.
Click Record to begin recording, then click Stop to finish recording the Audible book.
- Pros
- Free and open-source
- Records Audible playback
- Includes audio editing tools
- Supports MP3 export
- Cons
- Real-time recording required
- Manual setup for system audio
- Chapters are not preserved
FAQs: Converting Audible to MP3
Can I convert Audible format to MP3?
Yes, but Audible books are protected in AAX/AA format, meaning you need a converter to convert them to MP3. The professional software like ViWizard Audible Converter can bypass Audible DRM and convert Audible books to MP3 without losing quality.
What is the best app to convert Audible books to MP3?
The best app depends on your needs:
- Free: Libation (Windows/macOS/Linux) – Ideal for users looking for a free, multi-platform solution.
- Best for Audible encrypted AA/AAX files: ViWizard Audible Converter – Easily converts AA and AAX to MP3 while preserving chapters and high quality.
- Online Option: Convertio – Good for a quick Audible format conversion.
Can you download Audible books as a file?
Yes, when you purchase or download an Audible book, it is stored as an AAX or AA file. However, these files are encrypted and can only be played in Audible-compatible apps. To get an MP3 version, you need to convert Audible to MP3 using a converter tool, like ViWizard Audible Converter.
Can do I convert Audible books to MP3 on my iPhone?
Audible does not allow direct MP3 conversion on iPhone. However, you can firstly convert the Audible book to MP3 on a computer using ViWizard, AAX Audio Converter, or Libation. Then, transfer the MP3 files to your iPhone via iTunes, AirDrop, or a cloud service like Dropbox. After that, you are free to play them offline on any MP3 player app on your iPhone.
Conclusion: Best Audible to MP3 Converters Compared
| Tool | Platforms | Conversion Method | Output Formats | Audible Library Support | Speed | Pricing | Ease of Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ViWizard Audible Converter | Windows, macOS | Direct conversion | MP3, M4A, M4B, FLAC, WAV | Yes | Very fast (up to ~100×) | Free trial + paid license | Very easy |
| AConvert | Web browser | Online file conversion | MP3, WAV, AAC, FLAC | No | Depends on upload speed | Free | Very easy |
| Libation | Windows, macOS, Linux | Library download + convert | MP3, M4B | Yes | Fast | Free (open source) | Moderate |
| AAX Audio Converter | Windows | AAX file conversion | MP3, M4A, M4B | No | Fast | Free | Easy |
| AAX Converter Pro | Windows | AAX file conversion | MP3 and others | No | Fast | Paid | Easy |
| AAXtoMP3 | Windows, macOS, Linux | Command-line conversion | MP3, M4A, FLAC, OGG | No | Fast | Free | Difficult |
| OpenAudible | Windows, macOS, Linux | Library download + convert | MP3, M4B | Yes | Fast | Free trial + paid | Moderate |
| ViWizard Audio Capture | Windows, macOS | Real-time recording | MP3, WAV, AAC, FLAC | No | Real-time | Free trial + paid | Easy |
| Audacity | Windows, macOS, Linux | Real-time recording | MP3, WAV, AIFF, OGG | No | Real-time | Free | Moderate |
You're free to make your choice which method is meet your need. If you are looking for an online tool for converting Audible to MP3 free, AConvert are the best choices. For ripping Audible to MP3, you can select ViWizard Audio Capture or Audacity. However, among all of them them, we highly recommend ViWizard Audible Converter. It boasts diverse features that are perfect for each Audible listener, such as, fast conversion speed, lossless output quality, multiple output formats, editable audio parameters, and so forth. After conversion, you can listen to Audible on any MP3 player or other device. Why not have a try?
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Nick Orin, a software developer at ViWizard, focuses on providing solutions for software-related challenges, including reviews, troubleshooting, and optimization tips.
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