Audiobooks have become so popular nowadays because they are superb for learning and listening as well. At the very time, audio files come in different types and sizes. But why would Apple audiobooks adopt the M4B version when everybody seems to be comfortable with MP3?
Well, in this article, we'll explain the key differences between M4B and MP3 that anyone should know about. By the time you've finished reading this article, you will know exactly what to go for.
Have your personal MP3 collection and wish to make an Audiobook from it? We'd like to share best 2 ways to make an Audiobook in AAC or M4B file format from your MP3 file.
Part 1. What Are M4B & MP3?
When it comes to audiobooks, the format you choose can really shape your experience. MP3 is one of the most popular audio formats because it compresses files into a smaller size without sacrificing too much quality—making it perfect for music, podcasts, and audiobooks. It's also incredibly versatile, working on almost any device you can think of, from phones to car stereos.
However, if you're serious about audiobooks, M4B might be a better fit. M4B files are specifically designed for audiobooks and come with handy features like bookmarking, so you can easily pick up where you left off, and chapters, which make it easier to navigate through longer books. These features make M4B a favorite for audiobook lovers, especially those using Apple devices, where M4B is most commonly found.
That said, M4B isn't as universally supported as MP3. While it works well on Apple devices and certain media players, you might need to convert it to MP3 or use a specific app if you're on a non-Apple device.
In short, MP3 is a reliable, go-anywhere format, great for all kinds of audio. M4B, on the other hand, is tailored for a more enhanced audiobook experience with features that make listening easier and more enjoyable.
Part 2. M4B VS MP3: Which Is Better?
When deciding between M4B and MP3 for audiobooks, it's helpful to understand what each format offers and where they might fall short.
MP3:
- Pros
- MP3 files work on nearly all devices, from your phone to your car stereo. You won't face compatibility issues.
- MP3 compresses files to be smaller, so you can store more content on your device without running out of space.
- Sharing MP3 files is simple. You can send them online or transfer them with a USB drive without any hassle.
- Cons
- MP3 compression can reduce sound quality. While it's usually good enough for casual listening, it may not be as clear as you'd like for audiobooks.
- Converting MP3 files or repeatedly compressing them can lead to further quality loss.
M4B:
- Pros
- M4B files come with features like bookmarks and chapters, making it easy to pick up where you left off and navigate through long books.
- M4B usually offers better sound quality than MP3 because of its AAC encoding. This makes for clearer audio, which is great for listening to audiobooks.
- M4B can include extras like hyperlinks and images, enhancing the audiobook experience.
- Cons
- M4B files are mainly supported on Apple devices and a few other media players. If you're using a non-Apple device, you might need to convert the files to MP3.
- Many M4B files are protected by DRM, which can limit playback to authorized devices only.
Comparison
Quality: M4B generally provides better sound quality compared to MP3, making it a better choice for clear audiobook listening. MP3, while decent, can lose some detail due to compression.
Compatibility: MP3 is highly compatible with almost all devices, while M4B is more restrictive and may require conversion for non-Apple devices.
Features: M4B is specifically designed for audiobooks with features like bookmarking and chapters. MP3 lacks these features but is reliable for general audio needs.
If you want a format that works everywhere and is easy to share, MP3 is your best bet. It's perfect for general audio needs. But if you're an audiobook lover who values extra features and better sound quality, M4B is the way to go, especially if you're using Apple devices.
So, whether you're choosing based on quality or convenience, both M4B and MP3 have their strengths. It just depends on what matters most to you!
To play M4B audiobooks including iTunes M4B audiobooks on more devices, we need to convert M4B to MP3. Here are the 4 best M4B to MP3 converters.
Part 3. How to Convert M4B to MP3 or Vice Versa
From the above comparisons, it is evident that M4B limits your fun while listening to audiobooks because of the DRM protection. When almost all the devices accept MP3, thus allowing you to listen to music without limitations. Why panic, ViWizard Audio Converter is here to help you out. Apart from being popular in today's market, the software is tailored for everybody, including newbies. It's able to convert your M4B to MP3 in a few minutes with easy operations of four steps below.
For those who want to learn how to convert MP3 to Audiobook into different formats, you need to use an audio converter tool. The recommended tool is ViWizard Audio Converter. For Apple users, method one will be sufficient, but if you are an Android user, you will have to change the format because it won't work that way. So, what you can do is convert the MP3 to either M4B or M4A format. This fantastic audio converter is easy to use. The intuitive and easy-to-understand interface makes it one of the best audio converters. You can use this tool to convert MP3 into multiple other formats, such as WAV, FLAC, and AAC. Moreover, all the songs will be converted at 5X speed, which means you won't have to wait for a long time.
Please note that ViWizard Audio Converter is available for both Mac users and Windows users. You will first have to download and install ViWizard Audio Converter on your computer and then follow the steps mentioned below. Don't worry; you don't need to be a tech expert to start using ViWizard Audio Converter.
Key Features of ViWizard Apple Music Converter
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- Seamless compatibility with both iTunes and Audible audiobooks.
- Smooth transition for users with collections integrated into the iTunes platform.
- Extends capabilities to Audible, accommodating users storing AA/AAX files.
- Supports various output formats, including MP3, WAV, AAC, M4A, FLAC, etc.
Step 1Launch ViWizard Audio Converter
Download the latest version of the ViWizard Audio Converter from the official website. Then launch it.
Step 2Open the software and import the M4B music file to ViWizard
After launching the software successfully, open it, and import the M4B audio file to ViWizard by clicking on the 'Add File' icon positioned at the top of the menu bar.
Step 3Click the Format option button
Tap on the 'Format' option to customize the output format to MP3. Select the 'Edit' option to edit your song.
Step 4Select Convert option
You're almost there! Check whether the above process is successful. Then, click on the 'Convert' icon to initiate the conversion of your music from M4B to MP3.
Part 4. How to Convert Audible to MP3 or M4B
For Audible listeners who want more flexibility with their audiobooks, the ViWizard Audible Converter is a fantastic tool. It allows you to convert your Audible AA or AAX files into various formats like MP3, M4B, FLAC, AAC, and more.
ViWizard makes it easy to change your audiobooks into the format that works best for you, whether you need MP3s for universal compatibility or M4B for its audiobook-specific features. It maintains the original audio quality, so your books sound just as clear as when you first downloaded them.
You can also customize the audio to your liking. Adjust the sample rate, bit rate, speed, and volume to fit your personal preferences. Plus, if you want to break your audiobook into smaller, manageable parts—by chapter or by time - ViWizard lets you do that too.
In short, ViWizard Audible Converter is perfect for Audible users who want to enjoy their audiobooks in different formats while keeping top-notch sound quality. It's user-friendly and versatile, making it an excellent choice for expanding your audiobook listening experience.
A unique and innovative Audible audiobook converter to convert any protected Audible audio book from AA or AAX formats to universal formats, including lossless audio, MP3, AAC, FLAC, M4A, M4B, 2AV, AC3, and more in an easiest yet fastest way ever and with up to 100× super faster speed.
Conclusion
From the look of things, you can't rule out M4B or MP3 in terms of which one performs better. In short, it is difficult to determine the best format between the two. The choice will depend on your taste or preference. If you want quality sounds, choose M4B, but if you're concerned with compatibility, go for MP3. In summary, you have to understand your priorities to settle either for M4B or MP3 file version accordingly. With that, be rest assured of making the right choice to allow you to enjoy any music of your choice.
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Adam Gorden, the digital media specialist at ViWizard, is dedicated to providing the best solutions for digital media management, including audio and video conversion, file optimization, and media workflow enhancements.
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