.FLAC

Free Lossless Audio Codec

Learn about .flac files - Free Lossless Audio Codec. Find software to open, compatibility information, and alternatives.

Audio 391 Searches File Extension Details
.FLAC
Free Lossless Audio Codec

What is a .flac file?

File Extension Details

FLAC (Free Lossless Audio Codec) is an audio coding format for lossless compression of digital audio. Unlike lossy audio formats such as MP3, AAC, and Vorbis, FLAC does not discard any audio information, so it is well-suited for archiving audio collections. An audio file encoded to FLAC can be decompressed into an identical copy of the original audio data. FLAC reduces audio file size by 30-70% without any loss of quality. It supports metadata tagging, album cover art, and fast seeking. FLAC is an open format with royalty-free licensing and a reference implementation is available under the GNU General Public License. It is widely supported by audio playback software and hardware devices. FLAC is often used for distributing high-resolution audio files, such as those ripped from CDs or downloaded from online music stores that offer lossless audio. It is also a popular choice for audiophiles who want to preserve the original quality of their music.

Software Compatibility

Programs that can open and work with .flac files

Windows

Compatible Applications

VLC Media Player Compatible
foobar2000 Compatible
Windows Media Player (with codec) Compatible
AIMP Compatible
MediaMonkey Compatible

macOS

Compatible Applications

VLC Media Player Compatible
Vox Compatible
Audirvana Compatible
Elmedia Player Compatible
Swinsian Compatible

Linux

Compatible Applications

VLC Media Player Compatible
Audacious Compatible
Amarok Compatible
Rhythmbox Compatible
mpv Compatible

Mobile

Mobile Applications

VLC Mobile Compatible
foobar2000 (Android) Compatible
Poweramp (Android) Compatible
FLAC Player+ (iOS) Compatible
Neutron Music Player (Android/iOS) Compatible

Frequently Asked Questions

About .flac files

To open a .flac file, you need compatible software. Here are some options:

  • VLC Media Player
  • foobar2000
  • VLC Mobile

To convert a .flac file to another format, you can:

  1. Use compatible software Many programs that open .flac files also allow you to save or export them to different formats.
  2. Try online conversion services: Websites like Zamzar, CloudConvert, or Online-Convert allow you to convert files between different formats without installing software.
  3. Specialized conversion tools: Search for '.flac converter' to find tools specifically designed for this file type.

  1. Verify the file extension is correct:
  2. Update your software:
  3. Try alternative software:
  4. Check for file corruption:

Like any file type, .flac files can be safe or potentially risky depending on their source:

  • Always scan files with antivirus software before opening
  • Keep your operating system and applications updated.
  • Be especially cautious with executable file types

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