6 min read
Audio delivery formats explained: WAV, MP3, AAC, and AIFF for video editors
WAV, MP3, AAC, or AIFF? Here is a clear comparison of audio formats for video editors, with practical advice on when to use each one.
Choosing an audio format is not about picking the best one in abstract. It is about matching the format to the job. Editing needs one thing, archiving another, and a TikTok upload yet another. Once you know the four main formats, the decision becomes simple.
WAV: the working standard
WAV is uncompressed PCM. It stores the exact samples recorded by the device, which makes it perfect for editing, archiving, and any professional delivery. The standard for video is WAV at 48 kHz, 24 bit. It is large, but it is also future-proof.
AIFF: WAV's twin for some workflows
AIFF is also uncompressed PCM, mostly used in Mac environments. It sounds identical to WAV at the same sample rate and bit depth. Some older broadcast systems prefer AIFF, but most modern workflows accept WAV. Use AIFF when a client specifically asks for it.
MP3: small but lossy
MP3 throws away audio information to shrink the file. At 320 kbps it is hard to hear the loss, but it is still lossy. Never use MP3 as an editing source, because re-encoding it later adds more artifacts. Use it for previews, podcasts, and platforms that demand it.
AAC: the platform favorite
AAC is the format used by YouTube, Vimeo, and most streaming services. It is more efficient than MP3 at the same bitrate. Many cameras also record AAC in their video files. For upload, AAC 256 kbps or 320 kbps is usually fine. For archive, stick to WAV.