MP3
MP3 is a compressed audio format. Its main advantage is size: an MP3 is typically much smaller than an uncompressed PCM WAV file at comparable duration. This makes MP3 convenient for sharing, storing, and everyday playback.
Choose MP3 when you want
- smaller files
- easy sharing
- broad everyday playback support
- a straightforward audio-only copy for casual listening
WAV
WAV commonly stores uncompressed PCM audio. Because the audio data is not compressed in the same way as MP3, WAV files are much larger. WAV can be useful for editing workflows where you want uncompressed PCM audio as an intermediate file.
Choose WAV when you want
- uncompressed PCM audio
- a large working file for editing or processing
- to avoid adding MP3 compression at export time
Which file is smaller?
For the same duration, MP3 will usually be much smaller than 16-bit PCM WAV. Exact size depends on bitrate, sample rate, channel count, and duration.
Which should I use?
There is no single right choice for every use. For compact storage and general listening, MP3 is usually more convenient. For editing or workflows that specifically need uncompressed PCM, WAV can be the better fit.