Although the file extensions MP3 and MP4 are very similar, there are clear differences between the two multimedia formats.
Applications of MP3 and MP4: The differences
First of all, both the MP3 and MP4 file formats are suitable for multimedia content. However, both formats are used in different scenarios.
- MP3 (MPEG-1 Audio Layer 3): This is a pure audio format. Compression allows music or speech, for example, to be stored in a space-saving manner.
- The encoding is standardized, MP3 files always have the extension .mp3.
- MP4 (MPEG-4 Part 14): This is a container format for multimedia content based on Apple's QuickTime.
- In contrast to the MP3 format, MP4 files can contain additional content such as video, images, graphics or subtitles in addition to audio.
- So it is a more versatile format that supports both audio and video.
- Similar to .mp3, the official file extension is .mp4, but other extensions are also used that provide information about the contents of the container. Common ones include .m4v for pure video files (without audio) or .m4a for pure audio files (usually AAC files).
Differences in compression
You can create both MP3 and MP4 files with free programs, but there are a few things you should keep in mind when compressing them.
- MP3: MP3 only uses the MPEG-1 Audio Layer 3 codec for audio compression.
- Pay particular attention to the bit rate and sampling rate when converting to MP3 format. Both parameters affect the audio quality. Good values to start with are 128 kbps and 44.1 kHz.
- Although MP3 files are usually much smaller than lossless audio formats such as WAV or FLAC, excessive compression can result in an audible loss of sound quality.
- MP3 is supported by a wide range of devices and software, including smartphones, computers and, of course, MP3 players.
- MP4: MP4 can use various codecs for audio and video, including AAC (Advanced Audio Coding) for audio and H.264 or H.265 for video.
- However, to maintain compatibility, there are certain restrictions so that not every format can be included in an MP4 container.
- Once you have decided on the codecs, you can adjust numerous parameters for them. However, it is difficult to make a general recommendation here, so you should check and adjust the result based on the standard settings of your software.
- Even with the MP4 format, excessive compression can degrade the image and sound quality.
- MP4 is also supported by many devices. However, older devices may lack the required codecs, meaning playback may not always work smoothly.