AIFF vs WAV

Compare AIFF and WAV formats to find the best option for your needs.

Convert to WAVConvert to AIFF
AIFF

Audio

Audio Interchange File Format developed by Apple for high-quality uncompressed audio storage.

Advantages

  • Lossless quality
  • Professional standard
  • Metadata support
  • Mac native

Disadvantages

  • Very large files
  • Limited compression
  • Less common on Windows

Best for

  • Professional audio
  • Music production
  • Mac workflows
  • Archival
Convert to WAV
WAV

Audio

Waveform Audio File Format - uncompressed audio

Advantages

  • Lossless quality
  • No compression
  • Professional standard
  • Easy to edit

Disadvantages

  • Very large files
  • Not streaming-friendly
  • No metadata support

Best for

  • Audio editing
  • Professional recording
  • Archiving
Convert to AIFF

Side-by-side comparison

Side-by-side comparison
FeatureAIFFWAV
CategoryAudioAudio
File sizeLargeLarge
CompatibilityGoodWidely supported
QualityLosslessExcellent

Questions and answers

What is the difference between AIFF and WAV?
AIFF: Audio Interchange File Format developed by Apple for high-quality uncompressed audio storage.. WAV: Waveform Audio File Format - uncompressed audio.
Which format should I choose: AIFF or WAV?
It depends on the job. AIFF is the better pick for: Professional audio, Music production, and Mac workflows. WAV is the better pick for: Audio editing, Professional recording, and Archiving.
Can I convert AIFF to WAV?
Yes. Open the AIFF to WAV converter, drop the file and download the result.
Is AIFF better than WAV?
Not in general. AIFF is stronger at: Professional audio, Music production, and Mac workflows. WAV is stronger at: Audio editing, Professional recording, and Archiving.

Ready to convert?

AIFF → WAVWAV → AIFF

More comparisons