Audio format
What is a FLAC file?
FLAC is a lossless compressed audio format — same audio quality as WAV, but roughly half the file size thanks to genuine (not perceptual) compression.
FLAC (Free Lossless Audio Codec) was built by the Xiph.Org Foundation to solve a specific problem: WAV files are lossless but enormous, while MP3 and AAC are small but throw away audio data permanently. FLAC compresses audio the way a ZIP file compresses text — genuinely, reversibly, with zero data loss — typically landing at 50–60% of the original WAV size. That makes it the go-to format for anyone archiving music at full fidelity, at the cost of files still noticeably larger than a lossy MP3 or AAC.
How to open a FLAC file
FLAC files open readily in VLC Media Player, Most modern phones and media players. For real editing rather than just viewing, reach for Audacity (free).
Strengths & limitations
Good for
- bit-perfect, lossless audio
- smaller than WAV for the same quality
Watch out for
- not supported by every device, though support is broad among dedicated audio players
Convert FLAC files
Orbfile can convert FLAC both ways, entirely in your browser — pick a direction below:
Frequently asked questions
What does a FLAC file contain?+
FLAC is a lossless compressed audio format — same audio quality as WAV, but roughly half the file size thanks to genuine (not perceptual) compression.
Can I convert FLAC for free?+
Yes — Orbfile's audio converter handles FLAC for free, with no file limit, watermark, or account, and it runs entirely in your browser.
Is converting a FLAC file safe and private?+
Yes. Orbfile processes FLAC files locally on your device using WebAssembly — nothing is uploaded to a server, so there's nothing to leak or store.
Who created the FLAC format?+
FLAC was developed by Xiph.Org Foundation, first released around 2001.
Browse the full file format guide.