Convert MP3 to WAV in 2025 - Free, Online & Software Options

MP3 and WAV are two popular audio formats, but they serve different purposes. MP3 is compressed and ideal for casual listening, while WAV offers lossless, high-fidelity audio for professional editing. Converting MP3 to WAV ensures compatibility with editing software and preserves audio quality. In this guide, we'll explore the best MP3 to WAV converters, including freeware, online tools, and step-by-step tutorials.

Part 1. How to Convert MP3 to WAV with HitPaw Univd

HitPaw Univd is a powerful and beginner-friendly audio/video converter that supports lossless MP3 to WAV conversion. With a sleek interface, high-speed batch conversion, and support for hundreds of formats, it's the best MP3 to WAV converter software for both beginners and professionals.

Step 1: Download and Install HitPaw Univd

Free download HitPaw Univd according to your system (Windows or Mac), follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.

Step 2: Import Your MP3 Files

Launch HitPaw Univd and go to the Converter from the top menus. Click the "Add Files > Add Audio" button or drag your MP3 files into the interface.

Step 3: Choose WAV as Output Format

Click the Convert all to option to open the format list. Navigate to "Audio," and select WAV as the output format.

Step 5: Start Converting

Choose your desired output folder to save the converted files. Click the "Convert All" button to start MP3 to WAV conversion process.

Step 5: Access to WAV Files

After conversion, you can switch to the Converted tab to play the converted MP3 audio. Click the Open Folder icon will open the local folder that contains the MP3 files.

Part 2. 8 Best MP3 to WAV Converters - Online and Free Tools

When looking for the best MP3 to WAV converter, it's important to consider your use case: Do you need batch conversion? Are you using Windows, Mac, or just a browser? Below is a curated list of the 8 most reliable tools-desktop software, free programs, and online converters-to help you convert MP3 to WAV quickly and efficiently.

1. HitPaw Univd

OS: Windows, macOS

HitPaw Univd is an all-in-one multimedia conversion software designed for high-quality video and audio processing. As an MP3 to WAV converter software, it excels in preserving original quality, supporting batch conversion, and offering a user-friendly interface. It also supports a wide range of input/output formats beyond just MP3 and WAV.

Pros:

Supports lossless conversion
Allows batch processing
Simple and intuitive UI
Built-in editor for trimming or editingaudio
20+ lightweight media and AI tools

Cons:

Requires software installation
Full features require a paid license

2. VLC Media Player

OS: Windows, macOS, Linux

VLC isn't just a media player; it's also a free open-source MP3 to WAV converter program. Though its interface is more technical, VLC offers a reliable way to convert audio formats without the need for additional software.

Steps to Change MP3 to WAV in VLC:

Open VLC and go to Media > Convert/Save.
Click "Add" to import your MP3 file.
Press "Convert/Save" and in the Profile section, choose WAV. If you can't find WAV in thelist, you may need to create a new profile.
Select a destination file name with a .wav extension.
Click "Start" to convert.

Pros:

100% free and open-source
Lightweight and doesn't require powerful hardware
No internet connection needed

Cons:

Complex UI for beginners
Cannot handle large batch conversions efficiently
Limited format customization

3. FFmpeg

OS: Windows, macOS, Linux

FFmpeg is a powerful command-line tool used by developers and professionals for processing audio and video files. It's one of the most flexible free tools to convert MP3 to WAV, but requires comfort with terminal commands.

Download and install FFmpeg from its official site.
Open your Command Prompt or Terminal.
Run the following command:ffmpeg -i input.mp3 output.wav

Pros:

Extremely powerful and versatile
Lightweight and resource-efficient
Works offline, no GUI needed

Cons:

No graphical interface (not beginner-friendly)
Learning curve for advanced tasks
Easy to make mistakes if unfamiliar with commands

4. iTunes (Music App on macOS Catalina and later)

OS: Windows, macOS

iTunes or the Music app (on macOS Catalina+) includes a basic audio conversion feature. It's not a dedicated mp3 to wav converter, but works well for individual files if you're already within the Apple ecosystem.

Open iTunes > Preferences > Import Settings
Choose "WAV Encoder" from the drop-down
Add your MP3 file to your library
Right-click the MP3 and select "Create WAV Version"

Pros:

Pre-installed on many Apple devices
Simple for Mac users
Retains good audio quality

Cons:

Limited to small-scale conversions
Only supports files added to the iTunes library
Not available on latest macOS as standalone app (replaced by Music)

5. HitPaw Online Audio Converter

OS: Web-based (All platforms)

This browser-based tool by HitPaw offers a quick and free way to convert MP3 to WAV online. It's designed for speed, accessibility, and ease of use without requiring installation.

Visit HitPaw Online Audio Converter website
Click "Choose File" and upload your MP3 file
Select WAV as the output format
Click "Convert" and then download the WAV file

Pros:

No installation required
Fast and easy interface
Safe and ad-free

Cons:

File size limits (e.g., 20-100MB depending on server load)
Internet required
No batch conversion

6. CloudConvert

OS: Web-based

CloudConvert is a popular online file converter that supports hundreds of formats. As a free mp3 to wav converter online, it's ideal for users who need quick and accurate conversions without any installation.

Go to cloudconvert.com page.
Upload your MP3 file
Select WAV as the output format
Click "Convert"
Download your converted file

cloudconvert mp3 to wav converter online

Pros:

Supports multiple input/output formats
Allows advanced settings (sample rate, codec, etc.)
Clean UI with no popups

Cons:

Limited to ~25 conversions/day for free users
Not ideal for bulk conversions
File upload speed depends on internet

7. Zamzar

OS: Web-based

Zamzar is one of the oldest online conversion platforms. It's trusted for its simplicity and supports a wide range of format conversions including MP3 to WAV.

Visit Zamzar MP3 to WAV converter page
Upload your MP3 file
Choose WAV as the output format
Enter your email to receive the converted file (or download directly if available)
Click "Convert Now"to start conversion.

Pros:

Long-standing trusted platform
Easy and clean design
Free up to 2 conversions per day

Cons:

Requires email for some downloads
Upload and processing may be slower
Free version has file size limits

8. Convertio

OS: Web-based

Convertio is a sleek, cloud-based MP3 to WAV converter that runs entirely in your browser. With support for Google Drive and Dropbox integration, it's perfect for users on the go.

Tutorial:

Go to Convertio MP3 to WAV converter
Upload your MP3 file (from device or cloud)
Choose WAV as the output format
Click "Convert" and download the WAV file

Pros:

Supports drag-and-drop interface
Cloud integration
Good for light users

Cons:

File size and conversion limits on free tier
Contains ads
Requires fast internet for large files

Part 3. How to Choose an MP3 to WAV Converter

With so many options available, how do you choose the right one?

For large files or batch conversions: Use professional tools like HitPaw Univd for speed and quality.
If you're offline and prefer free tools: Choose VLC or FFmpeg for reliability.
For quick, one-time conversions: Online converters like HitPaw Online, Convertio, or Zamzar are convenient.

Part 4. FAQ

Q1. What is the difference between MP3 and WAV?

A1. MP3 is a compressed, lossy format designed to reduce file size, while WAV is an uncompressed, lossless format that retains full audio quality.

Q2. Does converting MP3 to WAV improve quality?

A2. No. Converting MP3 to WAV doesn't restore lost data. It only changes the format, not the audio quality.

Q3. How to convert MP3 to WAV on iPhone?

A3. You can use online tools like HitPaw Online Audio Converter via Safari, or install third-party apps from the App Store such as Media Converter or The Audio Converter.

Conclusion

Whether you're editing audio or just want a higher-quality format, converting MP3 to WAV is simple with the right tool. HitPaw Univd stands out as the best all-in-one MP3 to WAV converter software for fast, high-quality results. But if you're looking for free or online tools, there are plenty of good options to suit your needs.

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