With the ever-expanding world of digital media, there are countless ways to enjoy your favorite music and videos. YouTube, the world's largest video-sharing platform, is a treasure trove of content, but sometimes you may want to convert YouTube videos to audio formats like MP3 or M4A for offline listening or to save storage space on your device.

In this article, we'll explore various methods and tools to convert YouTube to M4A effortlessly. But first, let’s briefly recall what M4A is and how it’s different from other audio formats.

What Is M4A?

M4A is an audio file format commonly associated with files containing MPEG-4 audio data and providing high-quality audio compression with efficient file sizes. Many devices and players support M4A files, which makes this format an excellent choice for audio storage.

How to Convert YouTube to M4A

Convert YouTube to M4A on Mac, Windows, and Ubuntu with 4K Video Downloader+

If you prefer a stable and versatile solution, consider using desktop software like 4K Video Downloader+. This app is compatible with Windows, macOS, and Ubuntu devices and allows you to save YouTube videos in various formats: MP3, MP4, MKV, M4A, and OGG.

Apart from YouTube, 4K Video Downloader+ can also save audio and video content from Bilibili, Dailymotion, Facebook, SoundCloud, Twitch, Rumble, BitChute, and more sites. In addition to single videos, it can also download YouTube playlists, channels, and subtitles.

Here’s how to convert YouTube as M4A in 4K Video Downloader+

1. Launch 4K Video Downloader+. It's available for macOS, Windows, Linux and Android.

2. Copy the link to the YouTube video you want to download.

3. Click the Paste Link button in the downloader.

4. Select the M4A format, then choose the quality and output folder in the download settings window.

If you use Smart Mode, choose Audio and M4A in Formats.

5. Click Download.

Alternatively, you can find and download YouTube videos in M4A through the in-app browser. This way you can browse YouTube without leaving the application and download content on the spot.

Online YouTube to M4A Converters

There are numerous online tools available that allow you to convert YouTube videos to M4A without the need for software installation.

These websites typically work by pasting the YouTube video URL, selecting the M4A format, and clicking the conversion button. After a short processing time, you can download the converted audio file.

1. Choose a reliable online converter.

Start by selecting a reputable and trusted online converter. Some popular options include YTMP3.cc or Tuberipper. You can find these by searching for "YouTube to M4A converter" in your preferred search engine.

2. Find the YouTube video.

3. Open the YouTube converter of your choice.

4. Paste the YouTube video URL.

5. Choose the output format (M4A).

6. Convert a YouTube video to M4A.

7. Download the M4A file.

Keep in mind that online converters may have limitations in terms of video length, file size, and the number of conversions you can perform per day. Additionally, be cautious when using online converters and choose reputable ones to ensure the security of your data.

iPhone & Android YouTube to M4A Converters

If you want to convert YouTube to M4A on your mobile device, consider using apps like Snaptube, 4K Video Downloader for Android, TubeMate for Android, or Softorino for iOS.

These apps allow you to download YouTube videos and save them as M4A audio files directly on your smartphone or tablet.

Is M4A Better Than MP3?

Both M4A and MP3 are popular audio formats, and each has its own set of advantages and disadvantages. For instance, M4A files typically offer better audio quality than MP3 files at the same bit rate. This means that M4A can provide clearer and more detailed sound, making it a preferred choice for audiophiles and those who prioritize quality.

MP3 files, in turn, provide a good balance between file size and audio quality. While they may not match the highest-quality audio formats, MP3s still ensure decent sound quality for most listeners.

M4A files are natively supported on Apple devices and software, making them a convenient choice for iOS users. However, they may require additional software or apps on non-Apple devices. While MP3 is one of the most universally supported audio formats. It plays on virtually all devices, operating systems, and media players, making it a highly versatile choice.