Apple Music to FLAC on Mac

FLAC is an open, lossless audio format — the standard for network players, music servers (Plex, Jellyfin, Roon), Android phones and audiophile software. Here's how to save Apple Music songs as FLAC files on a Mac.

Updated October 27, 2026 · 4 min read

FLAC or ALAC?

Both are lossless — they differ in compatibility, not in sound.

• FLAC — the open standard. Pick it for a music server, network player, Android, Linux and most audio software.
• ALAC (.m4a) — Apple's lossless format. Pick it if you mostly listen in the Music app, on iPhone, iPad and Apple TV.

Music File Lab saves both, so you can choose per album. Full comparison in the format guide.

Step by step

1. Get Music File Lab from the Download page and drag it into Applications.
2. Create a free account — your first 3 songs are free, no card required.
3. Connect Apple Music with the button in the top‑right corner.
4. Copy a link to a song, album or playlist (“Share → Copy Link”).
5. Paste the link and choose FLAC.
6. Click Download. .flac files with artwork, tags and lyrics land in your chosen folder.

How much space does FLAC take?

Lossless files are several times larger than MP3 or AAC. Roughly: a 3–4 minute song in FLAC is usually 20–40 MB, and a whole album a few hundred MB. For the car or a phone with little storage, MP3 or AAC is the better choice.

Tags and lyrics in FLAC files

FLAC handles tags well: title, artist, album, track number, artwork and lyrics. If you prefer synced lyrics, turn on saving an .lrc file — more in the .LRC guide.

What you can use the files for

Downloaded files are for your private listening. Don't share or publish them. Use the app in line with the law in your country and Apple Music's terms.

Frequently asked questions

Does the Music app on Mac play FLAC?

Not directly — choose ALAC for your Music library. On a Mac you can open FLAC in VLC, IINA, Swinsian or Vox, among others.

Can I save a whole album as FLAC?

Yes — paste an album or playlist link. Whole collections are part of Premium; the free trial covers 3 songs.