Apple Music to MP3 on Mac

MP3 plays on practically anything: car stereos, old MP3 players, TVs, USB speakers, DJ software. If you want your Apple Music songs as MP3 files, here's how to do it on a Mac in a few minutes.

Updated October 27, 2026 · 4 min read

Why the Music app can't do it

Songs you download for offline listening in the Music app only work in Apple's apps and only while your subscription is active. They aren't regular MP3 files — you can't copy them to a USB drive or open them in another player. For that you need a separate app.

Step by step

1. Get Music File Lab from the Download page and drag it into Applications.
2. Create a free account — email and password. Your first 3 songs are free, no card required.
3. Connect Apple Music with the button in the top‑right corner. The sign‑in stays on your Mac.
4. Copy a link to a song, album or playlist: in Music or on music.apple.com choose “Share → Copy Link”.
5. Paste the link and choose MP3.
6. Click Download. MP3 files with artwork and tags land in your chosen folder.

MP3, AAC or lossless?

• MP3 — maximum compatibility. Pick it for the car, older devices and anywhere you're not sure what the hardware supports.
• AAC — the same size as MP3, with excellent compatibility on Apple devices.
• ALAC or FLAC — lossless formats for an archive or good audio gear. Files are several times larger.

More in the format guide.

Artwork, tags and lyrics in MP3

Every MP3 gets its title, artist, album, track number and artwork. When Apple Music has lyrics, they're saved in the file's tags and, if you like, in a separate synced .lrc file.

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

Can I save a whole playlist as MP3?

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

Does it work on Windows?

No, Music File Lab is a Mac app (macOS 14 or later). You can move the finished MP3s to any device.

Where do the files go?

By default to Downloads/Music File Lab Downloads. You can change the folder and file naming in Settings.