How to extract audio from a video

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting

7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

Extracting audio from a video can be accomplished using various methods, including software applications and online tools. This guide provides comprehensive instructions for multiple platforms and scenarios to ensure successful audio extraction.

Medium⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before starting the audio extraction process, ensure you have the following:
  • •A computer running Windows 10/11, macOS, or a compatible Linux distribution.
  • •Sufficient storage space for the extracted audio files.
  • •Administrative permissions to install software if required.
  • •Necessary tools such as VLC Media Player, Audacity, or online audio extraction services.
  • •Backup any important data from the video files before proceeding.

Method 1: Using VLC Media Player

VLC Media Player is a versatile tool that can extract audio from various video formats. This method is ideal for users who prefer a free and open-source solution.
  • •Step 1: Open VLC Media Player. Click on 'Media' in the top menu, then select 'Convert / Save'.
  • •Step 2: In the 'Open Media' dialog, click 'Add' to select the video file from which you want to extract audio. Click 'Convert / Save'.
  • •Step 3: In the 'Convert' dialog, select the profile for audio extraction (e.g., 'Audio - MP3'). Choose a destination file by clicking 'Browse'.
  • •Step 4: Click 'Start' to begin the extraction process. To verify, check the output directory for the audio file.

For Windows 11

Windows 11 users will find the interface similar to Windows 10, with slight visual differences.
  • •Step 1: Right-click on the video file, select 'Open with', and choose VLC Media Player.
  • •Step 2: Follow the same steps as outlined above for converting the video.

For Windows 10

Windows 10 users can follow the same steps as for Windows 11, with no significant differences.
  • •Step 1: Open VLC, click 'Media', then 'Convert / Save'.
  • •Step 2: Add your video file and proceed with the conversion steps.

Method 2: Using Audacity

Audacity is a powerful audio editing tool that can also extract audio from video files. This method is suitable for users who want to edit the audio after extraction.
  • •Step 1: Open Audacity. Click 'File', then 'Import', and select 'Audio'. Choose your video file.
  • •Step 2: Audacity will extract the audio track. You can edit it as needed.
  • •Step 3: To export the audio, click 'File', then 'Export', and choose your desired audio format (e.g., MP3, WAV).
  • •Step 4: Verify the exported file by navigating to the save location.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter problems during the audio extraction process, consider the following solutions:
  • •Error: 'Unsupported format' - Solution: Ensure the video file is in a compatible format (e.g., MP4, AVI). Convert the video if necessary.
  • •Issue: 'No audio extracted' - Fix: Check if the video file has an audio track. Use a different extraction method if needed.
  • •Problem: 'VLC crashes' - Workaround: Update VLC to the latest version or reinstall it to fix potential bugs.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

Enhance your audio extraction experience with these tips:
  • •Keyboard shortcut: Ctrl + R in VLC - Opens the 'Convert / Save' dialog quickly.
  • •Command line: 'ffmpeg -i input.mp4 -q:a 0 -map a output.mp3' - Use this command in the terminal to extract audio using FFmpeg.
  • •Hidden feature: Batch processing in VLC - Use 'Media' > 'Convert / Save' to process multiple files at once.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

For the best results, use a combination of tools tailored to your needs, such as VLC for quick extraction and Audacity for detailed audio editing.