Audio format
The WMA format
WMA is the Windows Media audio format from the Windows XP era. Microsoft released Windows Media Audio in 1999; Windows Media Player used it for CD rips for years.
When to use WMA
Choose WMA only for an old Windows device; convert your WMA rips to MP3 or M4A to play them anywhere.
It is best for old Windows software and devices that expect it, and it opens on Windows and VLC; not iPhones, Macs, most Android apps or browsers.
How to open it: Windows Media Player and VLC play WMA files.
| Full name | Windows Media Audio |
|---|---|
| Extensions | .wma |
| MIME type | audio/x-ms-wma |
| Introduced | 1999 |
| Compression | Lossy |
| Typical quality | 64–192 kbps |
| Support | Legacy format |
| Typical size | Similar to MP3 |
Good at
- Small files
- Plays on old Windows phones and players
Not so good at
- No support on Apple devices or the web
The common mistake
WMA files bought from old online stores are often DRM-protected; no converter can open those.
Questions
What is a WMA file?
WMA (Windows Media Audio) is the Windows Media audio format from the Windows XP era. Microsoft released Windows Media Audio in 1999; Windows Media Player used it for CD rips for years.
How do I open a WMA file?
Windows Media Player and VLC play WMA files.
How do I convert WMA to another format?
Pick the target on this page, or open the Audio Converter, drop the WMA file and choose a format. It converts in your browser, so nothing is uploaded.