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.FLAC file extension

To open .FLAC files on Windows, right-click the .FLAC file and choose 'Open with'.

.FLAC files are audio files that use lossless compression. To open them, use a compatible media player on your device.

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Last updated: March 19, 2026 · Reviewed by Julian Stricker

Open on your device

Choose your operating system for a dedicated step-by-step opening guide.

How to open .FLAC files

Use these platform-specific instructions to open .FLAC files safely.

Windows

  1. Right-click the .FLAC file and choose 'Open with'.
  2. Select a media player like VLC or foobar2000.
Full Windows guide

Mac

  1. Control-click the .FLAC file and choose 'Open With'.
  2. Choose a compatible app like VLC or QuickTime with a plugin.
Full Mac guide

Linux

  1. Right-click the .FLAC file and select 'Open with'.
  2. Choose a media player such as VLC or Rhythmbox.
Full Linux guide

iOS

  1. Open the .FLAC file in the Files app.
  2. Use the 'Share' option to open it in a compatible app like VLC.
Full iOS guide

Android

  1. Tap the .FLAC file in your file manager.
  2. Select a media player app that supports FLAC, such as VLC.
Full Android guide

Security notes

  • Only download FLAC files from reputable sources.
  • Avoid opening FLAC files from unknown senders.
  • Keep your media player and antivirus software updated.

Recommended antivirus software

Scan files before opening them. These antivirus tools help protect against malware and viruses.

Avast

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Norton

Norton 360 delivers comprehensive antivirus protection, VPN, and identity theft monitoring. Scan files for threats before opening to keep your device secure.

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Can't open this file?

These are the most common causes and fixes when .FLAC files fail to open.

Common reasons

  • FLAC file won't play
  • Audio quality issues

Fix steps

  1. Ensure your media player supports FLAC files.
  2. Try playing the file in a different media player.
  3. Check if the file is corrupted by trying another FLAC file.

OS-specific troubleshooting

Convert .FLAC to other formats

Use conversion tools to change .FLAC files into formats your software supports.

What is a .FLAC file?

.FLAC stands for Free Lossless Audio Codec, an audio format that compresses audio without any loss in quality. It is widely used for archiving music collections and is supported by many media players.

Background

FLAC, or Free Lossless Audio Codec, is a popular audio format known for its ability to compress audio files without losing any quality. This makes it an excellent choice for audiophiles who want to preserve the original sound quality of their music. FLAC was developed by the Xiph.Org Foundation and has been widely adopted due to its open-source nature and the high fidelity of the audio it preserves.

The format gained popularity in the early 2000s as an alternative to lossy formats like MP3, which reduce file size by removing some audio data. FLAC files are typically larger than MP3s but offer superior sound quality, making them ideal for storing music collections where quality is a priority. They are commonly used in digital music distribution, especially in online music stores that cater to audiophiles.

FLAC files are supported by many software applications across different platforms, including popular media players like VLC, Winamp, and foobar2000. They are also compatible with many hardware devices, including high-end audio equipment and some portable music players. The format's open-source nature means it is continually being improved and supported by the community.

Overall, FLAC is a versatile and widely supported audio format that provides a perfect balance between file size and audio quality, making it a preferred choice for music enthusiasts and professionals alike.

Common MIME types: audio/flac

Further reading

Authoritative resources for more details on the .FLAC format.

Common .FLAC issues

FLAC file won't play

The media player may not support FLAC or the file might be corrupted.

  1. Ensure your media player supports FLAC files.
  2. Try playing the file in a different media player.
  3. Check if the file is corrupted by trying another FLAC file.

Audio quality issues

Playback may sound distorted or have glitches.

  1. Verify the file was not corrupted during download.
  2. Update your media player to the latest version.
  3. Try a different media player to rule out software issues.

FAQ

Can I convert FLAC to MP3?

Yes, use a reliable audio conversion tool to convert FLAC to MP3.

Why is FLAC better than MP3?

FLAC offers lossless compression, preserving the original audio quality, while MP3 uses lossy compression.

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