How to Download Music on MacBook (Free & Paid Methods – 2025 Guide)
Downloading music on a MacBook is easier than ever, whether you are using a MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, or any macOS desktop. Many users still ask how to download music on Mac for free, how to download songs without iTunes, or how to convert Apple Music and Spotify tracks into playable files such as MP3.
This comprehensive guide explains all the legitimate and practical ways to download music on macOS, covering free options, premium services, and offline listening solutions.
How to Download Music on Mac for Free
To download music on a MacBook, use the built-in Music app for subscription content (with the cloud icon for adding and a download icon for offline access) or purchase tracks, or use third-party apps/websites like Soundcloud, YouTube, or Setapp for free/legal downloads, or tools like MediaHuman Downloader to grab music from various platforms, ensuring you have the right to download the content.
If you are looking to download music on a MacBook, there are several safe and legal options available.
1. Download Free Music from Legal Websites
Some websites allow artists to share their music freely.
Popular options include:
Jamendo
- Mziqi.com
SoundCloud (free-download enabled tracks)
Internet Archive (music section)
Bandcamp (free or pay-what-you-want releases)
Steps:
Open your browser on a Mac
Visit a free music website
Click the download button
Save the file to your Music or Downloads folder
This method works on MacBook Air and MacBook Pro without additional software.
How to Download Songs on a MacBook Without iTunes
Apple has phased out iTunes in favor of the Apple Music app, but many users still prefer downloading music without Apple software.
Alternative Ways to Download Music Without iTunes:
Direct MP3 downloads from music websites
Browser-based download tools
File-sharing platforms (legal content only)
Once downloaded, you can play music using:
Apple Music app
VLC Media Player
QuickTime Player
This is ideal if you want full control of your music files without syncing issues.
How to Download Music on Mac from Spotify
Spotify does not allow direct MP3 downloads due to DRM restrictions, but you can download music for offline listening inside the app.
Download Spotify Music for Offline Use:
Install Spotify for macOS
Log in to your Premium account
Select a playlist or album
Toggle “Download”
Important Notes:
Spotify downloads are encrypted
Files cannot be exported as MP3
Playback works only inside Spotify
If you are searching for how to download music on Mac from Spotify, this is the only legal method.
How to Download Music from Apple Music to a Computer
Apple Music allows offline downloads, but with restrictions.
Download Music Using the Apple Music App:
Open Apple Music on Mac
Sign in with your Apple ID
Search for a song or album
Click “Download”
Limitations:
Files are DRM-protected
Songs cannot be transferred freely
Music stops working if the subscription ends
This method is best for users who only need offline listening.
How to Download Music from Apple Music as an MP3
Apple Music does not natively support MP3 downloads, but there are two alternatives:
Option 1: Buy Music from the iTunes Store
Purchased songs can be:
Downloaded to Mac
Converted to MP3 using Apple Music settings
Option 2: Use Audio Conversion Tools
Some third-party converters allow format conversion for personal use.
Steps (General):
Set MP3 as the preferred format in Apple Music settings
Import purchased tracks
Convert using “Create MP3 Version.”
This answers common queries like how to download music from Apple Music as an MP3.
Download Music to MacBook (Best File Formats)
When downloading music to a Mac, choose formats that offer compatibility and quality.
Recommended Formats:
MP3 – Universal support, smaller size
AAC – Better quality at lower bitrates
WAV – High quality, large file size
FLAC – Lossless audio (requires compatible players)
MP3 remains the most popular for downloading music on a MacBook.
How to Download Music on MacBook Air
MacBook Air users follow the same steps as other macOS devices.
Best Practices:
Ensure sufficient storage
Use Wi-Fi for large downloads
Organize files into folders (Artist / Album)
MacBook Air handles MP3 and AAC files efficiently, making it ideal for music storage.
Download Music on MacBook Free: Safety Tips
When downloading music online:
Avoid suspicious pop-ups
Do not install unknown browser extensions
Scan files before opening
Use reputable websites only
This protects your Mac from malware and corrupted files.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I download music on a Mac without Apple Music?
Yes. You can download MP3 files from legal music sites or artist platforms.
Where is downloaded music stored on Mac?
Usually in:
Music folder
Downloads folder
Apple Music Media folder
Can I transfer downloaded music to an iPhone?
Yes, using Finder or Apple Music sync (non-DRM files only).
Final Thoughts
Downloading music on a MacBook in 2025 is flexible and user-friendly. Whether you want to download music on Mac for free, avoid iTunes, use Spotify offline, or convert Apple Music tracks, there is a solution that fits your needs.
For full ownership and flexibility, MP3 downloads remain the best option. For convenience, streaming apps with offline access work well.
