No Wi-Fi? No problem! Streaming music is great. But as soon as you leave the Wi-Fi zone, it's a different story... Excessive data consumption, interruptions mid-song, or simply no network at all: all good reasons to opt for offline solutions! Whether you're traveling, hiking, or just in a poorly covered area, here's how to keep enjoying your favorite tracks without an Internet connection.
This is the simplest (and most common) solution: the majority of streaming platforms offer an offline mode. Essentially, you download your tracks in advance and can then listen to them without the Internet.
- **Deezer**: the [premium offer of the Deezer streaming platform](https://www.deezer.com/fr/offers/premium) also includes offline mode.
**Tip:** Remember to enable downloading only over Wi-Fi to avoid exceeding your data plan!
If you still have some CDs or audio files on your computer, why not transfer them to your smartphone? Several tools allow you to encode your tracks in MP3 and store them directly on your device:
- **iTunes**: ideal for Apple users.
- **Windows Media Player**: convenient for ripping CD tracks.
- **VLC**: perfect for converting multiple audio formats.
**Tip:** To avoid overloading your phone, consider storing your files on a microSD card (if your device allows it).
Once your files are stored, you need an application to play them! Good news: there are dozens available, and they are often free.
- **VLC for Android/iOS**: versatile, it plays almost all formats.
- **Poweramp**: excellent for those who want an app with a good equalizer.
- **Musicolet**: lightweight and ad-free.
- **Foobar2000**: appreciated by audiophiles for its sound quality.
**Tip:** Some applications allow you to manage custom playlists to easily find your favorite tracks.
Streaming services are great, but buying music still has its advantages. Some platforms allow you to legally download tracks and albums that you can listen to offline, without time limits.
- **Qobuz**: Specializes in high-quality audio.
- **Bandcamp**: Ideal for directly supporting independent artists.
- **iTunes Store**: Apple Music's alternative for purchasing individual tracks.
- **7digital** and **Amazon Music**: Varied catalogs with multiple formats available.
**Tip:** Some services like Qobuz offer FLAC, a higher quality format than MP3 (but also larger).
For those who already have a well-stocked music library, the cloud can be an interesting alternative.
- **Google Drive / Dropbox / OneDrive**: you store your files and download them locally when needed.
- **Plex**: allows you to create your own music server.
- **CloudPlayer**: an app that makes it easy to access your tracks stored in the cloud.
**Tip:** Before traveling, remember to download your files from the cloud to avoid any unpleasant surprises in the absence of a connection.
A bit old school? Maybe. But MP3 players or audiophile players are making a strong comeback, especially among those who want better sound quality or to save their smartphone's battery.
- **Fiio / Astell&Kern**: high-end brands for audiophiles.
- **SanDisk Clip**: small, practical, and affordable.
- **iPod Touch** (for the nostalgic).
**Tip:** With a player, no more notifications interrupting the music!
Some regions still receive FM radio, and the new DAB+ radios offer digital sound without requiring an Internet connection.
- Some smartphones have a built-in FM tuner (but often need headphones that act as an antenna).
- Portable digital radios (DAB+) offer an alternative for listening to stations without data.
Tip: Check if your phone has a native radio app (sometimes hidden in the settings!).
Everything depends on your needs and usage:
- ?? **Traveling?** Opt for downloading playlists and an MP3 player.
- ??????? **Hiking or without network?** Store your tracks locally.
- ???? **Want high quality?** Buy and download your albums digitally.
- ???? Low space on your phone? Use a cloud or an SD card.
Whatever your preferences, there is definitely a suitable solution to enjoy your favorite music without a connection!
Author Audrey on 21 April 2023
Art and Culture : Literature
Author Audrey on 09 January 2023
Art and Culture : Literature