SoundCloud is one of the most popular music streaming platforms, offering a vast library of tracks, from up-and-coming artists to mainstream hits Soundcloud downloader. While SoundCloud’s mobile and web apps allow you to stream music, downloading songs for offline listening is an attractive feature for many. However, SoundCloud’s download options can be somewhat limited, depending on the track or account type. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through how to download music from SoundCloud on various devices, including desktop computers, smartphones, and tablets.
1. Using SoundCloud’s Official Features
Before diving into third-party tools, let’s first look at SoundCloud’s official download options, which can be useful for certain tracks.
On Desktop (Web Browser)
- Log in to Your SoundCloud Account
Open your web browser and go to the SoundCloud website. Log in with your account credentials. - Find the Track You Want to Download
Use the search bar to find the song or playlist you want to download. - Check if the Track is Available for Download
Not all tracks on SoundCloud are available for download. Tracks uploaded by artists may be free to download, but others might not be. If the download option is available, you’ll see a Download button below the track’s waveform. - Click the Download Button
If the track allows for downloading, click on the Download button, and the file will be saved to your computer.
On Mobile (SoundCloud App)
The SoundCloud mobile app provides limited download options for premium users (SoundCloud Go and Go+ subscribers). Here’s how it works:
- Download the SoundCloud App
Install the SoundCloud app from the Google Play Store (for Android) or the Apple App Store (for iOS). - Subscribe to SoundCloud Go
To download tracks for offline listening, you need to have a SoundCloud Go or Go+ subscription. Without this, you cannot directly download music. - Find the Track You Want to Download
Search for the track you want to download. - Click the Three Dots or More Options
Once the track is open, tap the three dots (ellipsis) to open the options menu. - Select ‘Download’
If you’re a SoundCloud Go user, you should see the Download option. Tap it, and the track will be available for offline listening within the app.
2. Third-Party Tools and Websites
For users who want to download music that is not available for offline use through SoundCloud’s official methods, there are third-party tools and websites that can help. Keep in mind that using third-party services might violate SoundCloud’s terms of service, so proceed with caution.
SoundCloud Downloader Websites
Several websites offer free SoundCloud download services. Here’s how to use them:
- Find the Track URL
Go to SoundCloud, find the track you want to download, and copy the URL from the address bar. - Use a SoundCloud Downloader Website
Websites like SoundCloud to MP3 or YTMP3 allow you to paste the URL and convert it into a downloadable MP3 file. Just paste the URL into the designated box, and the website will generate a download link. - Download the File
Once the conversion is complete, click the download button, and the track will be saved to your device.
Using Desktop Software (For PC and Mac)
If you prefer a more reliable solution, consider using desktop software to download SoundCloud music. Programs like 4K Video Downloader or Freemake Audio Converter can extract audio from SoundCloud links. Here’s how:
- Download and Install the Software
Go to the official website of the software you’ve chosen, such as 4K Video Downloader or Freemake, and install it on your computer. - Copy the SoundCloud Track URL
Go to the track on SoundCloud and copy the URL from the address bar. - Paste the URL into the Software
Open the downloader software, paste the SoundCloud track URL, and follow the software’s instructions to convert and download the music file. - Save the Track
After the conversion process, save the track to your computer.
3. For Android Devices (Using Apps)
For Android users, there are apps available on third-party platforms (outside the Google Play Store) that can help you download SoundCloud tracks. Apps like SoundCloud Downloader (from third-party sources) allow you to download tracks directly to your Android device. To install such apps:
- Enable Installation from Unknown Sources
Go to Settings > Security > Enable installation from unknown sources. This allows you to install APK files from sources other than the Google Play Store. - Install the Downloader App
Download the SoundCloud Downloader app APK from a trusted website and install it on your phone. - Download Tracks
Open the app, paste the URL of the track you want to download, and follow the prompts to save the song to your device.
4. For iOS Devices (iPhone/iPad)
Downloading SoundCloud music on iOS is trickier, as the App Store doesn’t allow third-party downloaders. However, there are ways to save tracks for offline listening without violating any terms:
- Use a Third-Party App Like Documents by Readdle
The Documents app is a popular iOS app that can help you download music from SoundCloud. It allows you to use web-based downloaders and store files directly on your device. - Use a Web-Based SoundCloud Downloader
Open the Documents app and use the built-in browser to go to a SoundCloud downloader site, like SoundCloud MP3. Paste the track URL, download the MP3 file, and save it.
5. Legal Considerations
While it’s tempting to download music for free, it’s essential to respect the rights of creators and the terms of service of the platforms you use. Not all tracks on SoundCloud are available for download, and some creators offer their music under specific licenses that prohibit unauthorized distribution or downloading. Always check the download permissions and consider supporting artists by purchasing their music or subscribing to SoundCloud Go.
Conclusion
Downloading music from SoundCloud can be done through official features if the artist allows it, or with third-party tools and apps. For users who want to enjoy offline listening on mobile devices, SoundCloud’s premium subscriptions offer the easiest and most legal option. Always be mindful of the platform’s terms and respect the rights of the artists. Happy listening!
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