How to Rip CD to MP3 Windows 11: A Step-by-Step Guide

By / September 24, 2025

Even though streaming services like Spotify, YouTube Music, and Apple Music dominate today’s world, many people still have old music collections stored on CDs. If you want to preserve those songs, play them on your phone, or back them up to the cloud, the best way is to rip your CD into MP3 format.

But how do you do this on a modern computer running Windows 11 — especially when some laptops no longer include disc drives? Don’t worry, this guide will walk you through everything step by step.

Key Takeaways (Quick Summary)

  • Ripping a CD means copying audio tracks from a CD to digital files.

  • MP3 is the most popular format because it balances sound quality and file size.

  • Windows 11 users can rip CDs using Windows Media Player, third-party software, or online tools (if supported).

  • You’ll need a CD/DVD drive — either built-in or external (USB).

  • Always check copyright laws before ripping commercial CDs.

What Does “Rip a CD” Mean?

“Ripping” a CD simply means extracting audio tracks and converting them into a digital format (like MP3, WAV, or FLAC). Unlike copying files from a USB, CDs use a special format called CDA (Compact Disc Audio), which isn’t directly playable as standalone files.

Ripping transforms these CDA files into standard audio files that work on PCs, smartphones, music players, and car stereos.

Why Rip CDs to MP3 on Windows 11?

You might want to rip CDs to MP3 because:

  • ✅ Compatibility – MP3 files play on nearly all devices.

  • ✅ Storage savings – Smaller file size compared to WAV or FLAC.

  • ✅ Portability – Play your old music anywhere, without needing a CD drive.

  • ✅ Backup – Protect your collection from scratches or disc damage.

What You’ll Need Before You Start

  • A Windows 11 PC (laptop or desktop).

  • CD/DVD drive – If your PC doesn’t have one, use an external USB CD/DVD drive.

  • Windows Media Player (built into Windows 11) or another ripping tool.

  • Blank folder/storage space for your MP3 files.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Rip a CD to MP3 in Windows 11

Let’s go through different methods.

Method 1: Rip CDs Using Windows Media Player

Windows Media Player (WMP) is still available in Windows 11, and it’s the easiest way to rip CDs.

Steps:

  1. Insert the CD into your CD/DVD drive.

  2. Press Win + S, type Windows Media Player, and open it.

  3. On the left pane, click your audio CD under “Music.”

  4. At the top, click Rip settings > Format.

  5. Select MP3.

  6. (Optional) Choose the Audio Quality (128 kbps for smaller files, 320 kbps for high quality).

  7. Click Rip CD.

  8. Wait until the process finishes. The MP3 files will be saved to your Music folder by default.

👉 Tip: You can change the destination folder in Rip Settings > More Options > Rip music to this location.

Method 2: Rip CDs Using VLC Media Player (Free & Popular)

VLC is a free, open-source media player that can also rip CDs.

Steps:

  1. Download and install VLC Media Player from videolan.org.

  2. Insert your CD into the drive.

  3. Open VLC and go to Media > Convert / Save.

  4. Select the Disc tab.

  5. Choose Audio CD, then click Convert / Save.

  6. Under Profile, select Audio – MP3.

  7. Choose a destination folder and filename.

  8. Click Start to begin ripping.

VLC is more flexible than WMP, especially for advanced users.

Method 3: Rip CDs with Exact Audio Copy (EAC) – For Audiophiles

If you care about perfect quality, try Exact Audio Copy. It’s free and highly accurate.

Steps:

  1. Download and install Exact Audio Copy (EAC) from its official site.

  2. Insert your CD.

  3. Open EAC → it will detect your disc automatically.

  4. Select all tracks (or specific ones).

  5. Click MP3 (requires LAME MP3 encoder — free to download).

  6. Choose output folder and settings.

  7. Start ripping → your CD will be converted into high-quality MP3 files.

Comparison of CD Ripping Methods in Windows 11

Method Best For Pros Cons
Windows Media Player Beginners Easy to use, pre-installed Limited features
VLC Media Player General users Free, supports many formats Setup can be tricky
Exact Audio Copy (EAC) Audiophiles Accurate, customizable Advanced, not beginner-friendly

How Long Does It Take to Rip a CD?

The time depends on:

  • Number of tracks (typical CD = 10–15 songs).

  • Chosen format (MP3 rips faster than FLAC).

  • Drive speed (external USB drives may be slower).

On average, ripping a full CD takes 5–15 minutes.

Common Issues and Fixes

1. CD Drive Not Detected

  • Ensure the CD/DVD drive is connected properly.

  • Check Device Manager for driver updates.

2. Windows Media Player Doesn’t Show “Rip CD” Option

  • Make sure it detects an audio CD (not a data disc).

  • Update Windows Media Player settings.

3. Ripped Files Have No Sound

  • Double-check the output format.

  • Try using VLC or EAC instead.

Legal Note: Is Ripping CDs to MP3 Legal?

  • ✅ You can rip CDs you own for personal use (backups, private listening).

  • ❌ Sharing ripped MP3s or downloading ripped versions online may violate copyright laws.

Tips for Better CD Ripping Results

  • Rip at 320 kbps MP3 for the best balance of quality and compatibility.

  • Store your rips in a dedicated folder (like Music\Ripped CDs).

  • Consider FLAC format if you want lossless audio quality.

  • Use an external USB drive if your laptop doesn’t include a CD/DVD drive.

Conclusion

Ripping CDs to MP3 on Windows 11 is easier than you might think. Whether you use Windows Media Player, VLC, or Exact Audio Copy, you can quickly convert your CDs into digital music files that work everywhere.

If you just want something simple, go with Windows Media Player. If you want flexibility, try VLC. And if you’re an audiophile who demands the highest quality, use EAC.

Once ripped, you can enjoy your music on any device — no CD player required.

FAQs

1. Does Windows 11 have a built-in CD ripper?

Yes, Windows Media Player can rip CDs to MP3 and other formats.

2. Can I rip CDs without Windows Media Player?

Yes, you can use VLC Media Player, Exact Audio Copy, or other third-party tools.

3. Where are ripped MP3 files saved in Windows 11?

By default, they’re saved in the Music folder under your user profile.

4. What bitrate should I choose for MP3 ripping?

  • 128 kbps → Small file size, lower quality.

  • 192 kbps → Decent balance.

  • 320 kbps → Best quality, larger files.

5. Can I rip CDs on a laptop without a CD drive?

Not directly. You’ll need an external USB CD/DVD drive.

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