SoundCloud is home to underground music, exclusive remixes, and DJ sets you can’t find on Spotify or Apple Music. But the free app doesn’t allow offline listening, and SoundCloud Go+ costs $4.99-$10.99 per month. For music lovers, DJs, and producers who want to save tracks for offline listening, finding a working SoundCloud downloader in 2025 is essential.
According to Statista’s music streaming data, SoundCloud hosts over 320 million tracks from 30 million creators, making it the largest open audio platform. Whether you need to download SoundCloud songs on iPhone, convert SoundCloud to MP3 on Android, or grab high-quality 320kbps files for Rekordbox, this guide covers the working methods in 2025.
Related Audio Tools: For comprehensive audio management, explore our audio to notes converter for transcribing audio content, or check out our voice translator for multilingual audio processing. Additionally, our AI voice recorder can help capture and analyze audio from various sources.
Copyright and Personal Use Notice
Before downloading SoundCloud tracks, understand the legal implications:
- Personal Use Only: Downloading copyrighted music without permission for redistribution or commercial use violates copyright law.
- Creative Commons: Many SoundCloud artists use Creative Commons licenses that allow free downloads with attribution. Look for the "Free Download" button the artist enabled.
- Support Artists: If you love a track, purchase it on Bandcamp or Beatport to support creators.
- Safety First: Avoid sketchy "converter" sites with aggressive pop-ups. Use methods in this guide that are verified safe.
According to U.S. Copyright Office guidelines, downloading copyrighted material without permission is illegal. This guide is for educational purposes and personal archival use only.
Best SoundCloud Downloader Methods 2025
| Method | Tool Name | Best For | Platform | Quality | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| iPhone | iOS Shortcuts | iPhone/iPad Users | iOS | 128-256kbps | Free |
| Android | Telegram Bots | Mobile Users | Any | 256-320kbps | Free |
| PC/Mac | Browser Extensions | Desktop Users | Chrome, Firefox | Up to 320kbps | Free |
| DJs | Desktop Software | Audiophiles, Producers | Win, Mac | 320kbps, WAV | Free/Paid |
| Advanced | Command Line (scdl) | Power Users | Win, Mac, Linux | Original Quality | Free |
Quick Recommendation: For iPhone users, iOS Shortcuts offer the safest native solution. Android users should use Telegram Bots for instant downloads. Desktop users get the best experience with Browser Extensions, while DJs and producers need Desktop Software for 320kbps or WAV quality.
Why Most SoundCloud Converters Are Dangerous
Before diving into safe methods, understand why random “SoundCloud to MP3 converter” websites are risky. According to CISA’s cybersecurity guidelines, converter sites frequently contain:
Malware Risk
Fake "Download" buttons that install browser hijackers or trojans instead of music files.
Data Harvesting
Tracking scripts that collect browsing history, emails, and personal information for ad networks.
Poor Quality
Most free converters limit output to 128kbps unusable for DJs or quality-conscious listeners.
The methods in this guide use verified tools with active communities, avoiding the risks associated with sketchy converter websites.
Best Free SoundCloud Downloaders 2025
Method 1: Telegram Bots (Best for Android Quick Downloads)
Telegram Bots: Zero Installation Required
Telegram bots are the fastest way to download SoundCloud songs on Android without installing sketchy apps. No ads, no app installation, and files download directly in your Telegram chat with complete metadata (cover art, artist name).
@scdlbot (SoundCloud Downloader Bot)
- ✓ Downloads tracks with full metadata and album art
- ✓ Handles playlists and sets (up to 50 tracks)
- ✓ 256-320kbps MP3 quality
@GetMediaBot (Multi-Platform)
- ✓ Supports SoundCloud, YouTube, Spotify links
- ✓ Fast processing (usually under 30 seconds)
- ✓ Clean interface without ads
How to Download SoundCloud Songs Using Telegram Bots
Step 1: Open Telegram and Search for the Bot
Launch Telegram app and search for @scdlbot or @GetMediaBot in the search bar. Tap to open the bot chat.
Step 2: Copy the SoundCloud Track Link
In SoundCloud app, tap "Share" → "Copy Link" on any track or playlist you want to download.
Step 3: Paste Link and Send to Bot
Return to Telegram, paste the SoundCloud URL into the bot chat, and hit send. The bot will process the link and reply with a downloadable audio file (usually within 10-30 seconds).
Step 4: Save to Your Music Library
Tap the audio file in Telegram → Three dots menu → "Save to Music" (Android) or "Share" → "Save to Files" (iPhone). The track now appears in your device's music player with album art.
Why Telegram Bots Are Safe: Unlike converter websites, Telegram bots run on Telegram's secure infrastructure. They don't redirect you through ad networks or install browser extensions. The audio file is delivered directly in your chat with no external downloads required.
Method 2: iOS Shortcuts (Best for iPhone & iPad)
Native iOS Solution Without App Store Apps
iOS Shortcuts is Apple's built-in automation tool that runs natively on iPhone and iPad. It's safer than random App Store apps because shortcuts don't require installation permissions and can't access your data beyond what you explicitly share. According to Apple's Shortcuts documentation, shortcuts run in a sandboxed environment for security.
Recommended Shortcut: "SoundCloud Downloader"
- ✓ Available on RoutineHub (community-verified shortcuts)
- ✓ Parses URL from Share Sheet automatically
- ✓ Saves to Files app as M4A or MP3 format
- ✓ Works with private tracks you have access to
Advantages
- No third-party apps needed
- Works directly from SoundCloud's Share menu
- Completely offline processing
- No ads or tracking
Limitations
- Quality limited to 128-256kbps
- Cannot download entire playlists at once
- Requires iOS 14+ for full functionality
How to Download SoundCloud Songs on iPhone Using Shortcuts
Step 1: Install the SoundCloud Downloader Shortcut
Open Safari on your iPhone and visit RoutineHub. Search for "SoundCloud Downloader" and tap "Get Shortcut." Review the permissions and tap "Add Untrusted Shortcut" (requires allowing untrusted shortcuts in Settings → Shortcuts → Advanced).
Step 2: Open SoundCloud and Find Your Track
Open the SoundCloud app and navigate to the track you want to download. Make sure you're connected to Wi-Fi for faster processing.
Step 3: Share to the Shortcut
Tap the "Share" button (three dots) → Scroll down and select "SoundCloud Downloader" from the Share Sheet. The shortcut will extract the audio URL and begin downloading.
Step 4: Find Downloaded Track in Files App
Open the Files app → "On My iPhone" → "Downloads" folder. Your track will be saved as an M4A or MP3 file. You can then import it to Apple Music or any music player app.
Method 3: Browser Extensions (Best for PC and Mac)
One-Click Desktop Downloading
Browser extensions add a physical "Download" button directly to SoundCloud's player interface, making it feel like a native feature. This is the cleanest desktop experience for regular SoundCloud users.
1 Addoncrop SoundCloud Music Downloader
The most reliable SoundCloud downloader extension for Chrome. Adds a "Download" button next to every track with quality selection (128kbps to 320kbps).
2 SaveFrom.net Helper
Universal downloader extension supporting 40+ platforms including SoundCloud. Reliable but with slightly more ads than Addoncrop.
Best For: Desktop users who browse SoundCloud regularly and want seamless one-click downloads without leaving the browser. Perfect for building DJ libraries or archiving favorite tracks. Extensions respect artist-enabled download restrictions and preserve original quality when available.
Method 4: Android Apps (Alternative to Bots)
For Android users who prefer standalone apps over Telegram bots:
SoundLoader for Android
SoundLoader is a dedicated SoundCloud downloader for Android available on the Play Store. It offers a clean interface without the aggressive ads found on converter websites.
Direct Downloads
Metadata Included
SD Card Support
Simply copy any SoundCloud link, open SoundLoader, paste the URL, select quality (128-320kbps), and download directly to your device or SD card.
How to Download High-Quality SoundCloud (320kbps & WAV)
Standard online converters typically rip at 128kbps, which sounds muddy on professional sound systems. DJs, producers, and audiophiles need higher quality for Rekordbox, Serato, or studio use.
Free Method: Artist Downloads
The 100% Legal Way: Many producers enable a "Free Download" button on their tracks, offering WAV or 320kbps MP3 files directly.
How to Find Free Downloads:
- Use SoundCloud search filters: Add "Free Download" to your search query
- Look for tracks with a "↓ Free Download" button below the waveform
- Click the button to download original quality (often WAV or 320kbps)
According to Creative Commons, many SoundCloud artists release tracks under licenses that explicitly allow free downloads with attribution.
Premium Tools: Desktop Software
For Professional Use: Desktop software can capture audio streams at higher bitrates or convert to lossless formats.
ViWizard SoundCloud Music Converter
Records streams at 320kbps, converts to WAV/FLAC. Windows & macOS. $39.95 one-time.
TuneFab SoundCloud Downloader
Batch downloading with metadata preservation. 320kbps MP3 or M4A. $39.95/year.
Note: These tools are designed for professional archival and Rekordbox library building, not for piracy.
Download SoundCloud to Rekordbox (DJ Guide)
Complete DJ Workflow
Download at Highest Available Quality
Use browser extensions (Addoncrop) or desktop software to ensure 320kbps MP3 minimum. Avoid 128kbps files they sound terrible on club systems.
Organize Files on Your Computer
Create a dedicated folder (e.g., "SoundCloud Downloads"). Ensure file names are clean (remove special characters that Rekordbox might not read).
Import to Rekordbox
In Rekordbox: File → Import Folder → Select your downloads folder. Rekordbox will analyze waveforms, detect BPM, and add tracks to your Collection.
Verify Audio Quality
Check the "Bit Rate" column in Rekordbox. Files should show 256kbps or higher. If you see 128kbps, re-download from a better source.
Pro Tip: For analyzing audio content beyond DJing, explore our audio to notes feature that automatically transcribes and summarizes audio files, perfect for extracting insights from podcasts, interviews, or educational content on SoundCloud.
Command Line Method: SCDL for Power Users
For technical users who need to download entire artist discographies or automate SoundCloud archiving, scdl is the most powerful SoundCloud downloader on GitHub.
SCDL (SoundCloud Downloader CLI)
SCDL is a Python-based command-line tool that can download tracks, playlists, likes, and entire user profiles with original quality preservation. According to Python Software Foundation, command-line tools offer maximum control and automation capabilities.
pip install scdlscdl -l https://soundcloud.com/artist/trackKey Features
- ✓ Download entire playlists or user likes
- ✓ Preserves original upload quality
- ✓ Automatic metadata tagging
- ✓ Batch processing for archiving
Common Commands
scdl -l [URL]
Download track/playlist
scdl -l [URL] -c
Continue interrupted downloads
scdl -me
Download your own likes (requires auth)
Technical Requirement: Requires Python 3.8+ and basic command-line knowledge. For detailed setup instructions, visit the official SCDL GitHub repository.
Is SoundCloud Downloader Safe?
Safety depends on the method you choose. Here’s a breakdown of safety considerations:
✅ Safest Methods
- iOS Shortcuts: Runs natively on your device with no external servers
- Telegram Bots: Telegram's secure infrastructure, no browser exposure
- Browser Extensions: Verified extensions from official stores only
- SCDL: Open-source, community-audited code on GitHub
⚠️ Use with Caution
- Android Apps: Only download from Google Play Store, never from third-party APK sites
- Desktop Software: Research reviews before purchasing; some bundle adware
- Web Converters: Use ad blockers and never click pop-up "Download" buttons
❌ Always Avoid
- Random Converter Sites: Most contain malware or phishing attempts
- Fake "Cracked" Software: Pirated versions often include trojans
- Sites Asking for Login: Never give your SoundCloud credentials to third parties
According to FTC’s phishing guidelines, fake converter sites are a common vector for malware distribution. Stick to verified methods from official sources.
How to Download SoundCloud Playlist to MP3
Downloading entire playlists requires tools that support batch processing. Here are the working methods:
Option 1: SCDL Command Line (Best for Large Playlists)
Use the command: scdl -l [PLAYLIST_URL]
This downloads all tracks in the playlist with metadata, organizing them in folders by artist and playlist name. Perfect for archiving DJ sets or label showcases.
Option 2: Telegram Bots (Mobile-Friendly)
Send playlist URL to @scdlbot
The bot will process each track and send them individually (up to 50 tracks). Takes longer but works entirely on your phone.
Option 3: Browser Extensions with Playlist Support
Some extensions add "Download Playlist" buttons
Addoncrop's extension can detect playlists and offer batch download options. However, you'll need to click each track individually in most cases.
Troubleshooting Common SoundCloud Download Issues
This happens when downloaders fail to fetch SoundCloud's metadata API correctly. The audio is fine, but the MP3 file is missing embedded artwork.
Solution: Use Telegram bots like @scdlbot or desktop software like SCDL, which automatically fetch and embed album art. Alternatively, manually add artwork using iTunes (Mac) or Windows Media Player by right-clicking the file → Properties → Add Album Art.
This error appears when:
- The track is region-locked or set to private by the artist
- SoundCloud has removed the track due to copyright claims
- The downloader tool is using outdated API endpoints
Solution: Try a different method (if Telegram bot fails, try browser extension). For private tracks, you can only download them if you have direct access through your SoundCloud account and use tools that support authentication (iOS Shortcuts or SCDL with auth token).
Many artists upload tracks at 128kbps to SoundCloud's free tier, so even "working" downloaders can only grab what's available on the platform. SoundCloud compresses all uploads, and free-tier artists are limited to 128kbps.
Solution:
- Look for tracks with the "Free Download" button these are often higher quality WAV or 320kbps files
- Check if the artist sells the track on Bandcamp, Beatport, or Juno Download for lossless versions
- Use desktop software like ViWizard that can capture the stream at maximum available quality
iOS Shortcuts can fail when SoundCloud updates its API or when you're on a restricted network (school/work Wi-Fi often blocks media downloads).
Solution: Update to the latest version of the shortcut from RoutineHub. Switch to cellular data if Wi-Fi is restricted. If the shortcut is truly broken, use Telegram bots as a backup method they work independently of iOS restrictions.
How to Download Private SoundCloud Tracks
Private tracks are only visible to users the artist has granted access to. Standard downloaders cannot access them without authentication.
Method: SCDL with Authentication Token
The command-line tool SCDL can download private tracks if you provide your SoundCloud authentication token. This allows the tool to access tracks you have permission to view.
scdl -l [PRIVATE_TRACK_URL] --auth-token [YOUR_TOKEN]To find your auth token: Log in to SoundCloud on desktop → Press F12 (Developer Tools) → Application tab → Cookies → Find oauth_token value. This method requires technical knowledge and should only be used for content you have legitimate access to.
Alternative: Convert SoundCloud to Text for Podcasts
Beyond music, SoundCloud hosts podcasts, interviews, and educational audio. If you need to analyze or transcribe SoundCloud audio content:
ScreenApp: Audio Analysis Beyond Downloading
While download tools save audio files, ScreenApp's [audio to notes converter](/features/audio-to-notes) goes further by automatically transcribing and summarizing audio content. Perfect for:
Podcast Analysis
Transcribe SoundCloud podcasts to searchable text, extract key quotes, and create summaries for quick reference.
Interview Documentation
Convert audio interviews to text transcripts with speaker identification and timestamps for research or content creation.
Educational Content
Turn lectures, seminars, or tutorials into structured notes with automatic key point extraction.
Music Research
Analyze DJ mixes or production tutorials to extract techniques, track lists, or educational insights.
Learn more about [AI audio transcription](/blog/best-ai-transcription-software) for professional audio analysis workflows.
Frequently Asked Questions
Downloading copyrighted music without permission for commercial use or redistribution is illegal. However, many SoundCloud artists use Creative Commons licenses that allow free downloads with attribution. Look for tracks with the official "Free Download" button enabled by the artist these are 100% legal. For personal archival use of music you intend to purchase, downloading falls into a gray area. According to EFF's fair use guidelines, always respect artist rights and support creators by purchasing music when possible.
The best method for iPhone is using iOS Shortcuts. Install a SoundCloud downloader shortcut from RoutineHub (search "SoundCloud Downloader"), then in the SoundCloud app, tap "Share" on any track → Select the shortcut from the Share Sheet → The file saves to your Files app. Alternatively, use Telegram bots like @scdlbot which work on any platform including iPhone. For more audio processing capabilities, explore our AI voice recorder for capturing and analyzing audio content.
For 320kbps downloads, use browser extensions like Addoncrop SoundCloud Music Downloader which offers quality selection up to 320kbps. For WAV or FLAC lossless quality, you need desktop software like ViWizard SoundCloud Music Converter or the command-line tool SCDL. Important: The maximum quality depends on the artist's upload. If they uploaded at 128kbps, no tool can improve the quality you're limited to the source file's bitrate.
No direct import exists, but you can use workarounds: Download the track using iOS Shortcuts or Telegram bots → Save to Files app → Open Apple Music → Library → Add Files → Select the downloaded track. The track will appear in your Apple Music library as a local file. For Spotify, you need Spotify Premium and must add files through the desktop app's "Local Files" feature mobile-only downloads won't work. Note that these are local files only; they won't sync to other devices unless uploaded to your cloud storage.
Download tracks to your computer using browser extensions or SCDL, organize them in a dedicated folder, then in Rekordbox: File → Import Folder → Select your downloads folder. Rekordbox will automatically analyze waveforms, detect BPM, and add tracks to your Collection. For best results, ensure downloads are 256kbps or higher check the "Bit Rate" column in Rekordbox to verify quality. Low-quality files (128kbps) will sound poor on professional sound systems and should be avoided for live performance.
Yes, but it depends on your tool. SCDL (command-line tool) is the best for bulk playlist downloads use scdl -l [PLAYLIST_URL] to download all tracks with metadata. Telegram bots like @scdlbot can process playlists but send tracks individually (up to 50 tracks). Browser extensions typically require clicking each track separately. For archiving large collections, SCDL is the most efficient option.
According to SoundCloud's Terms of Service, users should not download content unless the artist has enabled the "Download" button. However, many artists upload to SoundCloud specifically to share music freely. For personal archival use of tracks you intend to support financially, the practice is tolerated. Commercial use, redistribution, or claiming others' work as your own clearly violates TOS and copyright law. Always respect artist rights and purchase tracks when possible on platforms like Bandcamp or Beatport.
SoundCloud Go+ ($10.99/month) provides: (1) Offline listening within the SoundCloud app, (2) No ads, (3) Access to major label music. However, you don't own the files they're DRM-protected and only playable in the SoundCloud app. Downloading gives you MP3/WAV files you can use in any player, DJ software, or audio editor. For DJs and producers, downloading is essential since Rekordbox and Serato require actual audio files. For casual listeners who only use SoundCloud, Go+ might be more convenient.
Yes, use Telegram bots which require no app installation beyond Telegram itself (which most people already have). Open Telegram → Search for @scdlbot → Send your SoundCloud link → Bot replies with audio file → Save to device. This method works entirely within Telegram's ecosystem, avoiding the need to download suspicious Android apps or visit converter websites with malware risks.
Follow these safety rules: (1) Never use random converter websites stick to methods in this guide (Telegram bots, iOS Shortcuts, verified browser extensions), (2) Install browser extensions only from official Chrome Web Store or Firefox Add-ons, (3) Use ad blockers when accessing any converter site, (4) Never download .exe files from converter sites (legitimate downloads are .mp3 or .m4a only), (5) Keep antivirus software active. According to FTC guidelines, if a site asks for credit card info for "free" downloads, it's a scam legitimate tools never require payment information.
Choose Your SoundCloud Download Method
The best SoundCloud to MP3 converter for you depends on your device and quality needs. For iPhone users, iOS Shortcuts offer the safest native solution without third-party apps. Android users get instant results with Telegram bots like @scdlbot. Desktop users benefit from browser extensions that add download buttons directly to SoundCloud’s interface. DJs and producers need desktop software or SCDL for 320kbps and WAV quality suitable for Rekordbox or professional use.
All methods in this guide are actively maintained and working as of December 2025. Avoid random converter websites that pose malware risks and deliver poor quality. Whether you need to download SoundCloud songs for offline listening, build a DJ library, or archive favorite remixes, these verified tools provide safe, reliable solutions.
Remember to support artists: If you love a track, purchase it on Bandcamp, Beatport, or directly from the artist. SoundCloud is a platform built on community support downloading should complement purchases, not replace them.
Related Resources:
- Best audio notetakers for transcribing audio content
- Voice translator tool for multilingual audio processing
- AI meeting recorder for professional audio capture
- Audio transcription guide for converting speech to text
