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How To Export A Playlist - The Easiest Methods

Compiling your favorite tunes to a playlist is a great way to enjoy and share your music - but how can you send these playlists to another computer or location?

In this guide, you'll learn how to export playlists from a range of libraries, including iTunes, and Windows Media Player.

You'll also discover how you can use DJ.Studio to turn your playlist into a seamless, DJ-style mix, even if you have no technical experience.

TL;DR - Exporting Playlists#

  • Learn how to export playlists from iTunes/Apple Music, and Windows Media Player

  • Learn how to use VLC media player for more versatile playlist file types

  • DJ.Studio makes it easy for anyone to turn a playlist into a full, seamless DJ mix.

How to Export Playlists - Guides #

Exporting playlists is useful if you want to listen to the same playlist on another computer, send you playlist to someone else, or just want to make a backup for safekeeping. 

Understanding Playlist File Types #

playlist file types

Depending on what software you use to create, there are a few different types of playlist files.

Each of these contains different information and is compatible with certain programs. Here are the most commonly used types:

  • M3U (M3U8) - This is a plain text playlist format that contains references to audio or video files. Each entry is a URL or file path. Find out more about M3U Playlist Maker Software.

  • PLS (Plain Text) - PLS files are used for storing playlists. Like M3U, these are plain text files and can contain references to audio files.

  • XSPF (XML) - It uses XML tags to define the playlist structure and can store additional information such as titles, durations, and more.

  • WPL - WPL is a proprietary playlist format used by Microsoft's Windows Media Player. It can contain references to audio and video files, as well as additional metadata.

  • CUE (Cue Sheet) - CUE files are associated with disc image files, such as those created from a CD or DVD. They contain information about the tracks on the disc, including their order and filenames.

You'll need to pick a type that is compatible with the destination of your exported playlist.

Below we share the methods on how to export playlists from a range of locations.

How To Export iTunes Playlists#

itunes logo

Follow these steps to export an iTunes playlist (aka Apple Music)

  1. Open the iTunes app or Apple Music

  2. Navigate to the playlist you want to export

  3. In the top bar, select File > Library > Export Playlist.

    exporting itunes playlist
  4. Then choose the format you want to export the playlist in, this all depends on where you are sending the playlist - and what file type the destination requires.

How To Export Windows Media Playlists#

windows media player logo
  1. Open Windows Media Player

  2. Open your Playlist folder

  3. Right-click the playlist you want to export, select 'Open File Location'

    exporting windows playlist
  4. You will now see the .wpl file in Windows File Explorer

    windows .wpl saved

Windows Media Player can only export .wpl playlists, which can only be used with Windows Media Player.

I suggest you look into using VLC Media Player (a free app), which gives you more playlist file-type options.

Export Playlists with VLC Media Player#

vlc media logo

VLC is a free Windows and Mac app that is handy for exporting your entire playlist to a range of formats.

  1. Open VLC media player and create a new playlist folder

  2. Fill the playlist folder with the chosen tracks

  3. From the menu bar, select File > Save Playlist to File

    exporting vlc playlist
  4. Then select the desired playlist file type

    choose vlc playlist filetype.

Creating Seamless Playlists With DJ.Studio#

dj studio carousel

Sure, exporting a playlist is nice - but what if I told you you could create seamless mixes of your playlists with only a few button clicks?

DJ.Studio is a new type of mix creation software (it's loved by all kinds of people, not just DJs!). It's also some of the best Playlist Software for Radio Stations!

Even if you have no technical audio experience, it allows you to quickly create pro-sounding, seamless mixes. This creates an even more enjoyable and engaging listening experience compared to a standard playlist.

dj set flow

To convert your playlists into a seamless mix using DJ.Studio:

  1. Open the DJ.Studio app (either downloaded or in your browser).

  2. Import the playlist - DJ.Studio can connect to a lot of other music library software, including iTunes.

  3. Add the songs from your imported playlist to a new project.

  4. Click automix, and let DJ.Studio arrange your songs in the best order. It automatically creates crossfades and transitions, so there isn't a silent gap between each song.

  5. Now you can adjust the mix if you like - you can change the transitions, and placements of each song, add effects, and change the order.

  6. Export! The simple export interface lets you create a single file from your playlist!

DJ.Studio works with downloaded music files, or you can use it in YouTube mode.

This lets you create mixes with the same tools, but instead using audio from YouTube or Spotify. You can easily use a Playlist from YouTube - and then share your mix with our online mix player.

(You can also use DJ.Studio to create M3U8 playlist files, and Convert Playlists to MP3.

Finally…#

dj studio timelne

Now you've learned about the different playlist export methods available, it's time to get exporting! If you're just looking for a quick export from your music app, it should only take a minute.

If you want to create a more engaging listening experience, you should try making a seamless mix from your playlist in DJ.Studio - get started for free!

Check out my guide on The Best Playlist Creator Software for some recommendations!

Noah Feasey-Kemp
DJ/Producer
I started DJing when I was 15. Started a record label, residency by a club in Bristol. I’ve played at all the biggest clubs in Bristol (and the small ones) and have entertained thousands of dancers! I love writing about music, DJing, and technology. I've been blogging for DJ.Studio since the start of the project, and am always happy to answer questions and help fellow DJs out!

FAQs About How To Export Playlist

How do I send a playlist from my iPhone?
Can you export playlist from Spotify?
How do I export iTunes playlist from iPhone to computer?

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