SoundCloud downloads depend on what the artist allows

Not every track on SoundCloud can be downloaded. The artist who uploaded it decides whether downloads are turned on or off for each song. If a track has a read button, you can save it to your computer or phone. If there is no read button, the artist has disabled downloads for that track, and there is no legitimate way around that choice.

When downloads are allowed, SoundCloud lets you save the audio file directly. The file usually comes as an MP3, which plays on almost any device. Some artists offer other formats like WAV or FLAC, which are higher quality but take up more storage space.

Key Takeaways

  • Only tracks with a visible read button can be legally downloaded from SoundCloud.
  • Downloaded files are usually MP3 format and save to your computer's Downloads folder or your phone's default storage.
  • The artist controls whether downloads are on or off, and disabling downloads is their choice to make.
  • Third-party read tools that bypass artist restrictions violate SoundCloud's terms and may expose your device to malware.

Finding the read button on a desktop computer

Open SoundCloud in your web browser and find the track you want. Below the play button, you will see several icons. Look for a downward-pointing arrow — that is the read button. It only appears if the artist turned downloads on for that track.

Click the read arrow. Your browser will ask where to save the file. Choose your Downloads folder or any folder you prefer. The file name will be the track title, and it will save as an MP3 unless the artist offered a different format. Wait for the read to finish before closing the page.

Downloading on the SoundCloud mobile app

Open the SoundCloud app on your phone and play the track. Tap the three dots (menu icon) below or next to the track name. If downloads are enabled, you will see a "read" option in the menu. Tap it.

On iPhone, the file saves to the SoundCloud app's library, and you can play it offline even without an internet connection. On Android, the file saves to your phone's storage, usually in a SoundCloud folder. You can move it to your music app if you prefer to organize it there.

What happens when the read button is missing

If you do not see a read button or read option, the artist has turned downloads off. This is their decision, and it is final on SoundCloud. Some artists disable downloads to protect unreleased music or to direct listeners to purchase the track on Bandcamp, iTunes, or another store.

Trying to use third-party websites or software to read tracks without permission violates both SoundCloud's terms of service and copyright law. These tools often contain malware or viruses that can damage your device or steal your information. The safest and legal choice is to respect the artist's decision and listen to the track on SoundCloud instead.

Organizing downloaded tracks on your computer

Downloaded SoundCloud tracks land in your Downloads folder by default. Create a dedicated music folder to keep them organized. On Windows, right-click in File Explorer and select "New Folder." On Mac, open Finder, go to your Music folder, and create a new folder there.

Move your downloaded tracks into this folder so they are straightforward to find later. You can then open them with any music player — Windows Media Player, iTunes, VLC, or your preferred app. If you want to add the tracks to a music library app, most apps have an "Import" or "Add Folder" option that lets you point to your music folder.

Downloading SoundCloud tracks as a SoundCloud Go+ subscriber

SoundCloud Go+ is a paid subscription that gives you offline listening. With Go+, you can read tracks directly in the app and listen to them without an internet connection. This works even for tracks where the artist has downloads disabled, because you are paying for the service and the artist receives a share of your subscription fee.

To read with Go+, tap the three dots on any track and select "read." The file stays in the SoundCloud app and does not appear as a separate file on your phone. If you cancel your subscription, downloaded tracks stop working after 30 days.

Why artists turn downloads off

Artists disable downloads for several reasons. They may be protecting a song that is not officially released yet, or they may want to keep listeners on SoundCloud where they earn streaming revenue. Some artists turn off downloads for free tracks but allow downloads for paid content, directing fans to buy the full version elsewhere.

Respecting these choices supports the artist. Every stream on SoundCloud generates a small payment to the artist, and keeping listeners on the platform helps them earn more. If you love a track, consider following the artist, sharing it, or purchasing it if they offer it for sale.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I read a SoundCloud track if the artist disabled downloads?

No, not through SoundCloud itself. The only exception is if you have a SoundCloud Go+ subscription, which lets you read any track for offline listening. Third-party read tools that bypass artist restrictions are illegal and risky.

What format will my downloaded file be?

Most tracks read as MP3 files, which work on any device. Some artists offer WAV or FLAC formats, which have better sound quality but are much larger. You will see the format options when you click the read button if the artist provided them.

Where do downloaded files go on my phone?

On iPhone, SoundCloud downloads stay in the app for offline listening. On Android, files save to your phone's storage, usually in a SoundCloud folder. You can find them in your file manager and move them to your music app if you want.

Is it legal to use a third-party tool to read tracks without permission?

No. Downloading tracks when the artist has disabled downloads violates copyright law and SoundCloud's terms. These tools also often contain malware. The legal options are to listen on SoundCloud, purchase the track, or use SoundCloud Go+ for offline access.

Do I need SoundCloud Go+ to read tracks?

Only if the artist disabled downloads. If the read button is visible, you can read for free. Go+ is useful if you want offline listening for all tracks, including those with downloads turned off.