Can you put MP3 on an iPod?

Yes, all iPod models natively support the MP3 audio format. You can add MP3 files using tools like iTunes, or third-party software like Dr.Fone for an easier process.

How can I add songs to my iPod without iTunes?

You can use a third-party tool like Wondershare Dr.Fone or MediaMonkey. These applications allow you to directly drag and drop MP3 files from your computer to your iPod without needing to sync with an iTunes library, which also prevents your existing music from being erased.

Does iPod support MP3?

Yes, MP3 is one of the primary audio formats supported by all generations of iPod, including the iPod Classic, Nano, Shuffle, and Touch.

Dr.Fone - Phone Manager (iOS)

One Step Solution to Manage iDevice on PC

Transfers and manages all data on iPhone/iPad.
Able to transfer between iTunes, iOS & Android.
Support any iDevice models running iOS or iPadOS.
A few clicks can complete the transfer.

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3 Easy Ways to Transfer MP3 to iPod in 2025 (With & Without iTunes)

Daisy Raines

Sep 23, 2025 • Filed to: Device Data Management • Proven solutions

I have 1500 MP3 songs on my Sansa. For some reason, only 959 songs were transferred to iTunes and only 741 made it to the iPod. How can I do this again and make sure all MP3 songs are transferred to iTunes, and then to my iPod? Also, is there a quicker way to add MP3 to iPod, possibly without iTunes or without dragging 4 at a time?

The iPod remains a favorite music player for those who enjoy listening while working, studying, or traveling. But for many users, figuring out how to transfer MP3 to iPod can be a hassle. iTunes often feels slow, complicated, or even prevents some songs from syncing properly—especially if your library is too large.

how to transfer mp3 to ipod

Solution 1. Easily Transfer MP3 to iPod without iTunes
Solution 2. How to Sync MP3 to iPod with iTunes
Solution 3. How to Copy MP3 to iPod with MediaMonkey
Video Tutorial: How to Transfer MP3 to iPod without iTunes

Solution 1. Easily Transfer MP3 to iPod without iTunes

The easiest way to handle how to transfer MP3 to iPod without iTunes is by using a reliable iPod transfer tool. Rather than wasting time testing random apps, we recommend Wondershare Dr.Fone —a trusted solution designed specifically for iPod users. With it, you can quickly transfer music and other files between your computer and iPod without the limitations of iTunes.

Supported: iPod Touch, iPod Shuffle, iPod Nano, iPod Classic

Wondershare Dr.Fone

Transfer Music from Computer to iPod/iPhone/iPad without iTunes

Transfer, manage, export/import your music, photos, videos, contacts, SMS, Apps etc.
Backup your music, photos, videos, contacts, SMS, Apps etc. to computer and restore them easily.
Transfer music, photos, videos, contacts, messages, etc from one smartphone to another.
Transfer media files between iOS devices and iTunes.
Support all iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch models with any iOS versions.

Available on: Windows Mac

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3981454 people have downloaded it

You can now transer music, videos, playlist and more between iPod and PC/Mac without iTunes.

Steps to transfer MP3 to iPod with Dr.Fone

Step 1: Install Wondershare Dr.Fone

Download and install the right version of Dr.Fone according to your computer operating system. Use the USB cable to connect your iPod with your computer. When Dr.Fone detects your iPod, it will display your iPod in its main window.

how to transfer mp3 to ipod without itunes

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Step 2: Select Appropriate Transfer Option

Select the option of Export iTunes media to device on the next window since you are to transfer data from iTunes to iPod.

transfer mp3 music to ipod touch without itunes

Step 3: Transfer MP3 to iPod without iTunes

If you've collected all MP3 songs which you're going to put to iPod, by clicking Transfer, all songs will be added to your iPod in a second.

transfer mp3 music to ipod touch without itunes

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Advantage:

1. Simple operation.
2. Transfer all music: Dr.Fone can convert the music formats(that iTunes doesn't support) to mp3 (iTunes supports) automatically.
3. Fix ID3 tags and Album Arts.
4. Transfer Music from iPod to iTunes.
5. Transfer MP3 to iPod without iTunes.

Tags: Transfer MP3 to iPod Touch | Transfer MP3 to iPod Shuffle | Transfer MP3 to iPod Nano | Transfer MP3 to iPod Classic

Solution 2. How to Sync MP3 to iPod with iTunes

For users wondering how to transfer MP3 to iPod with iTunes, remember that iTunes is Apple’s official tool for syncing music. Before starting the transfer, make sure your iTunes is updated to the latest version to avoid errors and ensure smooth syncing. You can either check the new version in your iTunes or download the latest version from Apple official site. Next, follow the steps below.

Step 1: Run iTunes on your computer. Click the File menu in iTunes > select Add File to Library or Add Folder to Library to add your MP3 songs to iTunes Library.

how to transfer mp3 music to iPod with itunes

Step 2: Click the View menuin iTunes > select Show Sidebar. Connect your iPod with your computer via a USB cable. When connected, your iPod will apear in DEVICES in the sidebar.

transfer mp3 to ipod with itunes

Step 3: Click your iPod in the sidebar. Then click Music tab in the right side window. From here, check Sync Music. Next, you should select songs and click Apply to put MP3 to your iPod.

sync mp3 music to ipod with itunes

Disadvantages: 1. Complex operation 2. Can't transfer some music formats(iTunes doesn't support some formats)

Solution 3. Copy MP3 to iPod with MediaMonkey (Windows)

Many iPod users prefer alternatives to iTunes for music management, and one of the most popular options is MediaMonkey. Beyond being a powerful media player, MediaMonkey also works as an iPod transfer tool. If you’re looking for how to transfer MP3 to iPod without iTunes, simply connect your iPod to your computer via USB, let MediaMonkey detect your device, then go to Tools > Sync Devices and select your iPod to transfer your MP3 songs. Learn more about MediaMonkey>>

Transfer MP3 to iPod with mediamonkey put MP3 to iPod

Video Tutorial: How to Transfer MP3 to iPod without iTunes

Conclusion

Dr.Fone - Phone Manager (iOS) could help you transfer MP3 music files to iPod Touch, iPod Shuffle, iPod Nano, iPod Classic easily without iTunes. This iPod Transfer tool could also help you transfer music from iTunes to iPod easily. Simply download and have a try! If this guide helps, don't forget to share it with your friends.

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