If you've followed the steps in this article but you're still experiencing issues with uploading your content, we recommend checking out the information below to help you rule out the most common blockers.
File requirements
File types
We currently accept WAV, AIFF, FLAC or AAC, OGG, M4A, MP2, MP3 or WMAs.
Even if your content is an accepted file type, sometimes making a small tweak to your file will help it upload successfully. You may wish to consider changing the file type, removing a very small section of audio, or reducing the file size by encoding the file at a lower bitrate.
File size and length
The minimum length of the audio content you can upload to Mixcloud is 30 seconds. If your upload is under 30 seconds, your upload will fail.
We currently classify any uploads between 30 seconds and 15 minutes as 'tracks', while uploads over 15 minutes are 'shows'. If you're attempting to upload short-form content under 15 minutes, we recommend checking the folder for your drafts of tracks as it may be available to publish there.
You can upload files up to 4GB to Mixcloud. If your file is too large to upload, you may want to consider converting it to a format with file compression (such as MP3) or splitting your upload multiple parts.
File name and metadata
We recommend removing any unusual characters, symbols, emojis, and fonts from your file name and any associated metadata.
If you're having issues uploading a file that contains embedded artwork, try removing this before re-uploading.
Software and device
Check for updates
Ensure your operating system (OS) and web browser are up to date. Regular updates can improve compatibility and performance.
Here are references for updating some common operating systems and web browsers:
- Windows: How to Update Windows 10 & 11
- MacOS: How to Update MacOS
- Google Chrome: Update Google Chrome
- Mozilla Firefox: Update Firefox to the latest release
- Safari: Update Safari on Mac
Try a different browser
If you continue to encounter issues, experiment with different web browsers. This can help to narrow down if the issue is with specific versions of a browser, and is a quick way to check if any browser extensions or settings are impacting your regular browser.
We recommend using Google Chrome to access Mixcloud, however, you may also wish to try other popular browsers such as Firefox or Safari.
You can also try using your browser's incognito mode or private browsing features.
Turn off background apps and software
Sometimes, running applications and software in the background can cause performance issues or interfere with your uploads.
If you're having trouble with your upload reaching us, we recommend closing any programs you don't need, including any extra browser tabs.
You can also try to switch off your browser extensions (or use private browsing), such as ad-blockers.
We also recommend temporarily switching off internet security and firewalls, as overactive security software may be preventing you from uploading successfully.
Connection issues
Check your connection
To increase your internet's stability, we recommend using a wired connection. Try plugging in an ethernet cable instead of uploading over a WiFi connection.
We recommend testing your internet speed here. Pay particular attention to your upload speed and packet loss.
If you can access a different network, (eg. in a different location, or using a cellular hotspot or a new), try uploading while connected to a different network. This will help to narrow down if the issue is with your regular network's settings or speed.
Switch off or change your VPN
If there's an active VPN on your device, try switching this off or connecting to a different server. Some providers may block access to certain sites or features, or limit your ability to upload.
Contact your Internet Service Provider or network administrator
Your provider may have limits or filters in place that are causing issues with your show reaching us.
This could be linked to limits with your internet plan or may be due to built-in security features.
We recommend contacting your ISP or network administrator directly to understand if there are any blocks preventing you from uploading to Mixcloud.
If you've noticed that you regularly have issues with uploading at a particular time of day, this may indicate traffic on your network. Reach out to your Internet Service Provider for assistance.
Check your drafts
Uploads can take a few hours to process depending on their size. If you experienced an issue towards the end of the uploading process, check your draft folder for tracks or shows after some time to see if your upload has been processed despite the connection issue.
If you're still experiencing upload issues after trying the above, please describe your issue in detail and confirm which troubleshooting steps you tried by filling out this form.