TikTok sound effects
TikTok sound effects are short audio clips layered onto a video to emphasize, punctuate, or enhance specific moments, making the content more engaging, humorous, or dramatic. They are one of the most powerful tools available for capturing audience attention and telling a compelling story in just a few seconds.
Selected TikTok sound effects
Popular sound effects categories for TikTok
Camera sounds
Add your perfect camera sound to perfect your TikTok video idea.
Keyboard sounds
Add depth to your video with these computer mouse & keyboard sound effects.
Laughter sounds
Add humor to your video with our high quality laughter sound effects.
What are TikTok sound effects?
A TikTok sound effect is a short, impactful audio clip used to enhance or punctuate a moment in a video. These audio cues are powerful narrative devices that help make your content more engaging and shareable.
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What they do: Unlike background music, sound effects are used to make your editing feel sharper, your jokes land better, and your stories resonate more deeply with viewers.
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Common examples: This can be anything from a simple whoosh for a transition, a comedic bonk sound effect TikTok creators use for fail videos, or a dramatic TikTok boom sound effect for a surprising reveal.
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Signal to the algorithm: The strategic use of sound is a powerful signal to the TikTok algorithm. Using a trending sound taps into a larger conversation, increasing the chances of your video landing on the highly coveted For You page.
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Target your audience: By aligning your video with a popular audio trend, you are helping the algorithm connect your content with viewers who are likely to enjoy and engage with it. This can significantly boost your visibility and help you get more followers on TikTok.
Finding the perfect sound effect for TikTok
Finding the right audio is key to standing out on TikTok. While following the latest TikTok trends helps, a diverse catalog of high-quality sound effects makes your content unique.
Here are some of the most effective types of sound effects to elevate your videos:
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For comedy: Use a boing for surprise reactions or tap into trending humor with meme sounds. A well-timed pop or beep can also provide the perfect punchline.
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For transitions: Create seamless edits with whooshes for quick transitions or glitches to match visual distortions and keep viewers engaged.
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For atmosphere: Build a specific mood with applause for a big reveal, or use an echo effect for dramatic storytelling.
How to legally download and use TikTok sound effects
The only legal way to download and use sound effects for TikTok is to source them from a trusted, royalty-free catalog like Epidemic Sound that provides a direct license for their use. Many creators are tempted to search for a "TikTok sound effect free download" or rip audio directly from other videos. However, this practice can lead to serious consequences, including:
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Copyright infringement
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Video takedowns
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Even account suspension
Most popular sounds on TikTok are not licensed for commercial use, meaning brands and creators looking to monetize their content face significant legal risks. As an official TikTok Sound Partner, Epidemic Sound provides a direct license that covers your use of our entire catalog of music and sound effects. This means you get:
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Complete peace of mind to download and use sounds, knowing you have the necessary rights for your content.
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The freedom to monetize across TikTok and all other platforms.
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Powerful and intuitive search tools to find the perfect audio to match your video's needs.
By subscribing to Epidemic Sound, you can avoid copyright claims and focus on what you do best: creating amazing content.
Music for TikTok
Now that you have your TikTok sound effects, you might need some music to complement your content. Here, you'll find the perfect music to bring your TikTok videos to the next level!
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between TikTok sounds and sound effects?
The main difference is that "Sounds" are the primary audio track, like a song, while sound effects are shorter, layered clips used to highlight specific actions. A video has one primary "Sound" but can have many sound effects.
How do sound effects impact TikTok video virality?
Sound effects boost virality by grabbing viewer attention and increasing engagement through humor or surprise. A well-placed sound makes your video more memorable and shareable, which is key to learning how to go viral.
Where can you find trending TikTok sound effects?
You can find trending sounds on your "For You" page and in the "Trending" section of TikTok's sound library. However, since the latest TikTok trends change so quickly, many creators use a dedicated library to find unique audio and start their own trends.
Are there royalty-free sound effect catalogs for TikTok creators?
Yes. Royalty-free catalogs provide high-quality, cleared audio that’s safe for any video, including sponsored content. As a TikTok Sound Partner, Epidemic Sound gives you a full license to our catalog, helping you get more followers on TikTok without copyright worries.
How do you add sound effects to a TikTok video?
You need to use a video editing app to layer the audio onto your video before uploading it to TikTok.
- Download a sound effect from a licensed catalog like Epidemic Sound.
- Import the clip into one of the best video editing apps and software.
- Drag the audio onto your timeline at the exact moment you want it to play.
- Adjust the volume and export the final video.
Can you use copyrighted music as a sound effect on TikTok?
No, using copyrighted music as a sound effect, especially in branded content, can get your video muted or removed. It's essential to avoid copyright claims with music by using a fully licensed catalog.
Why are some TikTok sound effects not available?
Sounds may be unavailable due to regional licensing and copyright restrictions. This is why Business Accounts often have a more limited sound catalog. Using a globally licensed catalog ensures the audio is always available for you.
What are the most popular types of sound effects on TikTok?
The most popular effects are those that create a quick, universal emotion.
- Comedy: Funny noises like a bonk or crickets for punchlines.
- Transitions: Sounds like whooshes or glitches for seamless edits.
- Storytelling: Reaction effects like a gasp or applause to enhance the narrative.
- Mood: Atmospheric sounds like a clock ticking to build suspense.