What are TikTok sounds?
TikTok sounds are short audio clips that users can add to their videos on the platform. They can include anything from music clips, dialog, sound effects, viral memes, and more. According to Metricool, TikTok sounds come from the in-app sound library or users can upload their own custom audio.
The key defining feature of TikTok sounds is their short length, usually around 3-5 seconds. This allows them to loop seamlessly and sync up with short form videos on the platform. TikTok sounds help add context, emotion, humor or other creative elements to videos.
Why use non-song sounds?
Using non-song sounds on TikTok can provide more originality compared to popular songs that many other users may be using. Coming up with a unique sound helps your content stand out and gets more attention. It also allows you to express your creativity and personality through the types of sounds you choose.
Another benefit of using non-song sounds is avoiding any copyright issues. Many popular songs are copyrighted, so if you use them in TikToks, there is a risk the content could get flagged and taken down. Non-song sounds and effects don’t have this problem.
Search for sounds in the app
The easiest way to find sounds on TikTok that aren’t songs is to use the search bar in the app. When you tap the search icon, make sure to select “Sounds” at the top of the screen instead of letting it default to the “Top” tab.
This will bring up TikTok’s sound library where you can browse by category or keyword. Some of the most popular categories for viral non-song sounds are Voice & Comedy, Action & Sci-Fi, and Memes. Browse these categories or search for keywords related to the type of sound you want.
For example, searching “voice” will bring up a variety of viral voice clips and sound bites. Searching “meme” will surface meme sounds and audio that are popular for certain trends. You can also search for specific words or phrases if you have a particular sound in mind.
The key is specifying “Sounds” instead of letting the app default to song results in the broader search. This way you can easily find TikTok sounds and audio clips separate from full music tracks.
Check out trending sounds
One easy way to find unique, non-song sounds on TikTok is to browse the app’s curated lists of trending sounds. TikTok has a dedicated Sounds page that features two key tabs: Trending and Recent.
The Trending tab showcases the most popular sounds being used in videos across TikTok at the moment. Tapping into trending sounds is a great way to make content that relates to what’s currently resonating with the TikTok community. While many trending sounds are current pop songs or viral audio clips, you can also find interesting sound effects, dialogue snippets from TV shows, and more.
According to TikTok’s creative center, some examples of recent trending non-song sounds included viral meme audios like the “Oh no” clip from Family Guy, the “Woman screaming at cat” meme, and sound bites from popular shows like The Office (TikTok Creative Center).
The Recent tab highlights new sounds that are gaining traction on TikTok. Browsing new sounds gives you early access to sounds that may eventually become hugely popular. You can discover fresh content to make videos with before the sounds become oversaturated.
Follow creators who use unique sounds
One way to find original, non-song sounds on TikTok is to follow creators who frequently use novel sounds in their videos. Many innovative TikTok creators enjoy experimenting with unique sounds and audio effects to make their content stand out. They may use sounds like animal noises, nature recordings, original vocals, or funny sound bites that aren’t commercially available songs.
To find these creators, explore trending sounds and hashtags to discover videos using interesting non-song sounds. Check out the audio used in videos you enjoy and visit the creator’s profile to follow them if you’d like to see more of their content. Over time, your Following feed will include more videos with unique sounds from creators you follow.
Following novelty sound creators is a great way to get inspired and find new sounds organically while browsing TikTok. Discovering standout audio can spur ideas for your own creative videos.
Use sound finding websites
There are several websites dedicated to helping TikTok users find trending and popular sounds to use in their videos. Two of the most popular are TikTokSounds.com and TikTokSong.com.
These sites allow you to browse sounds by genre or search for specific sounds. You can preview sounds before deciding to use them. They also show trending charts so you can see which sounds are currently going viral on TikTok.
The benefit of using these sound websites is you can find high quality, non-copyrighted sounds that are already proven to work well on TikTok. You don’t have to spend time creating your own sounds from scratch.
Just be sure that if you use a popular sound you put your own unique spin on it. Don’t simply re-create what others have already done. Add your own creative touch or comedic timing to stand out.
Create your own sounds
If you have an idea for a unique sound you want to use in your TikTok videos, you can easily record your own original audio and upload it to use as a sound on TikTok. Here are some tips for creating your own custom sounds:
Record original audio using your phone’s recording feature or a recording app. You can record yourself making funny noises, saying catchphrases, or anything else you want to use. Make sure the audio is high quality. This guide provides steps for recording audio on an iPhone.
Edit the audio using an app like GarageBand or Anchor to clean it up and make it sound professional. Add sound effects or background music if desired. The audio file must be in MP3 or WAV format for TikTok.
Upload your custom audio file to TikTok by tapping the “Sounds” icon when creating a new video. You can then use your original sound and help it go viral!
Creating your own unique sounds is a great way to add your personal touch to videos and potentially achieve widespread use of your own viral sound.
Consider viral meme sounds
Some of the most popular non-song sounds on TikTok come from viral memes and sound effects. Memes that take off tend to get used in thousands of videos, propelling their sounds to trending status. For example, the “Oh No” sound effect from TikTok creator Chicky became a huge meme, appearing in various contexts across the platform. Other viral meme sounds include the “Badum tss” drum crash, “Astronomia” coffin dance meme, and “Run” vine boom effect.
Exploring TikTok’s Meme Sounds and Meme Sound Effects channels can help you discover trending viral meme sounds to use in your own videos. You can also search for compilation videos of popular TikTok meme sounds to get inspiration. Adding a viral meme sound elevates a TikTok video and taps into shared cultural knowledge your audience will recognize.
Use Sounds Relevant to Your Niche
To find suitable sounds that aren’t generic pop songs, consider the niche or genre that fits your content style. For example, if you make comedy sketches, look for funny sound effects or quirky music clips. If your niche is beauty, find soothing ASMR sounds or calm instrumental tracks. Search for sound effects like rain, typing or laughter that complement your niche rather than popular songs.
Spend some time browsing through sounds related to your niche and genre. Listen for unique audio that will elevate your content rather than distract from it. Finding the right atmospheric sounds can make your videos stand out while fitting your brand. Don’t just default to the big hit songs trending on TikTok. With a huge library of sounds, you can find creative options tailored to your style.
Additionally, follow other creators in your niche to discover new sounds they use that resonate with your target audience. Pay attention to which sounds garner engagement within your niche and consider testing them in your own content.
Tips for using non-song sounds effectively
When using non-song sounds on TikTok, it’s important to choose sounds that are relevant to your video concept and niche. According to experts, sounds that are under 5 seconds tend to perform best, as they can be looped easily without getting repetitive (source: https://influencermarketinghub.com/tiktok-sounds/).
Keep your sound volume moderate so it doesn’t overpower the video. Add text, effects, transitions and captions to complement the sound instead of relying solely on it. Using viral meme or trending sounds can help increase views, but try to give them your own creative twist.
Test out different types of sounds and see what resonates most with your target audience. You can also enhance engagement by asking viewers questions or prompts related to the sound. Overall, choose sounds that are short, memorable and make sense for your brand (source: https://www.iconosquare.com/blog/a-simple-guide-to-using-tiktok-sounds).
