Updated February 2021
Where to find sound effects
Here's a lineup of spots to find free and paid sound effects.
Free sound effects
YouTube
Click the sound effects tab and search to your heart’s delight.
No attribution required, and you can use these sounds anywhere.
Freesound
A library of user-submitted sounds that are yours to download after you make a free account.
Just be sure to check the creative-commons license for details on attribution and commercial use.
Paid sound effects
Envato Elements
A subscription to Envato Elements scores you unlimited downloads from its massive library of digital assets, including a catalog of sound effects that won’t disappoint you.
Soundstripe
This subscription music site offers an upgraded plan ($245 a year) that includes unlimited downloads from their library of more than 50,000 sound effects.
Artlist
An upgraded annual subscription at $299 comes with unlimited song and sound-effect downloads.
Epidemic Sound
This subscription site might have the biggest library of sound effects and music, but its complicated license options should make you think twice.