Side by side
99Sounds vs Freesound
Both stand on sound effects libraries. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan MacWebWindows
99Sounds offers free sound libraries and instruments for a range of creative projects, with no required credit. Its redistribution and app-use restrictions, plus the Catalina compatibility limit, are important to consider.
Visit 99Sounds
Free plan Open source AndroidAPILinux+4
Freesound offers a broad community library and several ways to discover and share audio. Check each sound’s license before use, and register to download.
Visit FreesoundThe facts
| 99Sounds | Freesound | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Yes |
| Runs on | Mac, Web, Windows | Android, API, Linux, Mac, Self-hosted, Web, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 1 | 1 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | 99sounds.org | freesound.org |
| On sound effects libraries | #2 of 33 | #1 of 33 |
99Sounds: what it does well
- Free libraries and plugins cost nothing.
- Royalty-free use covers personal and commercial projects.
- Attribution is not required.
- Plugin formats include VST, VST3, and AU.
- Sample formats include WAV, MIDI, NKI, SFZ, and Serum presets.
What to know first
- Downloaded audio cannot be sold or redistributed.
- License bars use in noise or sleep-sound apps.
- macOS Catalina is not supported.
Freesound: what it does well
- Browse with keywords or sounds-like searches
- Supports MP3, FLAC, Ogg Vorbis, AIFF, and WAV
- API supports search, retrieval, uploads, comments, and ratings
What to know first
- Downloads require a registered account
- Commercial use depends on each sound’s license
- API use requires a key and may have call limits
Alternatives to 99Sounds Alternatives to Freesound The whole list