How to Add Notification Sound Effects in Videos

Discover how to use notification sound effects in videos to grab attention, improve user experience, and make your content more engaging and impactful. In addition, add custom sound effects and adjust audio levels with CapCut's audio editing tools.

notifications sound effect
CapCut
CapCut
Jun 16, 2025

The sound associated with receiving a message, software update, or reminder notification is something every person hears in their daily life. Such sounds assist individuals in responding to screens. Whether it be a mobile phone, computer, or tablet, the right notifications sound effect enables users to pay attention to the happenings.

In this article, you will learn how to add notification sound effects in videos for better timing and viewer engagement.

Table of content
  1. What is a notification sound FX
  2. How MP3 notification sounds improve viewer engagement
  3. The best way to add & edit notification sound effects to videos: CapCut
  4. Discover the 5 best websites to download notification sound effects
  5. 5 ways to use notification sound effects in videos
  6. Conclusion
  7. FAQs

What is a notification sound FX

A notification sound effect is an audio cue that plays for messages, updates, reminders, or when an app is active. It is triggered automatically during important events such as receiving an email or an event on the calendar. While some sounds could be custom, notification sound FX can also be simple beeps or tones. Such audios grab a user's attention without the need to look at the screen.

How MP3 notification sounds improve viewer engagement

MP3 sounds to notify people encourage users to participate in an event such as apps, videos or live streams. These short alert sounds go beyond signaling. They also direct attention, enhance reaction, and complete the experience. Here is how phone notifications sound effects improve viewer interaction:

  • Instant recognition

Users can be prompted to engage and take actions such as liking or commenting at certain intervals with the help of MP3 notification sounds. During livestreams, they can signal to viewers at the time intervals when messages are seen or when it's voting time.

  • Boosts interaction

Something that requires immediate attention can be signaled by a sharp or fast paced notification sound effect. Sound effects also amplify certain events such as limited time offers or countdowns. This results in increased viewer activity, particularly during sales or promotional events.

  • Creates urgency

A notification sound effect that is sharp or quick can help create a sense of urgency. It grabs the viewer’s attention right away and signals that something important is happening. This makes the moment feel more immediate and focused.

  • Retains attention

Attention can be focused on viewers by strategically using notification sound FX during periods of silence. Instead of drifting off, users are drawn back to stimuli as a result of sound. This can be useful for long videos, tutorials, or live classes that are capable of triggering a drop in attention.

  • Enhances immersion

While a free notification sound effect can stand out on its own, it is better used to augment the specific elements within a video or application. In a soothing application, a soft chime promotes focus. In games, a sharp beep serves the same purpose.

The best way to add & edit notification sound effects to videos: CapCut

The CapCut desktop video editor is a tool that simplifies the process of adding notification sound effects to videos for educators, marketers, and content creators. It enables precise editing for sound-triggered notifications. From tutorials, app demos to reaction videos, CapCut helps you sync sound effects to on-screen events effortlessly.

Pros
  • Diverse notification sound effects: Choose from a built-in library of beeps, pings, and chimes to match alerts, messages, or system prompts in your video content with ease and precision.
  • Enhance audio in one click: Quickly improve the clarity and quality of your sound effects and background audio with an AI voice enhancer, ensuring a better listening experience.
  • Easily convert speech to text: Use CapCut's auto caption generator to convert voiceovers into on-screen subtitles, making your videos more accessible and simpler to follow.
  • Precise audio keyframing: Control the exact volume, timing, and fade of each sound with frame-level accuracy to create smooth, well-timed effects throughout your video.
Cons
  • Some advanced features require payment.
  • Sound effects need to be downloaded in a stable network environment.
Interface of the CapCut desktop video editor - the perfect way to add notifications sound effects to a video

How to add a notification sound effect to a video in CapCut

To get started, install CapCut by clicking the download button below. Run the setup file and follow the installation steps. After installation, launch CapCut to begin adding sound effects to your video.

    STEP 1
  1. Import the video

Use the "Import" button in CapCut desktop or drag and drop your video into the workspace. Then add the file to the timeline to start editing.

Importing a video into the CapCut desktop video editor
    STEP 2
  1. Apply sound effects and adjust the volume

Click on the "Audio" tab and go to "Sound effects". Type "Notification" in the search bar to explore sound effects like bing, bell, or ringing tones. Download your preferred sound and add it to the video by clicking the "+" icon. Adjust the audio levels and apply fade-in and fade-out effects to create a smooth transition. If the sound effect contains music, you can right-click the audio in the timeline and choose "Separate vocals" or "Separate instruments" for more control.

Adding and adjusting notification sound effects in a video with the CapCut desktop video editor
    STEP 3
  1. Export and share

Complete the audio and video edits, then click "Export," adjust resolution and format as needed, and hit "Export" again. You can also click "Share" to upload your media to TikTok and YouTube.

Exporting a video from the CapCut desktop video editor

Discover the 5 best websites to download notification sound effects

Beyond the built-in CapCut library, various websites provide sound effects for free. These websites can provide a lot of alert, ping, and reminder sounds. Here are the 5 best websites to access versatile notification sound effects:

Pixabay

Pixabay is a rich resource of free sound effects and has phone notification sound effects and alert sounds. For creators who do not want to pay for a subscription, this site is an excellent choice. It provides free sound effects in various formats, which makes it easier to use in videos and other applications. As there are no attribution requirements, Pixabay works well for personal or commercial projects.

For example, you can use "Bell Notification" and "Notification Ping" sound effects.

Pros
  • Free to use without attribution.
  • A variety of options.
  • Easy search functionality.
  • High-quality audio files.
Cons
  • Limited variety compared to paid sites.
  • Some sounds may lack high levels of customization.
Interface of Pixabay - a valuable resource for notification sound effects

Mixkit

Mixkit's collection includes notification pings, beeps, and other sound effects, which are of the best quality. It is well organized and lets users download notification sounds for free. Apart from video and audio notification sounds, Mixkit provides music background for videos, which helps cut down costs and makes editing easier for creators of all skill levels.

For example, you can use "Message Notification" and "Correct answer tone" sound effects.

Pros
  • High-quality, royalty-free audio files.
  • Simple and intuitive user interface.
  • Regular updates with new sounds.
  • Easy download process.
Cons
  • Limited sound categories.
  • Can't filter by specific sound types.
Interface of Mixkit - another site to get free notification sound effects

Storyblocks

This platform has a rich collection of sound effects, including numerous notification beeps to elevate your videos. With a subscription plan, you can easily download notify sound for video and audio projects, perfect for creators with diverse media needs and those looking for high-quality, versatile audio resources that enhance any production’s overall impact and professionalism.

For example, you can use "Good Bright Idea 2" and "Bells Positive Sound" sound effects.

Pros
  • Extensive library of sounds and media.
  • Unlimited downloads with a subscription.
  • Professional-level audio quality.
  • Easy access to various sound effects.
Cons
  • Requires a subscription for full access.
  • Pricing might be steep for casual users.
Interface of Storyblocks - the most liked website for downloading notification sound effects

Motion Array

Motion Array has audio phone alert sounds, video assets, and other audio effects that are useful for any creator. It has an all-in-one creative suite that contains editing software, templates, and audio files, which ensures uninterrupted workflow. With the subscription model of Motion Array, there are numerous options to download sound effects for video content.

For example, you can use "Message Notification" and "Soft Atmospheric Bells" sound effects.

Pros
  • Wide range of media assets.
  • High-quality sound effects.
  • Easy-to-navigate platform.
  • Direct download for quick use.
Cons
  • Subscription required for full access.
  • Limited free options are available.
Interface of Motion Array - another valuable site to get notification sound effects

Envato

Envato is yet another website that provides various alert tones, including phone notification sound effects. As part of the Envato Market, it provides both single-item sales and subscription models, which are great to find notify sounds tailored to the user's requirements. The marketplace guarantees all assets are professionally curated and vetted for project readiness.

For example, you can use "Notification" and "Reminder Notification 1" sound effects.

Pros
  • Huge selection of premium sound effects.
  • Quality-controlled audio files.
  • Flexible licensing options.
  • Quick download feature.
Cons
  • Individual purchases can be costly.
  • Subscription plans may not suit everyone's needs.
Interface of Evato - a website with diverse notification sound effects

5 ways to use notification sound effects in videos

Incorporating alert tones into videos can significantly improve the overall experience, but requires special attention. Sound effects should be carefully placed to accompany the visuals at the right moment to enhance the viewer's focus. Here are some tips to effectively use these sound effects in videos:

  • Match mood

It's important to select closely relevant and appropriately mood-matching effects, along with video content. A cheerful atmosphere can be created with light pings and chimes, while deeper tones, such as beeps and alerts, can add seriousness and urgency.

  • Balance volume

Overly dominant or quiet sounds can provide unwanted distraction to the viewer. Adjust volume levels of any notification sound effects to ensure they are audible without being disruptive. Shifting these balances will keep all distractions at a minimal level.

  • Use sparingly

The notification sound effects tend to become more irritating to viewers if they are used excessively. Reserve them for moments that are climactic and require emphasis. Adhering to this principle will help preserve their impact and prevent them from becoming ineffective.

  • Sync with actions

When adding a phone notification sound effect, the timing is extremely important. Adding messages and events to the timeline will enhance the viewers' experience as they receive the message. Since viewers will pay attention to the alert at the time of the event, its meaningfulness is heightened.

  • Pick clear sounds

Notification sounds should be simple and clear so that viewers can understand the meaning immediately. Do not use complicated sounds or lengthy alerts because they will only serve to confuse. Rather, opt for distinct tones so understanding will be instant.

Conclusion

In conclusion, notification sound effects are an effective way to gain attention and elevate the experience for viewers in videos. When used effectively, you can add content value and provide impact and clarity for reminders, alerts, and other critical actions. The most important thing is to balance the sound with other elements, so keep it ambient and align it with the intended feel. To edit precisely and add these effects to videos, consider using the CapCut desktop video editor.

FAQs

    1
  1. What are the best platforms to download MP3 notification sounds?

Pixabay, Mixkit, and Uppbeat are excellent platforms that feature a wide variety of MP3 notification sounds that are free to use. These sites have royalty-free sounds, meaning they can be used without being credited. They have a range of sound libraries including traditional dings, pings, and chimes. If you wish to have these sounds in your videos, use the CapCut desktop video editor.

    2
  1. When should notification sound FX be used for maximum impact?

Notification sound effects focus attention during critical events, such as when a new message arrives or some significant action takes place. With proper timing, these sounds can also improve the efficacy of interaction and retention. Some focus seems necessary, but the sound chosen should not overshadow the content. Therefore, use tools like CapCut to perfectly sync and place these sound effects in the timeline.

    3
  1. How can notification sound FX be adjusted to suit different video genres?

Different genres of videos, such as educational or gaming, can be catered to with sound effects by changing volume and pitch and adding reasoning to use different timings. A meditation video would benefit from a soft and gentle chime, while sharp pings could accompany tech criticism. However, to add and edit these sound effects to your video content, start using the CapCut desktop video editor.