Top 5 Free Websites for Stock Images, Videos, Icons, SFX & Copyright-Free Music
Creating engaging content takes creativity—and access to the right tools. Whether you’re a content creator, marketer, educator, or designer, high-quality media is a must. The good news? There are amazing free websites that offer everything from stock images and videos to music and sound effects. Here’s a list of the top 5 websites you can rely on in 2025.
1. Pexels – Free Stock Photos & Videos
Website: https://www.pexels.com
Pexels is one of the best platforms for downloading free stock photos and videos. With a growing collection of HD and 4K content, this site is perfect for creatives, businesses, and content producers.
Why Use Pexels:
No attribution required
Free for commercial & personal use
Well-categorized collections
2. Pixabay – All-in-One Free Media Site
Website: https://www.pixabay.com
Pixabay offers a huge collection of free media, including images, videos, sound effects, and even music. It’s a go-to for YouTubers and content creators.
Why Use Pixabay:
Over 4 million free files
Royalty-free music & SFX
Free vector art and illustrations
3. Freesound – Royalty-Free Sound Effects
Website: https://www.freesound.org
Freesound is a massive collaborative database of free sound effects, perfect for filmmakers, game developers, and podcasters.
Why Use Freesound:
Huge SFX collection
Community-reviewed audio
Different Creative Commons licenses available
4. Freepik – Free Icons & Vector Graphics
Website: https://www.freepik.com
Freepik is ideal for downloading icons, illustrations, and vector graphics. Whether you’re designing websites, apps, or marketing materials, Freepik has you covered.
Why Use Freepik:
Downloadable in PNG, SVG, AI formats
Large variety of free icon sets
Premium option available if needed
5. Bensound – Copyright-Free Music for Creators
Website: https://www.bensound.com
Bensound provides beautiful, royalty-free music tracks that are perfect for YouTube videos, corporate presentations, and podcasts.
Why Use Bensound:
Wide selection of music genres
Free with attribution
High-quality MP3 downloads
❗ Bonus Tip: Always Check Licensing
Before using any asset from these websites, be sure to read the license agreement. Some files may require attribution or be restricted from commercial use without proper permission.
FAQs
Q1. Can I use these assets for commercial projects?
Yes, most of the files on these websites are free for commercial use, but you must always check the individual license attached to each file.
Q2. Do I need to give credit or attribution?
Some platforms, like Bensound or Freesound, may require attribution. Pexels and Pixabay generally don’t—but always confirm before publishing.
Q3. Are these websites safe to download from?
Yes, the listed websites are well-known, reputable platforms used by millions of creators worldwide.
Q4. Can I use the music and sound effects for YouTube videos?
Absolutely! Just make sure the music is royalty-free and you follow any required attribution rules to avoid copyright claims.
Q5. Do I need an account to download assets?
Most of these websites let you download without creating an account, though registering may unlock additional features or download options.
