Should there be sound in your videos?

Aug 17
4 min read

Updated: Aug 22

Introduction

When you make a video for your project or brand, you encounter a common question: Should I add audio? Is sound necessary for the video to reach my audience and achieve its goals?

In a time of accelerated content, multiple platforms, and diverse consumption patterns, audio has become an important element, but not always essential. In some cases, Sound reinforces the message and creates a stronger impact In other cases, Silent video is more effective and widespread.

What is the correct decision? When do you use voice? And when should you avoid it? This is what we will discuss in this article, which provides you with a comprehensive answer, supported by practical examples and recommendations.

First: Types of sound that can be used in video

1. Human voice (Voice-over)

A narrator who explains or comments on the video content, often used in explanatory or educational videos.

2. Dialogue

Conversations between people appearing in a video, usually used in skits or storyboards.

3. Background Music

To create a certain atmosphere or support visual rhythm, especially in emotional or creative videos.

4. Sound Effects (SFX)

Additional sounds, such as "click", "clap", and "friction", add realism or humor.

5. Muted video

A video is created without sound and relies only on the image and text shown.

Second: Does every video need sound? The short answer: No, but...

Sound is not always necessary, but it is A powerful tool used in the right place To understand the decision better, we must ask: Where will the video be shown? Who is the audience? What is its purpose?

Third: When should you use sound in a video?

✅ 1. If the video is educational or illustrative

A step-by-step explanation, a product demonstration, or user guidance — often requires a clear human voice to communicate information smoothly.

example: A video explaining how to log in to an electronic application.

✅ 2. If you are targeting an audio viewing audience (e.g. YouTube)

On platforms like YouTube, 90% of viewers watch with audio, so ignoring the audio weakens the impact.

✅ 3. If you are marketing a product based on feeling or emotion

Such as human advertisements, touching stories, or products that have a sensory dimension (perfumes, cars, music...)

✅ 4. If the video contains a story or an acting scenario

Here, sound is essential to convey emotions and illustrate the story.

✅ 5. If you are targeting a native speaking audience for the video

For example: A video in the local dialect targeting a local audience will be more effective with sound.

Fourth: When is it better not to use sound?

❌ 1. If you are posting on Instagram or TikTok without auto sound

More than 80% of Instagram and TikTok videos are watched without sound, especially in public environments.

❌ 2. If the video is simple (animations + texts)

In videos that contain a direct message supported by text, audio may be unnecessary.

❌ 3. If your goal is to attract visual attention first

In some cases, an image and text are enough to grab attention, especially in quick or short ads.

❌ 4. If the audience has hearing needs

Having silent copy supported by text broadens your audience and promotes inclusivity.

Fifth: Benefits of using sound in video

Interest

Interpretation

✅ Enhance emotional impact

Music or tone of voice communicates a feeling faster

✅ Clarifying the idea

Audio summarizes complex explanations in simple words

✅ Building brand identity

A consistent voice, distinctive music, or a special tone that distinguishes your brand

✅ Improve interaction

Video with sound that attracts the viewer to stay longer

Sixth: Benefits of silent videos

Interest

Interpretation

✅ Suitable for display everywhere

It is easily seen at work, transportation, and public places

✅ Faster production

No need to record or edit audio

✅ It is based on text and images only

Ensures that the message is received even without sound

✅ Perfect for short ads on Reels/Shorts

Seventh: How do you choose between audio or silent video?

Here's a table to help you decide:

The worker

Video with sound

Silent video

Platform type

YouTube, website

Instagram Reels, TikTok

Video type

Educational, illustrative, nonfiction

Quick ad, visual presentation

Potential viewing environment

Home, headphones

Work, street, phone without sound

Target group

Ready to listen

Tend to watch quickly

the goal

Persuade, explain

Attention grabbing, fast delivery

Eighth: How do you make the video effective even without sound?

1. Use visual texts (Captions)

Make every sentence appear on the screen clearly and attractively.

2. Use symbols and illustrations

Use icons to illustrate the idea (arrow, question mark, product symbol...)

3. Focus on visual rhythm

Fast animation, dynamic navigation, attractive colors.

4. Use body language and expression

If the video contains people, expressions and gestures sometimes replace sound.

Ninth: Compromise — combine the two!

Sometimes, the ideal solution is... Video contains sound + supports silent viewing.

Like:

Video with voice-over
With full texts on the screen
And background music can be muted without losing the idea

Tenth: What do the statistics say?

85% of Facebook videos are watched without sound
Videos with subtitles get 12% more views.
75% of users prefer short videos that get their message across without the need for sound
Videos with engaging audio engage 26% longer on YouTube

Practical examples

🎓 Tutorial video

Is sound important? Yes Why? Because audio explanation simplifies the information and saves time

🎥 Promotional video on Instagram Reels

Is sound important? Not necessarily the solution? Visually appealing video design with precise scripts and timing

📱 Advertisement for an electronic application

Is sound important? partial the solution? Voiceover + on-screen synchronized texts

Conclusion

Audio in video is not a requirement for success; it is Strategic tool, should be used wisely, based on:

Video goal
Audience behavior
The platform used
The expected viewing environment

Sometimes, a picture is enough. Other times, voice makes the difference. What is important is that your message is conveyed in the clearest way... whether with or without voice.