Sound Recorder Guide

Record audio from your microphone. All processing runs in the browser — no upload, no server.

Back to Sound Recorder

What does this tool do

The Sound Recorder records audio from your device microphone. Click to allow microphone access, then start and stop recording. All processing runs in your browser — no upload, no server.

How to use it

  1. Allow access — Click the button to enable your microphone.
  2. Start recording — Click "Start recording" to begin capturing audio.
  3. Stop recording — Click "Stop" when done. The recording is added to the list.
  4. Download — Hover over any recording and click the download icon to save it.
  5. Remove — Hover and click the remove (X) button to discard a recording and free memory.

How it works

The tool uses the browser's MediaDevices API (getUserMedia) to access the microphone. Audio is recorded with the MediaRecorder API, which produces WebM (or MP4 on Safari) chunks; these are combined into a single Blob and offered for download. All recordings are kept in browser memory as blob URLs until you remove them or leave the page.

HTTPS is required because getUserMedia only works in secure contexts (HTTPS or localhost). This protects users from accidentally granting microphone access on insecure pages.

Use cases & examples

  • Voice memos — Record quick notes or reminders without a separate app.
  • Voice messages — Record a short audio message for sharing.
  • Interviews — Capture an interview or conversation for later.
  • Audio notes — Record ideas or dictation when typing is inconvenient.

Limitations & known constraints

  • HTTPS required — The tool does not work on plain HTTP (except localhost).
  • Browser support — getUserMedia and MediaRecorder are supported in all modern browsers; older browsers may not work.
  • Format varies — Output is typically WebM (Opus) or MP4/M4A on Safari. Some players may need conversion.
  • Permissions — You must grant microphone access. Denying blocks the tool.

FAQ

Does the Sound Recorder upload my recordings to a server?
No. All recording runs entirely in your browser. Audio stays on your device until you download it. Nothing is sent to any server.
Why does the Sound Recorder require HTTPS?
Browsers require a secure context (HTTPS or localhost) for getUserMedia() to protect user privacy. This is a web standard.
What formats does the Sound Recorder produce?
Most browsers save as WebM with Opus audio. Safari may produce MP4/M4A. The exact format depends on your browser's MediaRecorder support.
Can I use the Sound Recorder on my phone?
Yes. The tool works on any device with a microphone and a supported browser. On mobile, you may need to grant microphone permission.
What if my microphone access is denied?
The tool will show a message. Check your browser's site permissions and allow microphone access for this site.

All calculations and conversions run entirely in your browser. No data is sent to any server, so your input never leaves your device.