Customizing your iPhone’s ringtone is a fun way to add a personal touch to your device. While iTunes was once the primary tool for creating custom ringtones, you can now make ringtones for your iPhone without iTunes using various methods and apps.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore how to create, customize, download, and transfer ringtones to your iPhone without the need for iTunes.

Table of Contents
How to Make Ringtones for iPhone
Creating ringtones for your iPhone without iTunes is a straightforward process. Here’s how:
- Select a Song: Choose the song you want to turn into a ringtone from your music library. Note that the song should be in your iTunes library or locally stored on your computer.
- Choose a Clip: Decide which part of the song you want as your ringtone. The length of a typical ringtone is around 30 seconds.
- Trim the Song: You can use a variety of apps or software tools (discussed later) to trim the selected part of the song and save it as an audio file.
- Save in the Right Format: Ensure that the trimmed audio clip is saved in the .m4r format. This is the format iPhones use for custom ringtones.
How to Create Ringtones for iPhone
To create ringtones for your iPhone, you can use various methods:
- Online Ringtone Makers: Several online tools allow you to upload a song and trim it to create a ringtone. Some popular options include Zedge, RingtoneMaker, and Melofania.
- Ringtone Maker Apps: Download a ringtone maker app from the App Store. Apps like GarageBand, Ringtone Designer, and Ringtones for iPhone offer user-friendly interfaces to create custom ringtones directly on your device.
- Desktop Software: If you prefer working on your computer, desktop software like GarageBand (for Mac) or Audacity (cross-platform) can help you create and edit ringtones. Once you’ve created your ringtone, export it in the .m4r format.

How to Customize Ringtones for iPhone
Customizing your ringtones can make them more unique. Here are some customization tips:
- Add Fades: Use software like GarageBand or Audacity to add fade-in and fade-out effects to your ringtone for smoother transitions.
- Volume Adjustment: Ensure that your ringtone isn’t too loud or too soft. Adjust the volume to a comfortable level using your chosen editing tool.
- Silence the Song: Remove any unwanted sections, like lyrics or instrumental breaks, to keep your ringtone concise.
- Enhance with Effects: Apply audio effects, like reverb or equalization, to give your ringtone a distinct sound.
How to Download Ringtones for iPhone
If you prefer not to create your own ringtones, you can download pre-made ones from various sources:
- Ringtone Apps: The App Store offers numerous apps that provide a vast selection of free and paid ringtones. Some popular options include Zedge, Ringtones for iPhone, and Ringtone Maker.
- Websites: There are websites like Zedge, Mobile9, and MyTinyPhone that offer a wide range of free ringtones compatible with iPhones. Download the ringtone directly to your device or computer.
- Use a Friend’s Ringtone: If you hear a ringtone you like from a friend’s iPhone, ask them to send it to you. Once received, set it as your ringtone.
How to Transfer Ringtones to iPhone
Once you’ve created or downloaded a ringtone, you’ll need to transfer it to your iPhone. Here’s how:
- Connect Your iPhone: Connect your iPhone to your computer using a USB cable.
- Access Your iPhone: Open your device in iTunes or Finder (macOS Catalina and later). Click on your iPhone’s icon when it appears.
- Choose “Tones”: In iTunes or Finder, select the “Tones” tab on your iPhone’s page.
- Drag and Drop: Drag the .m4r ringtone file from your computer and drop it into the “Tones” section. It will be synced to your iPhone.
- Sync Your iPhone: Click “Apply” or “Sync” to transfer the ringtone to your iPhone.
- Set as Ringtone: After syncing, go to “Settings” > “Sounds & Haptics” > “Ringtone” on your iPhone and select your custom ringtone.

Creating, customizing, downloading, and transferring ringtones to your iPhone without iTunes is a straightforward process with numerous tools and methods at your disposal. Personalize your device with your favorite tunes or unique sounds and make your iPhone’s ringtone truly your own.
Whether you prefer to create custom ringtones or download pre-made ones, you can easily achieve the perfect ringtone for your iPhone.
- How to Chromecast from iPhone To Your TV or Speakers
Chromecast is a versatile device developed by Google that allows you to stream content from your iPhone to your TV..
- Why Does My iPhone Randomly Vibrate? And How to Fix It
Your iPhone is a versatile device designed to enhance your daily life, but when it starts vibrating seemingly without reason,..
- How to Change Snooze Time on iPhone Easily
Snoozing an alarm on your iPhone is a common practice for those who like a few extra minutes of sleep..