How to set custom ringtones on Android

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting

7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

Setting custom ringtones on Android devices allows users to personalize their experience and easily identify incoming calls. This guide provides multiple methods to set custom ringtones, ensuring compatibility across various Android versions.

Easy⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before setting custom ringtones on your Android device, ensure you meet the following requirements:
  • •Android device running version 5.0 (Lollipop) or higher.
  • •Access to the device's storage to save audio files.
  • •Audio files in compatible formats (MP3, WAV, OGG).
  • •Permissions to modify system settings (usually granted by default).
  • •Backup important data in case of accidental changes.

Method 1: Using the Settings App

This method is the most straightforward way to set a custom ringtone directly from the device's settings.
  • •Step 1: Open the 'Settings' app by tapping the gear icon on your home screen or app drawer.
  • •Step 2: Scroll down and tap on 'Sound & vibration' or 'Sound'.
  • •Step 3: Tap on 'Ringtone' or 'Phone ringtone'.
  • •Step 4: Select 'Add' or the '+' icon to browse your files. Choose the audio file you want to set as a ringtone.
  • •Step 5: After selecting the file, tap 'OK' or 'Save' to confirm your selection.
  • •Step 6: To verify, make a test call to your device from another phone to hear the new ringtone.
  • •Step 7: If it doesn't work, check if the audio file is in a supported format.

For Android 11 and 12

Android 11 and 12 have a slightly different interface but follow the same basic steps.
  • •Step 1: Open 'Settings' and navigate to 'Sound & vibration'.
  • •Step 2: Tap 'Ringtone', then 'Add ringtone' to select your audio file.

For Android 10 and earlier

Older versions may have different menu paths but the process remains similar.
  • •Step 1: Open 'Settings', then 'Sound'.
  • •Step 2: Tap 'Phone ringtone', then 'Add' to choose your audio file.

Method 2: Using a File Manager App

This method is useful if you have audio files stored in specific folders or if you want to set ringtones from downloaded files.
  • •Step 1: Open your preferred file manager app (e.g., Files by Google).
  • •Step 2: Navigate to the folder where your audio files are stored.
  • •Step 3: Long press the audio file you want to use and select 'Copy' or 'Move'.
  • •Step 4: Navigate to the 'Ringtones' folder (usually found in internal storage).
  • •Step 5: Paste the audio file into the 'Ringtones' folder.
  • •Step 6: Go back to 'Settings' > 'Sound & vibration' > 'Ringtone' and select your new ringtone from the list.
  • •Step 7: Confirm by tapping 'OK' or 'Save'.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter problems while setting custom ringtones, consider the following solutions:
  • •Error: 'File format not supported' - Solution: Ensure the audio file is in MP3, WAV, or OGG format.
  • •Issue: Ringtone not appearing in the list - Fix: Check if the file is located in the 'Ringtones' folder.
  • •Problem: Ringtone plays but is not set - Workaround: Restart the device and try setting the ringtone again.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

Enhance your ringtone management with these advanced tips:
  • •Keyboard shortcut: Use 'File Manager' apps to quickly navigate to the 'Ringtones' folder.
  • •Command line: Use ADB commands to push custom ringtones directly to the device.
  • •Hidden feature: Some devices allow you to set different ringtones for specific contacts directly from the contact settings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

For the best experience, use high-quality audio files and organize them in specific folders for easy access.