Pixabay – Free Royalty‑Free Images, Videos & Music Library
What is Pixabay?
Pixabay is a global media library offering over 5.6 million high-quality stock images, videos, illustrations, vectors, music, and sound effects—all royalty-free and safe to use under its Content License. The platform supports 26 languages and was acquired by Canva in 2018
Why Choose Pixabay?
- Completely free & no attribution required for most media, even for commercial use
- Huge and diverse library: over 5.6 million items, spanning photos, vector graphics, short videos, music, and sound FX
- Convenient search features: browse by categories, tags, orientation, size, and date—powered by ElasticSearch
- High-quality & reliable: while opinions on median image quality vary, the content covers a wide range of subjects, from nature and business to abstract and textures
Core Features
- Photos & Illustrations: Millions of HD to 4K images—everything from wildlife and landscapes to business and people
- Vector & Art Assets: Access hundreds of thousands of vectors, icons, and clip art for design projects
- Stock Videos, Music & Sounds: Includes short video clips, background music, and sound effects—all royalty free
- Advanced Filters & Collections: Refine results by SafeSearch, upload date, popularity, or choose curated categories like “editor’s choice”
- API Access: Developers can integrate Pixabay content into apps or websites using a stable API
How to Use Pixabay
- Visit pixabay.com.
- Choose your preferred language (26 supported options).
- Use search bar or browse categories like nature, business, video, or music.
- Apply filters such as image type, size, orientation, or SafeSearch.
- Click a result to preview and download in your preferred resolution.
- Check licensing info—it’s covered under Pixabay’s Content License.
Usage Tips
- Enable SafeSearch to avoid mature content in work or school settings
- Filter by upload date to find fresh, trending visuals
- Use vector formats (SVG/AI) for tech or infographic design projects.
- Leverage the API for batch downloads or dynamic content integration into your applications.
FAQ
Q: Is content truly free?
A: Yes, most content is royalty-free under Pixabay’s Content License. However, model or trademark releases may apply
Q: Can I use it for commercial projects?
A: Yes—images, videos, and sounds are usable in commercial projects without attribution. Selling the original files as standalone stock, however, is prohibited
Q: What happened to the CC0 license?
A: Before January 9, 2019, content was under CC0. Pixabay later adopted its own license, but content uploaded before that date remains CC0
Q: Is there an API?
A: Yes—Pixabay offers a REST API for integrating its library into apps and services
Q: Any quality concerns?
A: Users note variable quality—some content is excellent, while others are standard stock fare. Still, selection is broad
