How to Record Zoom Audio Only in 2025 [No Video]

Can Zoom Record Audio Only?

Zoom allows users to generate an audio-only file, but only through its Cloud Recording feature, which is available to paid accounts (Pro or higher). When enabled and properly set up, Zoom saves separate MP4 (video) and M4A (audio) files, but it still records video in the process.

Free users can only access local recording, which does not support audio-only recording on Zoom. Generally speaking, Zoom does not offer a built-in way to record audio alone without capturing video.

In both cases, you must be the host or have host-granted permission for Zoom meeting recording. All participants will be notified when a Zoom recording begins: stealth recording is not possible using Zoom's native tools.

If you want to record Zoom audio only without permission or video, using a third-party audio recorder like EaseUS RecExperts is the best option. These tools let you capture internal sound or mic input directly, with no host rights required.

⭐Legal & ethical considerations: Always get participant consent and follow local recording laws to avoid violating privacy or platform policies.

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How to Record Zoom Audio Only

If you want to record Zoom audio only on Windows or Mac, it's important to choose the right method. Below are three proven tools, each suited for different user needs, from built-in options to advanced third-party recorders.

Each method has unique advantages. Keep reading to learn how to record Zoom audio only.

Method 1. Record Audio Only on Zoom with EaseUS Audio Recorder

✅Best for: Recording Zoom audio only without host permission on Windows or Mac

EaseUS RecExperts is a lightweight yet powerful Zoom meeting recording software designed for users who want to record Zoom audio only, even without host authorization. Whether you're in a video call, webinar, or audio-only meeting, it captures crisp internal or mic sound without background noise.

🔥Key Features

• Record Zoom internal audio and microphone simultaneously or separately
• AI-powered noise reduction for clearer voice capture
• Schedule audio recordings for Zoom meetings in advance
• Auto-stop and auto-split features for long sessions
• Built-in audio editor to trim, cut, or polish your recordings

👉Download EaseUS RecExperts now to start capturing high-quality Zoom audio effortlessly and securely!

🚩How to Zoom record audio only on Windows or Macbook:

Step 1. Launch EaseUS RecExperts on your computer, and click "Audio" (looks like a speaker) on the left side of the main interface.

Step 2. To record the internal audio, you need to select the "System sound" option on the next window. You can adjust the volume by clicking on "System sound" > "Advanced options".

Step 3. Next, click on the red "REC" button to begin your recording. While recording, you can pause or stop the recording by clicking on the according buttons.

Step 4. Once done, you can find the recordings in the pop-up recording list window.

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Method 2. Record Zoom Meeting with Audio using Built-in Feature

✅Best for: Paid Zoom users who want a separate audio file saved automatically after the meeting

Zoom's Cloud Recording feature allows Pro or higher plan users to generate separate .m4a audio-only files alongside video recordings. While there's no true "audio-only" mode during recording, the platform will save both MP4 and M4A files after the session to the cloud. You can download the audio file if needed.

To use this method, you need a Pro, Business, or Enterprise Zoom account and must be the host or have been granted recording privileges.

🚩How to enable and record Zoom audio only via Cloud Recording:

Step 1. Log in to your Zoom account on the web.

Step 2. In the left sidebar, click the Recording tab and scroll to Cloud Recording.

Step 3. Ensure Cloud Recording is enabled, then tick the box next to Record an audio-only file.

Step 4. Start your Zoom meeting as usual.

Step 5. Click More (three dots) in the meeting toolbar.

Step 6. Choose Record to the Cloud from the dropdown menu.

Step 7. After the meeting ends, go to Recordings in your Zoom web portal to access and download the audio file.

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Method 3. How to Record Audio on Zoom using Audacity

✅Best for: Users who want a free, open-source way to record Zoom audio (mainly system sound) on Windows

Audacity is a popular free audio recorder and editor that can also record Zoom audio, especially internal system sounds. While it doesn't support Zoom directly, configuring it lets you capture Zoom audio on your computer.

🚩How to record an audio file on Zoom using Audacity:

Step 1. Download and open Audacity on your PC.

Step 2. Go to Audio Setup > Host, and select Windows WASAPI.

Step 3. Under Audio Setup > Recording Device, choose your output device with "(loopback)": for example, Speakers (loopback) or Headset Earphone (loopback).

Step 4. Click the Record (red circle) button to begin recording.

Step 5. When finished, press Stop to end the session.

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Final Words

Recording Zoom audio only can be straightforward when you know the right methods and tools. While Zoom's built-in cloud recording allows paid users to get separate audio files, it requires host permission and notifies participants. For more flexibility, third-party tools like EaseUS RecExperts offer easy, high-quality Zoom audio recording even without host permission.

⭐Always remember to respect privacy and legal boundaries when recording meetings. Use these solutions responsibly and ethically to capture the audio you need.

Record Zoom Audio Only FAQs

Here are some common questions about how to record Zoom audio only, along with clear answers to help you navigate Zoom's recording features effectively.

1. How do I record a Zoom meeting with audio without the host's permission?

Recording a Zoom meeting without the host's permission is generally against Zoom's policies and may be illegal depending on your jurisdiction. However, some third-party screen recorders like EaseUS RecExperts allow users to capture audio and video on their device without needing host approval. Always ensure you comply with local laws and respect privacy.

2. How do I record a Zoom meeting with only the speaker's audio?

Zoom's built-in recording can save separate audio files for each participant in cloud recordings. To capture only the active speaker's audio, hosts can select the "Active Speaker" view before recording to the cloud. Local recordings do not support this feature.

3. Can you separate Zoom audio and video files?

Yes, Zoom's cloud recording generates separate audio (.m4a) and video (.mp4) files automatically for Pro or higher plan users. Local recordings, however, save combined audio-video files without separation.

4. How to record a Zoom meeting as a participant?

Participants need the host's permission to record meetings. If granted, they can use Zoom's built-in recording feature or third-party software (like EaseUS RecExperts) to record audio or video during the session.

5. How to record a video on Zoom without a meeting?

Step 1. Launch Zoom and sign in to your account.

Step 2. Click the New Meeting button to start a meeting alone.

Step 3. Adjust your audio and video settings in the preview window. You can also select a virtual background if you want. Then click Start.

Step 4. Press the Record button to begin capturing your Zoom session. Speak or present as needed.

Step 5. Use the Pause Recording option if you need to pause, and click Stop Recording once you're finished.

Step 6. Finally, click End to leave the meeting and save your recording.

6. How to record a Zoom meeting on iPhone?

iPhone users can record Zoom meetings using the built-in iOS screen recorder, but the audio quality might be limited. Alternatively, third-party apps can offer better audio capture options with proper permissions.

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