How to Disable the Startup Sound (or “Chime”) on a Mac

Last Updated: Feb 19, 2024 by

If you’re a Mac user, you may have noticed that every time you turn on your computer, it makes a loud “chime” sound. While this may not be a big deal for some, it can be quite annoying for others, especially if you’re in a quiet environment or trying to start your computer discreetly. Luckily, there is a way to disable this startup sound on your Mac. In this article, we’ll show you how to do it in a few simple steps.

Why Disable the Startup Sound?

Before we dive into the steps, let’s first discuss why you may want to disable the startup sound on your Mac. As mentioned earlier, the sound can be disruptive in certain situations. Additionally, if you’re using your computer in a public place, the sound can draw unwanted attention to you. Furthermore, if you’re using your computer in a professional setting, the startup sound can be unprofessional and may even interrupt a meeting or presentation.

Step 1: Open System Preferences

The first step to disabling the startup sound on your Mac is to open System Preferences. You can do this by clicking on the Apple logo in the top left corner of your screen and selecting “System Preferences” from the drop-down menu.

Step 2: Click on “Sound”

In the System Preferences window, click on the “Sound” icon. This will open the Sound settings for your Mac.

Step 3: Click on “Sound Effects”

In the Sound settings, click on the “Sound Effects” tab at the top of the window.

Step 4: Uncheck “Play sound on startup”

Under the “Sound Effects” tab, you will see an option that says “Play sound on startup.” Simply uncheck this box to disable the startup sound on your Mac.

Step 5: Close System Preferences

Once you have unchecked the box, you can close the System Preferences window. Your changes will automatically be saved.

Bonus Tip: Mute Your Mac Before Shutting Down

If you forget to disable the startup sound and don’t want to disturb those around you, you can also mute your Mac before shutting it down. Simply hold down the “Mute” key on your keyboard (usually F10) while clicking on the “Shut Down” button. This will prevent the startup sound from playing when you turn your computer back on.

Conclusion

Disabling the startup sound on your Mac is a simple process that can save you from potential embarrassment or annoyance. By following these steps, you can easily turn off the sound and enjoy a quieter startup experience. Have you disabled the startup sound on your Mac? Let us know in the comments.

Gulrukh Ch

About the Author: Gulrukh Ch

Gulrukh Chaudhary, an accomplished digital marketer and technology writer with a passion for exploring the frontiers of innovation. Armed with a Master's degree in Information Technology, Gulrukh seamlessly blends her technical prowess with her creative flair, resulting in captivating insights into the world of emerging technologies. Discover more about her on her LinkedIn profile.