Purpose Functional electrical stimulation (FES) is considered an upcoming treatment modality for a number of laryngeal diseases. However, sound data are scarce when it comes to surface FES to treat voice disorders. Aim of the present study was to identify and differentiate suitable surface FES patterns to activate internal laryngeal muscles. Methods Non-invasive FES was performed in a cohort of 17 elderly woman. Our user-customized electrical stimulation setup allowed us to deliver ten different stimulation patterns (rectangular and sawtooth shaped) with variation of frequency and amplitude. Stimulation outcome, i.e., vocal fold (VF) reaction, was continuously verified by transnasal endoscopy. Results Responses to FES using ten different stimulation patterns varied inter-individually. None of the stimulation parameter sets could elicit a VF reaction in all participants. Conclusion Based on our findings we conclude that individual fitting is necessary when defining surface stimulation parameters. To overcome limitations of previous studies, devices with freely programmable patterns are required as shown here. Endoscopic control of VF reaction is absolutely essential to ensure effectiveness of the delivered patterns.