Noise Detector - Measure Sound Levels in Decibels
Measure ambient noise levels with our free online noise detector. Monitor decibels (dB) in real-time, track min/max levels, and assess sound pollution. Essential for checking room acoustics, testing quiet environments, and understanding noise exposure.
Understanding Decibel Levels
Common Noise Levels
- 0-30 dB: Whisper, quiet library, bedroom at night
- 30-60 dB: Normal conversation, office environment, background music
- 60-85 dB: Busy traffic, alarm clock, vacuum cleaner
- 85-100 dB: Lawn mower, motorcycle, power tools (hearing damage risk)
- 100+ dB: Concerts, sirens, jackhammers (immediate hearing risk)
Safe Exposure Times
- 85 dB: 8 hours maximum
- 88 dB: 4 hours maximum
- 91 dB: 2 hours maximum
- 94 dB: 1 hour maximum
- 100 dB: 15 minutes maximum
How to Use Noise Detector
Grant Microphone Permission
Click "Start Meter" and allow browser microphone access. Tool uses microphone to measure ambient sound levels.
View Real-Time Levels
Meter displays current decibel level. Color changes based on loudness: green (quiet), yellow (moderate), red (loud/harmful).
Check Min/Max Values
Tool tracks minimum and maximum noise levels detected during session. Useful for understanding noise range over time.
Common Uses
Recording Studio Acoustics
Test background noise level in recording spaces. Studios need <20dB noise floor for professional recordings. Identify noise sources (AC, traffic) to eliminate.
Sleep Environment Assessment
Bedroom should be <30dB for quality sleep. Test at night to identify noise disturbances from traffic, neighbors, appliances.
Workplace Noise Compliance
OSHA requires hearing protection if workplace noise exceeds 85dB for 8+ hours. Test work areas to ensure compliance with safety regulations.
Home Office Setup
Verify video call environment is quiet enough (<40dB ideal). Test with AC running, windows closed vs open, different rooms to find quietest location.
Noise Reduction Strategies
Soundproofing
- Weather stripping on doors/windows
- Thick curtains or acoustic panels
- Rugs on hard floors (reduces echo and impact noise)
- Seal gaps around doors, electrical outlets
White Noise Machines
Masks intermittent sounds with consistent background noise. Effective for sleep, concentration. Choose models producing 40-60dB for best masking without creating new disturbance.
Source Elimination
- Replace loud appliances with quieter models
- Move noisy equipment (refrigerator, AC) away from bedrooms
- Use vibration pads under washing machines
- Schedule noisy tasks during less sensitive times
Hearing Health
Hearing Damage Prevention
Limit exposure to 85+ dB environments. Use hearing protection (earplugs, earmuffs) for: concerts, power tools, lawn equipment, shooting ranges. Damage is cumulative and irreversible.
Tinnitus Risk
Ringing in ears often results from noise exposure. If ears ring after loud event, you've exceeded safe levels. Repeated exposure leads to permanent tinnitus.
1-Minute Test
If you can't have normal conversation at arm's length due to ambient noise, environment is dangerously loud (>85dB). Use hearing protection.
Technical Notes
Microphone Limitations
Consumer device microphones not calibrated for absolute dB measurement. Results approximate - good for relative comparison (is Room A quieter than Room B?), not scientific precision.
Browser Permissions
Modern browsers require explicit permission to access microphone. Tool doesn't record or upload audio - all processing happens locally in browser.
Frequently Asked Questions
How accurate is this meter?
Provides approximations useful for comparisons, not professional-grade measurements. Phone/laptop microphones uncalibrated and have varying sensitivities. For official purposes, use dedicated SPL meter.
Why do readings vary so much?
Mic placement, distance from noise source, room acoustics all affect readings. Keep mic position consistent when comparing environments.
What's a safe noise level for sleeping?
WHO recommends <30dB. Many find 40-50dB tolerable with white noise masking. Sudden noise spikes above 45dB disrupt sleep even if average lower.
Can I use this to test hearing protection effectiveness?
No - tool measures environmental noise, not sound reaching your eardrum through protection. Earplugs typically reduce exposure 15-30dB.
Why does meter stay at 10dB minimum?
Noise floor of consumer microphones typically 10-20dB. Readings below this are microphone self-noise, not true silence.
Conclusion
Our noise detector helps you understand sound levels in your environment and make informed decisions about noise exposure and hearing protection. While not a precision instrument, it provides valuable relative measurements for assessing room acoustics, sleep environments, and potential hearing hazards.