Decibel Meter FAQs: Your Sound Level Questions Answered

A decibel meter (also called a sound level meter or noise meter) measures the intensity of sound in decibels (dB). Our free online decibel meter uses your device's microphone to capture ambient sound. The Web Audio API processes this audio data in real-time, calculating sound pressure levels and displaying current, average, and peak noise measurements.

Unlike professional meters with calibrated microphones, our online tool provides estimates based on your device's microphone, perfect for general noise awareness and education.

Simple steps to measure noise levels:

1. Click "Start Measuring" on the homepage
2. Allow microphone access when prompted
3. View real-time dB readings with visual chart
4. Monitor current, average, and peak levels
5. Adjust sensitivity (gear icon) if needed
6. Click "Stop Measuring" to end

Measurement history is saved locally on your device.

See our Decibel Chart for detailed comparisons.

Our meter provides accurate estimates for general noise awareness, home use, and education. Accuracy depends on device microphone quality and environmental factors.

Use Professional Equipment For:

• OSHA workplace compliance
• EPA environmental assessments
• Legal proceedings
• Building acoustics certification

These require certified Type 1 (precision) or Type 2 (general purpose) sound level meters meeting IEC 61672 standards.

OSHA recommends hearing protection at 85 dB or higher. Safe exposure time decreases as noise increases:

Protection Types:

• Foam earplugs: 15-30 dB reduction
• Reusable earplugs: 15-25 dB reduction
• Earmuffs: 20-35 dB reduction
• Combination: Up to 40 dB reduction

Evidence-based hearing protection strategies:

1. Use hearing protection above 85 dB - Earplugs/earmuffs for machinery, concerts, power tools
2. Follow the 60/60 rule - 60% max volume for 60 minutes max with headphones
3. Maintain distance from loud sources - Sound intensity decreases with distance
4. Take listening breaks - Rest ears in quiet environments
5. Use noise-cancelling headphones - Listen at lower volumes
6. Monitor your environment - Use our free decibel meter regularly
7. Get hearing tests - Annual audiograms if exposed to occupational noise

No. Your privacy is fully protected.

All audio processing happens locally in your browser using the Web Audio API. We do not record, store, or transmit any audio to servers.

What We Store Locally:

• Numerical decibel readings only
• Timestamps and labels ("Loud", "Moderate")
• Your sensitivity setting preference

Read our Privacy Policy for details.

Yes! Works on all smartphones and tablets. Our decibel meter is a progressive web app (PWA) that runs in your mobile browser - no app download required.

Tip: Add to home screen for quick access like a native app!

Explore our Decibel Chart with 48+ sounds or browse detailed guides.