Decimeter
    Sound Reference Guide

    How Loud Is It? Decibel Levels of Everyday Sounds

    Reference chart of common sounds and their decibel (dB) levels. Measure real sounds with our online decibel meter.

    130–150 dB
    Jet Engine
    A jet engine at takeoff produces one of the loudest sounds you can encounter in everyday life. At 25 meters, a jet engine measures around 140 dB — loud enough to cause immediate and permanent hearing damage without ear protection.
    70–80 dB
    Vacuum Cleaner
    Most household vacuum cleaners produce between 70 and 80 dB at operator distance. Modern low-noise models can drop below 65 dB, while older or industrial vacuums may exceed 85 dB.
    85–95 dB
    Lawn Mower
    Gas-powered lawn mowers typically produce 90 dB or more at the operator position. Electric and battery-powered mowers are usually quieter at 75–85 dB.
    100–120 dB
    Rock Concert
    Rock concerts, festivals, and club events regularly reach 100–120 dB near the stage. Some concerts have been measured at over 130 dB directly in front of the speakers.
    45–60 dB
    Dishwasher
    Modern dishwashers are engineered for low noise, typically running between 45 and 55 dB. Premium models advertise 38–42 dB, which is quieter than a normal conversation.
    80–110 dB
    Motorcycle
    A motorcycle at cruising speed typically produces 80–90 dB. Sport bikes at full throttle, and Harley-Davidsons with aftermarket exhausts, can exceed 100 dB.
    80–90 dB
    Hair Dryer
    A standard hair dryer produces 80–90 dB at close range. Professional salon dryers can push above 95 dB.
    70–85 dB
    Busy Traffic
    Standing on a busy urban street exposes you to 70–85 dB. Heavy truck traffic and sirens can spike above 90 dB temporarily.
    20–30 dB
    Whisper
    A soft whisper at close range measures around 30 dB. This is quieter than a typical bedroom at night and poses zero risk to hearing.
    105–120 dB
    Chainsaw
    A chainsaw at operator distance produces 105–115 dB. Larger commercial saws can exceed 120 dB.
    32–47 dB
    Refrigerator
    A modern refrigerator hums at 32–47 dB. Older models or units in poor repair can reach 55 dB.
    110–120 dB
    Thunder
    A nearby thunderclap can peak at 120 dB. Distant thunder measures 70–80 dB.

    Understanding the Decibel Scale

    The decibel scale is logarithmic — every 10 dB increase represents a sound that is 10 times more intense. A 90 dB sound is 100 times more intense than a 70 dB sound, not just slightly louder. Learn more in our What is a decibel? guide, or see the full dB chart.

    Learn more

    See the full dB chart
    Compare decibel levels and safe exposure times at a glance
    What is a decibel?
    Understand the dB scale and how it works

    Frequently asked questions

    What is a decibel level?

    A decibel level is a measurement of sound intensity expressed in decibels (dB). It describes how loud a sound is relative to the threshold of human hearing, which is defined as 0 dB.

    What decibel level is dangerous?

    Sounds at or above 85 dB can cause permanent hearing damage with prolonged exposure. At 120 dB, hearing damage can occur within seconds. The louder the sound, the shorter the safe exposure time.

    What is the decibel level of normal conversation?

    Normal conversation is about 60 dB. This is considered a safe level and can be listened to indefinitely without risk of hearing damage.

    How long can you listen to 85 dB safely?

    The NIOSH recommended exposure limit is 8 hours at 85 dB. For every 3 dB increase, the safe exposure time is cut in half: 4 hours at 88 dB, 2 hours at 91 dB, and 1 hour at 94 dB.