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Very quiet · Sound level

How loud is 16 dB?

16 dB is very quiet – sounds about 21.1 times quieter than normal conversation.

16 dB
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Listen: sounds near 16 dB

I am having trouble breathing
0:03CC0 1.0by CzechcampWikimedia Commons
0:03
Leaves in the wind (Gravity Sound)
2:14CC BY 4.0by Gravity SoundWikimedia Commons
2:14
0.0001262 PaSound pressure
3.98 × 10^-11 W/m²Intensity
×0.05Perceived vs. 60 dB talk
No limitNIOSH daily limit

How loud is 16 dB?

16 decibels is very quiet. 16 dB sounds about 21.1 times quieter than normal conversation (60 dB), and it carries 3.98e-05 times the sound energy. Typical sounds around this level: normal breathing, rustling leaves, ticking watch.

Decibels are logarithmic: every +10 dB means ten times more sound intensity but is heard as only about twice as loud, and every +6 dB doubles the sound pressure. That is why a few decibels can make a big difference.

Is 16 dB safe?

Yes. 16 dB is far below the levels that damage hearing. In bedrooms, the WHO recommends night-time levels around 30 dB or lower for undisturbed sleep.

Sounds around 16 dB

10 dBNormal breathing
Measured close to the face in a very quiet room.20 dBRustling leaves
A gentle breeze moving through foliage.20 dBTicking watch
Held about arm's length away.25 dBCat purring
Purrs are low (25–150 Hz) and quiet; most are about 25 dB at a short distance.

Frequently asked questions

Is 16 dB loud?

16 dB is very quiet. For comparison: normal breathing, rustling leaves, ticking watch.

How many times louder is 16 dB than 6 dB?

A 10 dB increase means ten times the sound intensity and is heard as roughly twice as loud.

How long can you listen to 16 dB?

16 dB is safe for unlimited listening.