Listen: sounds near 29 dB
How loud is 29 dB?
29 decibels is very quiet. 29 dB sounds about 8.6 times quieter than normal conversation (60 dB), and it carries 0.000794 times the sound energy. Typical sounds around this level: rustling leaves, ticking watch, cat purring.
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 29 dB safe?
Yes. 29 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 29 dB
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.30 dBWhisper
A soft whisper at about 1.5 m (5 ft).40 dBQuiet library
Background level of a quiet reading room.40 dBRefrigerator hum
Modern fridges are often rated 32–40 dB.
Frequently asked questions
Is 29 dB loud?
29 dB is very quiet. For comparison: rustling leaves, ticking watch, cat purring.
How many times louder is 29 dB than 19 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 29 dB?
29 dB is safe for unlimited listening.