Listen: sounds near 60 dB
How loud is 60 dB?
60 decibels is moderate. 60 dB is the level of a normal conversation at about one metre, and it carries 1 times the sound energy. Typical sounds around this level: moderate rainfall, quiet office, typing on a keyboard.
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 60 dB safe?
Yes. 60 dB is far below the levels that damage hearing. At this level noise is more a question of comfort, concentration and sleep than of hearing damage.
Sounds around 60 dB
Steady rain heard from outdoors under a roof.50 dBQuiet office
Typical open office with low conversation.50 dBTyping on a keyboard
Mechanical keyboards are louder than laptop keyboards.60 dBAir conditioner
Window unit or indoor split unit at a few metres.60 dBDishwasher
Quiet models are rated 40–45 dB; older ones exceed 60 dB.60 dBNormal conversation
Two people talking at about 1 m.60 dBOcean waves on the shore
Standing on the beach; storm surf is much louder.70 dBSnoring
Loud snoring measured near the sleeper can approach 90 dB.
Frequently asked questions
Is 60 dB loud?
60 dB is moderate. For comparison: moderate rainfall, quiet office, typing on a keyboard.
How many times louder is 60 dB than 50 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 60 dB?
60 dB is safe for unlimited listening.