Listen: sounds near 70 dB
How loud is 70 dB?
70 decibels is loud. 70 dB sounds about 2.0 times as loud as normal conversation (60 dB), and it carries 10 times the sound energy. Typical sounds around this level: air conditioner, dishwasher, normal conversation.
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 70 dB safe?
For most people, short exposure to 70 dB is not harmful. The US EPA identified 70 dBA averaged over 24 hours as a level that protects against hearing loss over a lifetime, so long, all-day exposure is worth reducing.
Sounds around 70 dB
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.70 dBSnoring
Loud snoring measured near the sleeper can approach 90 dB.70 dBWashing machine
Louder during the spin cycle.75 dBBusy restaurant
Hard surfaces and many voices push levels up.75 dBToilet flush
Pressure-assisted toilets are the loudest.75 dBVacuum cleaner
At the operator's position.
Safe listening time
| Level | NIOSH recommended limit | OSHA legal limit (US) |
|---|---|---|
| 70 dBA | 256 hours | 128 hours |
| 73 dBA | 128 hours | 84.4 hours |
| 76 dBA | 64.0 hours | 55.7 hours |
NIOSH: 85 dBA for 8 hours with a 3 dB exchange rate; OSHA: 90 dBA for 8 hours with a 5 dB exchange rate. General information, not medical advice – see a hearing professional about ringing ears, muffled hearing or pain.
Frequently asked questions
Is 70 dB loud?
70 dB is loud. For comparison: air conditioner, dishwasher, normal conversation.
How many times louder is 70 dB than 60 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 70 dB?
NIOSH recommends a maximum of 256 hours per day at 70 dBA.