Listen to normal conversation
How loud is normal conversation?
Normal conversation is about 60 dB, with a typical range of 55–70 dB. Two people talking at about 1 m.
That is about the level of normal conversation.
Can it damage your hearing?
No – 60 dB is well below the 85 dBA level at which prolonged exposure starts to risk hearing damage.
How sound level changes with distance
Decibel figures always depend on distance. For a small source in open air, every doubling of distance lowers the level by about 6 dB; indoors, reflections reduce that drop. Use the sound-vs-distance calculator to estimate the level where you are.
Sounds as loud as normal conversation
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 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.70 dBWashing machine
Louder during the spin cycle.
More recordings elsewhere
- People (talking).wav by ZyryTSounds – CC0 1.0 (freesound)
- People talking at cafe ambience by priesjensen – CC0 1.0 (freesound)
- Busy Room Ambience / People talking in background #2 by Breviceps – CC0 1.0 (freesound)
- Bar people talking atmo.wav by martian – CC0 1.0 (freesound)
- People talking (Adults & Children) by Breviceps – CC0 1.0 (freesound)
Frequently asked questions
How many decibels is normal conversation?
About 60 dB, with a typical range of 55–70 dB.
Is normal conversation louder than a jet engine?
No – a jet engine at takeoff is about 140 dB at 30 m, while normal conversation is about 60 dB.
How are these levels measured?
With a sound level meter, usually A-weighted (dBA) to match human hearing. Published figures depend on distance and conditions, so treat them as typical values.
Sources & credits
- CDC – What Noises Cause Hearing Loss?
- Tape 283, Conversation 004 (283-004) - DPLA - 745f1252f8054a8e4b5dc6f25f31fabc by President (1969-1974 : Nixon). Office of the President. (01/20/1969 - 08/1974) – Public domain