Listen: sounds near 18 dB
How loud is 18 dB?
18 decibels is very quiet. 18 dB sounds about 18.4 times quieter than normal conversation (60 dB), and it carries 6.31e-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 18 dB safe?
Yes. 18 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 18 dB
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.30 dBWhisper
A soft whisper at about 1.5 m (5 ft).
Frequently asked questions
Is 18 dB loud?
18 dB is very quiet. For comparison: normal breathing, rustling leaves, ticking watch.
How many times louder is 18 dB than 8 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 18 dB?
18 dB is safe for unlimited listening.