Listen: sounds near 48 dB
How loud is 48 dB?
48 decibels is quiet. 48 dB sounds about 2.3 times quieter than normal conversation (60 dB), and it carries 0.0631 times the sound energy. Typical sounds around this level: quiet library, refrigerator hum, moderate rainfall.
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 48 dB safe?
Yes. 48 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 48 dB
Background level of a quiet reading room.40 dBRefrigerator hum
Modern fridges are often rated 32–40 dB.50 dBModerate rainfall
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.
Frequently asked questions
Is 48 dB loud?
48 dB is quiet. For comparison: quiet library, refrigerator hum, moderate rainfall.
How many times louder is 48 dB than 38 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 48 dB?
48 dB is safe for unlimited listening.