Listen: sounds near 51 dB
How loud is 51 dB?
51 decibels is moderate. 51 dB sounds about 1.9 times quieter than normal conversation (60 dB), and it carries 0.126 times the sound energy. Typical sounds around this level: quiet library, moderate rainfall, quiet office.
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 51 dB safe?
Yes. 51 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 51 dB
Background level of a quiet reading room.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.60 dBOcean waves on the shore
Standing on the beach; storm surf is much louder.
Frequently asked questions
Is 51 dB loud?
51 dB is moderate. For comparison: quiet library, moderate rainfall, quiet office.
How many times louder is 51 dB than 41 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 51 dB?
51 dB is safe for unlimited listening.