Decibel meter apps are becoming more common as people look for ways to monitor their hearing health using smartphones and smartwatches. These apps allow users to check the loudness of their surroundings, which can help reduce the risk of noise-induced hearing loss.
Both free and paid decibel meter app options are available for iPhone, Android, and Apple Watch users. For those concerned about their hearing, it is recommended to schedule an appointment with a local hearing specialist.
Modern smartphones and watches can measure sound levels in decibels, providing information about environmental noise that could lead to permanent or temporary hearing damage. However, these devices do not match the accuracy of professional sound meters and do not meet ANSI or OSHA standards for workplace noise testing.
iPhone and Apple Watch users have built-in tools for tracking decibel levels. On iPhones, users can add the Hearing option in Control Center to monitor headphone volume in real time. The Health app tracks exposure over time. The Apple Watch includes a Noise app that continuously monitors ambient sound levels and sends alerts if dangerous thresholds are reached. Data from this app syncs with the Health app for long-term tracking.
For those without Apple devices or who want additional features, several third-party apps are available:
- Decibel: dB Sound Level Meter (iOS) offers a range of measurement tools including a dosimeter and spectrum analyzer.
- Sound Meter (Noise Detector) (iOS) provides alerts when dangerous noise is detected.
- SPL Meter (iOS) mimics traditional sound pressure level meters with pre-calibration for most devices.
- Too Noisy Pro (iOS), designed for educational settings, helps teachers manage classroom noise.
- NIOSH Sound Level Meter (iOS), developed by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, is used in workplace environments to increase awareness about harmful noise levels.
- SPLnFFT Noise Meter (iOS) includes advanced analysis tools and color-coded displays indicating safe or unsafe conditions.
Android users have access to:
- Sound Meter Pro uses phone microphones but cannot recognize sounds above 100dB due to hardware limitations.
- Sound Meter and Noise Detector provides basic measurements along with exposure history.
Some apps work on both platforms:
- Decibel X offers standard measurement ranges from 30 to 130 dB on both iOS and Android.
Other related applications address different aspects of hearing loss management, such as brain training apps, tinnitus support tools, sign language resources, captioning services, and apps specifically designed for measuring noise levels. While helpful in certain situations, these digital solutions should not replace professional healthcare or properly fitted hearing aids.
"These apps can be very helpful in specific situations, but they are not a replacement for good hearing healthcare or properly fit hearing aids."
If you are worried about your exposure to loud noises or suspect changes in your hearing ability, seeking guidance from a qualified specialist remains essential.
