How to use
- Press Start and allow microphone access. Hold the phone with the microphone pointing at the sound.
- Read the current level. The average (Leq), minimum and maximum keep running until you reset.
- For accurate numbers, calibrate the offset against a reference meter or a known sound.
Frequently asked questions
How accurate is a phone decibel meter?
Without calibration, expect ±5–10 dB: each microphone has a different sensitivity. After calibrating against a known source, readings are good for comparing everyday noise.
What does dB(A) mean?
A-weighting follows how human hearing works: very low and very high frequencies count less. Noise limits for homes and workplaces are usually given in dB(A).
What level is harmful?
Long exposure above 85 dB(A) can damage hearing. At 100 dB(A) the safe exposure is only about 15 minutes per day.