Decibel Meter Apps | Boots Hearingcare

Whether you love loud concerts or work in a noisy environment like construction, it’s important to know how much volume is too much - but how exactly do you figure that out?

Fortunately, your smartphone can help. There are, in fact, several amazing applications available for download across the major platforms, meaning no matter where you are, you’ll be able to check if your ears are in danger of being damaged.

Boots Hearingcare takes a look at some of the best decibel meter apps to measure noise levels and provide accurate results, so you know when a loud sound is actually too loud…

Decibel Meter Apps for Android & iOS

Many decibel meter apps can be found on both Apple and Android platforms…and more are being developed every day. The most popular include:

SPL Meter

SPL stands for sound pressure level, and this app is designed after a traditional press. It works by converting sound detected from your mic into an SPL reading that is both clear and convenient. Ballistics, ranges, filters and decay rates are all measurable for increased versatility. Prices range from free to around 99p, depending on the software of your device.

Decibel X

If you want a sound meter that’s pre-calibrated, accurate and easily portable, this app has it all. With a standard measurement range from 30 to 130 dB, users also benefit from many features for gauging the intensity of sound, as well as an intuitive interface. Costs can go up to almost £4, but there are free versions on some markets.

Too Noisy Pro

The reason this app has grabbed the attraction of certain groups is its effectiveness at calculating and reporting noise levels in environments where there are groups of children. Teachers not only use it for noise monitoring in the classroom, but also to let them know when the volume could be reaching potentially harmful levels. However, anyone with kids in their life can enjoy the app’s fun, engaging interface and educational value. Pricing ranges between £4 and £7, owing to all the features it offers for your money.

Decibel Meter Apps for iOS Only

Of course, there are a few apps that can only be downloaded through the Apple App store, including:

NIOSH Sound Level Meter

Developed by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) in the US, this iPhone-exclusive app acts as a way of raising awareness about noise levels in the workplace, helping workers make informed decisions about their hearing health and understand when hearing protection may be necessary. For those researching noise exposure, the app is a valuable data collection tool. Oh, and the best part? It’s completely free!

SPLnFFT Noise Meter

This app was actually designed by a signal processing expert and includes features such as a frequency analyser, frequency meter, test signal generator and dosimeter. The easy-to-use interface allows users to identify dangerous noise exposure by colour; orange and red mean the volume is too high. At around £4, the app is modestly priced for its features and simplicity.

NoiSee

An advanced, intuitive professional-quality sound level meter at a fraction of the price – just 99p on the App Store. By installing NoiSee on your iPad or iPhone, you’ll receive the benefits of professional detection, which means more accurate results that can be used to determine when and where your ears need protecting most of all.

Decibel Meter Apps for Android Only

As with Apple, several decibel meter apps are only available for Android users, downloadable via Google Play. These include:

Sound Meter Pro

Many incarnations of the free Sound Meter app exist, but this one is by far the most popular and widely used. It takes your device’s microphone and detects sound, displaying the amount of decibels as well as the last 30 seconds of data on an easy-to-read graph. Users should bear in mind, though, that since Android microphones are primarily meant for recording human voices, any sounds above 100 dB aren’t recognised.

Sound Meter and Noise Detector

This free app combines a straightforward interface with expert sound capture technology, using your smartphone mic to measure the noise levels in your environment. It can also indicate how long you’ve been exposed to specific noises by considering the surrounding conditions, e.g., busy street, quiet library, etc.

Sound Analyzer App

For an app that analyses sound levels and the impact they have on your hearing, you can’t go wrong with Sound Analyzer. Totally free, it’s developed to help give you a clearer picture of the sounds in your environment, and how dangerous they might be. A lot of the screen settings are also highly adjustable, depending on your listening habits and the noises you wish to track.

Remember, apps can only provide an indication of how big the impact of noise levels on your hearing might be. Visit an audiologist or GP to get a complete diagnosis and the right treatment.

Are you worried about noise levels affecting your hearing health? Find your nearest Boots Hearingcare store and see a specialist for advice…

Best decibel meter apps to measure noise levels from your smartphone