Decibel comparison

How loud is 115 dB?

How loud is 115 dB? Typical sounds at 115 decibels, comparison with other levels, and how long it is safe for your ears. Measure your own level free in the browser – no app needed.

Dangerous110-130 dB

115 dB is in the “Dangerous” range. Pain threshold; immediate damage possible.

Typical sounds around 115 dB

Ambulance siren
Thunder
Live rock music
Jet plane at 100m

115 dB compared with other levels

Decibels are logarithmic: +10 dB is perceived as roughly twice as loud, while +3 dB already doubles the sound energy.

LevelPerceived loudness vs. 115 dBSound energy
105 dB×0.5×0.1
112 dB×0.81×0.5
115 dB×1×1
118 dB×1.2×2
125 dB×2×10

Is 115 dB harmful to hearing?

At 115 dB, the recommended maximum exposure (NIOSH) is about 28 seconds per day without hearing protection. Beyond that, the risk of permanent hearing damage increases.

Guideline values based on NIOSH/WHO recommendations. Actual risk depends on distance, duration, and individual sensitivity. For reference only.

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Other decibel levels

See the full decibel comparison chart