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Decibel chart › 105 dB
How loud is 105 decibels?
105 decibels is about as loud as a personal listening device at max volume, a nightclub or loud bar, a rock concert. That is at or above the 85 dB hearing-risk line: NIOSH limits safe exposure to about 5 minutes a day, and every 3 dB louder halves that. On the decibel scale, each 10 dB step sounds roughly twice as loud.
Last updated:
| Sound level | 105 dB |
|---|---|
| Hearing risk | Extreme |
| Safe exposure (NIOSH) | About 5 minutes a day |
What does 105 decibels sound like?
Everyday examples of sounds around 105 decibels, each sourced to CDC, NIOSH, NIDCD and ASHA. Open any one for its own breakdown, or see the full decibel levels chart.
- Personal listening device at max volume 105–110 dB
- Nightclub or loud bar 105–110 dB
- Rock concert 105–110 dB
- Sporting event 94–110 dB
- Circular saw 96–107 dB
- Movie theater 74–104 dB
How loud is 105 decibels (105 dB)?
105 decibels is about as loud as a personal listening device at max volume, a nightclub or loud bar, a rock concert. That is at or above the 85 dB hearing-risk line: NIOSH limits safe exposure to about 5 minutes a day, and every 3 dB louder halves that. On the decibel scale, each 10 dB step sounds roughly twice as loud.
Is 105 decibels loud?
Yes, 105 decibels is loud, about the loudness of a personal listening device at max volume, at or above the 85 dB line, so prolonged exposure can damage hearing and ear protection is recommended.
Is 105 decibels dangerous, and how long is safe?
At 105 dB, NIOSH puts the safe daily exposure at about 5 minutes a day. Each 3 dB increase halves it.
Measure 105 dB yourself
Want to know if where you are hits 105 dB? Check it live with the free online decibel meter — it runs in your browser, and nothing is recorded or uploaded.