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Decibel chart › 106 dB
How loud is 106 decibels?
106 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 4 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 | 106 dB |
|---|---|
| Hearing risk | Extreme |
| Safe exposure (NIOSH) | About 4 minutes a day |
What does 106 decibels sound like?
Everyday examples of sounds around 106 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 106 decibels (106 dB)?
106 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 4 minutes a day, and every 3 dB louder halves that. On the decibel scale, each 10 dB step sounds roughly twice as loud.
Is 106 decibels loud?
Yes, 106 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 106 decibels dangerous, and how long is safe?
At 106 dB, NIOSH puts the safe daily exposure at about 4 minutes a day. Each 3 dB increase halves it.
Measure 106 dB yourself
Want to know if where you are hits 106 dB? Check it live with the free online decibel meter — it runs in your browser, and nothing is recorded or uploaded.