Decibel Shield
Decibel chart › Normal conversation
How loud is a normal conversation?
A normal conversation measures 60–70 dB, roughly as loud as a window air conditioner. It stays below the 85 dB hearing-risk line, so a normal day around it is fine.
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| Decibel level | 60–70 dB |
|---|---|
| Hearing risk | No risk — Safe at any duration |
| Safe exposure (NIOSH) | No limit — safe at any duration |
| Typical setting | home |
Figures sourced to NIDCD. See the full decibel levels chart for every source.
How a normal conversation compares
On the decibel scale, 60–70 dB sits in the everyday range, below the 85 dB hearing-risk line. Sounds at a similar level:
- Window air conditioner 60 dB
- Washing machine 70 dB
- Dishwasher 70 dB
- Vacuum cleaner 70–75 dB
Everything at this level, with safe exposure times: how loud is 65 dB? →
How loud is a normal conversation?
A normal conversation measures 60–70 dB, roughly as loud as a window air conditioner. It stays below the 85 dB hearing-risk line, so a normal day around it is fine.
Is a normal conversation dangerous to hearing?
No — at 60–70 dB, a normal conversation is below the 85 dB level where hearing damage begins, so ordinary exposure carries no hearing risk.
Measure it yourself
Decibel levels vary with distance and surroundings. Check the real level where you are with the free online decibel meter — no install, nothing recorded — or see the full decibel levels chart.