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Decibel chart › Sonic boom
How loud is a sonic boom?
A sonic boom measures about 110 dB, roughly as loud as a chainsaw. At 110 dB it is at or above the 85 dB line where hearing damage starts: NIOSH puts the safe limit at about 1 minute a day. Normal conversation runs about 60 dB for comparison.
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| Decibel level | 110 dB |
|---|---|
| Hearing risk | High risk — NASA puts a sonic boom at about 110 dB, like an explosion or a thunderclap; it is a single impulse, not a sustained exposure |
| Safe exposure (NIOSH) | About 1 minute a day |
| Typical setting | outdoors |
Figures sourced to NASA. See the full decibel levels chart for every source.
How a sonic boom compares
On the decibel scale, 110 dB sits above the 85 dB line where sustained exposure damages hearing. Sounds at a similar level:
- Chainsaw 110 dB
- Shouting or barking directly in the ear 110 dB
- Personal listening device at max volume 105–110 dB
- Nightclub or loud bar 105–110 dB
Everything at this level, with safe exposure times: how loud is 110 dB? →
How loud is a sonic boom?
A sonic boom measures about 110 dB, roughly as loud as a chainsaw. At 110 dB it is at or above the 85 dB line where hearing damage starts: NIOSH puts the safe limit at about 1 minute a day. Normal conversation runs about 60 dB for comparison.
Is a sonic boom dangerous to hearing?
Yes — at 110 dB, a sonic boom is loud enough to damage hearing over time. NIOSH limits safe exposure to about 1 minute a day; use hearing protection beyond that.
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.