NIOSH Sound Level Meter
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| Keyword | Volume | Hits | KEI | Rank |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| soundlevel pro |
|
|
1.02 |
3
|
| niosh ladder |
|
|
816 |
3
1
|
| noise meter |
|
|
9.87 |
3
|
| noise level |
|
|
186 |
3
|
| soundlevel free |
|
|
55.07 |
3
|
| sound meter |
|
|
10.11 |
3
|
| armstrong sound level meter |
|
|
51.53 |
2
|
| niosh pocket guide |
|
|
0.00 |
2
|
| sound level |
|
|
0.00 |
2
|
| niosh chemical hazards |
|
|
816 |
2
|
| ladder safety |
|
|
5.3 K |
2
|
| niosh slm |
|
|
0.00 |
1
|
| niosh sound level meter |
|
|
21 K |
1
|
App name
NIOSH sound level Meter
Description
This award-winning app combines the best features of professional sound level meters and noise dosimeters into a simple, easy-to-use package.
- Developed by experienced acoustics engineers and hearing loss experts.
- Completely FREE – No ads, no limited features, and no in-app purchases.
- Tested and validated (accuracy ± 2 dBA) according to standards in a reverberant chamber at NIOSH acoustics lab – the only proper method to validate accuracy.
- Trusted source and world-class expertise in noise and hearing research.
- Meets Type 2 requirements of IEC 61672:3 SLM standard when used w/ external microphone.*
- Provides the most relevant metrics found in professional sound instruments today. Averages such as LAeq and TWA, Max and Peak Levels, Noise Dose and Projected Dose according to NIOSH and OSHA standards, and all three major weighting networks (A, C, and Z).
- Capability to calibrate either internal or external microphone. Reporting and Sharing data.
- Up-to-date informational screens on what noises are considered hazardous, how to conduct a noise measurement, how to properly select a hearing protector, and guidelines for preventing hearing loss, all at the palm of your hand.
- Excellent and timely support from NIOSH hearing experts.
- Support for Apple's Health (Hearing) app.
* Celestina M, Hrovat J, Kardous CA [2018]. Smartphone-based sound level measurement apps: Evaluation of compliance with international sound level meter standards. Applied Acoustics, 139:119-128. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.apacoust.2018.04.011
More resources (including instructional videos and a user manual), a science blog, FAQ, and information about how to interpret results can be found on the niosh slm website https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/noise/app.html
Keywords ranked #25 or better
Keywords ranked between #25 and #250
Not ranked in search results under this keyword
Reviews
Screen display issues
by 2ndAxl on 2021/03/06 16:21
The screen is compacted, causing reading to be obscured by item below it. Needs to be expanded.
I love this app. Genius.
by Collin Longshanks on 2021/02/20 22:23
This measures decibels and is incredibly accurate. We tested it agains some very high prices scientific equipment, and it always came within .5-1 decibel. Very well done. It also does a great job drawing attention to how loud our environments actually are, and the toll that’s taking on our ears. Excellent App!
App on an iPhone
by jnjwe on 2021/02/08 20:59
Downloaded the app from the Apple App Store and it does not format properly on the phone. I have an iPhone XR.
One line over laps another.
NIOSH sound level meter
by Satisfied 3 on 2021/01/23 18:26
I love the convenience of this app, and how simple it is to use.
I have protected my hearing since I was a child when I found out that some of my relatives were very hard of hearing because they had been exposed loud noises in their lives. I still jealously guard my hearing, as I have worn glasses since I was a kid and don’t want to lose a second sense.
When I am exposed to loud noises by people who don’t seem to care, or it doesn’t sound that loud to them because they have already damaged their hearing, it gives me an opportunity to show them that it is loud enough to damage hearing and they need to turn the volume down a bit for everyone’s sake, or it shows me that although I’m uncomfortable, it’s still in the safe zone, and I just put in my earplugs. Or if it’s someone like my husband who is hard of hearing from all his years in construction and not protecting his hearing and needs the volume up like that to hear it, I just hand him the headphones.
I pulled your app out to use it this time because all the hammering going on inside my house right now (a construction project inside my own home) is hurting both my ears and the dog’s, so I was checking to see how much damage is being done and are the dog and I safe without hearing protection.
Thanks!
LT
Very useful tool
by Emil golombefski on 2021/01/22 01:30
Great for alerting to high sound levels. Trouble shooting wind noise in cars.
Db tool with iphone 7 jan 11 2021
by vinies8in on 2021/01/11 19:14
This works and easy to understand stand information. Uses other functions that are useful there should be no criticism for this app unless your phone isn’t up specs ie Dji products i had to buy a more expensive phone recently so a expensive item could function.
New user
by American Rambler on 2020/12/09 21:03
Just trying out the app. Still figuring out what the app does and does not do.
Battery drain
by Zerty66 on 2020/11/24 21:10
App significantly drains battery every time I use it.
I NEVER downloaded this app? And this is a brand new phone
by KimShadybbbby on 2020/11/24 08:24
For whatever reason this app is on my phone, I do not know. I do know, that I most certainly did not download it. I had to look up what the hell it was for, and I still don’t even get it… Wackyyyyyy
I read a paper and download this
by feelthatt on 2020/11/16 02:25
It worked.
I use it to match my subwoofer sound level.
C weighting and Slow.
If you need to add a sub to your audio/home theater system, please use this app to do the calibration manually.
It can give you a smooth and beautiful blend just like a calibrated SPL meter can do.
And it is free. Perfect!
Doesn’t work proper on iPhone 12
by lalsrnsr on 2020/11/16 01:11
I just installed this on the new iPhone 12. My room used to be ~30db on the app using my iPhone XS. It’s now showing ~20db on the iPhone 12. No possible way 20db is correct. Not sure what’s going on
well done
by Diego benz on 2020/10/29 18:01
great app
App not clear
by cant c c on 2020/10/17 15:42
Sorry but my screen is multi-way lines. Can’t read. R cnoise level.
Sorry at this time I will not recommend. This app 😞
Display not working
by idahomountainlake on 2020/10/16 15:24
The data is partially hidden by the labels. You need to look at your screen layout it’s not working
This app is a must! Better than paid options
by mm404 on 2020/09/30 13:42
Simple and clean interface, no unnecessary permissions, small size.. the perfect app. Oh and it’s free!
Allow calibration
by shouhan on 2020/08/29 20:27
This is the only free one that allows calibration so that more accurate setting can be obtained for the best metering.
App set up isn’t readable
by Duckin33 on 2020/08/28 17:56
I have had this app a little over a month and have sent in an email and tried to get help or to ask them to fix it. They have neglected to return email so that I can know what’s happening with it. I still can’t use the app and have deleted it off my phone for negligence on the part of the programmers communication or fixing the app!
Very unprofessional!!!
Well-written elegant app
by WJR1989 on 2020/08/18 12:20
This application is VERY well suited to applications where human exposure to potentially damaging noise levels can be accurately AND provide actionable data from the standpoint of industry-recognized personnel exposure/safety measurements.
It’s ability to EXPORT measured data is also very valuable.
so much fun
by jonanderson335 on 2020/07/22 16:21
this game is so much fun! I would give it 10 stars if I could. my high score is 132.2 dB. Let me know if anyone is able to beat it. this game is a family favorite and will be sure to have the entire group laughing. my family loves to play this game as we wait to be seated at restaurants. It is also a lot of fun to play on long car rides and flights!!
Very useful
by denver bulldogs on 2020/07/12 15:57
I downloaded this app to compare hair dryers because many advertise being quiet, but don’t provide metrics. The app is easy to use and I am happy with it.
Very effective
by ryanollie08 on 2020/06/21 14:50
I have used this app for a very long time now for the laeq functionality to find long term (30ish minute) average volume. I also spot check consistently to watch for short term exposure levels.
The app is surprisingly close to my calibrated dB meter! Usually within .5 dBA, as long as the room volume is under approximately 95dBA.
I foresee myself using this for a long time to gauge live music volumes.
The actual free one
by Ygiiop on 2020/06/19 13:13
Don’t bother downloading the other apps that come up in search. Almost all those require you to sign up with credit card before you can even use them. Garbage
This app is by far the best and easiest to use. Don’t hesitate and just get this one.
Obtained to measure road noise
by Crackerjack Taylor on 2020/06/14 01:41
It’s been working
Stopped working after 5 mins
by Kalman P on 2020/06/11 16:36
Stopped working after a couple tests .
This little app is awesome
by wherestravis on 2020/06/10 22:15
Just what I needed to measure the ambient sound level before and after soundproofing
Works well
by rejedejo on 2020/05/28 16:36
Works well, trust it to be right.
NIOSH
by sdsfdcc on 2020/04/30 14:17
This app doesn’t show me what my loudest recording was
Layout does not work on iPhone
by rattbyte on 2020/04/28 20:24
Elements overlap, only half the words are sowing. Screen is badly garbled. Unusable. Contacted developers - no response ; (
iPhone 11 support?
by tomjerry21 on 2020/04/13 06:04
Worked well with my iPhone 6 a few years ago. Now have an 11 series iPhone. Was it also tested on new phones? I can’t find that information anywhere.
Update: actually heard from the developer. It works with the 11. Awesome app!
R77787778
by r77778888999 on 2020/03/05 22:46
Works great. Found dB level of 90+ for dump trucks using Jake brakes passing in front of my house.
Perfect 100/100
by KEVBKLYN on 2020/03/03 23:51
Very good
Great
by snarfs55 on 2020/02/13 06:23
Seems reliable
Great Easy App
by PeteD,NY on 2020/02/02 01:28
Easy to use, informative, free & no ads
Doesn’t get any better for a handy tool.
Thanks!!!
Excellent app
by Virtual families2 is awsome on 2020/01/20 06:20
Extremely happy of this free app!
Excellent App!
by Ken7892 on 2020/01/08 20:23
The capabilities of the app are excellent, and customer support is very responsive.
Play & Pause doesn’t seem to work
by Yochiii on 2020/01/05 09:02
I can’t tell what the play or pause does as when I click on either one, the noise measurement continues to respond. Then, sometimes the app would freeze and not record any measurements whether I clicked on play or pause. I also gotten situations were the app is responding to sound and updating the metrics in the stat below but the main display where it displays the instantaneously levels just shows —.
Also not working for me. Very disappointing
by Disappointed #x on 2020/01/01 15:40
I’ve downloaded this app from the the iPhone App Store to use on my iPhone XR. My phone has all recent updates to the OS. It’s at Ver 13.3
However this app is not functioning properly for me. I’ve also tried uninstalling the app and reinstalling it and I’m still having the same problems.
Among the problems I’m experiencing are the following:
After a fresh install I did get the app’s to begin measuring decibels but nothing below the light gray band ( in the bottom 2/3 rd of the screen) never populated with any readings info whatsoever, not even the other dB measurements and
Nor Could I get either of the following functions to work on repeated tries:
1- couldn’t stop/pause the readings. Unless I navigated away from the app all together ? Possibly then
2 - couldn’t save readings. Save icon is dimmed out
2 - can’t re-start it. Tapping the start icon does nothing
3- the count down display just has underscores and a period after the first two underscores. But is otherwise dead
4 - none of the functional buttons on the app are working
5 - only thing I can do is read the instructional screens
6 - the measuring functions of the actual app aren’t working
7 - even when it did initially measure the decibel flucuations (after a fresh install) either the stop or save buttons didn’t work or both. At no time did the bottom 2/3 rd of the screen populate with any data whatsoever.
Count me as one of the disappointed users who’s app is absolutely not working for. Very disappointing!
Please advise
Thanks
Only one complaint
by Fghjkpofdewyinnvfdrui on 2019/12/29 15:16
A great app, simple and understated. Only issue i've had on my iphone 7 is the "Place" and "Notes" fields don't get saved. Without a way to reliably distinguish the recordings this app is all but useless to me.
Android? No jack?
by AveT101 on 2019/12/20 18:27
Great app. What’s not so great is the fact that is is an iOS only, leaving out most people (Android users). The other way this app is missing out is not considering the fact that apple decided to eliminate the audio jack... so no mic can be plugged anymore (most if not all Android phones still have an audio jack input). Missing the boat here guys! Will come back and rate 5 when you come up with the Android version and recommend some recommend some lighting and usb-c and mini mics that will work best when the jack input is not an option. TY
Virus, worm, time bomb, logic bomb???
by musicmkr75 on 2019/11/19 12:47
This doesn’t give me too much faith! NIOSH expressly disclaims any warrant for the NIOSH sound level meter app. The app is provided as is without any express or implied warranty of any kind
NIOSH makes no warranties respecting any harm that may be caused by the transmission of computer virus, worm, time bomb, logic bomb or other such computer program.
From a real person with nothing to gain from this.
by JuniorDank on 2019/11/02 09:00
Used it and it made “correct seeming” readings it went up with noise and back down. I wouldn’t trust it for professional work(school). But this is FREE no subscription required before it starts. 100% recommend it
Disclaimer: Original post written after 3 app starts and 20 min spent on app.
It’s not working
by Erma99 on 2019/10/16 13:03
I just downloaded the app, it worked. I closed and reopened the app, now it is Not picking up sound. I’m trying to find a user guide, but to no avail.
Retired
by rjburns52 on 2019/10/12 22:19
Former safety officer at a university but still maintain safety in my craft woodwork shop. Every so often check decidable and marking on chart in shop.
Junk
by donhv on 2019/10/12 19:00
Quit working in 2 minutes. Won’t start back
The best and only good sound meter app
by Indiegrrl2367 on 2019/10/10 04:47
Well made, well designed, free and without ads or other annoying BS. As or more accurate than the inexpensive handheld sound meter I have. The only feature I wish it had was the ability to auto save sessions - I often forget to press the save button and then it’s gone forever! Besides that, great job NIOSH.
Useful!
by Fabricati on 2019/10/05 03:51
Very useful. Does not replace an OSHA meter but it shows where you might want one.
Db meter
by fffdsguuiu on 2019/10/03 15:03
Not working
Great
by Houston-voicer on 2019/10/01 11:14
This is stable and very helpful, associated with the non-profit CDC. Perhaps there are better apps out there, but it gives me everything I need. Way to go!!
Excellent SLM app
by FocusSeeker on 2019/07/25 16:30
This app plus a calibrated mic and an iOS device provides capabilities that otherwise cost many hundreds of dollars more. The only feature that I wish it had is the ability to report z-weighted Leq.
Love this app
by Ethan Proulx on 2019/07/14 23:13
I use this app all the time when I go to concerts and I love it. It does exactly what I need it to do. My dad knows a lot about safety in the workplace and other environments so I like to show him how loud it is when I go to certain events.
Little Bug: When swiping to delete and not letting go but swiping back as to cancel the action the app crashes. Just a little bug I found!
Didn’t work
by maddoggy88 on 2019/05/19 17:31
I’m not sure why, but on an iPhone SE, it downloaded, but wouldn’t request permission to use the microphone. I went through the settings menus in the iPhone and tried closing everything down, restarting etc., and nothing worked.
Question
by Bad update 12321 on 2019/05/19 00:39
Why is the sound level on my iPad Pro way different from my iPhone 8?
Just what I need, nothing I don’t.
by smileitspaul on 2019/04/24 08:00
The app developers really deserve praise for creating a completely free app that doesn’t blast me with ads, beg me to upgrade, and generally distract me with BS when I try to use it. The interface is clean and easy to navigate. It seems very accurate, especially for what I need which is basically just comparing noise levels relative to one another. It never glitches or quits unexpectedly. I’ll stay loyal to this app, it is exactly what I needed.
Doesn’t Work
by Diray Acosta on 2019/04/21 20:40
I was using it to try out the free version and when I installed it and opened the app for the first time; it showed me readings that were very untrue like 120dB. I know this isn’t right because I was lying in my bed with no electronics on next to me or anything loud at all. I don’t know what the problem is since there’s so many positive comments but it no work :(
EDIT: I thought there could be a free version and a paid version but I guess I was wrong. This review is not for a different app by the way, it was just what the app was showing me. But I do not have a professional microphone attached to my iPad so if you want to say it was that I guess it could be 🤔 yet I doubt it. I will change my review to 4 stars because I am only testing this against 3 other decibal meters and not a profesional machine or a sound that is supposed to be at a specific level.
Best Free Speaker Calibrator!
by AnonGod on 2019/04/14 19:54
All of the other SPL apps are trash. They’re full of ads and only care about money. This app is free and is of a much higher quality than Decibel X & every other one I’ve tried. Highly recommended.
Buena aplicación
by Tavomac64 on 2019/03/27 06:43
Bastante funcional, sin publicidad y gratis.
Db sound level app
by edgehog1 on 2019/03/19 23:38
It’s pretty cool to have this as an app!
Has everything you need!
by Atlblkz06 on 2019/02/24 18:27
I love this app. It has A/C/Z weighting, great display, data logging and averaging.
Can’t ask for more from a free app when so many others nag you. Thank you!
NIOSH Sound Level Meter
by MKPainter on 2019/02/16 19:12
This is the best sound level app I’ve ever used. It tells you everything to know about what you’re hearing. I have earplugs that reduce 35 dB and when the app gets to that level I can hear nothing. I do highly recommend it.
Martin
The only decibel meter app you should use
by Evan Kroske on 2019/02/12 21:27
The only app approved by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health
Hearing protection for child care workers?
by GKambitsch on 2019/01/22 04:37
I measured my 3 year old great granddaughter’s scream at 117 decibels. (I was informing her that we needed to put away some of her toys.)
Great for audio Safety, Awareness, and instruction
by Vike99 on 2019/01/18 11:49
Updated comments (Version 1.0.9.11). Took care of the one glitch I noted below, plus greatly expanded their noise info section. This app is now a great learning tool as well. Great app just reached nirvana in my book!
Safety is part of my job, but I’m also a father, homeowner, etc. on the job I always carry my phone and have used other noise apps to conduct informal noise surveys to provide on the spot warnings and to plan formal noise surveys. Under most conditions I’ve found my phone does a pretty good job in matching type 2 SLMs. I’ve used several apps but this one beats them all. Not only is it the easiest app I’ve used but it also calculates all the critical parameters automatically. I can easily record and download or email the results. Good to have around the house -do I need to give the kids hearing protection while mowing the lawn? Any kind of power tool? As a sufferer of tinnitus I’m probably more careful of exposing loved ones to noise - this does the trick. I do recommend getting an external mic. In addition to the excellent app, it has pretty good instructional material on noise in n general. Overall very well put together and highly recommended. And it is free! One beef - when I tap the reset button it does not ask if I’m sure like it says in the manual. Too easy to eliminate your recording. NIOSH’s ladder safety app is pretty good as well. Looking forward to their next app!
Almost there
by a_vasquez on 2019/01/17 16:25
Works beautifully but sorely lacking iPad optimization. Would also like to see Apple Watch app as well, but mainly iPad native app. Developer yes I know it can be ran on iPad but I want native iPad resolution. Been asking this for a while along with others. I’ll change my rating when we get this. Please consider it!!
JH
by FinnMcCool60 on 2018/11/10 04:28
Very helpful app for monitoring noisy workers.
Doesn’t work please help
by ...............doesntwork on 2018/11/07 20:30
This app does not seem to work on my iPhone 7
Perfect for Law Enforcement and Security Foot Patrols
by Field Officer on 2018/10/24 05:40
Environmental
Easy to use and free
by XxxsomeguyxxX on 2018/09/28 22:02
Great app. Upon opening it provides instructions on use. It’s fairly simple with only a few options to choose from with no annoying ads of any kind. It was also the only app I’ve used that makes calibrating an add on mic easy and accurate. Great use of tax money.
Only available for phone not tablet
by XCO8 on 2018/09/07 22:32
Very straightforward and easy to use. Would be great if it was also available on the iPads. Please make it available for iPad in the App Store as the app does not show up in the iPad App Store.
The only truly free and most accurate decibel app
by AcousticsProf on 2018/08/16 17:07
No ads, no in-app purchases, no hassle to upgrade every 10 seconds, fully-featured unlike the other top apps that entice you with a single feature but force you buy an upgrade to get the rest of the functionality of the app.
Developed for professional users who are serious about acoustics by the top hearing lab in the country, if not the world. I use a Larson-Davis 831 for my daily work and have compared many apps to my SLM and though I was always skeptical about apps, this one is the most accurate out there.
Aplicación Excelente y Muy Completa
by Kaporpr on 2018/08/06 21:15
Excelente aplicación para medir los decibeles que causan los ruidos que afectan tu vecindario o condominio. Alborotos de tus vecinos, alguna iglesia, un negocio o un lugar cercano. Sirve para documentar una querella a Calidad Ambiental, la Administración de tu condominio y hasta un tribunal. Puedes compartir tus mediciones con cualquier aplicación de email, mensajería, pdf y muchas otras. Explica muy bien sus mediciones, variables o parámetros. Y puedes saber cuán alto o bajos son los decibeles. Fácil de usar, muy sensible al sonido y mide en tiempo real.
Decibel mucho
by Shiny Pigtoe on 2018/08/05 17:34
Very detailed for a free app. Highly recommended for this too loud world.
Great Performance
by Phoenix9billion on 2018/06/07 14:19
App performs remarkably well. Highly recommended.
Overload
by Granny to two on 2018/05/19 20:52
Doesn’t do anything, just this “error”.
P. S. Nope. I tried re-loading the app. It didn’t request permission to use my microphone. Tried using it, no luck. Went to settings to see if I could connect the microphone manually, but NIOSH SLM isn’t one of the apps that has requested permission to use my microphone. Deleted it again. I use dB Meter Pro - it works, is simple to use and gives similar results to sound level meters I use at work.
It’s more accurate than most apps
by Neilax on 2018/05/18 15:46
It’s more accurate than most apps, but it’s still less accurate than a real decibel meter. It tends to show higher decibel numbers than a real decibel meter would show for a particular noise. For example, it showed 132.6 decibels when I screamed!!! I screamed in front of a RadioShack decibel meter and that only showed 114 decibels.
Great app that could be even better with simple tweak
by c_brad_c on 2018/04/26 10:38
Great app but would love to be able save notes on individual saved measurements so I can remember the space and describe the circumstances.
Save your hearing!
by BluesMusician on 2018/02/20 05:42
This app gives lots of data to know if you are damaging your hearing. I had no idea the live music was so loud! I wish I had this app years ago, to prevent my hearing loss and tinnitus. Also, use good hearing protection to prevent permanent damage. The damage cannot be undone!
Well done
by Disgruntled albatraoz on 2017/11/18 05:46
I have been using this app for over a year and through several updates. It has always worked well and accurately. It has been a useful tool for monitoring the noise exposure and deciding where and when I need to wear earplugs. The only feature it lacks (in my opinion) is the ability to run as a background process with the phone asleep (similar to the way you can play music), which would allow to have the screen off and use less battery when monitoring for long periods of time. Aside from that personal preference, this app has been reliable and helpful. I would highly recommend it.
Decibel meter
by Threebeards on 2017/07/18 16:07
Probably the best you'll get for your phone without plugging in an external microphone, which you can also do with this one anyway.
Like it says it's from NIOSH it's free it has no ads and it's not trying to sell you it's other apps. Download this one.
Overload??
by sids911 on 2017/05/11 04:46
The app worked first time, then i reopened it and doesn't show anything at all except some weird "overload" error. Uninstalled and installed again- same thing.
Wish it worked - the app is buggy. Stay away!
Works for me
by Tx9753 on 2017/04/20 23:54
I have run it several times for an hour or so. It has never quit working, so I am in the very good app category. In case it matters I use a 6s plus, ios 10.3.1, slm version 1.0.3.25, and was using the internal mic during these runs. Noise level was not so high. I will try various external mics and louder conditions, but so far all works.
Does Not Work
by Cohengrp on 2017/04/06 03:44
Don't waste your time. All I see is an overload message. Even deleting and reinstalling won't fix the problem. Better apps available that work
Cool app
by cblupo on 2017/04/02 16:48
Well done
NIOSH slm
by Macmacsacdf on 2017/04/01 01:55
Not working right
Great app when it works
by Tooloud4meinhere on 2017/03/30 19:08
Reads an error message, "overload", most of the time. Have reinstalled to no avail
Excellent, when it works
by RiotSugar on 2017/03/29 05:29
While I appreciate the work that went into making such a precise app, and that it's available for free, the current version is just too buggy. It worked for the first few minutes, but then, apropos of nothing, gave me an 'overload' reading. Didn't tell me what that meant, or how to fix it, but suddenly it wouldn't measure or receive any sound. Closing it didn't change anything. When I deleted and re-installed it, the problem remained. Then it worked for about a minute. Then it gave me the 'overload' reading again.
Once this is fixed, I'd love to leave a 5-star review. I was inclined to just send a bug report, but there doesn't seem to be any way to do that in-app, so I'm taking this route. Appreciate the service, but the app in it's present form is broken.
Best iPhone sound level meter ever!!
by JohnAppleseed_D on 2017/03/02 19:34
I don't know why so few people know about this app but it's literally the most accurate and user friendly sound level meter in App Store😶. Use this to keep my speakers at a safe sound level.
The stupidest thing ever!
by Safety guru! on 2017/03/01 21:11
This is one of the dumbest things ever NIOSH came up with! When using IH instruments we always calibrate. How are you expecting people to understand that concept? OSHA will get tremendous amounts of false complaints because of this app. This is ridiculous to be called the official app!
Incredibly valuable tool
by chuckmyers on 2017/02/24 14:29
This Acoustical Engineer found the NIOSH SLM to be easy to use, very accurate, and powerful as a learning tool. Every feature you'd need to run a noise survey is available in this app. Bravo!
need more info
by tikkamasala on 2017/01/25 16:46
when initially installed, only the instantaneous dBA level is measured. I'd like to see Total Run Time, and Max. level, at the very least. Where do I go to find out how to activate them?
Thanks NIOSH!
by brandonransom on 2017/01/20 04:14
I work under, in and around helicopters and airplanes. This will help me keep an eye on my actual sound exposure. Better than carrying a dosimeter everywhere!
Flawless App
by Jtk1292 on 2017/01/18 03:29
There isn't a more accurate sound level meter available.
NIOSH sound level meter
by Satisfied 3 on 2021/01/23 18:26
I love the convenience of this app, and how simple it is to use.
I have protected my hearing since I was a child when I found out that some of my relatives were very hard of hearing because they had been exposed loud noises in their lives. I still jealously guard my hearing, as I have worn glasses since I was a kid and don’t want to lose a second sense.
When I am exposed to loud noises by people who don’t seem to care, or it doesn’t sound that loud to them because they have already damaged their hearing, it gives me an opportunity to show them that it is loud enough to damage hearing and they need to turn the volume down a bit for everyone’s sake, or it shows me that although I’m uncomfortable, it’s still in the safe zone, and I just put in my earplugs. Or if it’s someone like my husband who is hard of hearing from all his years in construction and not protecting his hearing and needs the volume up like that to hear it, I just hand him the headphones.
I pulled your app out to use it this time because all the hammering going on inside my house right now (a construction project inside my own home) is hurting both my ears and the dog’s, so I was checking to see how much damage is being done and are the dog and I safe without hearing protection.
Thanks!
LT
Well done
by Disgruntled albatraoz on 2017/11/18 05:46
I have been using this app for over a year and through several updates. It has always worked well and accurately. It has been a useful tool for monitoring the noise exposure and deciding where and when I need to wear earplugs. The only feature it lacks (in my opinion) is the ability to run as a background process with the phone asleep (similar to the way you can play music), which would allow to have the screen off and use less battery when monitoring for long periods of time. Aside from that personal preference, this app has been reliable and helpful. I would highly recommend it.
Doesn’t Work
by Diray Acosta on 2019/04/21 20:40
I was using it to try out the free version and when I installed it and opened the app for the first time; it showed me readings that were very untrue like 120dB. I know this isn’t right because I was lying in my bed with no electronics on next to me or anything loud at all. I don’t know what the problem is since there’s so many positive comments but it no work :(
EDIT: I thought there could be a free version and a paid version but I guess I was wrong. This review is not for a different app by the way, it was just what the app was showing me. But I do not have a professional microphone attached to my iPad so if you want to say it was that I guess it could be 🤔 yet I doubt it. I will change my review to 4 stars because I am only testing this against 3 other decibal meters and not a profesional machine or a sound that is supposed to be at a specific level.
The only truly free and most accurate decibel app
by AcousticsProf on 2018/08/16 17:07
No ads, no in-app purchases, no hassle to upgrade every 10 seconds, fully-featured unlike the other top apps that entice you with a single feature but force you buy an upgrade to get the rest of the functionality of the app.
Developed for professional users who are serious about acoustics by the top hearing lab in the country, if not the world. I use a Larson-Davis 831 for my daily work and have compared many apps to my SLM and though I was always skeptical about apps, this one is the most accurate out there.
Just what I need, nothing I don’t.
by smileitspaul on 2019/04/24 08:00
The app developers really deserve praise for creating a completely free app that doesn’t blast me with ads, beg me to upgrade, and generally distract me with BS when I try to use it. The interface is clean and easy to navigate. It seems very accurate, especially for what I need which is basically just comparing noise levels relative to one another. It never glitches or quits unexpectedly. I’ll stay loyal to this app, it is exactly what I needed.
Very effective
by ryanollie08 on 2020/06/21 14:50
I have used this app for a very long time now for the laeq functionality to find long term (30ish minute) average volume. I also spot check consistently to watch for short term exposure levels.
The app is surprisingly close to my calibrated dB meter! Usually within .5 dBA, as long as the room volume is under approximately 95dBA.
I foresee myself using this for a long time to gauge live music volumes.
Love this app
by Ethan Proulx on 2019/07/14 23:13
I use this app all the time when I go to concerts and I love it. It does exactly what I need it to do. My dad knows a lot about safety in the workplace and other environments so I like to show him how loud it is when I go to certain events.
Little Bug: When swiping to delete and not letting go but swiping back as to cancel the action the app crashes. Just a little bug I found!
so much fun
by jonanderson335 on 2020/07/22 16:21
this game is so much fun! I would give it 10 stars if I could. my high score is 132.2 dB. Let me know if anyone is able to beat it. this game is a family favorite and will be sure to have the entire group laughing. my family loves to play this game as we wait to be seated at restaurants. It is also a lot of fun to play on long car rides and flights!!
The best and only good sound meter app
by Indiegrrl2367 on 2019/10/10 04:47
Well made, well designed, free and without ads or other annoying BS. As or more accurate than the inexpensive handheld sound meter I have. The only feature I wish it had was the ability to auto save sessions - I often forget to press the save button and then it’s gone forever! Besides that, great job NIOSH.
From a real person with nothing to gain from this.
by JuniorDank on 2019/11/02 09:00
Used it and it made “correct seeming” readings it went up with noise and back down. I wouldn’t trust it for professional work(school). But this is FREE no subscription required before it starts. 100% recommend it
Disclaimer: Original post written after 3 app starts and 20 min spent on app.
Play & Pause doesn’t seem to work
by Yochiii on 2020/01/05 09:02
I can’t tell what the play or pause does as when I click on either one, the noise measurement continues to respond. Then, sometimes the app would freeze and not record any measurements whether I clicked on play or pause. I also gotten situations were the app is responding to sound and updating the metrics in the stat below but the main display where it displays the instantaneously levels just shows —.
Easy to use and free
by XxxsomeguyxxX on 2018/09/28 22:02
Great app. Upon opening it provides instructions on use. It’s fairly simple with only a few options to choose from with no annoying ads of any kind. It was also the only app I’ve used that makes calibrating an add on mic easy and accurate. Great use of tax money.
The actual free one
by Ygiiop on 2020/06/19 13:13
Don’t bother downloading the other apps that come up in search. Almost all those require you to sign up with credit card before you can even use them. Garbage
This app is by far the best and easiest to use. Don’t hesitate and just get this one.
I love this app. Genius.
by Collin Longshanks on 2021/02/20 22:23
This measures decibels and is incredibly accurate. We tested it agains some very high prices scientific equipment, and it always came within .5-1 decibel. Very well done. It also does a great job drawing attention to how loud our environments actually are, and the toll that’s taking on our ears. Excellent App!
It’s more accurate than most apps
by Neilax on 2018/05/18 15:46
It’s more accurate than most apps, but it’s still less accurate than a real decibel meter. It tends to show higher decibel numbers than a real decibel meter would show for a particular noise. For example, it showed 132.6 decibels when I screamed!!! I screamed in front of a RadioShack decibel meter and that only showed 114 decibels.
Decibel meter
by Threebeards on 2017/07/18 16:07
Probably the best you'll get for your phone without plugging in an external microphone, which you can also do with this one anyway.
Like it says it's from NIOSH it's free it has no ads and it's not trying to sell you it's other apps. Download this one.
iPhone 11 support?
by tomjerry21 on 2020/04/13 06:04
Worked well with my iPhone 6 a few years ago. Now have an 11 series iPhone. Was it also tested on new phones? I can’t find that information anywhere.
Update: actually heard from the developer. It works with the 11. Awesome app!
Well-written elegant app
by WJR1989 on 2020/08/18 12:20
This application is VERY well suited to applications where human exposure to potentially damaging noise levels can be accurately AND provide actionable data from the standpoint of industry-recognized personnel exposure/safety measurements.
It’s ability to EXPORT measured data is also very valuable.
NIOSH Sound Level Meter
by MKPainter on 2019/02/16 19:12
This is the best sound level app I’ve ever used. It tells you everything to know about what you’re hearing. I have earplugs that reduce 35 dB and when the app gets to that level I can hear nothing. I do highly recommend it.
Martin
Save your hearing!
by BluesMusician on 2018/02/20 05:42
This app gives lots of data to know if you are damaging your hearing. I had no idea the live music was so loud! I wish I had this app years ago, to prevent my hearing loss and tinnitus. Also, use good hearing protection to prevent permanent damage. The damage cannot be undone!
Excellent SLM app
by FocusSeeker on 2019/07/25 16:30
This app plus a calibrated mic and an iOS device provides capabilities that otherwise cost many hundreds of dollars more. The only feature that I wish it had is the ability to report z-weighted Leq.
Best Free Speaker Calibrator!
by AnonGod on 2019/04/14 19:54
All of the other SPL apps are trash. They’re full of ads and only care about money. This app is free and is of a much higher quality than Decibel X & every other one I’ve tried. Highly recommended.
Has everything you need!
by Atlblkz06 on 2019/02/24 18:27
I love this app. It has A/C/Z weighting, great display, data logging and averaging.
Can’t ask for more from a free app when so many others nag you. Thank you!
Almost there
by a_vasquez on 2019/01/17 16:25
Works beautifully but sorely lacking iPad optimization. Would also like to see Apple Watch app as well, but mainly iPad native app. Developer yes I know it can be ran on iPad but I want native iPad resolution. Been asking this for a while along with others. I’ll change my rating when we get this. Please consider it!!
Overload
by Granny to two on 2018/05/19 20:52
Doesn’t do anything, just this “error”.
P. S. Nope. I tried re-loading the app. It didn’t request permission to use my microphone. Tried using it, no luck. Went to settings to see if I could connect the microphone manually, but NIOSH SLM isn’t one of the apps that has requested permission to use my microphone. Deleted it again. I use dB Meter Pro - it works, is simple to use and gives similar results to sound level meters I use at work.
App set up isn’t readable
by Duckin33 on 2020/08/28 17:56
I have had this app a little over a month and have sent in an email and tried to get help or to ask them to fix it. They have neglected to return email so that I can know what’s happening with it. I still can’t use the app and have deleted it off my phone for negligence on the part of the programmers communication or fixing the app!
Very unprofessional!!!
Only one complaint
by Fghjkpofdewyinnvfdrui on 2019/12/29 15:16
A great app, simple and understated. Only issue i've had on my iphone 7 is the "Place" and "Notes" fields don't get saved. Without a way to reliably distinguish the recordings this app is all but useless to me.
Very useful
by denver bulldogs on 2020/07/12 15:57
I downloaded this app to compare hair dryers because many advertise being quiet, but don’t provide metrics. The app is easy to use and I am happy with it.
This app is a must! Better than paid options
by mm404 on 2020/09/30 13:42
Simple and clean interface, no unnecessary permissions, small size.. the perfect app. Oh and it’s free!
Great
by Houston-voicer on 2019/10/01 11:14
This is stable and very helpful, associated with the non-profit CDC. Perhaps there are better apps out there, but it gives me everything I need. Way to go!!
Question
by Bad update 12321 on 2019/05/19 00:39
Why is the sound level on my iPad Pro way different from my iPhone 8?
Great app that could be even better with simple tweak
by c_brad_c on 2018/04/26 10:38
Great app but would love to be able save notes on individual saved measurements so I can remember the space and describe the circumstances.
Allow calibration
by shouhan on 2020/08/29 20:27
This is the only free one that allows calibration so that more accurate setting can be obtained for the best metering.
Only available for phone not tablet
by XCO8 on 2018/09/07 22:32
Very straightforward and easy to use. Would be great if it was also available on the iPads. Please make it available for iPad in the App Store as the app does not show up in the iPad App Store.
This little app is awesome
by wherestravis on 2020/06/10 22:15
Just what I needed to measure the ambient sound level before and after soundproofing
I read a paper and download this
by feelthatt on 2020/11/16 02:25
It worked.
I use it to match my subwoofer sound level.
C weighting and Slow.
If you need to add a sub to your audio/home theater system, please use this app to do the calibration manually.
It can give you a smooth and beautiful blend just like a calibrated SPL meter can do.
And it is free. Perfect!
Hearing protection for child care workers?
by GKambitsch on 2019/01/22 04:37
I measured my 3 year old great granddaughter’s scream at 117 decibels. (I was informing her that we needed to put away some of her toys.)
Retired
by rjburns52 on 2019/10/12 22:19
Former safety officer at a university but still maintain safety in my craft woodwork shop. Every so often check decidable and marking on chart in shop.
Great Easy App
by PeteD,NY on 2020/02/02 01:28
Easy to use, informative, free & no ads
Doesn’t get any better for a handy tool.
Thanks!!!
Useful!
by Fabricati on 2019/10/05 03:51
Very useful. Does not replace an OSHA meter but it shows where you might want one.
Virus, worm, time bomb, logic bomb???
by musicmkr75 on 2019/11/19 12:47
This doesn’t give me too much faith! NIOSH expressly disclaims any warrant for the NIOSH sound level meter app. The app is provided as is without any express or implied warranty of any kind
NIOSH makes no warranties respecting any harm that may be caused by the transmission of computer virus, worm, time bomb, logic bomb or other such computer program.
Works well
by rejedejo on 2020/05/28 16:36
Works well, trust it to be right.
Didn’t work
by maddoggy88 on 2019/05/19 17:31
I’m not sure why, but on an iPhone SE, it downloaded, but wouldn’t request permission to use the microphone. I went through the settings menus in the iPhone and tried closing everything down, restarting etc., and nothing worked.
I NEVER downloaded this app? And this is a brand new phone
by KimShadybbbby on 2020/11/24 08:24
For whatever reason this app is on my phone, I do not know. I do know, that I most certainly did not download it. I had to look up what the hell it was for, and I still don’t even get it… Wackyyyyyy
Doesn’t work proper on iPhone 12
by lalsrnsr on 2020/11/16 01:11
I just installed this on the new iPhone 12. My room used to be ~30db on the app using my iPhone XS. It’s now showing ~20db on the iPhone 12. No possible way 20db is correct. Not sure what’s going on
The only decibel meter app you should use
by Evan Kroske on 2019/02/12 21:27
The only app approved by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health
Great
by snarfs55 on 2020/02/13 06:23
Seems reliable
Excellent App!
by Ken7892 on 2020/01/08 20:23
The capabilities of the app are excellent, and customer support is very responsive.
Very useful tool
by Emil golombefski on 2021/01/22 01:30
Great for alerting to high sound levels. Trouble shooting wind noise in cars.
Rating Trends
7,5,7,5,3,4,10,1,2,7,4,6,2,1,1,4,7,1,2,3,4,1,5,4,3,8,3,3,7,2,6,1,4,3,6,5,4,7,4,4,11,2,8,8,9,4,8,9,8,5,8,5,9,3,5,2,0,13,3,4,4,5,10,6,4,6,7,9,4,2,1,4,8,3,6,8,3,11,6,4,10,1,12,10,8,7,5,10,4,4
All Versions
4.0
6,205
total
|
5
|
5,020 | |
|
4
|
749 | |
|
3
|
266 | |
|
2
|
54 | |
|
1
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116 |
Current Version
(1.2.2)
4.0
6,189
total
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5
|
5,011 | |
|
4
|
748 | |
|
3
|
266 | |
|
2
|
53 | |
|
1
|
111 |
Version History
| 1.2.2 | Current Version | 09/30/2020 | |
| 1.2.1 | Upgrade | 01/17/2020 | |
| 1.2.0 | Upgrade | 01/07/2020 | |
| 1.1.0 | Upgrade | 05/23/2019 | |
| 1.0.10 | Upgrade | 01/22/2019 | |
| 1.0.9 | Upgrade | 01/17/2019 | |
| 1.0.7 | Upgrade | 06/27/2018 | |
| 1.0.6 | Upgrade | 11/18/2017 | |
| 1.0.5 | Upgrade | 10/27/2017 | |
| 1.0.4 | Upgrade | 05/18/2017 | |
| 1.0.3 | Upgrade | 03/02/2017 | |
| 1.0.2 | Upgrade | 02/09/2017 | |
| 1.0.1 | Upgrade | 01/26/2017 | |
| 1.0.0 | First Tracked | 01/14/2017 |
| Keyword | Volume | Hits | KEI | Rank |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| soundlevel pro |
|
|
1.02 |
3
|
| niosh ladder |
|
|
816 |
3
1
|
| noise meter |
|
|
9.87 |
3
|
| noise level |
|
|
186 |
3
|
| soundlevel free |
|
|
55.07 |
3
|
| sound meter |
|
|
10.11 |
3
|
| armstrong sound level meter |
|
|
51.53 |
2
|
| niosh pocket guide |
|
|
0.00 |
2
|
| sound level |
|
|
0.00 |
2
|
| niosh chemical hazards |
|
|
816 |
2
|
| ladder safety |
|
|
5.3 K |
2
|
| niosh slm |
|
|
0.00 |
1
|
| niosh sound level meter |
|
|
21 K |
1
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396
5
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48
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10
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365
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96
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48
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48
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102
3
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145
28
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|
50
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- | - |
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