Online Decibel Meter

Get More Accurate Readings

Learn how to calibrate your online decibel meter for better accuracy. Simple steps to match your device with a reference meter. Improve measurement precision for home and workplace noise monitoring.

Why Calibrate Your Meter?

Every device has a different microphone. Calibration helps your readings match real sound levels more closely.

  • •
    Microphone Differences: Phone and laptop mics vary in sensitivity. What reads as 70 dB on one device might show 65 dB on another.
  • •
    Better Accuracy: Calibration can improve accuracy by 5-10 dB, making measurements more reliable for everyday use.
  • •
    Device-Specific Tuning: Audio processing differs across devices. Calibration accounts for these differences.

Understanding the Limits

Calibration improves accuracy but doesn't make this a professional tool.

  • ⚠Consumer microphones have physical limitations
  • ⚠Calibration works best in the 40-90 dB range
  • ⚠Very loud or very quiet sounds may still be less accurate
  • ⚠For critical work, use certified equipment

What You'll Need

Reference Meter

A calibrated physical decibel meter or a smartphone app with known accuracy. You can borrow one or use a trusted app like NIOSH Sound Level Meter (iOS) or Sound Meter (Android).

Steady Sound Source

A consistent sound like music, white noise, or ambient room noise. Avoid sounds that change rapidly.

Calibration Steps

1

Start Measurement

Click 'Start Measurement' on the main page and wait for the reading to stabilize (about 5-10 seconds).

2

Measure with Reference

Place your reference decibel meter next to your device. Both should measure the same sound source at the same distance.

3

Click Calibrate Button

While both meters are measuring, click the 'Calibrate' button in our tool.

4

Enter Reference Value

Enter the decibel reading from your reference meter in the calibration dialog.

5

Save Calibration

Click 'Calibrate' to save. The adjustment will apply to all future measurements on this device.

Tips for Best Results

  • ✓Use a sound level between 60-80 dB for calibration
  • ✓Make sure both meters are at the same distance from the sound source
  • ✓Wait for readings to stabilize before calibrating
  • ✓Calibrate in a quiet environment without sudden noises
  • ✓Re-calibrate if you switch to a different device

Important Notes

  • ⚠Calibration is stored locally on your device and browser
  • ⚠Clearing browser data will reset calibration
  • ⚠Different browsers on the same device may need separate calibration
  • ⚠For professional applications, use a certified sound level meter