Brown Noise vs. White Noise
The noises around us can impact our days and our nights. Whether you’re looking to mask loud sounds or fall asleep faster, sound therapy can help create a calm, soothing environment. White noise and brown noise are popular sound options that can help you with relaxation, focus, and even to get better sleep. But what’s the difference between the two, and which one is better suited for your needs?
In this blog, we’ll compare brown noise vs. white noise, their potential benefits, and how to protect your hearing when using sound therapy.
What is White Noise?
You may already be familiar with white noise—picture the static sounds from a TV or radio without a signal. But what creates this type of sound? White noise includes all frequencies humans can hear played at equal intensity, and often described as a consistent "hissing" or "static" sound.
Common Uses of White Noise:
Focus
Sleep
Tinnitus
Focus
Increasing Focus
Sleep
Improving Sleep
Tinnitus
Reducing Tinnitus Symptoms
What is Brown Noise?
Brown noise is similar to white noise but with more emphasis on the lower frequencies and fewer high ones. This means it has more bass and less of a “hiss” than white noise.
It’s often compared to:
- Thunder rumbling
- The roar of a waterfall
- Shower with strong water pressure
- Crashing waves
Because its frequencies are more balanced, brown noise is perceived as less harsh and more soothing than its white counterpart, making it appealing to those who prefer a gentler background sound.
Common Uses of Brown Noise:
Relaxation
Sleep
Focus
Relaxation
Relaxation
Sleep
Deeper Sleep
Focus
Focus & Productivity
Brown Noise vs. White Noise: Key Differences
White Noise
Equal intensity across all frequencies, resulting in a higher-pitched, consistent "hiss."
Brown Noise
Greater emphasis on lower frequencies, creating a deeper, more rumbling sound.
The choice between white and brown noise depends on your brain, listening routines, personal preferences, and what you’re trying to achieve:
- For Sleep. Both white and brown noise can help improve sleep, but brown noise may be better for those who find white noise too harsh or grating.
- For Focus. If you need background noise for concentration, either option can work. However, brown noise’s deeper tones may be less distracting over extended periods.
- For Tinnitus Relief. White noise is commonly used to mask the ringing associated with tinnitus, but some people may find brown noise more soothing, depending on the frequencies they find most bothersome.
If you’re curious about other noise colors, learn about the difference between green and white noise.
Is Brown Noise Harmful? What About White Noise?
Brown and white noise is generally considered safe for most people when listened to at a reasonable volume. Like any sound, prolonged exposure to high volumes can potentially harm your hearing. Keep the volume at a safe level, ideally under 65 decibels (similar to normal conversation levels), to protect your hearing health.
If you have existing hearing issues, such as tinnitus or hearing loss, it's a good idea to consult a hearing care professional before using brown or white noise regularly. While some people with tinnitus find relief from sound therapy, others may find certain frequencies aggravating.
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