The best sound level meters (sound level meters) in 2021

What is a sound level meter and what is it used for?

People perceive the sensation of noise differently. The ringing of bells in the distance can be more distracting than the humming engine outside the window. Music you like that plays loudly will bother you less than music you don't like. At night, when going to bed, any rustling noise disturbs you, just as it does at work, where increased concentration is required.

Popular models of decibel meters have four components: a sensitive microphone, electronic components, a power supply, and a housing. Passing through the trap, sound causes vibration of the membranes and affects the capacitance of the capacitor; it is this change that can be recorded.

The best manufacturers have integrated control that allows for continuous measurements, displaying data on the digital display of the device, and storing values. The main direction of use of the device:

• determining the noise level in traffic jams;
• construction sector, factories, offices, cinemas;
• setting up musical equipment.

A decibel meter is an inexpensive way to more effectively organize your work process while maintaining your health.

To obtain high-quality measurements, you should pay attention to a number of factors:

• how many meters to the sound source;
• presence of additional interference;
• is the room in which the equipment and room finishing materials are used closed?
• temperature fluctuations.

Instruments for measuring noise levels

Noise is one of the most pronounced environmental pollutants today. Negative noise exposure can result in various diseases, general malaise, decreased performance, increased risk of injuries and accidents, impaired auditory control of the functioning of technological equipment, and decreased labor productivity. Today, controlling noise levels is important in a wide variety of sectors of human activity, for which a variety of techniques and instruments are used.

Which unit is better to buy?

The noise measuring device looks like a cordless landline phone or a remote control with a digital screen. There are wall mounting options, flat, rectangular, round, square.

The device determines the volume of sound generated by the surrounding space, some functions of the equipment are necessary for everyone, others are a choice factor. Depending on the tasks assigned, there are different types of analyzers. They differ in characteristics, price, and configuration.

• Sound levels are measured in decibels (dB), and medical advice suggests levels of 85 dB can be dangerous and long-term exposure will cause permanent hearing loss. It is important to choose a sound level meter that captures a wide range (at least 100 dB).
• The portable model is more practical; you can take it with you to the airport, to a music concert, or use it during construction or repairs. However, if you live near a city transport stop, you may need a class 1 sound level meter/spectrum analyzer.
• Additional functionality includes: automatic shutdown, registration of received data in the device memory, backlight, light sensor, sound calibrator, USB connector.
• It is important to correctly determine the criteria for choosing tool parameters so as not to make a mistake when purchasing.
• Most products run on batteries (AA, AAA or 9V). Make sure that the type of device you purchase can be powered by a battery, this is important.
• Multifunctional products, in addition to sound, measure humidity, temperature, and light power.

Sound level meters with the ideal combination of price and quality

Our company offers high-quality and reliable instruments that are intended for measuring sound levels in industrial premises, recreation areas, transport, as well as in residential and public buildings. For the convenience of customers, all sound level meters presented in our catalog have a detailed description of technical characteristics.

The main advantages of cooperation with our company:

• assistance in selecting equipment;
• flexible pricing policy;
• convenient form of payment.

In order to buy a sound level meter or get detailed answers to additional questions about its delivery in Moscow or other Russian cities, just contact our specialists by calling them by phone.

What does 1st, 2nd, 3rd accuracy class mean?

International IEC standards divide sound level meters into two “classes”. These products have the same functionality, but different requirements for reading accuracy. “Level 1” devices have a wider frequency range and tighter tolerances than budget “Class 2” devices. This applies to both the analyzer itself and the associated calibrator.

Most national standards, including Russian GOST, allow the use of “level 2” tools. For ordinary measurements there is no need to use a “class 1” device; they are common in conducting more accurate studies.

The American National Institute (ANSI) ranks decibel meters by type (1, 2, 3). These regulations establish tolerances for performance and accuracy:

• 1st is used in laboratories, the best apparatus known;
• 2nd is used in field conditions (± 1 dBA);
• 3rd for general purpose measurements (±2 dBA).

If you want to detect street noise, night noise, the hum of cars, or kitchen appliances, a “class 3” unit is suitable. Products at a higher level comply with the guidelines of IEC 61672-1: 2002. They are used by reviewers, used in the field of high technology, audio acoustics. The devices are calibrated (with high accuracy verification) and belong to the category of testing equipment. It is important to note that “class 3” devices meet the same requirements, but have lower tolerances.

Calibrated products have a seal or marking and are included in the state register. Devices with verification have a high average price, but for the average consumer such a device is not necessary.

Our devices work for you!

What is a sound level meter useful for?

Noise is one of the most pronounced environmental pollutants today. Negative noise exposure can result in various diseases, general malaise, decreased performance, increased risk of injuries and accidents, impaired auditory control of the functioning of technological equipment, and decreased labor productivity. Today, controlling noise levels is important in a wide variety of sectors of human activity, for which a variety of techniques and instruments are used. Sound level meters are used to measure noise levels in workplaces, residential premises, public buildings, residential areas, etc.

Noise regulation and measurement

The results of noise measurements must comply with sanitary standards, otherwise measures must be taken to reduce working hours for employees and other measures provided for by law. Read more about this in the corresponding section of our library. Here you will find a list of current regulatory documents, GOST for noise measurement, sanitary standards, as well as some articles devoted to the problem of the existence of environmental noise, modern domestic sound level meters, noise assessment during SOUT, etc.

Where to buy a sound level meter?

If you want to buy a sound level meter, we have provided a selection table for sound level meters, vibration meters of the ASSISTANT series, as well as combined instruments that measure noise and vibration in three channels simultaneously. The table shows the measured parameters, prices, and equipment. The price of our sound level meter is significantly lower than that of products of similar quality presented on the modern market. We try to maintain the best value for money. Our sound level meters have various configuration options for any set of tasks, as well as a wide selection of additional equipment for vibroacoustic measurements. All sound level meters meet the requirements for the metrological characteristics of devices for SOUT, are included in the State Register, are provided with a two-year warranty and technical support from the manufacturer for the entire service life.

A program for measuring noise levels.

The ASSISTANT sound level meter-vibrometer is supplied only with a full set of hardware and software for performing measurements, storing, processing and formatting the results. You can find out more in the “Updates for Assistant series devices” section.

Verification of sound level meters

Please note that NTM-Zashchita LLC is accredited to verify noise measuring devices SHI-01 and ASSISTANT of all modifications. More details in the “Service Center” section.

Certified methods of vibroacoustic parameters

For ASSISTANT devices, methods used for a wide range of practical tasks have been certified and included in the federal information fund for ensuring the uniformity of measurements.

Where to buy a sound level meter?

You can purchase new items in electronics supermarkets, order online in an online store or by mail. The device is quite rare, so it is better to use a search engine, read the description, features, read reviews, and evaluate the popularity of the models.

Rent or buy a product? Depends on the goal. If you need to collect information one-time or file a lawsuit against screaming neighbors, it is better not to spend money on “1st class” equipment, but to borrow a simpler device. For private purposes, you can use inexpensive “Class 3” decibel meters. The cost of renting a calibrated sound level meter will be higher.

Today, a smartphone can provide many useful features, including various audio measurement applications, see if they suit your needs.

Armed with a useful device, you will quickly find troublemakers, be it loud neighbor music, a hammer drill, or checking a repaired moped.

Acceptable noise level

Sanitary and epidemiological standards establish the maximum permissible noise level in residential premises. Their compliance is necessary so that all residents of apartment buildings feel comfortable in their apartments.

Thus, noise level standards in residential premises are not intended to spoil the lives of music lovers, but to protect the psychological health of all residents of the house.

In accordance with Sanitary Standards SN 2.2.4/2.1.8.562-96 “Noise in workplaces, in residential and public buildings and in residential areas,” the maximum noise level in residential premises is:

• 55 dB during the daytime (from 7.00 to 23.00);
• 45 dB at night (from 23.00 to 7.00).

The periods of daytime and nighttime are established by regional legislation. Therefore, they differ in different regions of the Russian Federation.

Noise level

Some regions, for example, Moscow, Omsk region, establish a period of silence during the daytime. It is intended for children's daytime sleep. At this time, you should also not make noise or do loud repair work in multi-story buildings. In Moscow, the period of daytime silence lasts from 13.00 to 15.00 hours, and in the Omsk region - from 13.00 to 14.00 hours.

Rating of quality sound level meters in 2021

We reviewed the 10 best decibel meters, 1st, 2nd, 3rd class, according to buyers. The information provided will tell you how to choose the right device, how much it costs, and what functions will be useful when using it.

3rd class devices

Such products are used for indicative research; the frequency range of readings should be from 31.5 to 8000 Hz, and the maximum deviation is ±2.0 dB.

AMTAST AMF004

4th place.

The electronic device AMF004 will help, without wasting energy, measure sound in various environments. AMTAST has proven itself well in the field of labor protection, successfully controlling noise pollution in factories, large enterprises, and at home.

An important distinguishing feature of the model is a huge screen with a light sensor; it automatically turns on when visibility is insufficient. Thanks to this, the resulting values, in the range from 30 to 130 dB, will be visible from afar.

The equipment is manufactured according to ANSI S1.4-2 standards approved in the USA.

The decibel meter is easy to use, has an ergonomic body, and is pleasant to the touch. To start working, just press “Power” and after a second you can take readings of the background environment, everything happens automatically. AMF004 turns itself off (if you do not use the unit for 11 minutes).

AMTAST AMF004

Technical indicators:

Advantages:

• automatic shutdown;
• ergonomic body;
• display backlight;
• battery charge indication.

Flaws:

• high error, suitable for household use only.

VoiceLiner SLM-20

3rd place.

SLM-20 is a compact, ergonomic device for professionals. Operates from 30 - 130 dB, with a frequency of 31.5 Hz - 8 KHz, error ±1.5 dB, scale gradation 0.1 dB. There are two correction channels (A, C):

• A – used in standard studies, capable of equalizing indicators in the range of human sound perception;
• C - designed for extreme loads, records noise in ordinary octaves.

Limit measurements are set independently:

• 30 – 70;
• 60 – 100;
• 90 - 130 dB.

Research can be done in stages, at intervals.

• 1/sec;
• 1 / 0.125 milliseconds.

The case is made of plastic, reinforced, in front there is a digital display, navigation keys. On the right there are cells for batteries. The device is comfortable to use when holding it with one hand.

The product has a huge amount of built-in memory (60,000 indicators), which is integrated with a computer for exchanging data, drawing up graphs and diagrams. Technical indicators:

VoiceLiner SLM-20

Advantages:

• memory capacity, recording capability;
• computer integration;
• frequency correction channels.

Flaws:

• not detected.

Smart Sensor AR854

2nd place.

AR854 is a popular, sought-after model on the decibel meter market. It is capable of taking readings in a short time, has a USB interface, and transfers the received data to a personal computer for detailed study, archiving, and processing. The large screen, with an intuitive interface (graphics in the form of a pie chart), is clearly visible, and the information is easy to digest.

Smart Sensor is packed with useful functions: thanks to a built-in alarm that will warn if the noise level is exceeded, a distracted researcher has the opportunity not to miss important indicators. The operating interval is 30-130 dB, an error of no more than 1.5 dB is allowed. AR854 operates using four regular 1.5V batteries.

All these parameters allow the device to be in demand in production, at home, and when carrying out safety measures.

Technical indicators:

Smart Sensor AR854

Advantages

• built-in alarm;
• large screen;
• convenient interface.

Flaws:

• not detected.

VoiceLiner SLM-40

1 place.

SLM-40 is a Russian-made unit. With its help, sound volume measurements are made from 30 to 130 dB. Research can be carried out with a resolution of 0.1 dB with an error of ±1.5 dB. The operating interval limits range from 31.5 Hz to 8 KHz. The signal amplitude limit is 40 dB. There are two frequency coefficients (A, C), it is possible to calculate indicators from the received data.

VoiceLiner has a sensitive integrated microphone (dimensions: 0.5 inches), protected by a soft cap.

SLM-40 can calibrate data up to 94 dB using a USB connector, the product is connected to a personal computer to process the received information. The body of the device is shock-resistant, made of plastic

Technical indicators:

VoiceLiner SLM-40

Advantages:

• shock-resistant housing;
• voluminous memory.

Flaws:

• not detected.

Products "2nd class"

Devices of this level are intended for “field” research, frequency range 31.5 Hz-8000 KHz, maximum deviation ±1.0 dB.

Testo 816-2

3rd place.

Testo 816-2 detects sound fluctuations in the range of 30 - 160 dB. Information collected in production and public places is processed and then used to improve safety, control and protection of working conditions.

The product is included in the State Register of SI. Verification of equipment allows you to use the obtained data for commercial purposes, for official documents, conclusions. An intuitive interface helps you take measurements using two keys located on the body:

• noise level measurement interval increased to 160 dB;
• a significant amount of memory stores 100 indicators with a frequency of 1 second;
• The USB connector transmits information to a PC;
• operating temperature from -20 to +60 °C.

The results are displayed on the display, in the form of a diagram or table. The db24 software saves data to a laptop in MS Excel format.

Testo 816-2 has a shock-resistant body and compact dimensions. The standard kit includes: a wrist strap that helps when carrying the device, a protective case. Technical indicators:

Testo 816-2

Advantages:

• ergonomics;
• increased measurement interval. LCD monitor.

Flaws:

• not detected.

CEM DT-8820

2nd place.

"SEM DT - 8820" is a 4-in-1 digital multimeter (lux meter, moisture meter, thermometer, sound level meter) that performs high-precision analysis:

• noise indicators;
• illumination;
• humidity;
• temperature.

CEM DT-8820 has a large screen on which there is an indication of measurements (Lux, °C, %RH, dB, overrange, battery discharge). The device automatically turns off if inactive for more than 10 minutes.

Multitasking, first-class calibration is ideal for professional use, and thanks to its user-friendly, simple interface, the DT-8820 is a desirable device for home use. The device is powered by a Krona battery. When the supply voltage drops below the required level (battery low), the “BAT” indicator is activated. Technical indicators:

CEM DT-882

Advantages:

• decent calibration;
• automatic shutdown;
• large display;
• simple interface;
• suitable for professional use;
• multitasking.

Flaws:

• not detected.

TESTO 815

1 place.

Ideal equipment for measuring purposes. Testo 815 is ideal for research in the field of heating, ventilation, air conditioning systems, assessing sound levels in discos, industrial plants, and monitoring the operation of generators.

Technical indicators:

НTESTO 815

Advantages:

• error 1 dB;
• used in the professional field;
• maintainability.

Flaws:

• not detected.

“1st class” devices

Frequency range 20 - 12500 Hz, with an error of less than 1 dB, devices of this level are used in laboratories.

DT-805

3rd place.

The DT-805 decibel meter is distinguished by its increased sensitivity and is used for standard tasks typical for a product of its class:

• measuring the volume level in rooms;
• construction sites,
• car exhaust.

The equipment is configured using keys on the case; the operating interval has two modes. Information is presented on a backlit digital screen. DT-805 has two filters:

• And for weak sound;
• filter C for peak loads.

DT-805 is used by traffic police to determine the noise level of a car exhaust system. Batteries for the device are included.

Technical indicators:

DT-805

Advantages:

• two filters;
• high accuracy of readings.

Flaws:

• not detected.

TESTO 816-3

2nd place.

"TESTO 816-3", recorded in the State Register, was created using the latest technologies. All models in this line have excellent reading accuracy. The device is ergonomic, shock-resistant, and carries out background noise measurements in various areas (industrial, domestic use) quickly, in accordance with the necessary regulations:

• intuitive control using two buttons;
• durable casing, attractive design;
• high resolution screen;
• ability to use “db24” software;
• compliance with IEC 61672 regulation;
• increased interval for recording readings;
• registration and averaging option;
• battery 35 hours;
• USB connector;
• recording readings in the form of Excel spreadsheets;
• Warranty period 2 years;

Using TESTO is a simple, accessible method for recording noise pressure levels over a given time interval.

Technical indicators:

TESTO 816-3

Advantages:

• use of “db24” software;
• powerful battery;
• shock-resistant housing;
• wide range of readings.

Flaws:

• not detected.

Best apps to measure noise decibels

1) Sound level meter and noise detector

Coming in first place, we really like “Sound Level Meter and Noise Detector.” This app is great for graphically displaying audio while running in the background on your device; all this while saving battery power, since the screen does not have to be constantly on. The only reason this app is so low on our top 5 list is because it's a bit overwhelming in the advertising department. If this is something you can live with, be sure to download and try it today!

Download now: Google Play

2) Sound level meter - decibel meter and noise meter

In second place is “Sound Level Meter - Decibel Meter and Sound Level Meter.” In this application you will find the ability to calibrate, save recordings and other parameters that are usually only available in a professional application. One really unique feature of this app is that you can earn coins by watching multiple videos; then you can use these coins to remove ads! This is one way to get a "pro" app without spending your hard-earned money! Get yours today!

Download it now: Google Play

3) Sound Meter Pro

Next we have a real pro app... when this article was written, Sound Meter Pro was listed below the average gas station price of $1.50. While the low cost will cost the app itself without ads; This app also stands out because it seems very accurate even when compared to professional dB monitoring tools. The programmer of the app regularly monitors feedback and recommends emailing to find out why if something is not working as it should. They also have a blog where they update users with any relevant information and note the limitations of this app. Don't forget to check out this app when you download it today!

Download now: Google Play

4) Sound level meter - decibels

Our pick for the fourth best dB meter is the Sound Level Decibel Meter. This app has a great user interface and several different ways to display the decibel readings. Add to this the ability to keep the screen on while monitoring, pause playback or refresh the recording; the ability to calibrate the device depending on the hardware of your phone and many other parameters.

In fact, you have a professional level sound meter app with a free price. Enjoy downloading it today!

Download now: Google Play

5) Sound Analyzer app

For our number five pick, we have the Sound Analyzer app. In fact, it has so many features that they have to charge... Lucky for you and us, it's free! Even beyond the available features, the owner is easy to contact for support and is willing to explain how to use certain features in this app. Like several other apps listed here, this app can be calibrated to the device it's running on, giving you a much more accurate audio meter. Grab yours today!

Download now: Google Play

6) Decibel - Threshold

Next we have Decibel - Threshold. It can easily measure noise with a built-in decibel (dB) indicator in real time. On top of this, it should show you a reference value for each type of environment as the sound level we are (ie, is it the sound of a semi-trailer passing or a kettle driving away).

This one actually works very well and should work with most phones. This requires the phone to be running at least Android 5.0.

Download Now: Google Play

7) Simple sound meter

The sound of Meter Simple is as simple as it sounds. Download this app and the built-in reader will show you the dB level in the room. It will show you the noise level and alert you to what is dangerous and what is normal.

However, there's really no real point of reference other than the app description.

Download Now: Google Play

Noise measuring device, how to measure noise?

There are many consequences of increased background noise.
For a person, they manifest themselves in the form of a deterioration in general well-being and health in general. The very first symptoms are decreased ability to work and concentration. Then the person begins to experience problems with the nervous system and the functioning of internal organs due to being in constant tension. A device for measuring noise levels is called a sound level meter. Volume level and noise level are often confused. This device only measures noise. We use such a device when conducting our research. You can also order other types of examinations from us, for example, a microbiological analysis of air at an enterprise, which will tell you what hazardous impurities it may contain.

This device has relevant government requirements that it must comply with. These requirements relate primarily to the frequency range. The design of the measuring device itself may differ and that is why there are many models. Depending on the features, both the purposes of application and the classes of sound level meters are determined.