Decibel Shield
Decibel chart › Alarm clock
How loud is an alarm clock?
An alarm clock measures about 80 dB, roughly as loud as city traffic. It stays below the 85 dB hearing-risk line, so a normal day around it is fine. Normal conversation runs about 60 dB for comparison.
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| Decibel level | 80 dB |
|---|---|
| Hearing risk | Low risk — Brief exposure — not a damage risk at typical durations |
| Safe exposure (NIOSH) | No limit — safe at any duration |
| Typical setting | home |
Figures sourced to NIDCD. See the full decibel levels chart for every source.
How an alarm clock compares
On the decibel scale, 80 dB sits in the everyday range, below the 85 dB hearing-risk line. Sounds at a similar level:
- City traffic 80–85 dB
- Gas-powered lawn mower 80–85 dB
- Gas-powered leaf blower 80–85 dB
- Hair dryer 80–90 dB
How loud is an alarm clock?
An alarm clock measures about 80 dB, roughly as loud as city traffic. It stays below the 85 dB hearing-risk line, so a normal day around it is fine. Normal conversation runs about 60 dB for comparison.
Is an alarm clock dangerous to hearing?
No — at 80 dB, an alarm clock is below the 85 dB level where hearing damage begins, so ordinary exposure carries no hearing risk.
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.