What volume should I use for noise sounds?

Start at 20-30% volume and adjust to the minimum level that effectively masks distractions. Prolonged exposure to loud sounds can damage hearing.

White, Pink & Brown Noise

Q: What's the difference between white, pink, and brown noise?

White noise contains equal energy across all frequencies, pink noise emphasizes lower frequencies (sounds warmer), and brown noise has even more emphasis on low frequencies (deeper, rumbling sound).

Q: Does noise really help with focus?

Research suggests that noise can help some people focus, especially those with ADHD, by masking distracting sounds. However, effects vary between individuals and tasks.

Research-backed frequency combinations to mask distractions and enhance focus

Choose Your Sound

Select from our curated collection of research-backed audio

25m

White Noise

Pure white noise to mask distractions and aid concentration

25m

Pink Noise

Softer high-end frequency response, comfortable for long sessions

25m

Brown Noise

Deeper tone with more emphasis on lower frequencies

30m

Pink Noise for Sleep

Balanced pink noise to improve sleep quality

30m

Underwater White Noise

Deep underwater ambient white noise for sleep

25m

Soft Brown Noise

Low-tone brown noise for concentration

25m

Pure White Noise

Loopable white noise for background masking

Safety & Usage Guidelines

• Start with low volume (20-30%) and adjust gradually. Prolonged exposure to loud sounds can damage hearing.

• Take breaks every 45-60 minutes. Stop if you experience discomfort or headaches.

How to Use Noise Sounds

Start Low

Begin with 20-30% volume and adjust to the minimum effective level for masking distractions.

Test Different Types

Try white, pink, and brown noise to find which frequency balance works best for you.

Use Timers

Set 25-45 minute sessions with fade-out to prevent sudden interruptions and protect hearing.

What the Research Suggests

Key Finding

White noise may help some people focus, particularly those with ADHD, by providing consistent background sound that masks distracting environmental noise. However, the same noise can actually harm performance in people without attention difficulties.

Source: Söderlund et al., "The effects of background white noise on memory performance in inattentive school children" (2007, 2010)

Individual Differences Matter

Research consistently shows that noise effects vary significantly between individuals. What helps one person concentrate may distract another. This is why we recommend:

Personal testing: Try different noise types for 10-15 minute sessions
Task-specific use: What works for reading might not work for writing
Volume control: The "minimum effective dose" principle applies

Frequency Characteristics

White Noise

Equal energy across all frequencies. Sounds like a TV static or air conditioner.

Best for: Masking sudden noises, consistent background sound

Pink Noise

More energy in lower frequencies. Sounds warmer and less harsh than white noise.

Best for: Longer listening sessions, less fatiguing

Brown Noise

Emphasizes very low frequencies. Deep, rumbling sound like distant thunder.

Best for: Calming effect, masking low-frequency disturbances

Safety Guidelines

Volume limits: Start at 20-30% and use the minimum effective level. Prolonged loud exposure can damage hearing.
Take breaks: Use 25-45 minute sessions with 5-15 minute breaks to prevent listening fatigue.
Stop if uncomfortable: Discontinue use if you experience headaches, ear discomfort, or increased stress.
Quality equipment: Use good headphones or speakers to avoid distortion at higher volumes.

Research

Key studies we rely on

Concise, evidence-based references.

The effects of background white noise on memory performance in inattentive school children

Söderlund et al., 2007-2010 · Applied Cognitive Psychology · RCT

White noise improved memory and attention in children with ADHD but impaired performance in typically developing children, highlighting individual differences.

White noise improves learning by modulating activity in dopaminergic midbrain regions and right superior temporal sulcus

Helps et al., 2014 · Journal of Cognitive Neuroscience · fMRI study

White noise enhanced learning in people with low dopamine by increasing activity in brain regions associated with attention and cognitive control.

Pink noise enhances N3 sleep and memory in older adults

Papalambros et al., 2017 · Frontiers in Human Neuroscience · RCT

Pink noise during sleep enhanced memory consolidation by increasing slow-wave sleep in older adults, suggesting frequency-specific benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between white, pink, and brown noise?

White noise contains equal energy across all frequencies and sounds like static. Pink noise emphasizes lower frequencies and sounds warmer. Brown noise has even more low-frequency emphasis and sounds deeper, like distant thunder.

Does noise really help with focus?

Research shows noise can help some people focus, particularly those with ADHD, by masking distracting environmental sounds. However, it can actually impair performance in others. Individual testing is essential to determine if it works for you.

What volume should I use?

Start at 20-30% of maximum volume and adjust to the minimum level that effectively masks distractions. The goal is to create a consistent background, not to overpower your environment.

Can I listen to noise sounds all day?

It's better to use timed sessions (25-45 minutes) with breaks. Continuous noise exposure can lead to listening fatigue and may reduce the effectiveness over time.

Which noise type should I try first?

Start with pink noise, as many people find it less harsh than white noise but more effective than brown noise. Try each type for 10-15 minutes during similar tasks to compare their effects on your concentration.

Ready to Test Noise for Focus?

Start with a 25-minute session and see how different noise types affect your concentration.

White Noise - 25min Pink Noise - 25min