Best sound level meters (sound level meters) in 2024

Noise is no doubt bad for your health, but there is no escaping it. To determine what kind of sound background around you, you need a sensor that will take readings and protect you from serious effects on the body. Our review will offer a rating of quality sound level meters. Let's consider what they are, what they are for, we will advise the best companies on the market in Russia.

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

People perceive the sensation of noise in different ways. The chime of a bell in the distance can be more distracting than the humming engine outside the window. Music you like that plays loudly will be less disturbing than your disliked track. At night, going to bed, any rustle interferes with it, as well as at work, where increased concentration is required.

Popular models of decibelometers have four components: a sensitive microphone, electronic filling, power supply, housing. Passing through the catcher, the sound causes vibration of the membranes and affects the capacitance of the capacitor, namely, this change can be recorded.

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

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

The decibelometer is an inexpensive way to build your workflow more efficiently while maintaining your health.

To obtain high-quality measurements, it is worth paying attention to a number of factors:

• how many meters to the sound source;
• the presence of additional interference;
• whether the room in which the equipment is used is closed;
• fluctuations in temperature.

Which unit is better to buy?

The noise level meter looks like a landline cordless telephone or a remote control with a digital screen. There are wall mount options, flat, rectangular, round, square.

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

• Sound levels are measured in decibels (dB), doctors' recommendations say that 85 dB can be dangerous, and prolonged exposure will cause permanent hearing loss. It is important to choose a sound level meter that picks up 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, use it during construction or renovation.However, if you have to live near a city bus stop, you may need a “Class 1” sound spectrum analyzer.
• Additional functionality includes: automatic shutdown, registration of the received data in the device memory, backlight, light sensor, sound calibrator, USB connector.
• It is important to correctly determine the criteria for choosing the parameters of the tool so as not to make a mistake when buying.
• Most products operate on batteries (AA, AAA or 9V). Make sure that the type of device you are purchasing can be supplied with a battery, this is important.
• Multifunctional products, in addition to sound, measure humidity, temperature, light power.

What does 1, 2, 3 class of accuracy mean?

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

Most national standards, including Russian GOST, allow the use of Level 2 tools. For routine measurements, there is no need to use a "Class 1" device, they are common in more precise research.

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

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

If you want to determine the noise of the street, night noise, the hum of cars, kitchen appliances, the "Class 3" unit is suitable. Higher level products comply with the IEC 61672-1: 2002 guidelines. They are used by reviewers, used in high technology, audio acoustics. The devices are calibrated (with high precision verification) and are classified as test equipment. It is important to note that Class 3 units meet the same requirements, but have lower tolerances.

Calibrated products are stamped or labeled, entered in the state register. Calibrated devices have a high average price, but such a device is not necessary for the average consumer.

Where to buy a sound level meter?

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

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

Smartphone today can provide many useful functions, including various sound measurement apps, try to see if they meet your needs.

Armed with a useful device, you will quickly find troublemakers, whether it be loud neighbor music, a puncher, or check a repaired moped.

Rating of quality sound level meters in 2024

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, what functions will be useful when using.

Class 3 devices

Such products are used for approximate studies, the frequency range of indications should be from 31.5 to 8000 Hz, and the maximum deviation is ± 2.0 dB.

AMTAST AMF004

4th place.

The AMF004 electronic device will help, without wasting energy, measure sound in different environments. AMTAST has shown itself to be on the good side in the field of labor protection, successfully controls noise pollution in factories, large enterprises, in everyday life.

An important distinctive feature of the model is a huge screen with a light sensor, there is an automatic activation in case of insufficient visibility.Due to this, the obtained values, in the range from 30 to 130 dB, will be visible from afar.

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

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

Technical indicators:

Parameters	Specifications
Manufacturer	AMTAST (USA)
Microphone	1.2 inch capacitive
measurement range	30-130 dBA
Value of division	0.1 dB (4-digit indicator)
Error	± 1.5 dB
Measurement frequency	31.5 Hz - 8.5 KHz
Secondary functions	Screen backlight, low battery indication
Environment parameters	from 0 ° С to 40 ° С, humidity less than 80% (no condensation)
Nutrition	4 batteries 1.5V type AA
Dimensions (mm)	149x57x36
Weight (g)	110
Guarantee	12 months

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

• high error, suitable only for domestic use.

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, an error of ± 1.5 dB, a scale gradation of 0.1 dB.
There are two correction channels (A, C):

• A - used in standard studies, is able to align indicators in the range of human sound perception;
• C - designed for extreme loads, captures noise in normal 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.

Reinforced plastic case, front - digital display, navigation keys. On the right there are cells for batteries. The device is comfortable to use, 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 data exchange, graphing, diagrams.
Technical indicators:

Parameters	Specifications
Measuring range	30 - 130 dB
Resolution	0.1 dB
Error	± 1.5 dB
frequency range	31.5 - 8000 Hz
Frequency coefficient	A, C
Dynamic range	40 dB
Microphone type	polarized, capacitive
Fixing the maximum values	Yes
Display backlight	Not
Power supply	1 x 9V battery
Calibration	Yes
Work, temperature	0 - 40 ° C
Humidity	10 — 75 %
Height above sea level	up to 2000 m
Storage, temperature	-10 - 50 ° C
Humidity	10 — 80 %
The size	195 × 65 × 35 mm
Weight (with batteries)	151 g
Packaging	210 x 165 x 56 mm
Weight (complete set)	386 gr.

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

• not found.

Smart Sensor AR854

2nd place.

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

Smart Sensor is packed with useful functions: thanks to the built-in alarm that warns of exceeding the noise level, the distracted researcher has the opportunity not to miss important indicators. The working interval is 30-130 dB, the error is not more than 1.5 dB. The AR854 is powered by four conventional 1.5V batteries.

All these parameters allow the device to be in demand in production, in everyday life, when carrying out safety measures.

Technical indicators:

Parameters	Specifications
Manufacturer	Smart Sensor (China)
Microphone	1.2 inch
Measurements	30-130 dBA, 35-130 dBc
Frequencies	31.5Hz-8.5KHz
Error	1.5 dB
Gradation	5 digits, 0.1 dB
Time to take readings	2 sec.
Backlight	+
Auto power off	+
Battery indicator	+
Output	AC-0.707V (RMS) = 600Ω / step; DC-10mV / dB = 100Ω
Nutrition	4x1.5V type AA
Overall dimensions	183x67x30
Weight, g.	168
Guarantee period	1 year

• built-in alarm;
• large screen;
• user-friendly interface.

• not found.

VoiceLiner SLM-40

1 place.

SLM-40 is a Russian-made unit. It is used to measure the sound volume from 30 to 130 dB. Studies can be carried out with a resolution of 0.1 dB with an error of ± 1.5 dB. The boundaries of the working interval are 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.

The VoiceLiner has a sensitive integrated microphone (dimensions: 0.5 ") protected by a soft nozzle.

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:

Parameters	Specifications
Measurements	30 - 130 dB
Resolution	0.1 dB
Error	± 1.5 dB
Frequency	31.5 - 8000 Hz
Coefficient	A, C
Dynamic range	40 dB
Microphone type	polarized, capacitive
PC interface	USB
Fixing the maximum values	+
Memory	60,000 rev.
Display backlight	+
Power supply	1x9V baht.
Calibration	+
Work, temperature	0 - 40 ° C
Humidity	10 — 75 %
Height above sea level	up to 2000 m
Storage	-10 - 50 ° C
Humidity	10 — 80 %
The size	195 × 65 × 35 mm
Weight (with batteries)	155 g
Packing size	270 x 185 x 60 mm
Weight (complete set)	558 g

• shockproof housing;
• bulk memory.

• not detected.

Class 2 products

Devices of this level are designed 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 vibrations in the range 30 - 160 dB. The information collected in production, public places is processed and then used to improve safety, control and protection of working conditions.

The product is included in the SI State Register. 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 case:

• increased noise level measurement interval up to 160 dB;
• a significant amount of memory stores 100 indicators with a frequency of 1 s;
• USB connector transfers information to PC;
• working temperature from -20 to +60 ° С.

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

The "Testo 816-2" has a shockproof housing, compact dimensions. The standard kit includes: a wrist strap to help you carry the device, a protective case.
Technical indicators:

Parameters	Specifications
Current and maximum sound level	+
Data logging with a frequency of 1 s	+
Selecting the data logging frequency (1 ... 10 s)	-
Averaging (Leq or Lavg)	-
Sound level measurement ranges, dB	30 - 100, 60 - 130
Frequency characteristics	A, C
Time characteristics	S, F, I
Self-noise level, dB, no more	33
Accuracy	Class 2 in accordance with GOST R 53188.1-2008 (IEC 61672-1)
Limits of permissible absolute error of sound level measurements, dB	±1,0
Working frequency range, Hz	from 63 to 8000
Memory	419,000 measuring points (100 blocks)
Display	128 x 128, mono, LCD display
Output (PC)	USB 2.0 (A - mini B)
Batteries / Accumulators	3 AA alkaline batteries (included) or rechargeable batteries
Mains powered	5 V DC DC (Mini-B USB 5S connector)
Battery life	more than 35 hours
Working conditions:
Humidity	5 ... 90% RH (non-condensing)
Ambient temperature, C °	from 0 to 40
Atmospheric pressure, kPa	from 65 to 108
Relative air humidity (at a temperature of 30 ° C),%, no more	from 5 to 90
Atmospheric pressure, kPa	65 - 108
Storage conditions:
Temperature	-20 ... 60 ° C
Size (mm)	72 x 212 x 31
Weight	245 g (with batteries)

• ergonomics;
• extended measurement interval. LCD monitor.

• not detected.

CEM DT-8820

2nd place.

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

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

CEM DT-8820 has a large screen on which the indication of measurements is located (Lux, ° С,% RH, dB, over-range, battery discharge). The device automatically turns off if it is inactive for more than 10 minutes.

Multitasking, first-class calibration is ideal for professional use, and thanks to its convenient, simple interface, the "DT-8820" is a welcome device for home use. The device is powered by a Krona battery. When the supply voltage drops below the required one (battery discharge), the "BAT" indicator is activated.
Technical indicators:

Parameters	Specifications
Measurement frequency	1.5 meas. / S
load A LO	35 - 100 dB
load A HI	65 - 130 dB
load C LO	35 - 100 dB
load C HI	65 - 130 dB
Frequency	30 Hz - 10 kHz
Accuracy (at 94 dB)	± 3.5dB
Resolution	0.1dB
Nutrition	battery (9 V), type "Krona"
Dimensions (HxWxL)	251 x 63.8 x 40 mm
Net weight	250 g

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

• not detected.

TESTO 815

1 place.

Ideal equipment for measuring purposes. Testo 815 is perfect for research in the field of heating, ventilation, air conditioning, sound level assessment in discos, industrial plants, and controls the operation of generators.

Technical indicators:

Parameters	Specifications
Fixing interval	from 32 to 130 dB
Error	± 1 dB
Working temperature	from 1 to 40 ° С
Power supply	Krona 9V
Overall dimensions	255x55x43 mm
Weight	0.195 kg

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

• not detected.

Class 1 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 decibelometer DT-805 stands out for its increased sensitivity, it is used for standard tasks typical of a product of its class:

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

The equipment is configured using the keys on the case; the working interval has two modes. Information is fed to a backlit digital display. The DT-805 has two filters:

• And for a faint sound;
• filter C for peak loads.

DT-805 is used by traffic police officers to determine the noise level of a vehicle's exhaust system. The set includes batteries for the device.

Technical indicators:

Parameters	Specifications
Automatic range selection	+
MIN and MAX registration	+
Hold readings	+
Battery indicator	+
Overload indication	+
Filter type	A and C
Types of response	Fast and slow
Operating temperature range, ° С	0 - 40
Relative humidity,%	90
Noise level, dB	30-130
Frequency, Hz	30-8000
Error	0.05
Display	LCD
Length, sm	5.5
Width, sm	3.3
Height, sm	21
Package weight, g	250
Manufacturer	CEM-Instruments
Power supply	9V Crown
Country	China

• two filters;
• high accuracy of readings.

• not detected.

TESTO 816-3

2nd place.

"TESTO 816-3", registered in the State Register, was created using the latest technologies. All models in this line have excellent readings. The device is ergonomic, shock-resistant, measures the background noise in various zones (industrial, domestic use) quickly, in accordance with the necessary regulations:

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

Using TESTO is a simple, affordable method of recording noise pressure levels over a specified time interval.

Technical indicators:

Parameters	Specifications
Number in the State Register of SI RF	50850-12
Measuring range	32 ... 130 dBch
Product code	5608163
Spectral range	31.5 ... 8000 Hz
Filter type	A, C
Battery Type	3 AA batteries
Weight	195 g
Dimensions (L x W x H)	255 x 55 x 43 mm
Working temperature	0 ° C ... 40 ° C
Safety standards	ANSI S1.43, IEC 60804
Storage temperature	-20 ° C ... 60 ° C
Memory	419,000 measuring points
Additional functions	Averaging (Leq or Lavg).

• application of software “db24”;
• powerful battery;
• shockproof housing;
• wide range of readings.

• not detected.

OCTAVA-111

1 place.

Despite the high accuracy of the readings, OCTAVA-111 is an easy-to-use, inexpensive device that allows you to obtain any data on noise.

A unique feature of the device is its low level of intrinsic noise. This ability allows readings to be held up to 18 dB.

The product is used in industrial and sanitary complexes, institutes of hygiene, epidemiology, testing centers, which are engaged in research in the field of labor protection, environmental management, engineering, technical service of machines. Number in the State Register:

• RF-69133-17;
• RB (Belarus) -03 12 6613 18 .;
• RK (Kazakhstan) -KZ.02.03.08207-2018 / 69133-17.

Functional:

• class 1, GOST 17187-2010 and IEC 61672-1
• obtaining readings in octave, one-third octave bands;
• fixation of peak values;
• correction A, AU, C, Z;
• microphone (polarization 200 V / 0 V), extension cable;
• fixation in memory;
• telemetry, remote control;
• range 18 ... 140 dB;
• all data is received simultaneously;
• convenient grouping of readings (2 windows);
• parallel work with current averages (SKZ-1s), equivalent values, time corrections "F. S. I ”, noise pressure.

OCTAVA-111 equipment with unique characteristics suitable for in-depth analysis of the sound background of the environment.

Technical indicators:

Parameters	Specifications
A correction interval, dB	from 19 to 150
C spacing, dB	from 21 to 150
Z spacing, dB	from 24 to 150
Adjustment interval for АZ, dB	from 18 to 150
Frequency characteristics	A, C, Z, AU
Temporary	S, F, I, Peak, Leq, Leq, 1c
Sound level measurement errors, dB	±0,5
Frequency range of digital octave filters, Hz	from 31.5 to 16,000
Frequency range of digital one-third-octave filters, Hz	from 25 to 20,000
Octave filters from 31.5 Hz to 8 kHz, dB	122
Octave filters 16 kHz, dB	117
Third-octave filters from 25 Hz to 8 kHz, dB	126
Third-octave filters from 10 kHz to 20 kHz, dB	120
Errors at reference frequencies, dB	±0,4
Mean time between failures, h, not less	10000
Service life, years	5
DC supply voltage (four AA batteries), V	5
Consumption current, mA	400
Weight of the device with batteries, kg, no more	0.55
Overall dimensions (length × width × height), mm, no more	305×85×35
Ambient temperature, ° С	from minus 10 to plus 50
Ambient relative humidity,%, not more	from 25 to 90
Atmospheric pressure, kPa	from 85 to 108
Included	microphone with a sensitivity of 50 mV / Pa and 14 mV / Pa

• price quality;
• wide range of possibilities;
• registered in the state register.

• not detected.

By purchasing a high-performance sound volume analyzer, you will save your health and your household or employees of your company for many years.