How loud is a hair dryer? Noise levels compared

Decibels in plain terms

Sound level is measured in decibels, dB, on a logarithmic scale. An increase of about 10 dB sounds roughly twice as loud to most people, so a dryer at 90 dB sounds much louder than one at 80 dB, not slightly louder. A-weighted readings, written dBA, adjust for how the human ear hears different pitches.

Distance matters a lot. A dryer measured right next to the ear reads higher than the same dryer measured a few feet away. That is why online figures vary so much for the same model.

Is a hair dryer loud enough to matter for hearing?

US workplace guidance from NIOSH sets a recommended exposure limit of 85 dBA averaged over an eight hour day, with the allowed time halving for every 3 dB above that. Daily hair drying is far shorter than eight hours, so for most people it is a comfort issue rather than a hearing risk. If you dry for long periods every day, work in a salon, or are sensitive to noise, a quieter dryer or simple ear protection is reasonable.

This is general information, not medical advice. If you notice ringing in your ears or muffled hearing after drying, talk to a doctor.

Why some dryers sound different

Noise comes from the motor, the fan blades and air rushing through the intake and nozzle. Older brushed motors make a lower rumble. High-speed brushless motors spin far faster, which can produce a higher pitched whine. Makers of high-speed dryers often work on the pitch as much as the volume.

Higher airflow settings are louder, and a narrow concentrator can add hiss. A clogged filter also makes a dryer work harder and can change its sound. See high-speed hair dryers explained.

What makers say about noise

Few listings give dB numbers, but several describe noise design. These are maker claims from the listings in our guides, not measurements:

• Dyson Supersonic Origin: the motor is described as acoustically tuned to produce one inaudible frequency.
• ghd Helios: described as having low sound levels thanks to a bespoke acoustic system.
• BaBylissPRO Dual Ionic: the brushless motor is described as ultra quiet.
• ghd Duet Blowdry: described as quiet, with a brushless motor and a bespoke acoustic system.
• ghd Duet Style: described as offering lower sound levels from a custom acoustic system.

Compare high-speed dryers →

Are hot air brushes quieter?

Hot air brushes and multi-stylers often have lower airflow than full-size dryers, which can make them sound quieter, but it varies by model and setting. Smaller motors can also have a higher pitch. The ghd Duet Blowdry is one brush that is marketed on quiet operation. If noise is your main concern, look for a maker that mentions acoustic design and use the lower airflow settings. See best blow dryer brushes.

How to dry more quietly

When shopping, also weigh airflow and weight against noise. See how to choose a hair dryer and best hair dryers over $150.

• Rough dry on medium airflow instead of high. It is slower but noticeably quieter.
• Towel blot well first so you spend less time drying.
• Clean the filter so the motor is not straining. See how to clean a hair dryer filter.
• Dry in a room away from sleepers and close the door.
• Remove the concentrator for rough drying if it adds a hiss.
• Pick a dryer from a maker that publishes noise design details.
• Use a lower heat setting with medium airflow for the final styling passes, since you do not need full airflow to finish.

Frequently asked questions

What is the quietest hair dryer? Makers rarely publish comparable decibel ratings, so there is no reliable single answer. Look for acoustic design claims, such as those from Dyson and ghd, and use lower settings.

Is the Dyson Supersonic quiet? Dyson says the motor is acoustically tuned so its main frequency is inaudible. It still makes airflow noise, and a small high-speed motor has a different pitch from older brushed-motor dryers.

Is a hot air brush noisy? Usually less than a full dryer on high, but it depends on the model and airflow setting.

Can a hair dryer damage hearing? Normal short daily use is mostly a comfort issue. Long daily use at high settings close to the ear is a reason to consider a quieter tool or ear protection.