top of page

Discover the Science: Why is Brown Noise Better than White Noise?

May 17, 2024

In our increasingly fast-paced world, sound distractions have the potential to impact our sleep, mood, and overall well-being. This has led many to turn to various types of soothing noises to block out unwanted auditory interruptions, reduce stress, and improve focus. Chief among these soothing sounds are white noise and brown noise. However, there's a good reason why brown noise is becoming the preferred option for many - but what is it about brown noise that makes it a superior choice?


First, let's identify the key differences between white noise and brown noise. White noise is composed of random frequencies equally distributed across the human hearing range, which creates a constant, static-like hiss. Brown noise, on the other hand, has a deeper, more organic sound - often compared to waterfalls and heavy rainfall. This is because brown noise consists of predominantly lower frequencies, producing a warmer, more subtle tone.


There are several reasons why brown noise is considered better than white noise, and these are mainly due to its calming, natural effect on the human ear:



  1. Lower Frequencies


As mentioned earlier, brown noise There are several reasons why brown noise is considered better than white noise, and these are mainly due to its calming, natural effect on the human ear: Lower Frequencies As mentioned earlier, brown noise contains lower frequencies than white noise. These lower, more gentle tones are perceived as less harsh or piercing by the human ear, making it a more pleasant, soothing experience. This can help users to relax and tune out surrounding distractions, making it easier to fall asleep or concentrate on a task.



  1. Organic and Natural Sounds


The deep, rumbling quality of brown noise emulates natural sounds like waterfalls, heavy rain, and even ocean waves. These types of organic sounds can be incredibly soothing and encourage a sense of tranquility, which can improve sleep quality and reduce stress levels.



  1. Helps with Tinnitus


Tinnitus sufferers often report that brown noise is more effective than white noise in masking the intrusive sounds that accompany the condition. This may be attributed to the fact that brown noise's low frequencies are felt to be closer in resonance to the common symptoms of tinnitus, making it easier for the sufferers' brains to blend the two types of noise and reduce the uncomfortable sensation.



  1. More Effective in Blocking Distractions


Due to the combination of its deep tones and natural sound, brown noise is more efficient at masking environmental noises such as background chatter, noisy neighbors, or street noise. This can be exceptionally beneficial for people who work or live in particularly noisy environments.


In conclusion, brown noise is generally considered a more soothing, natural option compared to white noise, making it increasingly popular among those seeking relief from sleeplessness, stress, and background noise. Its lower frequencies and organic sound quality deliver significant benefits to users, particularly in promoting relaxation, improving focus, and reducing the disturbances associated with tinnitus.


bottom of page