Noise Colors: White, Pink & Brown Noise Generator
Free noise color generator for sleep and focus. Compare White, Pink, and Brown noise. Learn which frequency spectrum is best for ADHD, tinnitus, and relaxation.
What Are Noise Colors?
Just as visible light is composed of different colors based on wavelength, sound is categorized into "colors" based on its energy distribution across frequencies. Each noise color—White, Pink, Brown (and others like Blue or Violet)—has a distinct sonic character and specific benefits for sleep, focus, and masking unwanted sounds.
Info
The Light Analogy: White light contains all colors equally. Similarly, White Noise contains all audible frequencies at equal intensity. Pink and Brown noise modify this balance to sound "warmer" or "deeper."
Noise Color Generator
Use our free generator to generate and compare noise colors. Switch between White, Pink, and Brown noise to find the one that helps you focus or relax.
Noise Generator
Generate white, pink, or brown noise for focus, sleep, or relaxation
Noise generation happens entirely in your browser. No audio is sent to any server.
Comparison: White vs. Pink vs. Brown Noise
Which noise is right for you? Here is a quick breakdown of the three most common noise colors.
| Feature | White Noise | Pink Noise | Brown Noise |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sound Character | High-pitched static, hissing | Balanced, rain-like, rustling leaves | Deep rumble, thunder, waterfall |
| Energy Profile | Equal energy per frequency | Energy drops 3 dB per octave | Energy drops 6 dB per octave |
| Best For | Masking sudden noises, Tinnitus | Sleep, Focus, Studying | Deep Focus, ADHD, Relaxation |
| Example | TV Static, Fan, Vacuum | Steady Rain, Wind | Distant Thunder, Ocean Roar |
1. White Noise
The "Static" Sound. White noise has equal intensity across all frequencies (20 Hz to 20,000 Hz). Because our ears are more sensitive to high frequencies, white noise sounds "bright" and hissy, like a radio tuned to an unused station.
- Best Use: Blocking distracting conversations, masking tinnitus ringing, privacy.
- Caution: Can be fatiguing at high volumes due to high-frequency energy.
2. Pink Noise
The "Balanced" Sound. Pink noise reduces the volume of higher frequencies by 3 decibels for every octave. This creates a sound that is perceived as "flat" or balanced by the human ear. It sounds deeper than white noise, resembling steady rain or wind.
- Best Use: Improving sleep quality (proven by research), studying, general relaxation.
3. Brown (Red) Noise
The "Rumble" Sound. Brown noise (technically Brownian noise) drops off even more sharply—6 decibels per octave. This removes almost all high-frequency hiss, leaving a deep, low-frequency rumble. It mimics the sound of a distant thunderstorm or a roaring waterfall.
- Best Use: ADHD focus (calms the brain), deep meditation, sleeping, soothing anxiety.
Which Color Should You Choose?
For Sleep: Pink Noise
Research suggests Pink Noise is superior for sleep. It has been shown to synchronize brain waves, potentially increasing deep sleep duration. The balanced frequency spectrum is soothing without the harshness of white noise.
- Runner Up: Brown Noise (if you prefer bass-heavy sounds).
For ADHD & Focus: Brown Noise
Many people with ADHD report that Brown Noise helps "quiet the mind." Its deep, consistent rumble provides a sensory blanket that blocks out distractions without being intrusive itself.
- Runner Up: Pink Noise.
For Tinnitus Relief: White Noise
Tinnitus (ringing in the ears) often occurs at high frequencies. White Noise, with its high-frequency energy, is often the most effective at "masking" or covering up the ringing sound, providing relief.
- Runner Up: Violet or Blue Noise (high-frequency focused).
For Babies: White Noise
The environment inside the womb is surprisingly loud and full of "whooshing" sounds. White Noise mimics this comforting environment, helping newborns settle and sleep.
- Safety Note: Always keep volume low (below 50 dB) and place the machine away from the crib.
Beyond the Basics: Other Noise Colors
While White, Pink, and Brown are the "Big Three," the spectrum continues:
- Blue Noise: The opposite of Pink noise. Energy increases by 3 dB per octave. Sounds like a high-pitched hiss (like a water spray). Used in audio engineering (dithering).
- Violet Noise: Energy increases by 6 dB per octave. Very harsh and high-pitched. Sometimes used to treat high-frequency tinnitus.
- Gray Noise: Calibrated to sound equally loud at all frequencies to the human ear (following the psychoacoustic equal-loudness contour).
FAQ
Is Brown noise safe for headphones?
Yes, Brown noise is safe for headphones at reasonable volumes. Because it lacks harsh high frequencies, it is often less fatiguing than White noise. However, always follow the 60/60 rule: listen at no more than 60% volume for no more than 60 minutes at a time.
Why is Brown noise popular for ADHD?
While scientific research is still emerging, the "Brown Noise for ADHD" trend suggests that the low-frequency rumble helps dopamine-deficient brains by providing a consistent, non-distracting background stimulus. This "sensory anchoring" can reduce racing thoughts and improve focus.
Can I mix noise colors?
Absolutely. Many people find a blend of Pink and Brown noise to be the "sweet spot"—deep enough to be soothing, but with enough high-end to mask outside noises effectively.
Is it okay to play noise all night?
Generally, yes. Continuous noise can prevent sleep disruptions caused by sudden silence or random noises (like a car door slamming). However, keep the volume moderate. Your ears need rest, too.
Related Tools
- White Noise Generator - Dedicated tool for white noise.
- Binaural Beats Generator - Brainwave entrainment for focus.
- Rain Sounds - Natural pink-noise alternatives.
- Sound Meter - Check if your environment is too loud.
- Tinnitus Frequency Test - Find your tinnitus pitch.