Senses & Perception

Hearing Frequency Test

Human hearing typically spans roughly 20Hz to 20,000Hz (20kHz), but the upper limit narrows for most people over time, usually starting in the high teens of kHz. This test plays a series of tones starting at 8,000Hz and climbing higher — for each one, tell us whether you can still hear it. The highest frequency you confirm becomes your result. Turn your volume to a comfortable, moderate level before starting — wired headphones give a far more accurate result than laptop or phone speakers.

AD PLACEHOLDER — IN-ARTICLE
(replace with AdSense unit after approval)

Ready when you are.

How it's measured

Your browser generates each tone live using the Web Audio API — no audio files involved. After a calibration tone at 1000Hz (a comfortable, easy-to-hear reference), the test steps upward through 8,000 → 10,000 → 12,000 → 14,000 → 16,000 → 17,000 → 18,000 → 19,000 → 20,000Hz. The test ends at your first "can't hear it," and your result is the last frequency you confirmed.

Frequently asked questions

Why does my result depend on my headphones?

Cheap speakers and earbuds often can't reproduce very high frequencies accurately, which can make your result look worse than your real hearing. Good headphones give a far more reliable reading.

Is hearing loss at high frequencies normal with age?

Yes, to some degree — the ability to hear very high frequencies commonly narrows gradually with age, even with otherwise normal hearing. This test is informal, not a substitute for a real exam.

Is this a medical hearing test?

No — it's a rough self-check using your own device's speakers, not a calibrated audiometric exam. See an audiologist for real concerns.

Related tests

Color Blindness Test · Eye Dominance Test · Memory Test

AD PLACEHOLDER — IN-ARTICLE
(replace with AdSense unit after approval)

We use cookies to run this site and, once you consent, to personalize ads. See our Privacy Policy.