Brown noise vs white noise
Brown noise emphasizes low frequencies, giving it a deep rumble. White noise spreads its energy evenly across equal-width frequency bands, producing a brighter hiss.
Hear the difference
Each sound plays for eight seconds. Start with your device volume low; the two sounds may feel different in loudness.
Audio controls are loading.
These are generated examples of the two noise types. Brown FM’s app has its own adjustable sound engine.
What changes between the sounds?
- Brown noise
- Lower frequencies carry more energy. Its power per hertz falls roughly 6 dB each time frequency doubles, reducing the high-frequency hiss.
- White noise
- Power per hertz stays flat. Higher octaves cover more hertz, which contributes to its brighter sound.
- Pink noise
- Pink noise falls between them in spectral slope: power per hertz drops about 3 dB per octave. Each octave carries equal energy, with less high-frequency emphasis than white noise.
Frequency relationships: MathWorks’ colored-noise reference.
Which sound should you choose?
If white noise feels too bright, compare it with the lower rumble of brown noise at a comfortable volume. If brown noise feels too heavy, a lighter tone may suit you better. Your speakers or headphones also change what you hear.
For work or studying and nighttime listening, start with the sound you find least distracting. A noise color describes its frequency balance, not a guaranteed result.
Adjust brown noise with Brown FM
Brown FM generates continuous brown noise on your iPhone. Depth and texture let you tune the tone and detail; space adjusts the stereo width, and movement lets the tone change gently over time. Save your settings and use a timer with gradual fades.
Requires iOS 26 or later and a subscription or lifetime purchase. See how to set up brown noise on iPhone or compare app features and pricing.