Tone Audibility: How to Compare Browser Runs Safely

How the Challenge Works

The challenge uses tones at 250, 500, 1,000, 2,000, 4,000, and 8,000 Hz. For each one, it plays a short tone and asks whether you heard it. Your answers move the next generated level down or up, with no more than three checks per frequency.

The frequency values identify which tones the browser creates; they are not the score. Your result is the average relative level across all six tones.

Start With Sound Safety

Use the visible safety step before starting:

1. Put on the headphones or use the speakers you intend to keep for the whole run.
2. Lower the device output to a low, comfortable setting.
3. Start the challenge and leave the device volume unchanged.
4. Stop if any sound is uncomfortable or if you feel tempted to raise the output.

More output does not make a run more valid. It only changes the setup and prevents a useful comparison with earlier results.

Make Repeat Runs Comparable

Control the conditions you can control. Use the same device, browser, audio output, device-volume setting, and room. Keep headphones positioned the same way and avoid switching between wired and wireless playback. If the room becomes noisy, wait and restart later instead of changing the output.

Treat a single score as one setup-dependent observation. A repeat run under matched conditions is more useful for checking whether your interaction with the challenge was consistent.

Limits to Keep in Mind

Consumer hardware is not calibrated, and browsers do not know the sound level reaching your ears. The challenge also relies on your Yes or No response after a short generated tone. Because of those limits, BrainRivals reports only a relative browser score and does not classify the result.

If you have concerns about hearing health, discomfort, sudden changes, or persistent symptoms, stop using the challenge and seek advice from an appropriately qualified professional.