Buying clearly
How to Read a Vibrator Noise Comparison
A noise number needs a measurement setup. If one device was measured close to a microphone and another across a room, the numbers do not provide a fair comparison on their own.
Ask for the conditions
NIOSH's equipment-comparison guidance recommends keeping microphone distance and measurement duration consistent. Although that guidance concerns workplace equipment, the comparison principle is useful when evaluating an unsupported “quiet” claim: different test conditions need to be understood.
For a vibrator, also ask which setting was measured, whether it was held or resting on a surface, and what the background sound was. These questions identify missing context; they are not a home-laboratory certification protocol.
Do not treat video volume as a meter
A video may be edited or recorded with automatic audio adjustments, and your playback volume adds another variable. It can show a general operation, but should not be presented as proof of a precise sound level or inaudibility through a wall.
Separate noise from packaging
Dear Tingle's discreet outer packaging is a delivery feature. It does not establish a measured noise rating for every model. “Compact,” “wearable” and “premium” do not establish silence either.
Make the request specific
Ask support for any documented noise test and its conditions. If none exists, keep the claim unverified instead of filling the gap with a number from a similar-looking product.
Our discretion guide covers the wider distinction between delivery, storage and noise. This article adds the measurement questions needed when a comparison includes numerical claims.