What do Loop’s decibel ratings actually mean?

The dB (or decibel) rating tells you how much quieter things get when you wear them. The higher the number, the more sound is reduced.

Switch doesn't have one fixed dB rating – it has three.

Engage Mode runs at 20 dBs reduction: for conversations, social situations, and anywhere you want to take the edge off without losing the room.

Experience Mode runs at 23 dBs reduction: for concerts, events, and louder settings where you want protection without losing the energy of what you're hearing.

Quiet Mode runs at 26 dBs reduction: maximum reduction for commutes, studying, or any moment you need proper quiet.

The rating doesn't change the earplug, just the dial. Switch lets you match your protection to what you're doing right now, without carrying a different pair for every situation.

For a full breakdown of each product's dB rating, read What level of sound reduction does Loop Earplugs offer?

Dream and Quiet are designed to block as much sound as possible. Experience and Engage are designed to let a quieter version of sound through – so music still sounds like music and voices stay clear. Their lower ratings are the point.

The rating is measured in a lab, with a perfect fit. In real life, how much reduction you get depends on wearing them correctly: the right ear tip size, inserted properly.