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hearing test results differ between my two headphones

Ask By Mansi N.1,554 views

I tried the test with two headphones and get different results. why

Brand
Beyerdynamic
Model
DT 990
Connection
Wired 3.5mm Jack
System
Windows 11
Browser
Chrome 131
Sample Rate
48 kHz
Output Channels
2 channels
Hearing And Safe ListeningHeadphones
Tool used in this discussionHearing TestFind the highest and lowest tones you can hear
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Short Answer

Each headphone has a different frequency response, so results vary. Use one pair consistently for tracking.

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Diana Chen
Diana ChenAudio Team
Hearing Test Architect · 3+ years experience · Answered Jul 17, 2026

Headphones differ in frequency range and loudness, so the same tone can sound louder or quieter.

After you make the change, play the Hearing Test again to confirm the result. If the problem is still there, add your device, browser and what you tried in the replies so the team can narrow it down.

Step By Step Fix
  1. Pick one reliable pair
  2. Set the volume the same each time
  3. Compare results only with that pair
  4. Use an audiologist for medical results
Sources
  1. NIOSH: Noise And Hearing Loss Prevention

Checked by Alistair Cross on . How we verify answers

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Community Replies 3

  • Alfie TurnerCommunity Member

    Open-back headphones gave me different numbers. It took me a few minutes, and the Hearing Test showed the difference straight away.

  • Sebastian RiosCommunity Member

    Consistency is key. I tested it on my own setup and it held up for weeks.

  • Derrick MasonCommunity Member

    Keeping my volume moderate and taking breaks has been my habit since I started.

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Diana Chen
Written and tested by

Diana Chen

Hearing Test Architect at Sound Test

Diana Chen is the Hearing Test Architect on the Sound Tester Audio Team. Designs precise web-based hearing calibration algorithms and variable tone thresholds. Regularly details digital audiology frameworks on LinkedIn and Mastodon. On Sound Tester she answers hearing range and safe listening discussions, and reviews every hearing answer so it stays general information and points readers to a doctor or audiologist when needed.

Hearing calibrationtone thresholdssafe listening
  • 8 answers on Sound Test
  • 3+ years experience
  • Reviewed by Alistair Cross
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The Audio Team Behind These Answers

All 38 specialists
Brandon VanceBrandon VanceAudio & Acoustic Performance LeadXavier CruzXavier CruzFrequency Sweep SpecialistAlistair CrossAlistair CrossHeadphone Benchmark LeadImogen BlakeImogen BlakeBinaural Beats EngineerCallum SterlingCallum SterlingSurround Sound AuditorGemma GallagherGemma GallagherTone Generator ValidatorHarvey FinchHarvey FinchSpectrum Analyzer LeadRishabh SharmaRishabh SharmaAudio DSP Engineer

Each answer is written by the specialist closest to the topic and checked by a second team member. How we verify answers

Answers are free general guidance from the Sound Tester Audio Team and community. They are not medical advice. For hearing loss, ringing or ear pain, see a doctor or audiologist. Opening a device can void its warranty, so check the maker's support first for hardware faults.

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