Colored Noise: Which Color Helps You Work?

I use pink noise to get tasks done. In fact, I’m listening to pink noise as I type this. I use brown noise to help me sleep sometimes.

What’s the difference and which one is right for you? The answers are pretty simple.

Wikipedia compares colored noise to turning a flashlight on and off in the dark versus in a room with a light on. In the dark, the continuous flashes are blatant; however, in a room where the light is already on, the flashes are less noticeable because the overhead light masks the flashes.

It’s the same with colored noise. Colored noise uses sounds from all frequencies to mask other sounds. Since the human ear can only take in certain frequencies and colored noise uses sounds from all frequencies, it masks distinct sounds and also fades into the background of your concentration. This means it’s a great aid to productivity and sleep.

What’s the difference between white, pink, and brown noise?

• White uses sounds from all frequencies in the sound spectrum which is why it’s good for canceling noise, aiding concentration, and helping you sleep. Some people find it too harsh.
• Pink noise uses sounds from all the frequencies in the sound spectrum too, but it emphasizes lower frequencies so it sounds less harsh and more relaxing. It’s good for everything white noise is good for, with the addition of giving a soothing effect.
• Brown noise emphasizes lower frequencies even more than pink noise. The result is an even deeper sound like a low hum. So its effects are those of pink noise, but are even more relaxing.

Which one is right for you? The one that best suits your taste. Have a listen to all three at the bottom of the post and choose the one(s) you like most!

What other sounds help you concentrate and get work done?

• Try a video game score. The music is meant to stimulate without messing up your concentration.
• Classical music. Vivaldi’s Four Seasons is one of my favorites.
• Eno’s Music for Airports is pretty great too. It was designed to relax passengers during what is often a stressful time before flying.