High-pitched sounds are usually the first to fade with age. Most people don’t notice this early because speech lives mostly in lower frequencies, but the “top end” (extended high frequencies) can change long before speech becomes harder to understand.
This guide explains typical patterns and gives practical benchmarks. For a quick check, try the test: Hearing Frequency Test.
What does “upper hearing range” mean?
It’s the highest frequency you can still detect at a comfortable loudness. In labs, this is measured as hearing thresholds at specific frequencies (often 12.5 kHz and 16 kHz, sometimes up to 20 kHz). In everyday life, the exact number varies, but the pattern is consistent: higher frequencies become harder to hear as age increases.
Interactive trend: typical upper range by age group
Typical upper hearing range (approx.)
Hover or tap to see the benchmark
Hearing range by age (upper-frequency benchmarks)
| Age group | Typical upper range |
|---|---|
| 10–19 | 17–20 kHz |
| 20–29 | 15–18 kHz |
| 30–39 | 14–17 kHz |
| 40–49 | 13–16 kHz |
| 50–59 | 12–15 kHz |
| 60–69 | 10–13 kHz |
| 70+ | 9–12 kHz |
Why high frequencies fade first
Extended high frequencies (above 8 kHz) are especially sensitive to aging. Many studies show stronger age effects at 12.5–16 kHz than at standard audiometry frequencies. That’s why an early change is often: “I can’t hear the super high pitch anymore,” even if speech still feels normal.
How to test fairly
- Use the same device, browser, and headphones for repeat checks.
- Start with low volume; increase slowly and stop if uncomfortable.
- Move up in frequency gradually and confirm each step twice.
- Track trends over time rather than chasing a single “best” number.
Educational only. Online tone checks are not a medical test. If you suspect hearing loss, tinnitus, or sudden changes, consult an audiologist.
Sources and background reading
- Extended high-frequency audiometry (9–20 kHz): aging sensitivity
- High-frequency audiometry review (age effects strongest at 16 kHz, 12.5 kHz, 10 kHz)
- High-frequency thresholds in younger groups (10–18 years)
- Reference thresholds in extended frequency range up to 16 kHz
- ISO 7029: Statistical distribution of hearing thresholds vs age
- Normative extended high-frequency audiometry data (multiple age groups)
- Young-adult high-frequency thresholds (10–20 kHz) and variability
- Age as a predictor of 12 kHz and 16 kHz thresholds
- Conventional + extended high frequencies in young adults (EHFs)
- Extended high-frequency audiometry in the elderly (overview)
Try the hearing frequency test
Run the tone check and compare with the benchmarks above: