Brown Noise vs White Noise: Which Is Better for Focus?

Understanding Noise Colors

You've probably heard of white noise, but brown noise has been gaining massive popularity — especially on TikTok and Reddit, where users claim it "quiets their brain." Let's break down the actual science.

What Is White Noise?

White noise contains equal energy across all frequencies — from low bass to high treble. Think of the static between TV channels or a fan running at full speed. It sounds bright and hissy.

What Is Brown Noise?

Brown noise (also called Brownian noise) has more energy in lower frequencies, dropping off as frequency increases. It sounds like a deep rumble — strong wind, a distant waterfall, or ocean waves heard from underwater. The "brown" comes from Robert Brown (Brownian motion), not the color.

What Is Pink Noise?

Pink noise sits between white and brown. It has equal energy per octave (not per frequency), making it sound balanced and natural. Rainfall is close to pink noise. Studies have linked pink noise to improved deep sleep and memory consolidation.

Which Is Best for Focus?

White noise works best for:

Masking high-frequency distractions (voices, keyboard clicks)
Analytical tasks requiring precision
People who prefer a "neutral" background sound

Brown noise works best for:

Masking low-frequency distractions (traffic, HVAC)
Creative tasks and brainstorming
People who find white noise too harsh or fatiguing
Those with ADHD (anecdotal reports suggest brown noise helps with racing thoughts)

Pink noise works best for:

Extended study sessions (less fatiguing than white noise)
Sleep and relaxation
General-purpose background sound

The ADHD Connection

Brown noise went viral in the ADHD community because many people report it helps calm racing thoughts. While controlled studies are still limited, the theory is that the low-frequency, consistent rumble provides just enough sensory input to satisfy the ADHD brain's need for stimulation without being distracting.

Try It Yourself

The best noise color is the one that works for your brain. Try each for a full work session:

White noise for one day
Pink noise the next
Brown noise the day after

Note which one felt most natural and least fatiguing. Many people find brown noise works best for focus, while pink noise is ideal for winding down.

HushWork includes white, pink, and brown noise generators that you can layer with nature sounds like rain or ocean waves for a custom focus soundscape.