32 dB vs 33 dB Earplugs? Why the 32 dB Ones Didn't Seem to Block Noise?

I bought two types of Hearos plugs 32 dB and 33 dB.

33 dB plugs are amazing and it blocks off almost all the noise but with 32 dB plugs, I felt it's not blocking any noise!

Any idea why? I inserted 32 dB plugs properly but still felt it was not blocking any noise.

 

You shouldn't be able to tell a difference between two hearing protectors that differ by 1dB.

If there's so much difference, those earplugs are probably not giving full 32dB of protection.

 

With 32 dB It's not blocking any noise and with 33 dB it blocks all the noises !

 

I searched for "Hearos ear plugs 33 db" on amazon, and I didn't find anything. Could you please tell us the exact brand of the earplugs that you liked?

 

It just means the 32 dB NRR plugs your bought are a bad product..

 

Hearos... it's a popular brand. 33 dB is amazing !
You will be amazed how much noise it blocks. Only thing is they are bright blue.

 

Is this it?
https://www.amazon.com/HEAROS-Xtreme-Protection-Plugs-Blue/dp/B00XW0P84I/

 

Yes .

 

Thank you. I will be getting those. On the Amazon page, they write:
"Highest NRR 33. The highest certified level a foam ear plug has achieved is 33 decibels. "

 

You are welcome .
Let me know how you like it. I bet you will be amazed !

 

What do you wear Bill Bauer? Just curious. And are they comfortable?

 

https://www.amazon.com/3M-1100-Foam-Plugs-200-Pair/dp/B008MVYL7C/
They are comfortable and seem to provide good ear protection.

I have also been happy with 3M Peltor X5A ear muffs.

 

Alright, never considered using durable ones such as the alpine party plugs or the eardial ones?

 

Alpine Party plugs don't provide an NRR number.

I see that Eardial is reporting NRR = 11. That doesn't seem to be enough.

By the way, I am able to wear those 3M plugs multiple times. They seem to provide adequate protection for a long time.

 

Where did you buy both types?

 

I've found that earplugs that are thin and really soft just don't work as well for me as the larger, denser ones. It may just be just the size of the canals. It's also imperative that they be inserted correctly. You should feel an air seal formed. Adjusting it afterwards can break this seal. And make sure you don't accidentally bend the plug in half while inserting.

 

I agree. I think 32 dB plugs are too thin.

 

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