An audiometry test is a hearing test that measures how well you hear sounds of different pitches and volumes, and how clearly you understand speech. It is painless, it usually involves headphones and a few simple responses, and it gives your audiologist a precise picture of your hearing.
This guide explains what audiometry is, the main types of audiometry testing, how long an audiometry test takes, and what to expect on the day. If you would like to book one, our team offers a hearing test in Newmarket, led by Fariba Denak, Doctor of Audiology.
Clinically reviewed by Fariba Denak, Doctor of Audiology (CASLPO-regulated) · Newmarket Hearing ClinicAudiometry is the measurement of hearing. The core test is pure-tone audiometry, where you listen to beeps through headphones and tell us when you hear them. Speech audiometry, tympanometry, and other tests add detail. Your results are plotted on an audiogram.
What Is Audiometry?
Audiometry is the science of measuring hearing. An audiologist uses a device called an audiometer to play controlled sounds, usually in a quiet room or sound booth, and records the softest sounds you can detect at each pitch. The results show whether your hearing is within the typical range, what type of hearing loss you may have, and how it may affect everyday listening. For a neutral overview of the topic, see the NIDCD's information on hearing aids and hearing loss.
Types of Audiometry Testing: 5 Common Hearing Tests
A complete assessment often combines several tests. Here are the five you will hear about most.
1. Pure-Tone Audiometry
Pure-tone audiometry is the standard hearing test. You wear headphones and press a button (or raise a hand) each time you hear a beep. The tones range from low to high pitch and from very soft to loud, and the softest level you hear at each pitch is your hearing threshold. Air conduction (through headphones) is usually tested first, and bone conduction, using a small vibrator behind the ear, helps show whether a problem sits in the outer or middle ear or in the inner ear.
2. Speech Audiometry
Hearing a sound is not the same as understanding it. Speech audiometry measures the softest level at which you can recognize speech, and how clearly you understand words at a comfortable volume. Some versions add background noise to reflect real life, which is why people can pass a beep test yet still struggle in a restaurant.
3. Tympanometry
Tympanometry checks how well your eardrum and middle ear move. A soft probe in the ear canal changes air pressure briefly. It helps identify fluid, a stiff eardrum, or a blockage, and it is quick and painless.
4. Otoacoustic Emissions (OAE) Testing
OAE testing measures tiny sounds produced by the inner ear in response to a signal. It requires no response from you, which makes it useful for babies, young children, and anyone who cannot take part in a standard test.
5. Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR) Testing
ABR uses small sensors on the head to record how the hearing nerve and brainstem respond to sound. It is mainly used when a standard test is not possible or more detail is needed, particularly with infants.
How Long Does an Audiometry Test Take?
Pure-tone audiometry on its own often takes about 15 to 20 minutes. A comprehensive hearing assessment, which adds a conversation about your history, an ear check, speech testing, and a clear explanation of your results, typically takes about 60 to 90 minutes at our clinic.
What to Expect at Your Audiometry Test
A conversation
We ask about your hearing difficulties, health, noise exposure, and family history.
An ear check
We look in your ear canals to make sure nothing, such as earwax, is blocking the test.
The tests
Typically pure-tone and speech audiometry, plus tympanometry when needed. None of it hurts.
Your results
We show your audiogram and explain it in plain language, then discuss next steps.
If wax blocks the view, we may recommend ear wax removal first, because a blocked canal can make hearing seem worse than it is.
Who Should Have an Audiometry Test?
- Anyone who notices difficulty following conversation, especially in noise
- Adults over 50, as a baseline and for regular monitoring
- People exposed to loud noise at work or in leisure activities
- Anyone with ringing in the ears (tinnitus), dizziness, or a sudden change in hearing
- Children when parents or teachers have concerns about hearing or speech
What Happens After Your Audiometry Test?
The results are plotted on an audiogram. Our guide on how to read an audiogram shows how to interpret your own. If the test shows hearing loss, the next step may be hearing aids, and our guide on how to choose the right hearing aids walks you through it. A comprehensive hearing assessment starts at $90, and that fee is applied toward a hearing aid purchase within 60 days. Hearing screenings and consultations are free. See our pricing.
Audiometry Test: Frequently Asked Questions
What is an audiometry test?
An audiometry test measures how well you hear sounds of different pitches and volumes, and how clearly you understand speech. It is usually done with headphones in a quiet room.
Does an audiometry test hurt?
No. Audiometry is painless. You listen to sounds and respond, and the other tests use soft probes or sensors.
What is the difference between audiometry and an audiogram?
Audiometry is the test. The audiogram is the chart that shows your results.
Do I need to prepare for an audiometry test?
Not much. Bring a list of any medications and tell us about ear infections, noise exposure, and any hearing concerns. If possible, avoid very loud noise before your appointment.
Can children have audiometry testing?
Yes. Methods are adapted by age, from OAE and ABR for babies to play-based tests for toddlers. See our pediatric hearing services.
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