16 kHz Tone Generator
A free online tone generator producing a pure 16 kHz signal in your browser. Mosquito test. Pick a waveform, hit play, and adjust the volume slowly.
What is 16 kHz used for?
Around 16 kHz is the famous “mosquito” frequency — used in some shopping centers because most adults can't hear it but young people can.
For mosquito test, set the volume to roughly 30% before pressing play. 16 kHz can sound deceptively quiet at full volume — always start low to protect your speakers and ears.
How to use it
Press the play button on the preview above to hear 16 kHz immediately. To customize the waveform (sine, square, sawtooth, triangle), tweak the volume curve, or add a second tone for beat-frequency comparison, open the full tone generator. The closest musical pitch to 16 kHz is approximately B9 (+21¢).
FAQs
Why does 16 kHz sound different on different speakers?
Speaker frequency response varies dramatically. Small monitors and laptop speakers struggle below about 80 Hz; tweeters distort above 16 kHz on cheaper systems. If 16 kHz sounds quiet, distorted, or buzzy, your hardware is likely the limit — not the tone itself.
Is it safe to listen to 16 kHz?
At reasonable volumes, yes. Sustained exposure to any frequency at high volume can damage your hearing. Always start at 0 volume, ramp up slowly, and don't wear headphones at full volume on this page.
What's the closest musical note to 16 kHz?
16 kHz corresponds to approximately B9 (+21¢). For exact tuning, use the chromatic tuner.