Which frequency is best for focus?
Two ranges are popular for concentration:
- Beta, 13–30 Hz. Associated with active, alert thinking. Around 18–20 Hz is a common choice for tasks like writing, coding, email or problem solving.
- Gamma, around 40 Hz. Associated with sustained attention. Popular for long deep-work sessions. More about 40 Hz.
There's no single best frequency. Try both buttons above for a minute each and notice which one feels less distracting. That's usually the one to use.
Set up a focus session
- Pick one task. Binaural beats help you settle in. They don't replace knowing what you're working on.
- Put on headphones and set a low volume. The tone should fade into the background within a minute or two.
- Start a timer. 25 minutes is a good first block, and 50–90 minutes works for deep work. The session timer in the app fades the sound out when time is up, which makes a gentle cue to take a break.
- Mask distractions. In a noisy place, add pink or brown noise at a low level.
- Repeat the routine. Using the same sound every time you focus helps it become a cue that it's time to work.
Tips that make it work better
- Skip the lyrics. Music with words competes with reading and writing. A steady binaural tone doesn't.
- Lower the carrier if it feels harsh. A 150–250 Hz carrier is easier on the ears than 400 Hz or more over a long session.
- Use transitions. Start with alpha (10 Hz) to settle in, then glide to beta or gamma. The app can glide between frequencies over up to 30 seconds, so the change is smooth.
- Take breaks. Stand up and rest your ears between blocks.
Does it actually help?
Some people find binaural beats make it noticeably easier to start and stay on a task. Others notice little difference. Studies show modest effects on attention on average, with large differences between people. Because it's free and harmless at a sensible volume, the best test is a week of real work sessions.
If you mainly study, see binaural beats for studying. If you're new to all this, start with what binaural beats are.
Common questions
Are binaural beats better than music for focus?
It depends on the task and the person. For reading and writing, a steady tone with no melody or lyrics is often less distracting than music. For repetitive tasks, many people prefer music. Try both and keep whatever works.
Can binaural beats help with ADHD?
Some people with ADHD say binaural beats or background noise help them get started and stay on task, but the research is limited and they aren't a treatment. If you have ADHD, use them alongside, not instead of, the support your clinician recommends.
What volume is best for focus?
Just loud enough to hear. Around 20 to 30% is a good start. If you find yourself listening to the sound instead of working, turn it down.