Find your triggers

The sounds in this test

• Tapping

  Tapping ASMR uses fingertips or nails on the microphone, on objects such as wood, glass and plastic, and on the ears. Each surface makes its own sound, from soft thuds to quick clicks, so a long video can feel varied even when the movement is simple.

• Scratching

  Scratching ASMR uses nails, fingertips or a brush on a surface close to the microphone: the mic cover, fabric, wood or plastic. The rough, rhythmic sound is a favourite for winding down, and each surface gives a video its own texture.

• Brushing

  Brushing ASMR sweeps soft brushes, such as makeup or paint brushes, across the microphone or near the ears. The slow, even strokes make a smooth, airy sound. In binaural recordings you may hear the brush travel from one ear to the other.

• Ear cleaning

  Ear cleaning ASMR is roleplay and sound play: the creator uses ear picks, cotton buds or brushes on a model ear or on the microphone. It is nothing medical. People like the close, careful sounds that seem to be right beside their ears. Use headphones for the full effect.

• Ear massage

  Ear massage ASMR recreates the sound of a massage near the ears, with fingers, gloves, oil or cream on the microphone. The slow, soft rubbing is the point, and many videos are long enough to fall asleep to.

• Whispering

  Whispering ASMR is quiet speech that is mostly breath: gentle talk, reading, rambles or stories delivered close to the microphone. It is one of the best-known ASMR voices and a common way to settle down for sleep.

• Humming and singing

  These videos use a gentle voice for humming, lullabies or quiet singing instead of talking. The tune gives you something soft to follow without a story. Some creators sing in Japanese or English, so check the language tags.