MyClassScreen vs Bouncy Balls
A beloved single-purpose noise toy versus a full projected classroom board. Both free — different jobs.
By David · Updated 2026-08-02
Bouncy Balls is the best-known free classroom noise visual; MyClassScreen is a free multi-widget board that includes a noise meter next to your timer and traffic light. If you only need bouncing balls for a volume check, stay with bouncyballs.org. If tab-switching mid-lesson is the pain, a full screen wins. Deeper narrative: Bouncy Balls alternative guide.
Quick comparison
| Feature | MyClassScreen | Bouncy Balls |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Free | Free |
| Noise visualization | ||
| Physics ball animation | ||
| Timer on same board | ||
| Traffic light / voice levels | ||
| Save layouts | ||
| Mic audio leaves device | No (local) | Browser-based tool |
Where Bouncy Balls still wins
- Delightful animation younger students love to “test.”
- Zero learning curve — one page, one job.
- Years of teacher-blog familiarity and student culture.
Where a full classroom screen is better
- Noise meter beside transition timer and name picker.
- Saveable layouts for different periods.
- Strategies in one place — see noise meter strategies and digital voice level display.
Try the free noise meter on a full board
Open free boardFrequently Asked Questions
Yes if you want a noise meter plus timer, traffic light, and name picker on one board. Bouncy Balls remains excellent as a single-purpose, playful volume visual — especially for younger students.