Best White Noise Machines

White noise machines are popular among many sleepers for their ability to block out unwanted noise and potentially promote more restful sleep. There are a wide number of models on the market, ranging from the very basic to those capable of playing a range of white noise as well as soothing natural sounds. Customers can also choose among an array of features as well as options intended for use at home or on the road. Prices for white noise machines vary depending on their manufacturer and features, but most are available for under $100.

We’ve put together a list of our favorite models as well as a guide to walk you through the buying process. We also cover what to look for in a white noise machine, the color spectrum of sound, and how to get the most benefit from white noise.

Product Details

Best Overall

Sweet Zzz White Noise Machine

Price:

$90

Noise type:

White, brown, and pink noise, and nature sounds

• Who it’s best for:

  1. Sleepers looking for a device with a noise color selection
  2. Frequent travelers
  3. Value seekers

• Highlights:

  1. Library includes white, pink, and brown noise, as well as a selection of nature sounds
  2. Automatic shutoff in three increments and 12-hour battery life
  3. Compact and travel-friendly design

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The Sweet Zzz White Noise Machine is a great option for shoppers on a budget. While the device has an extensive library with more than two dozen programs and additional features to enhance your sleep experience, its price-point is quite reasonable compared to many competing models.

In addition to white noise, the machine allows you to play pink noise, which combines low- and high-frequency tones to create a sound that is both soothing and intense. A brown noise program is also available for those who enjoy a stronger sound that relies solely on low frequencies. The library includes a wide selection of ambient sounds as well, including rain, fan noise, ocean waves, and singing birds. Each program is designed for seamless playback, so disruptive looping won’t be an issue.

The battery can perform for up to 12 hours before you’ll need to recharge the device. You can also program the machine to automatically shut off after 30, 60, or 90 minutes. A built-in nightlight and lullaby programs make the machine a good option for children as well as adults, and its compact, lightweight design is ideal for travel.

In addition to a low sticker price, the Sweet Zzz White Noise Machine qualifies for free ground shipping throughout the contiguous U.S. Each purchaser receives a 50-night sleep trial and 1-year manufacturer’s warranty with their order.

Best Design

Hatch Restore

Price:

$130

Noise Type:

Ambient sounds and white noise

• Who it’s best for:

  1. Customers who want programmable sound and light settings
  2. Sleepers interested in sleep stories and meditations as well as white noise
  3. Anyone who wants an all-in-one white noise, light, and sunrise alarm machine

• Highlights:

  1. Settings include color spectrum noise and natural sounds
  2. Sunrise alarm mimics natural light
  3. Programmable sleep routines include meditations and sleep stories

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Since being featured on Shark Tank in 2016, Hatch, previously known as Hatch Baby, has become one of the most well-reviewed manufacturers of white noise and light machines. The Hatch Restore is their first offering aimed at adults and has a rich array of impressive features that our testing team found to be both practical and effective.

The Restore has a library of soundscapes, including both white noise and natural sounds, such as water. While these can be used individually like a traditional white noise machine, owners can also use them as part of the Restore’s easily programmable sleep routines.

Sleepers can set a multi-step routine on the easy-to-use app. Steps can include soundscapes, meditations, sleep stories, and light adjustments, all of which are intended to gently guide users to sleep. The Restore also has a programmable sunrise alarm to wake sleepers up with sun-mimicking light.

While some soundscapes are bundled with the machine, Hatch’s full library of meditations, sleep stories, and soundscapes requires a subscription after the free six-month trial finishes. Hatch stands behind the Restore with a 1-year limited warranty against manufacturer’s defects, and customers can return their Restore in its original packaging within 60 days for a refund of the purchase price.

Best Value

Yogasleep Dohm Classic Natural Sound Machine

Price:

$45

Noise Type:

Non-looping pink noise playback

• Who it’s best for:

  1. People who want an intuitive, easy-to-use white noise machine
  2. Customers who prefer a minimalist appearance
  3. Sleepers who like fan-based white noise

• Highlights:

  1. Two volume options to accommodate different preferences
  2. Easy-to-use twist-top noise adjustment system
  3. 101-night trial

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While multiple sounds, features, and settings may appeal to some people, others may prefer a white noise machine that is easy-to-use and has a minimalist appearance. The Yogasleep Dohm Classic Natural Sound Machine is an affordable fan-generated white noise machine that fulfills these requirements, offering easy manual adjustment despite only having a single switch.

To turn on the device, users flip the switch to either the low or high volume setting. Once this is set, the sound of the fan can be adjusted by turning the top of the machine. This changes the pitch and tone of the white noise, allowing for brown and pink noise depending on the setting. Some people prefer fan-generated white noise to pre-recorded tracks, as there is no looping and fans have a unique, appealing rhythm. However, moving parts do sometimes break down and create additional, less soothing noises.

Sleep trials are unusual for white noise machines, but Yogasleep allows customers to return their Dohm Classic within 101 nights if they aren’t satisfied. The company also offers a 1-year limited warranty which covers manufacturing or workmanship flaws.

Most Innovative

Loftie Clock

Price:

$149

Noise Type:

White noise and ambient sounds

• Who it’s best for:

  1. People seeking multiple sleep aid mechanisms in a single device
  2. Those tired of using their cell phone as an alarm
  3. Shoppers who enjoy incorporating new technology into daily life

• Highlights:

  1. Various audio options in addition to white noise
  2. Also functions as a speaker, alarm clock, and nightlight
  3. Backup battery for extra security

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The Loftie Clock is a multipurpose and innovative device that is engineered to promote rest and relaxation. When connecting the Loftie to Wi-Fi, users can access unlimited audio content, including white noise, guided meditation, breathwork, sound baths, and more. Bluetooth capabilities also allow users to listen to their own music, podcasts, or favorite audio programs.

More than just a white noise machine, the Loftie Clock features a two-phase alarm that is customizable. The initial alarm sound is designed to gently coax sleepers out of slumber, while the second alarm is loud enough to wake the soundest sleeper. As many as 30 alarms can be set at a time.

Loftie Clock’s white noise and nature sounds are designed to induce sleep. Sound content can be programmed to play for a specific duration of time or for the entire night. If a user opts for continuous play, then the audio content gently fades into the alarm so that sleeping and waking cues remain separate. The Loftie Clock doubles as a speaker and is a lightweight, portable size. The nightlight and time display are fully adjustable, and sleepers who are sensitive to even subtle light can choose a blackout mode. The backup battery gives added reassurance in the event of a power outage.

The Loftie Clock ships free of charge within the U.S. and is typically dispatched within 1 business day. Loftie offers a 30-day return policy, but customers are responsible for return shipping fees.

Best Fan Sound

SNOOZ White Noise Machine

Price:

$100

Noise Type:

Fan sounds

• Who it’s best for:

  1. Frequent travelers
  2. Sleepers who want adjustable fan noises for sleep
  3. People who prefer sleeping with a nightlight

• Highlights:

  1. White noise generated by a fan inside the device
  2. Smartphone app allows you to adjust the fan tone and volume
  3. Timer and nightlight settings

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The SNOOZ White Noise Machine is a fan-generated device that creates white noise without blowing uncomfortably cold air. It is fully adjustable using the volume buttons and twistable outer shell, but you can also remotely change the sound through the SNOOZ smartphone app. Sleepers can choose the tone of the fan and pick from 10 volume settings to find the level that’s most relaxing.

Through the app, customers can set schedules and automatic on/off times for the device. The app also has a nightlight feature you can adjust to your desired brightness level. This makes the device a great choice for children or adults who enjoy sleeping with a nightlight. You can choose to keep the touchpad lights illuminated or dimmed in the app settings as well. Thanks to the small and lightweight design, the device is great for people who frequently travel.

Customers can pick between two colors: gray and black. SNOOZ offers free shipping to all 50 states. The White Noise Machine comes with a 100-night sleep trial, during which you can return the device for a full refund. The device is backed by a 1-year warranty.

Best Sound Options

Yogasleep Whish Multi-Sound Machine

Price:

$42

Noise type:

White noise, nature sounds, sleep songs, and guided meditation

• Who it’s best for:

  1. People seeking machines with a range of soothing audio programs
  2. Those who prefer falling asleep to white noise
  3. Travelers who have a hard time sleeping in hotels

• Highlights:

  1. Wide selection of white noise, nature sounds, relaxing music, and guided meditation programs
  2. Shutoff timer can be set for 6 or 8 hours
  3. Travel-friendly design is lightweight and compact

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If you want a device that offers white noise and additional audio options, the Yogasleep Whish Multi-Sound Machine features a library with 16 programs. Half consist of white noise, but you can also choose from nature sounds, soothing sleep songs, and guided meditation to help you unwind and prepare for sleep. The playback is crisp and well-produced. Yogasleep allows you to sample some of the recordings on the machine’s product page.

The device has a shutoff timer that can be set for 6 or 8 hours. Alternatively, you can manually turn off the machine with a large front button. To adjust the volume, simply tap the top buttons — 10 different settings are available. The machine is powered with a USB cord, which is included with your purchase, but wall outlet adapters are sold separately. A light, compact design makes the device particularly well suited to travel.

The Whish Multi-Sound Machine is reasonably priced, and Yogasleep offers free ground shipping for all orders within the contiguous U.S. Your purchase comes with a 30-night trial period. If you keep the machine after the trial ends, it’s further backed by a 1-year warranty.

Best for Babies and Kids

Hatch Rest+

Price:

$90

Noise Type:

White noise, nature sounds, and lullabies

• Who it’s best for:

  1. Babies and toddlers
  2. Elementary school students
  3. Households that utilize the Amazon Echo/Alexa

• Highlights:

  1. Wide built-in selection of nature sounds and lullabies
  2. Adjustable nightlight with color display and 10 presets
  3. Hands-free volume and brightness controls

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Many white noise machines are suitable for both adults and children, but the Hatch Rest+ is specifically geared toward infants, toddlers, and kids in elementary school. The device comes equipped with nature sounds such as crickets, rain, and birds, as well as three lullaby tracks and white and pink noise options. You can program the machine using a companion app, which is compatible with iOS and Android smartphones and tablets.

Another fun feature of the Hatch Rest+ is a light projector display with a full-spectrum color range and 10 preset options. The projector can also be used as a colorful wake-up light synced with the built-in light display, which can be dimmed or turned off. The machine also has sleep programs to help your child with bedtime, naptime, and waking up in the morning. Since the app is needed to operate these functions, the device will only work with a Wi-Fi connection.

The Hatch Rest+ is compatible with Amazon Echo and Alexa hands-free controls. The battery can operate without recharging for up to eight hours. Hatch backs this product with a 60-night trial period and a 1-year warranty against manufacturing defects.

Best Multi-Purpose

Dekala Arkenstone

Price:

$110

Noise Type:

Ambient noise and nature sounds

• Who it’s best for:

  1. People who use smart hubs such as Alexa or Google Home in their household
  2. Those who dislike the beeps and blaring of traditional alarms
  3. Anyone who enjoys listening to soothing sounds as they fall asleep

• Highlights:

  1. Sunrise alarm mimics natural light cycles to wake you without loud noises
  2. Built-in library features more than a dozen ambient programs
  3. Designed for voice-based commands

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The Dekala Arkenstone is an innovative device to improve your sleep in multiple ways. As a white noise machine, the Arkenstone comes with a built-in library of 11 noise programs and five nature sounds. The volume is adjustable with 15 different settings, so you can optimize your listening experience, and a voice-command removes the need for fiddling with knobs or dials in the dark.

The Arkenstone also features a noise-free alarm. A built-in gradient light can be adjusted to millions of colors on the spectrum. With the alarm function, the colors mimic natural sunrise to awaken you with light, rather than loud beeping. You can also use the Arkenstone for guided breathing, as it can be programmed to change color at timed intervals that guide your inhalations and exhalations. To hit the snooze for a few more minutes of sleep, simply flip over the device.

You can sync the Arkenstone to your home’s smart hub. Given the device’s cutting-edge design and wide array of functions, its sticker price is very reasonable. Standard shipping is also free of charge. Dekala allows you to test out the Arkenstone for 30 nights before deciding whether to return it for a refund or keep the device. If you choose the latter, you’ll also receive a 2-year warranty.

Best Portable

Sharper Image World’s Smallest White Noise Machine

Price:

$50

Noise Type:

Non-looping tones of varying pitch

• Who it’s best for:

  1. Frequent travelers
  2. People who have a hard time sleeping in hotels
  3. Value seekers

• Highlights:

  1. Includes 10 non-looping tracks that vary by pitch
  2. Light and compact design is convenient for on-the-go use
  3. Earbuds and carrying case included with purchase

Sleep Foundation Special Offer

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For decades, Sharper Image has been an industry leader for electronic devices that utilize cutting-edge technology. The World’s Smallest White Noise Machine might have a compact size, but the device offers advanced performance and sophisticated features that rival its larger competitors.

Owners can choose from 10 different noise tracks that range from low to high pitch, none of which loop their sounds. Volume can be manually adjusted using rotary controls. The machine comes with a set of earbuds, but you can use any headphones that are compatible with a 3.5-mm jack. The battery should last for about 30 hours before you’ll need to recharge the device, and a small indicator light on the base lets you know when the battery is low. A USB port allows you to easily charge the battery.

The device weighs roughly half a pound and measures 1.6 inches by 1.8 inches, making it very travel-friendly. This can benefit people who prefer listening to white noise on airplanes, in cars, or while they’re staying in hotel rooms. The machine is equipped with a belt clip for convenient use when you’re on the go, and you’ll also receive a free carrying case with your order.

The World’s Smallest White Noise Machine is competitively priced. Sharper Image allows returns within 60 days of the order, provided the device is in new condition and all components are shipped back to the company.

Best for Snoring

LectroFan Evo White Noise Machine

Price:

$60

Noise Type:

Non-looping fan and white, pink, and, brown noise sounds

• Who it’s best for:

  1. Those who want a noise-blocking device that offers more than white noise
  2. People with loud workplaces or bedroom environments
  3. Value seekers

• Highlights:

  1. Wide range of listening material includes non-looping fan sounds and several noise colors
  2. Adjustable volume and headphone jack for personal playback
  3. Value seekers

Sleep Foundation Special Offer

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White noise can be helpful for falling asleep in any bedroom environment — but if you reside in a loud neighborhood, it can be downright essential. The LectroFan Evo White Noise Machine lets you choose from a diverse library of noise-blocking sounds. You can opt for traditional white noise, calming pink or brown noise, a non-looping fan playback, or ambient ocean and surf sounds.

Adjustable controls let you optimize the volume, and the device features a headphone jack for personalized listening. At roughly 13 ounces, the machine is exceptionally lightweight, and a compact shape makes it travel-friendly. You can also use the machine on the job if your workplace tends to be noisy.

The Evo White Noise Machine can be powered through AC outlets or USB ports. Black and gray colors are available. An approachable sticker price makes the device an appealing option for shoppers with limited budgets. If you order the machine through Amazon.com and currently hold an Amazon Prime membership, you’ll also qualify for free shipping.

What is a White Noise Machine?

“White noise machine” is a catch-all term that can describe a wide range of models, ranging from those that create white through mechanical means, such as with a fan, to those that play both white noise and soothing tracks, like nature sounds or music. The connection among these different machines is that all are meant to offer sounds that drown out unwanted noises, also known as noise pollution, while relaxing or focusing the listener. Because of this goal, many white noise machines actually produce the more calming pink or brown range of noise.

People use white noise machines for several distinct reasons, including studying or working, meditating, or reducing the perception of tinnitus. However, possibly the most popular use is to help people fall or stay asleep.

Research shows that white noise can help improve sleep, particularly in noisy environments. Babies also show a good response to white noise, with one study finding that 80% of very young infants fell asleep within five minutes when exposed to white noise, versus only 25% of those without white noise. There is also some evidence that white noise may calm infants who suffer from colic.

Of course, what aids or hinders sleep is always highly personal. White noise machines can help many people achieve better sleep, but they do not work for everyone. Some people, regardless of age, respond poorly to white noise machines. Even those who enjoy white noise or nature sounds may be very particular about what sounds they find soothing, and the wrong frequency of white noise may quickly become aggravating. If this is true for you, it’s worth investing in a model that allows you to customize the pitch and tone of the noise.

How to Choose a White Noise Machine

Choosing a white noise machine can feel difficult, particularly with the wide range of varieties on the market. This guide will walk you through what you need to know before making a decision, including both critical attributes like volume control and additional functions like alarms and lights.

What to Consider When Purchasing a White Noise Machine

By considering these eight important factors, it’s easier to decide what features are important to you and what machine might work best for your needs.

Sound Options
White noise machines either play recorded sounds or mechanically generate white noise, usually with a fan. Choosing between these options is largely a matter of personal preference, though people interested in other sounds (such as waves or birdsong) will most likely prefer a machine with recorded sounds for a wider variety of options.

Volume Options
The volume of a white noise machine should be loud enough to cover noise pollution but not so loud as to interrupt sleep or damage hearing. This is particularly important for children, as studies have shown that excessively loud white noise can be especially harmful to them. Most white noise machines have a wide range of volume options and sensitive controls, though some lower-end or minimalist models may only allow you to choose between two or three volume settings.

Value
There are white noise machines available at virtually every price point, though the majority cost less than $100. Lower-priced models tend to have fewer features, while those at the higher end usually have lights, alarms, and/or other additional functions. These can offer a good value if you would otherwise buy a separate machine for these functions, but lower-priced white noise machines work well for those who are only interested in soothing sounds.

Smart Features
Just like so many other electronics, many white noise machines now offer smart features, like integration with apps or home networks. These models tend to also have other functions, such as lights or routines, that make app connectivity useful. For most situations, this is a non-essential feature, but parents may appreciate having this kind of control over their child’s white noise machine.

Display
Light from a white noise machine can disrupt sleep, so it’s crucial to choose a model with either minimal light or with lights that can be dimmed or turned off. Many well-made machines have no lights at all, while others have a clock screen or even function as a night light. The latter variety usually allows for more in-depth control, allowing owners to change the color and intensity of the light.

Timers
Some people prefer to have their white noise machine running all night, while others like to have it turn off automatically at a certain point. Most white noise machines have some kind of timing function, but this can range from preset automatic shut-offs to programmable on and off timers set through an app.

Portability
If you plan to take your white noise machine traveling, or even move it from room to room on a regular basis, it’s worth considering its portability. While many white noise machines are quite small, particularly those without additional lighting features, they may require a plug-in outlet or weigh more than one might expect. Travel-friendly models, however, are likely to be lightweight and offer features like USB charging.

Other Features
As the white noise machine market is fairly crowded, many models try to set themselves apart with additional features. Alarms and lighting are both common, as are USB ports for charging your electronics. Headphone jacks are rarer but highly valued by those who share a room with a partner not interested in white noise or other sleep sounds. Depending on your needs, these features may be necessary, useful but not essential, or entirely unwanted.

Still have questions?

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