A good night's rest isn't always easy to come by, especially if you're a light sleeper who wakes up with even the faintest of sounds. Sound machines offer a solution for those who struggle to fall asleep or don't like wearing headphones for sleeping. They mask environmental disturbances and background sounds and replace them with soothing noises and color sounds. I’ve tested dozens of sleep products and mattresses through the years and developed a decent skepticism about what’s worth your money. So when I tested the best sleep sound machines, I brought that skepticism through the process. These are the options that performed well enough to be considered worth your money.
What's the best overall white noise machine?
We tested the best white noise machines on the market and narrowed our top pick to the Homedics Sound Spa. We chose this as the best overall white noise machine because of its unique features and affordability. The best white noise machine for you is the one that meets your specific needs.
What We Updated: May 2025
Added Hatch Restore 3, Manta, Yogasleep and Snooz white noise machines to the list. Removed Hatch Restore 2.
The Homedics Sound Spa strikes the perfect balance of quality and budget, which is why I think it’s the best white noise machine you can get. It’s hard to beat under $25 for a sound machine with nature sounds, especially one you can travel with.
Why we like this sound machine: The Homedics Sound Spa white noise machine has a super simple design with a button for each of the six sounds: white noise, brook, thunder, summer night, ocean and rain. I prefer a button for each sound, rather than clicking the same button to flip through the sounds. This white noise machine has a timer for 15, 30 or 60 minutes. You can also plug the Sound Spa into a wall outlet or use batteries to take it on your travels. This sound machine is incredibly portable, one of the best on the list. This white noise sound machine is lightweight and thin so you can slip it into a carry-on or personal item with no problem.
Who should get this sound machine: The Homedics Sound Spa is inexpensive, easy to use and portable. It produces high-quality sound for the price (although the rain setting has an obvious loop), and it has enough sound settings for the average person.
Who shouldn’t: When the Sound Spa is turned on, there's a little green light on top of the machine. If you’re sensitive to light when falling asleep and while sleeping, this green light could feel bright and unnecessary. If you want pitch-black darkness, the Homedics Sound Spa is probably not the right choice, or you can try covering up the light.
Pros:
- 6 sounds meant to mimic nature sounds
- Portable and compact
- Timer settings
Cons:
- Green light may disrupt some sleepers
- Less sounds than other options, though what it has is good
The Hatch Restore 3 is a sunrise alarm clock and sound machine duo, a massive benefit for my personal use. I like a clean nightstand, and having my alarm clock and sound machine in one device makes my life much easier because it’s all in one app.
Why we like this sound machine: The Hatch Restore 3 can play white noise, though the catalog extends far beyond that. I prefer the rain sounds, but there are so many choices. From zodiac signs to denim to shag carpet, there is something for everyone. You can set how long you want it to play and even schedule it to automatically start at specific times. Beyond that, the Restore 3 also has guided sessions, podcasts and light-guided meditations.
Who should get this sound machine: I’d recommend the Hatch Restore 3 to anyone wanting a sunrise alarm clock and sound machine. It’s easily one of the best options on the market. There aren’t a ton of buttons, and the app is super easy to use.
Who shouldn’t: Given Hatch's additional functionality with the alarm clock, it costs more than other sound machines on the list. At $170, I think it’s well worth it because of its capability as an alarm clock and sound machine, though it’s still a bigger investment than other options. Hatch also has a $4.99/month subscription charge that’s required to unlock the whole library. Basic sounds like white noise and rain are available for free.
Pros:
- Huge catalog of sounds and lights
- Can adjust the volume and light displays easily
- You can set up schedules for your lights and sounds
- 1-year product warranty
- 30-night trial
Cons:
- Subscription model for full catalog, though basic sounds are free
- $169.99 price makes it the most expensive on the list
I appreciate the simplicity of the LectroFan. This is the perfect white noise machine for people who don't need many sound options but need to bring their machine when traveling. It’s really small and plugs into the wall.
Why we like this sound machine: The LectroFan Evo white noise machine is a no-fuss sound machine that offers white noise in its purest form. It doesn't have sounds of birds chirping, ocean waves, water falling or other nature sounds, but if you’re buying a white noise machine for white noise, then you’re getting exactly what you want. The LectroFan has 20 total sounds: 10 white noise sounds and 10 fan sounds. It only has three buttons on the front: power, volume control and sound selection. The adjustable volume control is pretty sensitive, and I've never had a problem finding just the right volume to mask outside sounds on any given night.
Who should get this sound machine: Those who want a straight-to-the-point white noise machine with limited bells and whistles will like the LectroFan Evo. The buttons are simple, and you can choose between various white noise and fan sounds by pressing the corresponding buttons. This white noise machine also gets really loud compared to other options.
Who shouldn’t: The Lectrofan Evo sound machine is small and easy to use, though it lacks the nature sounds of other options. So, if you’re looking for a wide range of ocean or rain sounds, this isn’t the sound machine for you.
Pros:
- Plugs into wall or USB ports
- 22 sounds
- Louder than other machines
- Small size
- Headphone jack
Cons:
- Only two nature sounds
- No battery option
“Manta's White Noise Machine has been a constant in my bedtime routine for the past six months. It's made a noticeable difference in my ability to sleep through the night as a light sleeper -- especially when sharing the room with our pets, who aren't necessarily quiet all night,” says Aly Lopez, sleep writer.
Why we like this sound machine: There are 15 sound options, from ocean waves to rain to white noise, though Lopez found that she liked the calming brown noise setting best. She noted that all sounds are continuous with no gaps, so you don’t have to worry about interruptions in your relaxation routine.
“One of my favorite features of this device is its remote, which allows you to control and adjust the noise machine from the comfort of your bed,” Lopez adds. “You can also set it on a timer or keep it on all night until you shut it off in the morning, which is what I do. I even bring it while traveling and staying in hotels or Airbnbs because it's highly portable and easy to use.”
Who should get this sound machine: At only $99, this white noise machine falls in the middle of the price range on this list. It’s not the most expensive on the list, however, it costs more than I expected for only 15 sounds. There are some features that the Manta White Noise Machine offers that other brands don’t, like the dual-speaker system that you can upgrade to. This allows you to create a surround-sound-like experience.
Who shouldn’t: The Manta sound machine is small and portable. It has 15 soothing sounds, fewer than some on this list. Those looking for a larger collection of unique sounds may want to go with another white noise machine.
Pros:
- Continuous, non-looping sound
- Small and portable
- 15 soothing noise options
- No apps required
- Speaker plugs in, so you don't have to charge the battery
- No LED lights
Cons:
- On the expensive side at $99
- Can't add or play your own sounds
- The speaker requires an outlet for plugging in
I've been using it for more than six months, and not only does the Sound Plus Sleep SE white noise machine put me to sleep (and keep me asleep), but it also helps me focus while working from home and drown out distracting sounds.
Why we like this sound machine: The sheer range of sounds you get with this white noise machine blows most other options on the list out to the water. There are 64 white noise, ambient and fan sounds to choose from. I use the pink noise setting to fall asleep and the meditation or rainfall settings to focus while working. I also love the acute volume control and sleek design. It doesn't look out of place on my nightstand or my desk. This white noise machine has three timers: 30 minutes, 120 minutes or constant play.
Who should get this sound machine: If you want a white noise machine with more than one white-noise sound you can adjust, the Sound Plus Sleep SE from Sound of Sleep is the one you need. It offers high-quality sounds that don’t loop. With 44 nature and ambient noise settings, people who want more than just white noise.
Who shouldn’t: I wouldn’t recommend this to people on a budget because $130 is a lot for a white noise machine. We think it’s well worth the price if you want a ton of sound options, though if you don’t care about that, I’d go with a cheaper option.
Pros:
- Large catalog of sounds
- Has an optional setting that will adjust the volume if your setting becomes noisier
- Two USB charging ports
- 1-year limited warranty
Cons:
- The $130 price tag takes out out of a budget range
- Has to be plugged in to work
- Larger size, which makes it less portable
I’m a big fan of the Hatch Rest sound machine for kids. I bought one for my niece to help establish her sleep routine. She loves the purple rain sounds that get her ready for a nap.
Why we like this sound machine: The Hatch Rest 2nd Gen is a sound machine with a nightlight. I appreciate that this noise machine can connect to the Hatch app to access the sound collection and set rise and sleep cues, though that’s not required. You can turn the sound and light on from the device itself, change the type of sound or color of the light and raise or lower the volume and brightness.
Who should get this sound machine: I think this sound machine is well priced at $60. The light feature, sound clarity and ease of use make it a top option for kids. The Rest offers a level of customization that other sound machines can’t match. I recommend it to anyone who wants to use a device to help their kid develop a healthy sleep routine.
Who shouldn’t: The only real negative I see with the Hatch Rest is that you need access to an outlet to plug it in, which could make travel naps difficult. The Rest Plus can hold a charge if you want to move it elsewhere during naptime. The Rest Go is a travel noise machine that has no lights. It costs $40, a little pricey for a travel noise machine.
Pros:
- Sleek design
- Easy controls on the device or in the app
- 30-night trial
- 1-year product warranty
- Superior customization
Cons:
- I think it’s a good value, though it’s still on the expensive side at $70
Honeywell makes trustworthy, high-quality products, and the Dreamweaver Sleep Fan is no different.
Why we like this sound machine: This small bedside fan doubles as a sound machine but doesn't actually use white noise. It uses pink noise, a softer ambient noise that increases time spent in deep sleep and improves memory. When I was living in a busy apartment complex, this fan-and-pink-noise combo helped drown out the sounds of cars and passers-by. This pink noise machine is also an oscillating fan, which is unique to this list.
Who should get this sound machine: There's a little night light on top of the unit that has three levels; if you like to sleep in pitch-black darkness, tap it three times to turn it off completely. If you want a little light, the Dreamweaver can be your white noise machine, night light and fan all in one.
Who shouldn’t: If you’re on a budget, the Honeywell Dreamweaver sound machine might not be for you, as it costs $82. It’s also limited to pink noise, so it’s not for people who want a big sound collection.
Pros:
- Dimming light settings
- Pink noise
- Oscillating fan
- USB charging port
Cons:
- The fan collects dust pretty easily
- Limited sounds
I liked the Snooz white noise machine's sound best because I could adjust the tone. I also appreciate its look, with the fabric overlay around the outside. It looks a little bit like the Nohm Nova, though rounder.
Why we like this sound machine: The Snooz white noise machine has an incredibly simple design. It has an internal fan, power button and volume controls. The Snooz white noise machine has a really sleek design because it doesn’t have a cluster of buttons on top. The internal fan is controlled by the volume buttons, which let you adjust between 10 volume levels.
The buttons control the volume, though the Snooz's outer shell rotates to adjust the tone of the white noise. The manual says not to grip the control surface to twist it, though I found myself having to put a finger or two on top to stabilize the device enough to twist the shell. But I liked physically adjusting the sound rather than relying on buttons. Snooz remembers the last setting you had, so you don’t have to readjust it every time you turn it on.
Who should get this sound machine: The loudest sound setting on the Snooz white noise machine is really loud, almost surprisingly so. That makes this sound machine perfect for people who live in busy areas or have a lot of noise to block out.
Who shouldn’t: The Snooz sound machine has one white noise sound and you adjust its volume and tone. That’s great for the average person who wants traditional white noise. However, you’ll want to look elsewhere if you want nature sounds.
Pros:
- Connects to the Snooz app, which allows you to establish a schedule
- Sleek design
- Large volume range
- Real fan inside
Cons:
- Outer shell was a little hard to twist at first
- Fewer sound options than others
- On the expensive side at $100
The Yogasleep Dohm Nova's fan-based white noise sounds more natural than the electronically produced white noise. The constant whirl of the fan inside is really soothing.
Why we like this sound machine: The Dohm Nova white noise machine has a unique design compared to other options. There are five buttons on this sound machine: the power, volume controls, light and timer. In addition to the volume controls, the device's collar rotates to adjust the fan's fan's sound. I think the fabric overlay around the collar gives it a nice look. The volume buttons and the adjustable collar allow you to create your ideal fan white noise sound.
When you push the buttons to adjust the pitch and volume, you adjust the physical fan inside. This sound machine also has an optional night-light around the edge. Unlike the Hatch Restore 3, you can’t change the color, but you can adjust the brightness. Additionally, you can set this sound machine on a timer for 45 minutes, 90 minutes or 8 hours.
Who should get this sound machine: The Dohm Nova is a white noise machine for people who want fan sounds. There are 10 fan speeds with volume and tone control. When testing, I found that it melted into the background.
Who shouldn’t: I like this sound machine because of its calming fan sounds, though I admit it’s chunkier than other options. Depending on the size of your nightstand, it might be a little big for some people.
Pros:
- Non-repetitive fan sound
- Twist the collar to easily adjust the sound
- 1-year limited factory warranty
- Night-light feature
Cons:
- QR code on the back of the manual doesn’t work
- Can’t change the light color, though you can adjust the brightness
- Bigger than other sound machines
Best white noise machines compared
| Product | Sound library | Power source | Timer | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Homedics Sound Spa | 6 sounds | Wall outlet | 15, 30 or 60 minutes | $25 |
| Hatch Restore 3 | Wide range available in the app | Wall outlet | Customizable | $170 |
| Manta White Noise Machine | 15 sounds | Wall outlet | 30 minutes, 2, 4, 6 and 8 hours | $99 |
| LectroFan Evo Sound Machine | 22 sounds | Wall outlet | Auto-shut off timer available | $50 |
| Yogasleep Dohm Nova | 10 adjustable fan speeds | Wall outlet | 45 minutes, 90 minutes or 8 hours | $60 |
| Hatch Rest | Wide range available in the app | Wall outlet | Customizable | $70 |
| Snooz White Noise Machine | 10 volume settings | Wall outlet | Customizable | $100 |
| Sound Plus Sleep SE | 64 sounds | Wall outlet | 30, 60, 90 or 120 minutes | $130 |
| Honeywell Dreamweaver | 3 fan settings | Wall outlet | 1, 2, 4 or 8 hours | $82 |
How we tested the best white noise machines
CNET’s team of editors tested and researched the white noise machines on this list. We used them while sleeping and working to get a full view of the product and its performance.
To determine our roundup of best white noise machines, we considered factors like functionality, special features, range of noises and price. These selections are based on personal preference, and you should consult your doctor before buying a white noise machine to ensure you get the best one for your needs.
Other white noise machines we've tested
These two white noise machines aren't my top choices, but they still offer value and might be right for you.
YogaSleep Dohm Classic
Dohm proclaims itself the first company to manufacture white noise machines, and the Dohm Classic is the original sound machine for sleep. The Dohm Classic is super simple, much like the LectroFan: It only produces white noise, and the controls are on, off, high and low. Once you choose high or low, rotate the cap to adjust the sound to the perfect level for you.
If you're really looking for simplicity, the Dohm Classic embodies it. To me, this white noise machine feels a little limited for the price, and the sound quality isn't as great as some of the others on this list. It comes from a reputable brand and has nearly 4,000 positive reviews on Amazon, so it's worth looking into if you want a trustworthy product in the middle of what seems to be the price range (about $15 to $90) for white noise machines.
Nightingale Smart Home Sleep System
Unlike the sound machines you put on a table, the Nightingale includes two speaker-equipped smart plugs. You can plug them in multiple places or on opposite sides of the room for a surround-sound effect.
Other options for improving your sleep with sound
White noise machines are one of the most popular tools to sleep better as a light sleeper who is disturbed by sound. However, sound machines aren't for everyone, whether because of the cost (some are pricey) or because you don’t have the room on your nightstand. You have other options.
- Noise-canceling headphones: For those who don’t mind sleeping with earbuds in, noise-canceling headphones are a great alternative. I’d recommend this route if you like sounds for sleep, but maybe our partner doesn’t.
- Sleep sound apps: You don’t need a separate device to cash in on the benefits of white noise for sleep. There are plenty of apps out there that you can use, or Spotify playlists to turn on that won’t take up more room on your nightstand or cost a thing. I recently tested the Sona music app to help me sleep better.
Best white noise machine FAQs
What is a white noise machine?
A white noise machine is a device that emits a constant frequency of sound to help make ambiant or environmental noise. Many people use them to help them fall asleep.
Are white noise machines good for you?
The use of white noise machines is generally considered to be safe. People with tinnitus can experience a worsening of symptoms with prolonged use of a white noise machine.
What is the best white noise machine?
Our top pick for best white noise machine is the Homedics Sound Spa. It's an affordable device with plenty of sounds to choose from.
Should I keep white noise on all night?
You can keep white noise on all night; however, it is not necessary. If you are playing white noise for a baby, you can turn it off when they are asleep.
What color noise is best for sleep?
The best noises for sleep include white, brown and pink. The best noise for sleep is different for each person; find the one that works best for you.