The best white noise machines for 2025, tested and reviewed

If getting better sleep is on your agenda now that daylight saving time has returned, we've got you covered. Sleep is the key to overall health and wellness, but the truth is, it's not easy for many Americans. In fact, more than 14% of adults in the United States have trouble falling asleep, while almost 18% struggle to stay asleep. And without a good night's rest, everything else becomes more challenging.

From noisy neighbors to snoring partners and nocturnal pets, nighttime disruptions come in all shapes and sizes. But white noise machines are here to save the day — or rather, the night — drowning out those annoying sounds to help you achieve the serene, uninterrupted sleep you deserve.

Sleep expert Sarah Bossio explains that white noise may replicate the brain waves seen during deep sleep, though more research is needed to understand the exact mechanism. "The most obvious benefit of white noise is its ability to reduce the external noise from your surrounding environment, allowing you to stay in a deeper sleep or smoothly transition through sleep cycles," she says.

Our team spoke with three sleep experts — a sleep coach, a sleep consultant and a sleep product expert — to explore the features and benefits of white noise machines and what makes them a valuable addition to your sleep routine. We put 10 different models to the test, focusing on price, sound quality, features, usability and overall experience. These seven white noise machines came out on top.

Table of contents

Update, Mar. 10, 2025: We checked all product prices and availability. Our number one pick for the best white noise machine remains unchanged.

Related: We've also rounded up a list of the best alarm clocks (including those for heavy sleepers) and a list of the best sunrise alarm clocks that help you wake up more naturally. You can track and improve your sleep hygiene with one of the best sleep trackers. We've put together lists of the best earplugs for sleeping and the best headphones for sleeping. If you want to try one of the best sleep aids you can take without a prescription, we have a list for that too. For those who need their sleeping space to be pitch dark, check out our lists of the best blackout curtains and shades and the best sleep masks.

Best white noise machine overall

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Other top white noise machines we recommend for 2025

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Factors to consider when purchasing a white noise machine

When choosing a white noise machine, our experts suggest considering the following:

• Sound quality: This is probably the most crucial factor to consider. You want a sound machine that produces high-quality, consistent white noise without distortion or looping. Some machines, like the Yogasleep Dohm Nova, use actual fans to create the sound, which can result in a more natural experience.
  

• Sound options: While having a specific sound preference is great, having multiple options allows you to discover what truly helps you sleep best. Some machines offer as many as 40+ sound options, while others have five or fewer.
  

• Volume control: "Being able to adjust the sound level is also important so it's not too loud while trying to fall asleep," says Mondshein. You can damage your hearing with prolonged exposure to loud noises, so make sure the machine has a gradual volume increase and decrease that you can set or control.
  

• Timer function: "A timer can shut off the machine automatically after a certain amount of time, which is convenient and saves energy," says Zwarensteyn. Standard options are 30, 60 and 90 minutes, but some machines offer more customizable timer settings through companion apps.
  

• Portability: Mondshein and Zwarensteyn agree that traveling with a sound machine creates a more consistent sleep environment. Who wants to hear the commotion outside their hotel room? Opting for a compact machine with optional battery power can help mask noise while you’re away from home.
  

• Additional features: Night lights, alarm clocks and smart home integration are just a few of the optional features to consider. Some models, like the Hatch Restore 2, offer guided meditations and sleep routines. Put some thought into which features are most important to you.
  

• Price: White noise machines can range from $20 to $200, but the price tag doesn't always reflect sound quality. Do your research and consider your budget before making a purchase. Keep in mind that some machines may have additional subscription services or features that require extra fees.

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How we tested the best white noise machines

We tested ten white noise machines across various brands and price levels to pinpoint the best options. We spoke with three sleep experts, including a certified sleep consultant and a sleep science coach, to gain insights. Each machine was thoroughly tested at home, focusing on key features, user experience and overall performance.

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FAQs

What is the difference between white, pink and brown noise?

White noise is the go-to for sound machines. It contains all audible frequencies at equal levels to create a constant "shushing" sound that can help mask other noises in your environment. Pink noise has more low-frequency sounds, and brown noise has the lowest frequencies of the three.

Are white noise machines safe?

Sound machines are safe when used correctly. However, listening to any noise at high volumes for extended periods can damage your hearing. When using a sound machine for an infant, child or adolescent, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends placing the machine as far away as possible from the crib or bed and setting it to a low volume to prevent any potential hearing damage.

Can white noise machines help with tinnitus?

Yes, white noise can help with the perceived symptoms of tinnitus by masking or covering up the ringing or buzzing sounds associated with the condition, says Bossio. "It's also proposed that white noise can help your brain become more accustomed to tinnitus."

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Other white noise machines we tested

• Dreamland Baby Dream Sound Machine: At under $40, this sound machine is cost-effective and features six sound options, an auto-off timer and a built-in night light. While it's exactly what I expected for the price point, the buttons were somewhat tricky to press.

• Momcozy Smart White Noise Machine: Though I was impressed with the 34 sound options and app control, the sound quality was not as crisp as I had hoped. A small power indicator light stays on while the machine is in use, which is annoying for some.

• Loftie Clock: I wanted to love this smart clock: It's attractive, multifunctional and has a library of white noise and natural sounds. Unfortunately, the tech is glitchy, and the clock isn't as user-friendly as expected.

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Meet our experts

• Sarah Bossio, a certified sleep consultant and owner of Your Zen Baby Sleep

• Jill Zwarensteyn, a certified sleep science coach at Sleep Advisor

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