

The most important job of a white noise machine is to block out external noise by replacing it with a sound that’s more relaxing and constant. In the final table, you can compare the number and type of sound options each device has. In the next table, you can compare the white noise machines on some of the key features I look out for when testing them: the auto-off timers, the inclusion of a headphone jack, if there’s a nightlight, and if it has to be plugged in or contains a rechargeable internal battery. The blue links will take you to the websites of Amazon or Snooz. A higher score means they are smaller and/or lighter. The portability is based on the physical dimensions and the weight. Longer is better usually, as well as whether they have noticeable breaks or sound very repetitive. The volume and sound masking score is based on two points: how loud I measured a white noise sound track on the maximum volume from one meter away with my decibel meter, and how well I found it masked external noise from outside my bedroom at night.įor the loops, I timed all the soundtracks I was able to. The sound and speaker quality score is based on how good the recordings and sound reproduction is, and how well I think the speaker handles sounds that should have some bass, such as brown noise, waterfall, or thunder.
#White noise machine sleep portable
In the table below, I’ve rated each white noise machine out of 10 in some key areas: the sound/speaker quality, the volume and sound masking, the loops, and how portable they are. I’ll make it clear which devices have those features in the following sections. Some fit in the palm of your hand, while others need more space on a table.įinally, some have additional features, such as a nightlight, headphone jack, or a rechargeable internal battery. Size and portability are also important factors to consider. If you like nature sounds, such as rain, waterfalls, or crickets, keep in mind that each white noise machine will have a different selection of nature and ambient sounds. So if you specifically need to block out loud external noise rather than just listen to relaxing sounds, it’s worth considering those with multiple white noise options. White, pink, and brown noise also tend to mask external noise better than fan sounds or nature sounds. If they have pink or brown noise, that can be more relaxing to listen to for extended periods of time than intense white noise. If you like white, pink, or brown noise, some white noise machines come with a good selection of noise colors. The recordings can be pleasant to listen to as well, but don’t sound quite as authentic. It’s not a common design, as most just use recordings. If you like the sound of fans, but don’t want air blowing around your room, you might like a white noise machine that contains a real fan.

The bottom three (Dreamegg D11, LectroFan Evo, Yogasleep Travel Mini) play different selections of white noise, fan, and nature sounds. The top two (Dohm Uno and Snooz) contain a real fan. In the photo below, you can see five of the white noise machines I tested before writing this article. Which type of white noise machine to choose?

The power consumption is usually very low.They can replace disruptive or intermittent noise with a constant background noise of your choosing.The main reasons to use a white noise machine are: If you’re being disturbed by noise you can’t control, there are various options for blocking it out, such as earplugs, headphones, speakers, or a white noise machine. As Marie de Rabutin-Chanta once said, “We like no noise unless we make it ourselves.” Considering she lived in the 1600s, I can’t imagine what she’d say if she visited me in New York City!
