Best White Noise Machines

The short answer

• You want a natural, steady sound and simple controls (US): a fan-based machine such as the Yogasleep Dohm Classic.
• You want a choice of sounds, a timer or a travel size, or you need a UK plug: a compact speaker-based machine.
• Noise is too loud to mask: foam earplugs, alongside or instead.

How white noise helps, and what it cannot do

White noise does not soundproof anything. It masks: a steady background sound makes sudden changes, such as a door, voices or traffic, less noticeable. That is why it works well for intermittent noise and less well for very loud or low-pitched noise such as heavy bass. For noise that comes through the structure, such as footsteps from upstairs, masking helps but the source matters too; see how to reduce noise from upstairs neighbours.

Side by side

Where they differ

Sound

A fan-based machine makes its sound with a real fan, so it never loops. Yogasleep says the Dohm Classic has no audio files and no speakers. Speaker-based machines play recorded sounds; good ones loop smoothly, cheaper ones can have a noticeable repeat.

Controls

The Dohm has two speeds and a collar you twist to change the tone. Speaker-based machines usually add timers, volume steps and several sound types.

Country

The Dohm Classic is a 120-volt model for the US and Canada. In the UK, choose a machine sold with a UK plug or one powered by USB.

Lights

Many speaker-based machines have a display or night light. If you are sensitive to light at night, check for a dimmer or off switch.

The picks in detail

Getting the most from one

• Place it between you and the noise, such as near the door or the wall the sound comes through, not beside your head.
• Start low and turn it up only until the noise softens.
• Run it all night rather than on a short timer, so a sudden quiet does not wake you.
• Combine it with simple fixes: a door seal and a rug cut the noise the machine has to mask. The apartment noise reduction guide covers them.

Other ways to mask noise

A desk fan on low gives steady sound for free if you already own one, though it moves air too. Some phones and smart speakers play white noise, which is fine for trying the idea before buying a machine, but a phone by your bed can disturb sleep in other ways. If noise comes mostly from one direction, move the bed away from that wall; masking works better on quieter noise.

Using one well

Place it between you and the source of noise, not right beside your head. Start at a low volume and raise it only until the disturbance fades. Keep it at a moderate level; the aim is to mask, not drown out. Give it a week before deciding; most people take a few nights to get used to a new sound.

Which should you choose?

In the US, a fan-based machine is the simplest, most natural-sounding choice. Anywhere, a compact speaker-based machine suits people who want options or travel. Keep a pack of earplugs for the loudest nights.

How we chose

These are research-based recommendations: we compared published specifications, maker documentation and the features that matter in a small home. We have not tested them hands-on. The Dohm is a named model with specifications from its maker; the others are types of product, so the buttons open the retailer's results; compare a few listings before you buy, in your own country's store.