Key Specs: Power Source: USB port | Number of Sounds: 20 | Timer Increments: 1-7 hours or continuousĬheck out our Best Overall pick, the Marpac Dohm Classic White Noise Sound Machine ( view at Amazon), if you’re looking for a white noise machine with high ratings that can play all night long. The AVANTEK timer can be set for up to 7 hours, and the volume gradually fades out before the machine shuts off, so if you or your baby is sleeping for longer than that (lucky!), it won’t be jarring. This is one of the only sound machines with this feature, making the AVANTEK a popular choice for families where multiple people have sleeping problems or want to work without distraction.

If you or an older child needs to use the sound machine while working or trying to nap, you can use the AVANTEK’s built-in headphone jack to listen to the soothing ambient or white noise sounds without disturbing anyone else. It’s great for adults and little ones alike, so it can grow with your family.

The AVANTEK is infinitely customizable, with 30 possible volume settings and over 20 available sounds, including six different kinds of white noise. The AVANTEK Sound Machine is versatile enough that it can help you, your older kids, and your baby sleep soundly. Price at time of publication: $40 Key Specs: Power Source: Plug | Number of Sounds: 9 | Timer Increments: 15, 30, 60 minutes or continuous play Some users do say that the projectors aren’t long-lasting, though, and a few have reported theirs breaking (though others say it endured a lot of kicking around from active toddlers), so be forewarned. One of the best and most unique features of the Munchkin Nursery Projector is its voice activation system, which responds directly to your baby’s cry, turning on as soon as your little one gets fussy. The Munchkin Nursey system can be set up to automatically shut off after 15, 30, or 60 minutes, or you can have it play continuously for up to 8 hours. The Munchkin Nursery Projector and Sound System packs in a lot of bells and whistles, including nine different sound options and three different cartridges that project sky, rainforest, and ocean scenes onto the walls or ceiling (depending on where you rotate the lens) of your baby’s nursery for an overall soothing atmospheric effect. Key Specs: Power Source: Plug or Batteries | Number of Sounds: 6 | Timer Increments: 15, 30, or 60 minutes At this price, it’s a budget-friendly, straightforward option for a sound machine, and, in addition to white noise, offers options for nature sounds and heartbeat rhythms. The Big Red Rooster is compact enough for travel and can be charged via outlet or batteries. You can also leave the sound on all night, which is a lifesaver for some parents who don’t want it to shut off after just an hour or so (especially if you’re lucky enough to have a baby that sleeps all night!). Many parents report that the Big Red Rooster’s white noise is especially deep and effectively masks other environmental sounds more than other machines. Particularly if you’re specifically looking for white noise and aren’t as concerned about other sounds, the Big Red Rooster Baby Sound Machine is a good option. Some parents complain about white noise machines having low-quality noise or a shrill, high-pitched, or “tinny” sound. May have a low-quality noise/shrill sound to some These are the best white noise machines available today. A family physician on our Review Board also reviewed this article for accuracy and integrity around white noise machines and the best way to evaluate them.

When reviewing white noise machines, we evaluated them for sound, portability, and features. Features like timers for automatic (or remote) shut-off, app-enabled controls, and parental locks are also worth considering. White noise machines come with a variety of sound options from a simple fan noise to waves and music. If you’re searching for a machine that you can move easily from room to room, or one that’s convenient for travel, you'll want to consider smaller, more portable, and possibly battery operated options. The calming sounds lull babies to sleep, but with so many on the market, it can be tough to decide which machine will work best for your needs. Whether you want to help your baby sleep at night or cover annoying background sounds, a white noise machine is a worthwhile product, and one that deserves a spot on a baby registry.

Best sound machine for adults