Top-Rated Sound & White Noise Machines → Reviews Based Over 4,550 Actual Consumer Experiences

Page updated April 2, 2011

Sound / white noise machines produce sound that drowns out unwanted noise of low to moderate volume, such as barking dogs, traffic sounds, and noisy neighbors. They also can encourage relaxation.

Owner Satisfaction of Sound & White Noise Machines

Each product below has a sample size of at least 75 actual consumer / owner reviews. Click on a link for detailed ratings and analysis.

91%

90%

88%

86%

83%

81%

79%

77%

77%

76%

73%

70%

66%

65%

60%

Those machines that rank near the top tend to do so mainly because they have superior reliability / durability / longevity. High price, high technology and advanced features do not necessarily make a more effective product.

Be sure to view the sound / white noise machine comparison that is based on actual consumer data / reviews.

About Our White Noise Machine Research Report

Our research is based on at least 4,550 reviews from actual sound / white machine generator consumers collected from diverse, credible sources including online message boards, product and consumer reports-type websites and product review sections on retailers' websites, including but not limited to Amazon, Walmart, Target, Best Buy, and Bed Bath & Beyond.

Owner Satisfaction → By Price

Under $40

74%

$40-$70

90%

$70 and up

84%

Under $40

An effective sound machine can be found for under $40. However, at least 25% of consumers report that the products develop significant reliability issues within 1-2 years. Models in this price range may include a clock / alarm.

$40-$70

These products tend to offer good effectiveness, reliability and longevity. Products in this price range tend to be white noise generators only (no nature sounds) and do not feature a clock / alarm.

$70 and up

Some products in this price range rate well while others rate not so well. Machines tend to be high-tech in this price range, and their reliability / longevity can be questionable. Some models may feature a clock / alarm.

Owner Satisfaction of Sound & White Noise Machines → For Travel

All sound / white noise machines are often compact and light enough for travel use. But the models below tend to be more suitable for travel than others.

90%

81%

76%

73%

70%

65%

Owner Satisfaction of Sound & White Noise Machines → With and Without Clock & Alarm

Sound / white noise machines that feature a clock / alarm are popular because of their multiple functions. Owners of these types often report that they also like how they can wake with pleasant sounds from the machine.

However, if you are looking for sound / white noise only, then you should likely not buy a model with a clock / alarm. Models with a clock / alarm, while often inexpensive, tend to have inferior sound quality and reliability and, as a result, lower owner satisfaction.

Without clock / alarm

90%

With clock / alarm

73%

Owner Satisfaction of Sound & White Noise Machines → For Infants / Babies / Children

All white noise machines are at least somewhat suitable for the needs for babies and children. But the models below tend to be more suitable for their needs than others.

91%

90%

88%

81%

79%

66%

65%

White Noise Machine Alternatives

If you prefer to have air circulation in addition to white noise, especially for sleeping, see fans for sleeping. Learn about other solutions to deal with unwanted noise that can be used instead of or in combination with a sound / white noise machine.