White noise machine, online
Your phone already is one. Choose a sound, set a timer, then switch to bedside mode: a dim full-screen display with one big button, which keeps the screen from locking if your browser allows it.
Phone vs a dedicated machine
| This page | Typical machine | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Free | About $20–$80 |
| Sounds | 8 noise colours, 6 nature sounds, mixable | Often 5–30 fixed sounds |
| Loop | Generated, no audible loop | Varies; cheaper units loop short recordings |
| Interruptions | Notifications unless on Do Not Disturb | None |
| Bass | Limited by phone speaker; use a speaker for brown noise | Depends on the driver size |
What to look for if you buy one
- Non-looping sound. Short loops become noticeable once your ear catches the repeat.
- A quiet minimum. Many machines are too loud even on the lowest setting for nursery use.
- No bright LEDs, or a switch to turn them off.
- A choice of colours. Pink or brown noise is gentler than white for all-night listening.
For babies, read white noise for babies for the distance and volume guidance.
Questions
Can my phone replace a white noise machine?
For most people, yes. A phone on a nightstand with this page open, or connected to a small speaker, does the same job. A dedicated machine is simpler for nurseries because it has no notifications and never runs out of battery.
What should I look for in a white noise machine?
A true random noise (not a short recorded loop), a volume range that goes quiet enough, a timer or continuous mode, no bright light, and ideally a choice of white, pink and brown noise.
Do white noise machines really work?
They reduce how much sudden noises stand out, which helps many light sleepers. They do not reduce the actual volume of the noise and research on sleep outcomes is still limited.
Is a fan better than a white noise machine?
A fan also cools and circulates air, which some people like and others find drying. The sound is similar: darker than white noise. Our fan layer gives you the sound without the draught.