Here are the best white noise machines to drown out noisy neighbors and roommates

Best budget option — HoMedics SS-2000G/F-AMZ Sound Spa Relaxation Machine ($20)

For many, a basic machine will do the trick. Thankfully, the HoMedic’s Sound Spa is a great starter option for those who want to test the merits of white noise before upgrading to a higher-end model.

This lightweight unit comes loaded with six audio tracks, including those designed to mimic the sound of summer nights, rain, thunder, babbling brooks, and the ocean. There’s also a standard white noise function for general ambience, as well as an auto-off timer that can be set for 15-, 30-, or 60-minute operation. The power options are just as flexible, and make use of either four AA batteries or a plug-in adapter.

Ultra-light sleepers and white noise purists will certainly prefer a machine with longer, non-looping tracks, but at $20, you really can’t complain. The Sound Spa is the perfect no-frills option for anyone looking for a little help drifting to sleep — just think of it as an upgrade from simplynoise.com or your basic box fan.

Buy one now from:

Amazon

The best noise-cancelling — Adaptive Sound Technologies – Sound+Sleep ($100)

Again, the biggest gripe most people have with some white noise machines are the looping audio tracks. Once you become cognizant of their ticks and nuances, the sounds can become more aggravating than soothing. And while the Sound + Sleep does use audio tracks, these individual loops are nearly 30 minutes in length, meaning you’ll probably already be asleep by the time the track begins repeating.

The unit also comes with more than 10 sound settings to choose from. As an added bonus, each of these can be enhanced using the device’s built-in “richness” feature, which adds more subtleties to the chosen setting. If you press the “richness” option when using the “ocean” mode, for instance, the device will add chirping birds to the base sound of crashing waves.

The device is also as intuitive as it is capable. While most devices simply go through their mechanical motions, the Sound + Sleep actually listens to your environment and counteracts any disruptive sounds. If the machine detects unwanted noise, it’s capable of tweaking sound profiles and increasing volume to help neutralize these protuberances.

If you’re new to white noise machines, you might want to start of with one of the cheaper models before going all in with the Sound + Sleep. Audiophiles and white noise traditionalists might also prefer an organic white noise machine over this model.

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Amazon

The best for infants — SoundBub Portable Bluetooth Speaker and Baby Soother ($60)

As any parent knows, the slightest sound will wake a newborn or infant. Just like adults, many babies could also use a little help blocking excess noise around the house. Fortunately, the SoundBub comes with two tracks (beach and rain), which will gently guide your child to sleep and comfort them if they wake in the middle of the night. You can also purchase additional tracks and lullabies online.

This white noise machine comes with four timers as well. Whereas the 30-minute timer is great for quick naps, the 60- and 90-minute settings are ideal for longer sleep times. The continuous play option will even help minimize the risk of a your baby waking to randoms sounds throughout the evening (fingers-crossed). It’s also made of soft, padded materials — rendering it perfect for your child’s crib — and can be adjusted to stand upright or clipped for added versatility when on the move.

The SoundBub is also a portable Bluetooth speaker; simply download the compatible app to connect the unit to your smartphone. This allows you to send soothing messages to your child, even if you’re not at home.

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Amazon

The best for travelers — Marpac Rohm Portable White Noise Sound Machine ($35)

Everyone has their own sleep specifications — and white noise machines can quickly become part of our ideal sleep regimen. Fortunately for us, there are plenty of portable white noise machines on the market, including Marpac’s budged-based solution.

As the name might suggest, the Rohm Portable Noise Machine is exceedingly travel-friendly. Its compact design and 3.8-ounce build means it will easily fit into your carry-on luggage or backpack. It also uses internal batteries so there’s no need to sift around an unfamiliar room to find the nearest outlet. The unit is equipped for USB-charging, too, though we don’t necessarily recommend it for daily home use when there are better offerings available. If you’re in need of a travel companion, though, this portable powerhouse is hard to beat.

Buy one now from:

Amazon