The Best Sound Machines for Baby Sleep in 2024
We tested 15 popular sound machines for over 6 months. Here are our top picks for every budget and need.
A good sound machine can be a game-changer for baby sleep. White noise mimics womb sounds, masks household noise, and signals to your baby that it's time to sleep.
We tested 15 of the most popular sound machines over 6 months with real families. Here are our honest findings and top recommendations.
Our Testing Process
Each sound machine was evaluated on:
- Sound quality — Is it truly white noise or grating/tinny?
- Volume range — Can it get loud enough without distortion?
- Features — App control, timer, night light, portability
- Durability — Will it last through the baby years?
- Value — Is it worth the price?
Best Overall: Hatch Rest (2nd Gen)
Price: $69.99 | Rating: 4.8/5
The Hatch Rest has earned its reputation as the gold standard for nursery sound machines.
What We Love
- Excellent sound quality with 11 sound options
- App control lets you adjust without entering the room
- Time-to-rise feature grows with your child
- Fully customizable light colors and brightness
- Sleek design that fits any nursery
- Toddler lock prevents little fingers from changing settings
Considerations
- Requires WiFi for app features
- No battery backup (need to buy Rest+ for that)
- Higher price point
Best for: Families wanting a premium, long-term solution that grows from newborn to preschool.
Best Budget: Yogasleep Hushh
Price: $29.99 | Rating: 4.6/5
Don't let the price fool you—the Hushh delivers serious performance.
What We Love
- Compact and portable — clips to stroller, car seat, diaper bag
- 3 sound options (bright white, deep white, gentle surf)
- Long battery life — 6+ hours on full charge
- Soft amber night light
- Simple operation — no app needed
- Child lock prevents accidental changes
Considerations
- Limited sound variety
- No timer function
- Light can't be turned off when sound is on
Best for: Families needing a travel-friendly option or testing whether white noise helps before investing more.
Best Premium: Hatch Rest+
Price: $89.99 | Rating: 4.7/5
Everything the Rest offers, plus battery backup and audio monitoring.
What We Love
- 8-hour battery backup — perfect for power outages
- Audio monitor built-in — hear your baby through the app
- All the Rest features plus portability
- "Restore" relaxation content for parents
Considerations
- Priciest option tested
- Some families don't need the extras
- Battery does degrade over time
Best for: Families who travel frequently or want an all-in-one solution.
Best Simple: Marpac Dohm
Price: $49.99 | Rating: 4.5/5
The original white noise machine that's been around since 1962.
What We Love
- Mechanical fan creates natural, authentic white noise
- No electronic hum or loops
- Adjustable tone and volume via dual-speed settings
- Incredibly durable — built to last years
- No batteries or charging needed
Considerations
- Only one type of sound (white noise)
- Not portable
- No additional features (light, timer, etc.)
Best for: Purists who want true, fan-generated white noise without bells and whistles.
Best for Travel: LectroFan Micro2
Price: $39.99 | Rating: 4.4/5
Tiny but mighty—this palm-sized machine punches above its weight.
What We Love
- Incredibly compact — fits in your palm
- 11 unique sounds including fan sounds and white noise variations
- USB rechargeable with good battery life
- Bluetooth speaker function as bonus feature
- Clips to travel bag or stroller
Considerations
- Smaller speaker means less room-filling sound
- No light features
- Bluetooth can drain battery faster
Best for: Frequent travelers or families who need a secondary machine for on-the-go.
What About Alexa/Smart Speakers?
Many families ask if they can just use Alexa or Google Home for white noise. Here's our take:
Pros
- You may already own one
- Can play various sounds
- Voice control convenience
Cons
- Most auto-stop after a set time
- Sound quality varies
- May have notifications/interruptions
- Blue light can disrupt sleep
- Security concerns in nursery
Our verdict: Dedicated sound machines are worth the investment for consistent, reliable performance.
How to Use a Sound Machine Safely
- Volume: Keep at 50-65 dB (about as loud as a shower)
- Distance: At least 7 feet from baby's head
- Duration: Continuous play is fine and recommended
- Placement: On dresser or shelf, not in crib
The Bottom Line
You can't go wrong with any of our top picks—they all deliver on the core promise of better sleep. Choose based on your priorities:
| Priority | Best Pick |
|---|---|
| Long-term investment | Hatch Rest |
| Budget-friendly | Yogasleep Hushh |
| Travel | LectroFan Micro2 |
| Simplicity | Marpac Dohm |
| All-in-one | Hatch Rest+ |
Happy sleeping!