Wirecutter has reaffirmed the Sound+Sleep SE as the best white noise machine, praising its extensive sound profiles, rich acoustic design, and customisation options, despite its larger size and higher price point.
Wirecutter has named the Sound+Sleep SE the best white noise machine after finding that it delivers stronger masking and more convincing sound than any other model it tested. The publication says it has recommended a version of the device since 2021, and continues to favour it because it combines broad customisation with sound quality that is fuller and less artificial than many rivals.
One of its main advantages is range. According to Wirecutter, the Sound+Sleep SE offers 64 sound profiles across 16 categories, including fan-style noise, colour-based noise, rain, ocean soundscapes and other environmental recordings. Each category has four variations, which adds texture and avoids the repetitive quality common in simpler machines. The unit also includes a baby sound category, with options such as a heartbeat and whale recordings, which helps distinguish it from the market’s more basic competitors.
The machine’s acoustic design is another reason for its strong rating. Wirecutter says its larger top-mounted speaker gives it a richer, more blended sound, while the controls are straightforward to use in the dark. It also includes Adaptive Sound, which automatically raises or lowers volume as background noise changes, although Wirecutter did not formally test that feature. The product page from the manufacturer similarly says the model is built around 64 sound profiles, Adaptive Sound and a 3.5 mm audio output for private listening.
There are trade-offs. Wirecutter notes that the Sound+Sleep SE is bulky and takes up more space than smaller alternatives, and that its near-$145 price places it well above the budget end of the category. For buyers who mainly want basic masking rather than the most polished audio, cheaper models remain available. Broader coverage of white noise research from Time has also pointed out that the evidence for sleep benefits is promising but still limited, and that sound machines tend to work best when they match individual preference rather than a universal standard.
Disclaimer: This content is intended for informational purposes only. Readers are advised to exercise their own judgement, conduct due diligence, or consult a qualified expert before acting on any information provided.
