Should I buy a sound machine or use a phone app?

Deciding between a dedicated sound machine and a phone app comes down to reliability versus convenience.

Choose a dedicated sound machine if you are a light sleeper, are setting up a baby's nursery, or want the best acoustic depth. These devices offer uninterrupted playback (avoiding sudden silence from an incoming call, text, or low battery alert), better sound range (especially models with physical mechanical fans or larger speakers), and keep your phone free.

Choose a phone app if you travel frequently, are on a budget, or prefer complex sound customization. Apps let you layer and mix diverse sounds (like combining heavy rain with a low coffee shop hum) and save packing space, though you will need to put your phone on 'Do Not Disturb' to prevent middle-of-the-night interruptions.