Choosing Between White Noise vs Red Noise

White noise vs red noise — what will it be? Read this to learn what each noise color is, its benefits and uses, and how to choose which is best for you.

Not all types of noise hurt sleep quality. And you’re here because you’re likely familiar with white noise as a means to improve your zzzs and focus. That is no surprise, given how much research this noise color has compared to others. However, a less-known concept is red noise, which this article will explore in detail.

White and red noise have unique features and uses. We’ll delve into their differences, benefits, and uses, especially how they impact sleep.

Let’s get started.

Key Takeaways

• White noise combines audible frequencies at equal intensity with a uniform, static-like sound that masks ambient noises.

• Red noise has a deeper, resonant hiss due to its emphasis on lower frequencies.

• White noise improves sleep quality, enhances focus, and offers potential relief for tinnitus sufferers.

• Red noise may boost sleep quality, reduce stress, improve concentration and increase creativity.

• Choosing between white and red noise depends on personal preference, what sounds must be masked, and specific goals.

Table of Contents

• What Is White Noise?

• What Is Red Noise?

• White Noise vs Red Noise: How Do They Differ?

• What Are the Pros of White Noise?

• What Are the Advantages of Red Noise?

• Which One Is Best for You — White Noise or Red Noise?

• What Are Devices and Apps for White and Red Noise?

• Manta White Noise Machine

• Conclusion: Choosing the Right Noise for You

What Is White Noise?

Put simply, white noise is a blend of all frequencies played at the same intensity that are audible to human ears. It produces a uniform, static-like sound that can efficiently cover other surrounding noises.

Here are examples of white noise:

• TV static

• A running vacuum cleaner

• The hum of an air conditioner

• A whirring electric fan

(White noise can also be generated artificially.)

According to Soundly, “The consistent and unchanging nature of white noise can create a privacy screen, helping to establish a quieter, more serene environment conducive to focus, relaxation, or sleep.⁽¹⁾”

What Is Red Noise?

Red noise is dominant in terms of lower frequencies compared to higher ones. While it sounds like a hiss, it has a deeper, more resonant tone. Unpredictable fluctuations in electrical currents supposedly generate it.

Naturally occurring examples of red noise include:

• Rumble of far-off thunder

• Crashing of ocean waves

Better Sleep states, "It is a type of ambient noise generated by electronic devices and is often used for testing purposes in fields such as acoustics and telecommunications.⁽²⁾”

White Noise vs Red Noise: How Do They Differ?

Knowing how they differ is essential to understanding white and red noise better. Here is a table outlining their differences:

If you’re curious to learn about other noise color comparisons, read these blog posts:

• Pink Noise vs White Noise: What's Better for Sleep?

• White Noise vs Brown Noise for Sleep: How They Differ

• White Noise vs Green Noise for Sleep and Focus

What Are the Pros of White Noise?

There are several white noise benefits. Here are a couple:

The continuous, uniform hiss of white noise may improve sleep quality. How? It masks intrusive sounds, preventing you from drifting off or staying asleep. Good sleep quality means falling asleep in up to 30 minutes. Also, waking up more than once can harm the quality of your zzzs.

White noise’s unchanging sound can effectively mask disruptive background sounds in the workplace. This quality allows you to focus better, leading to increased productivity. According to Soundly, some studies indicate that “white noise can enhance productivity, making it easier to tune out other noise in the office and an excellent tool for workplaces and study spaces.⁽³⁾”

Experts often recommend white noise for tinnitus relief. In case you’re unfamiliar with tinnitus, it's a ringing or buzzing in the ears that only you can hear. Mayo Clinic states that white noise machines “produce a sound similar to static, or environmental sounds such as falling rain or ocean waves, are often an effective treatment for tinnitus.⁽⁴⁾”

What Are the Advantages of Red Noise?

Now let’s move on to red noise, which also offers its own set of benefits.

First, red noise is known for its deep and rumbling sound, which can be more soothing for some than white noise. This natural sound quality may be effective when getting some R&R. For example, white and red noise mask disruptive sounds. The table above shows that it's better at covering up low-frequency sounds.

Some studies suggest that the frequencies in red noise can trigger relaxation and help ease stress and anxiety. Red noise while working or studying can reduce stress, improving overall well-being and work quality. And that’s not all. Some research shows that it can boost your creativity and mental sharpness.

Regarding better sleep quality, red noise works like white noise. However, many prefer red noise’s deeper rumble over the harshness of white noise. It’s all about preference.

Also, according to Better Sleep: “Red noise has numerous benefits for improving sleep, concentration, and overall well-being. It can also be used in therapy for those with sensory processing disorders or tinnitus.⁽⁵⁾”

Which One Is Best for You — White Noise or Red Noise?

Now, on to the big question: What is better for you — white or red noise? We’ve already outlined each one’s benefits, so it boils down to what sound is more appealing to you and the type of noise you want to drown out.

White noise may be your best if you’re dealing with high-frequency sounds like your neighbor’s barking dog or construction noises. Meanwhile, the opposite holds for red noise, which is more effective for low-frequency sounds.

Remember that white noise is static-like and may sound harsher than rumbling red noise for some. Experiment with each to determine which noise color works better for you, whether you’re using it to boost sleep or improve your focus.

Also, consider your goal. White and red noise have similarities but also unique benefits we mentioned above. For example, say you expect to be extra busy at work the next day. So, you must ensure you’re at the top of your game. Red noise might be the better option because it supposedly boosts creativity and mental acuity.

For instance, you suffer from tinnitus. Is the annoying ringing in your ears getting unbearable? If you answered yes, then try listening to white noise. Of course, clear it with your healthcare provider first.

What Are Devices and Apps for White and Red Noise?

So, now you’ve got all the essential information on these two noise colors. How do you listen to either (or both)? Let’s explore some options below:

Smartphone Apps

You can listen to red or white noise on your smartphone. Many apps feature both noise colors. These deliver a practical solution for individuals who are frequently on the move or traveling.

Here are some of the more popular apps:

White Noise App

The White Noise app is a popular and top-rated application accessible on iOS and Android platforms. It features a wide selection of white and red noise, among other ambient sounds. It has a customizable sound mixer and sleep timer, among other features. It's a flexible solution for creating an ideal auditory setting.

Calm App

Another option is the Calm app. It's famous for its mindfulness and meditation offerings, and it includes a variety of white and red noise sounds. The platform features guided meditation sessions, sleep stories, and additional tools to help you relax and sleep better. It's also known for its celebrity narrators (Harry Styles and Matthew McConaughey, anyone?).

Online Sources

Some websites and digital platforms offer free or subscription-based streaming services for white and red noise. These allow you to enjoy soothing sounds from any device with internet access.

Natural Sources

Now, these are harder to come by as you have no control over Mother Nature. Apart from heading outdoors, listen to audio tracks featuring natural sounds like rainfall or ocean waves. These offer effects comparable to those of red noise.

Dedicated Noise Machines

One of the best ways to listen to white or red sounds is a high-quality noise machine (or sound machine). These machines let you tailor the sound settings to suit your personal needs. And that brings us to the best sound machine out there.

Invest in a high-quality noise machine offering white and red noise options. These devices allow you to customize the sound and volume to your preference. The following section will explore our version of the best sound machine for sleeping available in the market.

Manta White Noise Machine

Meet Manta White Noise Machine. It goes beyond its name to provide 15 sleep, relaxation and focus soundscapes. Its durable and intuitive design means you don’t have to worry about maintenance. Unlike other devices, it blocks disruptive sounds before they even reach you.

Let’s examine what it has to offer:

Conclusion: Choosing the Right Noise for You

White noise vs red noise — choosing between both is all about finding the sound that resonates and helps you achieve your goals, whether it's better sleep, improved concentration, or overall relaxation. And there’s nobody to stop you from using both.

Let us know which noise color you choose and how it works by commenting below.

Sources:

(1) and (3) “White, Brown, Pink and Green Noise: Benefits of Each” Soundly, www.soundly.com/blog/white-noise-and-alternatives. Accessed 27 September 2024.

(2) and (5) “Red Noise Explained.” Better Sleep, www.bettersleep.com/blog/red-noise. Accessed 27 September 2024.

(4) “Tinnitus.” Mayo Clinic, www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/tinnitus/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20350162. Accessed 27 September 2024.

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