LectroFan white noise machine: what each model does
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- LectroFan Classic. Best for: Bedside or desk use with lots of sound choices. See options on Amazon
- LectroFan Micro2. Best for: Travel and people who also want a Bluetooth speaker. See options on Amazon
- Fan-based white noise machine. Best for: People who want a natural fan sound with no electronics to set. See options on Amazon
- Sound machine with nature sounds and timer. Best for: People who sleep better to rain, streams or waves. See options on Amazon
- Rechargeable sound machine with night light. Best for: Nurseries and kids' rooms. See options on Amazon
What LectroFan is
LectroFan machines make sound electronically rather than with a spinning fan. Sound of Sleep says the Classic's fan and white, pink and brown noise sounds are digitally synthesized and non-looping, and pitches them for masking noise while you sleep or work. It sells the Micro2 as a travel model. That means there is no short recording repeating in the background.
This is the main difference from fan-based machines, which use a real motor. For how the two approaches compare, see our fan vs electronic white noise machine guide.
The models at a glance
| Model | Sounds, per the maker | Power and size, per the maker |
|---|---|---|
| LectroFan Classic | 20: 10 fan sounds and 10 white, pink and brown noise variations | 110V AC or USB; 4.4 x 2.2 x 4.4 inches, 1.2 lb |
| LectroFan EVO | 22: the same 20 plus two surf sounds | Dual AC/USB power |
| LectroFan Micro2 | 11: five fan sounds, four white, pink and brown noise variations, two ocean surf sounds | Rechargeable; up to 40 hours of sleep sounds or 20 hours of Bluetooth audio per charge; 2 x 2 inches |
| LectroFan Alpha | Not listed on the overview page | Recharges by USB; up to 40 hours per charge at normal volume |
| LectroSound | Described as warm, adjustable white noise | Not listed on the overview page |
Model lineups change, so check the maker's site for the current list before you buy.
Classic features in more detail
- Volume: the maker describes pin-point volume control from a whisper to many times louder than mechanical fan-based machines.
- Sleep timer: it can shut itself off after you fall asleep.
- Power: it comes with a USB cable and USB AC adapter, so it can run from a wall outlet or a powered USB port such as a laptop.
- Uses: the maker pitches it for masking disruptive noise while sleeping or working. Our office white noise guide covers desk setups.
- Warranty: one year, per the product page.
How to set it up for sleep
- Start with a fan sound or pink noise. Pink noise sounds deeper than white noise, which some people find harsh. The Sleep Foundation suggests trying other sounds if you are new to white noise.
- Keep the volume low. The Sleep Foundation says there are no official guidelines for sleep volume, but sound at 70 dB or more can become hazardous over time. It suggests a level like a background conversation or light rustling.
- Place it across the room, such as in a corner, not on the pillow or headboard.
- Decide on the timer. Use it if you only need help falling asleep; leave it off if early-morning noise wakes you.
- For a nursery, keep the machine far from the crib and the volume low. Our white noise machine for sleeping guide explains why.
When a different machine may suit you
- You want a real fan sound: a fan-based machine makes sound with a motor and offers simple speed and tone controls.
- You want nature sounds: LectroFan focuses on fan, noise and surf sounds; machines with rain, birds or streams offer more variety.
- You want light too: some sound machines combine a night light or sunrise alarm. See our sunrise alarm clock guide.
What to look for when you buy
LectroFan Classic
Best for: Bedside or desk use with lots of sound choices
The maker lists 20 non-looping fan and noise sounds, a sleep timer, and AC or USB power in a 4.4 inch unit.
Watch out: No nature sounds beyond fan and noise, and a one-year warranty.
See options on AmazonLectroFan Micro2
Best for: Travel and people who also want a Bluetooth speaker
The maker lists 11 built-in sleep sounds and up to 40 hours of sleep sound playback per charge in a 2 inch body.
Watch out: A small speaker will not mask deep, low-pitched noise as well as a larger machine.
See options on AmazonFan-based white noise machine
Best for: People who want a natural fan sound with no electronics to set
A real fan inside a housing makes a non-looping whoosh, with simple speed and tone controls, from a unit built for sound rather than cooling.
Watch out: Plug-in only and fewer sound choices than a digital machine.
See options on AmazonSound machine with nature sounds and timer
Best for: People who sleep better to rain, streams or waves
A wider sound library covers tastes that fan and noise sounds do not, and a timer lets sound stop after you fall asleep.
Watch out: Nature tracks are often recordings; listen for an audible loop before you commit.
See options on AmazonRechargeable sound machine with night light
Best for: Nurseries and kids' rooms
A combined dim light and sound unit is handy for night feeds and runs without a cord near the crib.
Watch out: Keep it well away from the crib and at low volume; choose a warm, dim light.
See options on AmazonQuestions people ask
- How many sounds does the LectroFan have?
- The LectroFan Classic has 20: 10 fan sounds and 10 white, pink and brown noise variations. The EVO adds two surf sounds for 22.
- Does the LectroFan loop?
- The maker says the Classic's sounds are digitally synthesized and non-looping.
- Can the LectroFan run on USB?
- Yes. The Classic runs on 110V AC or a powered USB port and comes with a USB cable and adapter.
- Does the LectroFan have a timer?
- The Classic has a sleep timer that turns it off after you fall asleep. The Micro2 product page does not mention a timer.
Sources
- LectroFan Classic (soundofsleep.com), Sound of Sleep (LectroFan)
- About LectroFan (soundofsleep.com), Sound of Sleep (LectroFan)
- LectroFan Micro2 Portable Bluetooth Sleep Sound Machine (soundofsleep.com), Sound of Sleep (LectroFan)
- What Is White Noise? (www.sleepfoundation.org/noise-and-sleep/white-noise), Sleep Foundation