The listening reference FAQ
Sleep sound app FAQ
Quick answers about the app recommendations, purchase models, headphones, and listening samples.
What is the best sleep sound app for iPhone?
Choose by the sound you want. We favor Windy Pro for recorded wind, Rainlayer for adjustable rain, Rainy for two free illustrated rain scenes, Sunny for waves, and Sleep Better Fan for a steady fan.
Which apps have a one-time purchase?
Windy Pro, Sleep Better Fan, Sunny, Flowing, Flowing 2, and Away are one-time purchases. Rainy Plus also lists a one-time option alongside subscriptions. Check your storefront for current terms.
Do I need headphones?
You can listen on a speaker. Stereo headphones are the intended way to hear the directional effect in binaural recordings. Use the same device when comparing clips.
How long are the listening samples?
Each sample lasts exactly 30 seconds including fades. Press Play to start. You can pause, resume, or replay it. The apps have their own playback settings and timers.
Will these apps improve my sleep?
The comparison helps you choose a sound for your bedtime routine. Research on continuous noise as a sleep aid has reported mixed results. The clips do not measure sleep outcomes.