Do I need a Wi-Fi or smart white noise machine?

Across parenting communities, smart machines like the Hatch are praised mostly for scheduling, time-to-rise alarms, and a customizable nightlight, not for sound quality alone. Several reviewers note the app and subscription-adjacent features feel unnecessary if you only ever use one sound, so a simple plug-in or mechanical unit is often cited as better value unless you specifically want routines and an OK-to-wake light.