In This ArticleView AllIn This ArticleOur Top PicksReviewsOthers We TriedWhat to KnowBehind the ScenesWhy Trust PEOPLE?What Is PEOPLE Tested?
In This ArticleView All
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Our Top Picks
Reviews
Others We Tried
What to Know
Behind the Scenes
Why Trust PEOPLE?
What Is PEOPLE Tested?
Photo:People / Jennifer May
People / Jennifer May
If you’re an early riser, chances are you need an alarm clock to help rouse you out of bed in the morning. Many people use theirsmartphones to set alarms, but if you don’t want your phone in the bedroom, an alarm clock can help you start your day off on the right foot.When comparing alarm clocks, you’ll want to consider factors such as alarm sound, volume level, and special features like a snooze button or nightlight. To help you find the best alarm clock for your bedroom, we tested 21 top-rated models to find the best ones for light sleepers, heavy sleepers, and everyone in between.Our Top PicksBest Overall:DreamSky Digital Alarm Clock at Amazon$16Jump to ReviewBest Sunrise:Hatch Restore at Amazon$100Jump to ReviewBest for Heavy Sleepers:SALERoxicosly Super Loud Alarm Clock at Amazon$24$20Jump to ReviewBest Digital:SALEJall Digital Alarm Clock at Amazon$26$20Jump to ReviewBest for Kids:LittleHippo Mella at Amazon$50Jump to ReviewBest Smart:Loftie Clock at Amazon$170Jump to ReviewBest with Radio:iHome Bluetooth Alarm Clock at Amazon$40Jump to ReviewBest Lamp:Winshine Touch Wake Up Night Light at Amazon$43Jump to ReviewBest with Wireless Charging:Mosito Digital Alarm Clock at Amazon$30Jump to Review
If you’re an early riser, chances are you need an alarm clock to help rouse you out of bed in the morning. Many people use theirsmartphones to set alarms, but if you don’t want your phone in the bedroom, an alarm clock can help you start your day off on the right foot.
When comparing alarm clocks, you’ll want to consider factors such as alarm sound, volume level, and special features like a snooze button or nightlight. To help you find the best alarm clock for your bedroom, we tested 21 top-rated models to find the best ones for light sleepers, heavy sleepers, and everyone in between.
Our Top PicksBest Overall:DreamSky Digital Alarm Clock at Amazon$16Jump to ReviewBest Sunrise:Hatch Restore at Amazon$100Jump to ReviewBest for Heavy Sleepers:SALERoxicosly Super Loud Alarm Clock at Amazon$24$20Jump to ReviewBest Digital:SALEJall Digital Alarm Clock at Amazon$26$20Jump to ReviewBest for Kids:LittleHippo Mella at Amazon$50Jump to ReviewBest Smart:Loftie Clock at Amazon$170Jump to ReviewBest with Radio:iHome Bluetooth Alarm Clock at Amazon$40Jump to ReviewBest Lamp:Winshine Touch Wake Up Night Light at Amazon$43Jump to ReviewBest with Wireless Charging:Mosito Digital Alarm Clock at Amazon$30Jump to Review
Best Overall:DreamSky Digital Alarm Clock at Amazon$16Jump to ReviewBest Sunrise:Hatch Restore at Amazon$100Jump to ReviewBest for Heavy Sleepers:SALERoxicosly Super Loud Alarm Clock at Amazon$24$20Jump to ReviewBest Digital:SALEJall Digital Alarm Clock at Amazon$26$20Jump to ReviewBest for Kids:LittleHippo Mella at Amazon$50Jump to ReviewBest Smart:Loftie Clock at Amazon$170Jump to ReviewBest with Radio:iHome Bluetooth Alarm Clock at Amazon$40Jump to ReviewBest Lamp:Winshine Touch Wake Up Night Light at Amazon$43Jump to ReviewBest with Wireless Charging:Mosito Digital Alarm Clock at Amazon$30Jump to Review
Best Overall:DreamSky Digital Alarm Clock at Amazon$16Jump to Review
Best Overall:DreamSky Digital Alarm Clock at Amazon$16
Best Overall:
Best Sunrise:Hatch Restore at Amazon$100Jump to Review
Best Sunrise:Hatch Restore at Amazon$100
Best Sunrise:
Best for Heavy Sleepers:SALERoxicosly Super Loud Alarm Clock at Amazon$24$20Jump to Review
Best for Heavy Sleepers:SALERoxicosly Super Loud Alarm Clock at Amazon$24$20
Best for Heavy Sleepers:
SALE
Best Digital:SALEJall Digital Alarm Clock at Amazon$26$20Jump to Review
Best Digital:SALEJall Digital Alarm Clock at Amazon$26$20
Best Digital:
Best for Kids:LittleHippo Mella at Amazon$50Jump to Review
Best for Kids:LittleHippo Mella at Amazon$50
Best for Kids:
Best Smart:Loftie Clock at Amazon$170Jump to Review
Best Smart:Loftie Clock at Amazon$170
Best Smart:
Best with Radio:iHome Bluetooth Alarm Clock at Amazon$40Jump to Review
Best with Radio:iHome Bluetooth Alarm Clock at Amazon$40
Best with Radio:
Best Lamp:Winshine Touch Wake Up Night Light at Amazon$43Jump to Review
Best Lamp:Winshine Touch Wake Up Night Light at Amazon$43
Best Lamp:
Best with Wireless Charging:Mosito Digital Alarm Clock at Amazon$30Jump to Review
Best with Wireless Charging:Mosito Digital Alarm Clock at Amazon$30
Best with Wireless Charging:
Best OverallDreamSky Digital Alarm ClockPHOTO: Amazon$16 at AmazonStar QualitiesLarge, easy-to-read displayLarge snooze buttonFully dimmableRed FlagsOnly one alarm soundIf you’re looking for a basic, budget-friendly alarm clock, the DreamSky Digital Alarm Clock is simple but effective. It has a minimalistic design that’s available in several color options, and its large, easy-to-read digital display can be fully dimmed so it doesn’t bother you during the night. There’s a USB port on the back that you can use to charge your phone, and the alarm volume can be set between 30 and 90 decibels.The DreamSky Alarm Clock only offers one alarm sound, a classic beeping audio that starts soft and gets louder if you don’t turn it off. We liked that the clock’s snooze button is large and easy to press to extend your alarm for another 10 minutes, and we appreciated the clock’s compact design. Plus, it’s small enough to throw in yourweekender bagwhen traveling.Dimensions:5.3 x 2.6 x 1.4 inches |Display:Digital |Alarm Volume:90 decibels |Dimmable:Yes |Smart Features:NoPeople / Gabrielle Renslow
Best OverallDreamSky Digital Alarm ClockPHOTO: Amazon$16 at Amazon
Best OverallDreamSky Digital Alarm Clock
PHOTO: Amazon
$16 at Amazon
Star QualitiesLarge, easy-to-read displayLarge snooze buttonFully dimmableRed FlagsOnly one alarm sound
Star QualitiesLarge, easy-to-read displayLarge snooze buttonFully dimmable
Large, easy-to-read display
Large snooze button
Fully dimmable
Red FlagsOnly one alarm sound
Only one alarm sound
If you’re looking for a basic, budget-friendly alarm clock, the DreamSky Digital Alarm Clock is simple but effective. It has a minimalistic design that’s available in several color options, and its large, easy-to-read digital display can be fully dimmed so it doesn’t bother you during the night. There’s a USB port on the back that you can use to charge your phone, and the alarm volume can be set between 30 and 90 decibels.
The DreamSky Alarm Clock only offers one alarm sound, a classic beeping audio that starts soft and gets louder if you don’t turn it off. We liked that the clock’s snooze button is large and easy to press to extend your alarm for another 10 minutes, and we appreciated the clock’s compact design. Plus, it’s small enough to throw in yourweekender bagwhen traveling.
Dimensions:5.3 x 2.6 x 1.4 inches |Display:Digital |Alarm Volume:90 decibels |Dimmable:Yes |Smart Features:No
People / Gabrielle Renslow
Best SunriseHatch RestorePHOTO: Amazon$100 at Amazon
Best SunriseHatch Restore
$100 at Amazon
Star QualitiesIncludes built-in noise machineCan create custom sleep routinesVariety of alarm soundsRed FlagsSubscription required to access certain features
Star QualitiesIncludes built-in noise machineCan create custom sleep routinesVariety of alarm sounds
Includes built-in noise machine
Can create custom sleep routines
Variety of alarm sounds
Red FlagsSubscription required to access certain features
Subscription required to access certain features
In testing, we found this alarm clock to be more complex to set up, as it must be paired with a smartphone; but once that was complete, it was intuitive to operate. We found that the bedtime routines are useful for winding down before going to sleep, though certain features — including meditations and sleep stories — require a monthly subscription fee. However, the alarm clock is functional and extremely versatile even without the subscription.
Dimensions:7.5 x 2.75 x 5.75 inches |Display:Digital |Alarm Volume:Not listed |Dimmable:Yes |Smart Features:Yes
PHOTO: People / Hannah FreedmanPHOTO: People / Michelle ParentePHOTO: People / Hannah Freedman
The More You KnowSunrise alarm clocks gradually light up 30 minutes or so before your actual alarm, helping to rouse your body from sleep. However, the light alone may not be enough to wake you up, which is why most of these units also have an audio function similar to a traditional alarm clock.
Sunrise alarm clocks gradually light up 30 minutes or so before your actual alarm, helping to rouse your body from sleep. However, the light alone may not be enough to wake you up, which is why most of these units also have an audio function similar to a traditional alarm clock.
Best for Heavy SleepersRoxicosly Super Loud Alarm ClockPHOTO: Amazon$24$20 at AmazonStar QualitiesIncludes vibration puckLouder-than-average alarmLarge snooze buttonRed FlagsEasy to accidentally press the wrong buttonIf you tend to snuggle under the covers and sleep through your alarm, the Roxicosly Alarm Clock is exactly what you need. Not only does it have a louder-than-average alarm that’s 110 decibels, but it also comes with a vibration puck that you can place under yourbed’s mattressordown pillow. The clock has three settings — alarm only, vibration only, or alarm and vibration — and will surely rouse you from even your deepest sleep.During testing, we loved that the snooze button on this alarm was larger than its other buttons and noted that the vibration puck helped us wake up faster without disturbing our partner. However, this clock is on the larger side at almost seven inches long, and all its control buttons are on top, making it easy to hit the wrong button when you’re trying to snooze the alarm.Dimensions:6.82 x 1.5 x 3.39 inches |Display:Digital |Alarm Volume:110 decibels |Dimmable:Yes |Smart Features:NoPHOTO: People / Jennifer MayPHOTO: People / Jennifer May
Best for Heavy SleepersRoxicosly Super Loud Alarm ClockPHOTO: Amazon$24$20 at Amazon
Best for Heavy SleepersRoxicosly Super Loud Alarm Clock
$24$20 at Amazon
Star QualitiesIncludes vibration puckLouder-than-average alarmLarge snooze buttonRed FlagsEasy to accidentally press the wrong button
Star QualitiesIncludes vibration puckLouder-than-average alarmLarge snooze button
Includes vibration puck
Louder-than-average alarm
Red FlagsEasy to accidentally press the wrong button
Easy to accidentally press the wrong button
If you tend to snuggle under the covers and sleep through your alarm, the Roxicosly Alarm Clock is exactly what you need. Not only does it have a louder-than-average alarm that’s 110 decibels, but it also comes with a vibration puck that you can place under yourbed’s mattressordown pillow. The clock has three settings — alarm only, vibration only, or alarm and vibration — and will surely rouse you from even your deepest sleep.
During testing, we loved that the snooze button on this alarm was larger than its other buttons and noted that the vibration puck helped us wake up faster without disturbing our partner. However, this clock is on the larger side at almost seven inches long, and all its control buttons are on top, making it easy to hit the wrong button when you’re trying to snooze the alarm.
Dimensions:6.82 x 1.5 x 3.39 inches |Display:Digital |Alarm Volume:110 decibels |Dimmable:Yes |Smart Features:No
PHOTO: People / Jennifer MayPHOTO: People / Jennifer May
Best DigitalJall Digital Alarm ClockPHOTO: Amazon$26$20 at Amazon$27 at WalmartStar QualitiesSaves up to three alarmsDisplays temperature and humidityBrightness display is adjustableRed FlagsOnly one alarm soundThe Jall Alarm Clock has an easy-to-read digital clock face, and it also displays the temperature and humidity of the room. This alarm clock comes in several finishes, including a wood-inspired look and options with colored displays. We like that you can set up to three different alarms — for instance, one for weekdays and another for weekends — and it’s quick and easy to select them using switches on the back of the clock.The Jall clock has just one alarm sound, but there are five volume settings to choose from, and we think that there’s enough difference between the settings for both heavy and light sleepers. You can adjust the display’s brightness to suit your needs, and there’s also a “sound control” setting that turns the display off unless the alarm is sounding or you touch the screen.Dimensions:5.91 x 3.15 x 3.15 inches |Display:Digital |Alarm Volume:60 decibels |Dimmable:Yes |Smart Features:NoPeople / Phoebe Sklansky
Best DigitalJall Digital Alarm ClockPHOTO: Amazon$26$20 at Amazon$27 at Walmart
Best DigitalJall Digital Alarm Clock
$26$20 at Amazon$27 at Walmart
Star QualitiesSaves up to three alarmsDisplays temperature and humidityBrightness display is adjustableRed FlagsOnly one alarm sound
Star QualitiesSaves up to three alarmsDisplays temperature and humidityBrightness display is adjustable
Saves up to three alarms
Displays temperature and humidity
Brightness display is adjustable
The Jall Alarm Clock has an easy-to-read digital clock face, and it also displays the temperature and humidity of the room. This alarm clock comes in several finishes, including a wood-inspired look and options with colored displays. We like that you can set up to three different alarms — for instance, one for weekdays and another for weekends — and it’s quick and easy to select them using switches on the back of the clock.
The Jall clock has just one alarm sound, but there are five volume settings to choose from, and we think that there’s enough difference between the settings for both heavy and light sleepers. You can adjust the display’s brightness to suit your needs, and there’s also a “sound control” setting that turns the display off unless the alarm is sounding or you touch the screen.
Dimensions:5.91 x 3.15 x 3.15 inches |Display:Digital |Alarm Volume:60 decibels |Dimmable:Yes |Smart Features:No
People / Phoebe Sklansky
Best for KidsLittleHippo MellaPHOTO: Amazon$50 at Amazon$50 at Target$50 at WalmartStar QualitiesFive different nightlight colors to choose fromClock face is clear and easy to understandSize is great for children’s nightstandsRed FlagsNot super customizableThe LittleHippo Mella is a great pick for a big kid’s bedroom to foster independence. It uses different lights to let your child know when it’s time for bed and when to rise. Program your child’s bedtime using simple buttons on the bottom of the machine. When it’s time to go to bed, the clock ring turns red. In the morning, the ring turns yellow 30 minutes before it’s time to get up, giving them time for quiet play in their room. When it’s time to wake up for the day, the ring turns green.This kid-friendly alarm clock is also a nightlight and sound machine. There are six nightlight colors and three peaceful sounds to choose from. It also features a nap timer and child lock. However, we wish it was more customizable. If your child’s sleep schedule differs on the weekend, you’ll need to reprogram the clock.Dimensions:4.25 x 4.25 x 4.5 inches |Display:Digital |Alarm Volume:Not listed |Dimmable:Yes |Smart Features:No
Best for KidsLittleHippo MellaPHOTO: Amazon$50 at Amazon$50 at Target$50 at Walmart
Best for KidsLittleHippo Mella
$50 at Amazon$50 at Target$50 at Walmart
Star QualitiesFive different nightlight colors to choose fromClock face is clear and easy to understandSize is great for children’s nightstandsRed FlagsNot super customizable
Star QualitiesFive different nightlight colors to choose fromClock face is clear and easy to understandSize is great for children’s nightstands
Five different nightlight colors to choose from
Clock face is clear and easy to understand
Size is great for children’s nightstands
Red FlagsNot super customizable
Not super customizable
The LittleHippo Mella is a great pick for a big kid’s bedroom to foster independence. It uses different lights to let your child know when it’s time for bed and when to rise. Program your child’s bedtime using simple buttons on the bottom of the machine. When it’s time to go to bed, the clock ring turns red. In the morning, the ring turns yellow 30 minutes before it’s time to get up, giving them time for quiet play in their room. When it’s time to wake up for the day, the ring turns green.
This kid-friendly alarm clock is also a nightlight and sound machine. There are six nightlight colors and three peaceful sounds to choose from. It also features a nap timer and child lock. However, we wish it was more customizable. If your child’s sleep schedule differs on the weekend, you’ll need to reprogram the clock.
Dimensions:4.25 x 4.25 x 4.5 inches |Display:Digital |Alarm Volume:Not listed |Dimmable:Yes |Smart Features:No
Best SmartLoftie ClockPHOTO: Loftie$170$160 at AmazonView on Byloftie.com$170 at Anthropologie
Best SmartLoftie Clock
PHOTO: Loftie
$170$160 at AmazonView on Byloftie.com$170 at Anthropologie
Star QualitiesHighly customizableTwo-phase alarm for gentler wakeupsBuilt-in white noise machineAdjustable nightlightRed FlagsGentle sounds not ideal for heavy sleepers
Star QualitiesHighly customizableTwo-phase alarm for gentler wakeupsBuilt-in white noise machineAdjustable nightlight
Highly customizable
Two-phase alarm for gentler wakeups
Built-in white noise machine
Adjustable nightlight
Red FlagsGentle sounds not ideal for heavy sleepers
Gentle sounds not ideal for heavy sleepers
During testing, we found that this clock was more time-consuming to set up (you have to sync it with your phone). However, once it was up and running, it was easy to personalize. There is a wide range of sounds, volume settings, and nightlight options, plus a sleep timer and blackout mode to hide the clock display at night. The only downside is that the sounds are gentle and soothing, which may not be enough to rouse heavy sleepers.
Dimensions:2.75 x 6.5 x 2.75 inches |Display:Digital |Alarm Volume:Not listed |Dimmable:Yes |Smart Features:Yes
PHOTO: People / Donna FreydkinPHOTO: People / Riyana Straetker
Best with RadioiHome Bluetooth Alarm ClockPHOTO: Amazon$40 at Amazon$64 at Newegg.comView on Ihome.com
Best with RadioiHome Bluetooth Alarm Clock
$40 at Amazon$64 at Newegg.comView on Ihome.com
Star QualitiesWorks with any audio sourceControls are easy to useHas a colorful nightlightRed FlagsBulkier than other options
Star QualitiesWorks with any audio sourceControls are easy to useHas a colorful nightlight
Works with any audio source
Controls are easy to use
Has a colorful nightlight
Red FlagsBulkier than other options
Bulkier than other options
All the controls on this alarm clock are clearly labeled and intuitive to use, and we had no problem pairing it to our phone via Bluetooth. You can adjust the alarm volume to suit your needs, and we love that you can press any button to snooze the alarm — a handy feature when you’re groggy in the morning.
Dimensions:6.03 x 5.28 x 6.03 inches |Display:Digital |Alarm Volume:Not listed |Dimmable:Yes |Smart Features:Yes
People / Tammy Gardini
The More You KnowIt’s common for people to use their smartphone as an alarm, but there are notable benefits to having a separate alarm clock in your bedroom. Research has found that looking at your phone before bed can make itharder to fall asleep, and if your phone isn’t on your nightstand, you’ll be less tempted to look at it.
It’s common for people to use their smartphone as an alarm, but there are notable benefits to having a separate alarm clock in your bedroom. Research has found that looking at your phone before bed can make itharder to fall asleep, and if your phone isn’t on your nightstand, you’ll be less tempted to look at it.
Best LampWinshine Touch Wake Up Night LightPHOTO: Amazon$43$37 at AmazonStar QualitiesSeveral peaceful alarm soundsWorks as sunrise lightRed FlagsBrightness isn’t adjustableIf you’re looking for an alarm clock that serves as a sunrise light and bedtime lamp, the Winshine Touch Alarm Clock is a great choice. It has a digital clock display at the bottom, while at the top of the unit is a color-changing light. There are six colors and three brightness levels to choose from, and you can set it to dim after 10, 20, or 30 minutes.We appreciated the nine different alarm sounds, including ocean waves and a bird chirping lightly. We enjoyed waking up to this peaceful noise rather than a classic blaring alarm sound. The lamp can also be set to light up slowly 30 minutes before your alarm time, mimicking the sunrise to help wake you more gently. The only downside is that the clock display isn’t dimmable, and it might be too bright if you prefer a pitch-black bedroom for sleeping.Dimensions:5.94 x 2.51 x 2.51 inches |Display:Digital |Alarm Volume:Not listed |Dimmable:No |Smart Features:No
Best LampWinshine Touch Wake Up Night LightPHOTO: Amazon$43$37 at Amazon
Best LampWinshine Touch Wake Up Night Light
$43$37 at Amazon
Star QualitiesSeveral peaceful alarm soundsWorks as sunrise lightRed FlagsBrightness isn’t adjustable
Star QualitiesSeveral peaceful alarm soundsWorks as sunrise light
Several peaceful alarm sounds
Works as sunrise light
Red FlagsBrightness isn’t adjustable
Brightness isn’t adjustable
If you’re looking for an alarm clock that serves as a sunrise light and bedtime lamp, the Winshine Touch Alarm Clock is a great choice. It has a digital clock display at the bottom, while at the top of the unit is a color-changing light. There are six colors and three brightness levels to choose from, and you can set it to dim after 10, 20, or 30 minutes.
We appreciated the nine different alarm sounds, including ocean waves and a bird chirping lightly. We enjoyed waking up to this peaceful noise rather than a classic blaring alarm sound. The lamp can also be set to light up slowly 30 minutes before your alarm time, mimicking the sunrise to help wake you more gently. The only downside is that the clock display isn’t dimmable, and it might be too bright if you prefer a pitch-black bedroom for sleeping.
Dimensions:5.94 x 2.51 x 2.51 inches |Display:Digital |Alarm Volume:Not listed |Dimmable:No |Smart Features:No
Best with Wireless ChargingMosito Digital Alarm ClockPHOTO: Amazon$30$26 at AmazonStar QualitiesCan set two different alarmsDisplays room temperatureStylish finish looks nice on a nightstandRed FlagsSnooze button can be hard to findIf you like to sleep with your phone within reach, the Mosito Wooden Alarm Clock has a convenient wireless charging station that’s compatible with most smartphones. It has a rectangular design that comes in a wood-style finish, and you can choose from a few different colors. The alarm clock has a large digital display that shows the time and room temperature, and you can set two different alarms using buttons on the back.We love that this alarm clock is quick and easy to set up, and you can adjust the volume level and display brightness to your needs. We especially appreciated the convenience of the charging dock. It was nice to be able to set our phone down on the clock to charge without plugging it in. However, we did notice that the snooze button and alarm shutoff button are easy to confuse, especially in the dark.Dimensions:5.7 x 2.5 x 2.5 inches |Display:Digital |Alarm Volume:90 decibels |Dimmable:Yes |Smart Features:NoPeople / Stacy Horton
Best with Wireless ChargingMosito Digital Alarm ClockPHOTO: Amazon$30$26 at Amazon
Best with Wireless ChargingMosito Digital Alarm Clock
$30$26 at Amazon
Star QualitiesCan set two different alarmsDisplays room temperatureStylish finish looks nice on a nightstandRed FlagsSnooze button can be hard to find
Star QualitiesCan set two different alarmsDisplays room temperatureStylish finish looks nice on a nightstand
Can set two different alarms
Displays room temperature
Stylish finish looks nice on a nightstand
Red FlagsSnooze button can be hard to find
Snooze button can be hard to find
If you like to sleep with your phone within reach, the Mosito Wooden Alarm Clock has a convenient wireless charging station that’s compatible with most smartphones. It has a rectangular design that comes in a wood-style finish, and you can choose from a few different colors. The alarm clock has a large digital display that shows the time and room temperature, and you can set two different alarms using buttons on the back.
We love that this alarm clock is quick and easy to set up, and you can adjust the volume level and display brightness to your needs. We especially appreciated the convenience of the charging dock. It was nice to be able to set our phone down on the clock to charge without plugging it in. However, we did notice that the snooze button and alarm shutoff button are easy to confuse, especially in the dark.
Dimensions:5.7 x 2.5 x 2.5 inches |Display:Digital |Alarm Volume:90 decibels |Dimmable:Yes |Smart Features:No
People / Stacy Horton
People / Ciara McCune
When selecting an alarm clock, it’s important to find a sound that works for you. “Choosing an alarm clock is a very personal experience,” saysDr. Shalini Paruthi, M.D., a board-certified sleep and internal medicine doctor. While some people prefer a classic beeping noise, you may also want to try out gentle melodies, nature noises, or music from your own collection. Our smart pick, theLoftie Smart Alarm Clock, allows you to choose from a wide range of sounds to find an option that suits you.
“In terms of sounds, there have been small studies evaluating noise, voices, and music. These studies suggest that adults may be more likely to awaken to loud (about 60 decibels) alarms,” Dr. Paruthi says.“Also, music that a person finds positive or more melodic is more likely to awaken them.”
Another key feature of an alarm clock is its volume. Some models have one set volume, while others can be adjusted to suit your needs. Generally, an alarm between 60 and 90 decibels is sufficient for most people. However, if you’re a heavy sleeper or hard of hearing, you may want to look for a model with a louder alarm, such as theRoxicosly Super Loud Alarm Clock, which even has a vibrating mattress puck to help wake you up.
While alarm clocks like theDreamSky Alarm Clockhave a basic, no-frills design, other products, such as theHatch Restore, offer a variety of other sleep-focused features. Common features include white-noise machines, nightlights, and Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity.
In particular, sunrise simulators are an increasingly popular option for alarm clocks, as the light helps wake you up more gently before the actual alarm sounds. “There is some evidence that dawn-simulating alarm clocks may improve subjective quality of sleep as well as subjective alertness upon full awakening,” says Dr. Paruthi.
People / Donna Freydkin
To find the best alarm clocks available, we tested 21 popular models at a range of price points, including both basic and high-end options.
Camryn Rabideauis a contributing shopping writer and product reviewer for PEOPLE specializing in home, kitchen, and pet products. In her over six years of experience as a product tester, she’s reviewed hundreds of items firsthand, including effective alarm clocks. For this article, she relied on the input of our team of product testers and interviewed Dr. Shalini Paruthi, M.D., for her tips on choosing the best alarm clock for your bedroom and needs.
Meet Our ExpertDr. Shalini Paruthi, M.D., is board-certified in sleep medicine and internal medicine and is a member of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM).
Dr. Shalini Paruthi, M.D., is board-certified in sleep medicine and internal medicine and is a member of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM).
We created thePEOPLE Tested seal of approvalto help you find the very best products for your life. We use our unique methodology to test products in three labs across the country and with our network of home testers to determine their effectiveness, durability, ease of use, and so much more. Based on the results, we rate and recommend products so you can find the right one for your needs.
In short, PEOPLE Tested provides recommendations you can trust — every day, every purchase.
SourcesPEOPLE uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.McFarlane SJ, Garcia JE, Verhagen DS, Dyer AG.Alarm tones, voice warnings, and musical treatments: A systematic review of auditory countermeasures for sleep inertia in abrupt and casual awakenings.Clocks Sleep.2020;2(4):416-433. doi:10.3390/clockssleep2040031
Sources
PEOPLE uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.McFarlane SJ, Garcia JE, Verhagen DS, Dyer AG.Alarm tones, voice warnings, and musical treatments: A systematic review of auditory countermeasures for sleep inertia in abrupt and casual awakenings.Clocks Sleep.2020;2(4):416-433. doi:10.3390/clockssleep2040031
PEOPLE uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
McFarlane SJ, Garcia JE, Verhagen DS, Dyer AG.Alarm tones, voice warnings, and musical treatments: A systematic review of auditory countermeasures for sleep inertia in abrupt and casual awakenings.Clocks Sleep.2020;2(4):416-433. doi:10.3390/clockssleep2040031
source: people.com