How to Choose a Sunrise Alarm Clock (and Wake Up More Gently)
If a phone alarm jolts you out of sleep every morning, a sunrise alarm clock is worth a look. Instead of starting with a loud sound, it slowly brightens your room before wake-up time, so waking up feels more gradual. This guide covers how they work, the features that matter, and how to pick one that fits your bedroom.
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How a sunrise alarm clock works
A sunrise alarm clock is a bedside lamp with a timer. You set a wake-up time, and the light starts dim, usually 20 to 40 minutes beforehand, then gets brighter until it reaches full brightness at the time you chose. Most models can also play a sound at the end, such as a chime or birdsong, so you aren't relying on light alone.
It's a convenience product, not a treatment for any sleep problem. If you regularly struggle with sleep, a doctor is the right person to ask.
Is a sunrise alarm right for you?
It tends to suit people who wake up in the dark, especially in fall and winter, and people who dislike sudden alarm sounds. It's a weaker fit if you sleep with an eye mask, if the light can't reach your face, or if you need a loud alarm to wake up at all. Heavy sleepers can still use one, but should choose a model with a strong backup sound.
Features that matter
- Brightness range. A brighter lamp suits heavy sleepers. Light sleepers do better with adjustable brightness so the light isn't harsh.
- Backup sound. A lamp that only brightens may not wake you. Look for a built-in alarm as a fallback, with a volume you can set.
- Sunrise length. Many models let you choose how long the sunrise lasts. Around 30 minutes is a common starting point.
- Dimmable display. A bright clock face can be distracting in a dark room. Look for dimming or an option to turn the display off.
- Memory during power cuts. Check whether the clock keeps your alarm settings if the power goes out, so you don't miss a morning.
- Size and placement. The light needs to reach your face. Make sure the clock fits your nightstand and can face the bed.
- Extras. Sunset modes, FM radio, white noise, USB charging, and Bluetooth speakers are nice to have. Only pay more for the ones you will use.
Types of sunrise alarm clock
| Type | Suits | Keep in mind |
|---|---|---|
| Lamp-style sunrise light | People who want gradual light and not much else | Some have only a basic sound option, or none |
| Clock-radio style | People who want a familiar bedside clock with extra features | The display can be bright at night unless it's dimmable |
| Smart or app-connected | People who like scheduling and routines on their phone | Needs Wi-Fi or Bluetooth setup, so there's more that can go wrong |
Prices vary widely, from simple budget lamps to feature-packed smart models. Decide which features you will actually use before you start comparing.
Our picks
These picks are based on published reviews from Tom's Guide, Sleepopolis, and Consumer Reports, not our own hands-on testing. Before you buy, check the Amazon listing for current features, reviews, and availability.
Philips SmartSleep Wake-Up Light
Best for: People who want a realistic simulated sunrise and not much else
Why it's on the list: Tom's Guide rated it best for simulating natural light without needing noisy audio, and Consumer Reports included it in its sunrise alarm clock tests.
Keep in mind: Philips sells several versions, so check the exact model and what sounds and backup alarm it includes.
Hatch Restore 3
Best for: People who want a sunrise light, sound machine, and bedtime routine in one device
Why it's on the list: Sleepopolis named it the best overall sunrise alarm clock.
Keep in mind: It costs more than basic clocks, and some features may depend on the Hatch app or a paid subscription, so check what's included.
Dreamegg sunrise alarm clock
Best for: Shoppers on a budget
Why it's on the list: Tom's Guide listed it as a lower-cost alternative to Hatch.
Keep in mind: Dreamegg sells more than one clock, so confirm the exact model and its features before you buy.
Tips for getting used to it
- Place it where the light reaches your face, not behind a lamp or a stack of books.
- Give it a week or two. It can take a few mornings to get used to waking up this way.
- Keep your wake-up time consistent, including weekends.
- Keep a phone alarm as a backup for the first few days, until you trust the new one.
Common questions
Do sunrise alarm clocks really work?
Many people find a gradual light easier to wake up to than a sudden sound, but results vary from person to person. If you're a heavy sleeper, choose a model with a backup sound.
Are they useful in winter?
They're popular in fall and winter, when it's still dark at wake-up time.
Can I use one if I share a bedroom?
Yes. Pick a model with adjustable brightness and volume, or one where you can turn the sound off, so it doesn't wake your partner earlier than you'd like.
Do I need an app?
No. Many good models work with buttons or a dial. Apps add scheduling options, but they also add setup.
The short version
Start with a model that has adjustable brightness, a backup sound, and a dimmable display. Skip extras you won't use, and give it a couple of weeks before deciding whether it works for you.