These innovative clock radios feature a large yellow lamp that mimics sunlight. These models typically feature high-quality stereo sound for more dynamic audio than a standard clock radio.įor those who would prefer to avoid the jolting sound of an alarm buzzer or the local radio station’s morning show, consider a wake-up light alarm clock. Connecting a smartphone to the clock enables streaming music through its speakers.
These units are small enough-about 7 inches wide and 7 inches long-to fit on a shelf or nightstand.īluetooth alarm clocks offer the same radio and alarm functions as a standard alarm clock, with the addition of a Bluetooth connection. The alarm function allows for setting one or more alarms that play either a preset radio station or buzzer when they go off. They consist of an AM/FM radio with multiple radio channel presets and large digital displays that make it easy to read the time in the middle of the night. Standard alarm clocks include radio and alarm functions. TypeĬlock radios range from the classic two-function models that provide an alarm and radio to smart models loaded with additional features. When shopping for an alarm clock, be sure to determine what type and what features are most important to make the right choice. Photo: What to Consider When Choosing the Best Clock Radio
Today’s clock radios offer many more functions than the classic model with its red digital display, gravelly speaker, faux wood trim, and earsplitting buzzer.
For example, a phone doesn’t make it easy to see what time it is at night, plus it often prohibits sleep by tempting you to check your email, text messages, and social media-when you should be drifting off into dreamland.Ī clock radio lets you easily check the time late at night and then provides a powerful alarm for waking up in the morning. These days, smartphones can perform this duty, but they lack some crucial functions. Waking up in the early-morning hours isn’t easy for many people, so a little assistance in the form of an alarm clock is a big help.