This article may include affiliate links. We may earn a small commission if you shop through them.
This post contains affiliate links, which means we may earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no extra cost to you.
When it is still dark at wake-up time, a sunrise alarm clock makes mornings feel a lot less brutal. Instead of a loud alarm in a dark room, light slowly brightens before your alarm goes off. Here are the best options, from our favorite splurge to easy Amazon picks.
Our top pick
Hatch Restore 3
Sunrise alarm, sound machine, reading light and wind-down routines in one beautiful bedside device.
Read our full Hatch Restore 3 review.
The best sunrise alarm clocks on Amazon
Philips SmartSleep Wake-Up Light
The classic: simulated sunrise, natural wake-up sounds and an FM radio.
Philips SmartSleep Sleep & Wake-Up Light
Sunrise and sunset simulation plus guided wind-down breathing.
JALL Wake-Up Light Sunrise Alarm
An affordable favorite with multiple colors, sounds and a night light.
For the kids’ room
Hatch Rest Sound Machine & Time-to-Rise
Night light, sound machine and a time-to-rise light that teaches little ones when to get up.
How to choose a sunrise alarm clock
- Brightness: brighter lamps work better in very dark rooms.
- Sunrise length: look for an adjustable sunrise, often 20 to 40 minutes.
- Sounds: gentle sounds help if light alone does not wake you.
- Extras: a sound machine, reading light and sunset wind-down are worth having.
- Design: it lives on your nightstand, so pick one you like looking at.
FAQ
Do sunrise alarm clocks really work?
Many people find waking to gradually brightening light gentler than a loud alarm, especially in winter.
What is the best sunrise alarm clock?
Our favorite is the Hatch Restore 3 for its design and all-in-one features; the Philips SmartSleep is the classic alternative.