You worked another late shift. Your kid got you up at 3 a.m. again. And your cat caught the zoomies at midnight. Your sleep pattern is a mess for one reason or another. We’ve all been there. Creating a healthy bedtime and sleep routine helps strengthen your natural circadian rhythm. Wake up in a less disruptive manner than with the blaring traditional beep by using a sunrise alarm clock. Timed shortly before your alarm is set to sound, a gradual increase of warm, bright light is emitted from the alarm clock to mimic the rise of the sun.
We looked at dozens of sunrise alarm clocks online through Amazon to find the best ones available. We sorted through a wide price range, made note of additional features, and checked out clocks with WiFi capabilities. Furthermore, we considered the heavy sleeper, who might need multiple sources of alarms.
We chose the JALL Wake Up Light Sunrise Alarm Clock for Kids, Heavy Sleepers as our favorite overall pick because it’s suitable for different types of sleepers. From kids to adults, and snoozers to heavy sleepers, this sunrise alarm clock imitates the gradual brightening of the sun.
In This Article
The 5 Top-Rated Sunrise Alarm Clocks
| Editor's Picks | Brand | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Best Sunrise Alarm Clock Overall | JALL Wake Up Light Sunrise Alarm Clock for Kids, Heavy Sleepers | 4.8 |
| Best Dual-Alarm Sunrise Alarm Clock | Wake- Up Light, LBell Sunrise Simulation Dual Alarm Clock | 4.3 |
| Best Budget Sunrise Alarm Clock | Hasakie Sunrise Alarm Clock, Wake Up Light | 4.8 |
| Best Light Therapy Sunrise Alarm Clock | Philips SmartSleep Wake-Up Light Therapy Alarm Clock | 4.2 |
| Best WiFi-Enabled Sunrise Alarm Clock | HeimVision Sunrise Alarm Clock, Smart Wake up Light | 4.4 |
*Ratings are from Amazon at the time of publication and can change
Best Sunrise Alarm Clock Overall: JALL Wake Up Light Sunrise Alarm Clock for Kids, Heavy Sleepers
The JALL Wake Up Light Sunrise Alarm Clock for Kids, Heavy Sleepers is a solid choice for a sunrise alarm clock. Gradually bring on the start of the day with 10 to 30 minutes of increasing brightness before your alarm is officially set to go off. Adjust the brightness level to your personal taste. Wake via the simulated sunshine, or use one of the two alarms – choose from relaxing sounds such as singing birds, waves, and streams to gently guide you awake. Adjust the volume of the alarm to your preferred noise tolerance, and have a chance to snooze up to five times.
This unit offers seven background lights to alternate the ambiance in the room. Choose from a variety of lighting modes, whether you do some light reading before bed or need a nightlight for quick trips to the bathroom. Tune in to the FM radio while you’re working, exercising, or cooking. The JALL sunrise alarm clock also features the ability to adjust the brightness of the time display, so the numbers aren’t glaring at you all night. And while you’re sleeping, charge your phone with the USB port on the back.
JALL Wake Up Light Sunrise Alarm Clock for Kids, Heavy Sleepers Key Features:
- Set the sunrise simulation at 10, 20, or 30 minutes
- Two independent alarms, with a snooze button
- Adjustable time display brightness
- FM radio, with adjustable alarm volume
- Also acts as a nightlight or bedside lamp
- Choose from seven different colors
Best Dual-Alarm Sunrise Alarm Clock: Wake- Up Light, LBell Sunrise Simulation Dual Alarm Clock
Perhaps you’re a heavy sleeper and need more than just a gentle nudge, or maybe you work in retail and your schedule is ever-changing. Either way, an alarm clock that has two independent alarms might be the thing you’re looking for. Our choice for the best dual-alarm sunrise alarm clock on Amazon is the Wake- Up Light, LBell Sunrise Simulation Dual Alarm Clock. Set the alarms for the same day at different times or for different times on different days. But take heart, there is also a snooze button for those days you need as many chances as you can get.
Gently wake yourself up to simulated morning sunshine, with the option of up to 20 levels of brightness. Set the simulator to cycle light up to 60 minutes before you want to get up. Pick your choice of natural sounds, such as singing birds, chimes, streams, waves, or light music, and adjust the volume to your personal preference.
The LBell sunrise alarm clock also features seven choices of colors for your nightlight needs. Adjust the brightness level from dim to a brighter reading light, all the way up to a brighter atmospheric light. While you’re recharging, plug your phone in to the USB port and charge that as well. The alarm clock also features FM radio, so belt out some tunes while you’re getting ready for work.
Wake- Up Light, LBell Sunrise Simulation Dual Alarm Clock Key Features:
- Two independent alarms, with FM radio
- Set simulation from 10 minutes up to 60 minutes
- Atmospheric color options
- Also a nightlight and reading light
- Includes USB charging port
- Adjustable volume and snooze function
Best Budget Sunrise Alarm Clock: Hasakie Sunrise Alarm Clock, Wake Up Light
Sunrise alarm clocks are not that cheap. But that doesn’t mean you can’t take advantage of rising with the best of them. Our favorite budget sunrise alarm clock is the Hasakie Sunrise Alarm Clock, Wake Up Light. Featuring a variety of brightness levels to suit your personal preference, this alarm clock wakes you over time as the light level increases. As more light shines on you, the more your body is triggered to be alert, thus beginning the waking process. The sun simulator runs for 30 minutes before the sound alarm goes off.
Wake more calmly, though, with soothing sounds such as birds or waves, or opt to wake with music instead. The volume for the alarm is adjustable so it won’t scare you out of bed, and if you need more time to sleep, just hit the snooze button for extra shut-eye. Pick from seven colors, including white, and a warm option to showcase the alarm clock. Adjust the brightness of the warm light over 10 different levels.
Hasakie Sunrise Alarm Clock, Wake Up Light Key Features:
- Simulation runs for 30 minutes
- Natural alarm sounds
- Variable light colors, with nightlight
- FM radio
- Snooze function
Best Light Therapy Sunrise Alarm Clock: Philips SmartSleep Wake-Up Light Therapy Alarm Clock
Light therapy is often used to treat seasonal depression and boost the mood of those who don’t get to see the sun much. Combine that with waking in the morning to simulated sunshine and your day starts off on a better foot. We like the Philips SmartSleep Wake-Up Light Therapy Alarm Clock for the best light therapy sunrise alarm clock on Amazon. It features both a simulated sunrise and sunset to aid you in resetting your circadian rhythm. And it has been clinically proven to improve mood and energy upon waking.
For 30 minutes before the alarm is set to sound, the unit increases in brightness to mimic the rising of the sun. Choose from a range of brightness levels to fit your needs. Program the sounding alarm to one of five soft noises, such as singing birds, waves, and piano music. Alternatively, set the alarm to turn on the FM radio so you can wake up to your favorite music. And if you’re still not up, take advantage of the snooze button for a few more minutes of rest.
Enjoy the additional feature of the simulated sunset for more light therapy. Strengthen your sleep hygiene routine by winding down at the end of your day with gradually decreasing light. Don’t worry about the time display screwing you up – the brightness adjusts itself with the changing light in the room.
Philips SmartSleep Wake-Up Light Therapy Alarm Clock Key Features:
- Sunrise simulator runs for 30 minutes
- Natural alarm sounds, with FM radio
- Self-adjusting display light
- Includes sunset simulation
- 8-hour alarm backup feature
- Snooze function
- 90-day money-back guarantee
Best WiFi-Enabled Sunrise Alarm Clock: HeimVision Sunrise Alarm Clock, Smart Wake up Light
If you’re looking for a WiFi-enabled sunrise alarm clock, we like the HeimVision Sunrise Alarm Clock, Smart Wake up Light. Compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant, this unit uses the Smart Life App. Program your new alarm clock via your phone, and set up to four independent alarms. Or tell Alexa to do it for you. Choose from eight different sounds, such as waves, singing birds, and streams, to wake up in a less frantic manner. Or use the FM radio feature to awaken to music or news. Hit that snooze button for a 15-minute window of extra sleep.
The HeimVision sunrise alarm clock features 20 brightness levels so you can adjust your personal sunrise to your preferred light intensity. Program your sunset as well, while listening to a background of natural sounds. As the simulated sun sets and the light gradually decreases, so do the background sounds, helping lull you to sleep. The sunrise alarm clock also has seven accent colors for mood display.
HeimVision Sunrise Alarm Clock, Smart Wake up Light Key Features:
- Includes sunset simulation
- Natural alarm sounds
- FM radio
- Snooze function
- Adjustable brightness
- Multiple background colors
Who Should Buy a Sunrise Alarm Clock
Do you work odd shifts? Maybe you don’t go in until 11 at night, or perhaps you pull the second shift. Do you live in a cold climate? Maybe you live up north where the sun hardly ever seems to shine. Or perhaps it’s just too cold to spend a lot of time outdoors. Do you have trouble sleeping or problems getting up?
A sunrise alarm clock can help you find peace and calm surrounding your sleep routine. With the aid of a bright, natural light, the clock simulates the natural progression of sunrise and sunset. Fall asleep and wake up in a balanced mood, rather than being jolted awake from a blaring alarm. This is especially helpful if you already have a less-than-traditional sleeping pattern.
Important Features to Consider
A sunrise alarm clock should have a few important features. Here’s what to consider when selecting a sunrise alarm clock:
- The number of alarm settings. Consider how many alarms you need. Most sunrise alarm clocks are built for just one alarm setting. But some clocks offer two independent alarms so you can set one alarm for weekdays and the other for weekends. Two alarms are also helpful if you need to set two alarms for different times in one day. Other sunrise alarm clocks are designed to hold up to four independent alarms.
- Choice of alarm sounds. Think about what types of sounds you want to wake up to. Many sunrise alarm clocks come with a few choices of sounds for a more relaxed wake-up call. But the sounds vary from unit to unit. Some sounds offered are light music, wind chimes, nature noises, ocean waves, and traditional beeping.
- Length of simulated sunrise. Many of the sunrise alarm clocks we looked at offer you the option to set a certain length of time for your simulated sunrise. The average amount of time offered is 30 minutes, and some units can be programmed in 10-minute increments. Other units can be set for lengthier sunrises, up to 60 minutes. Certain alarm clocks offer you the option of a simulated sunset. And sunsets can be programmed for a certain amount of time as well.
- To snooze or not to snooze. Not all sunrise alarm clocks give you the opportunity to hit the snooze button. If this function is a game-changer and you need to have your incremental snoozing feature, be sure to check the sunrise alarm clock you’re looking at. Some units offer a simple snooze button, others feature a more involved snooze function, and some clocks don’t give you the option to snooze at all.
- Other additional features. Sunrise alarm clocks are designed to be everything from simple to more complex. Units have the option of adjusting the brightness from just a few levels, up to about 20 levels. Alarm clocks may feature one background color option, while others have an array of colors available. Most units do not have WiFi capability, but a few are compatible with Alexa. Typically, the clocks that have more features, are costlier on the pocket.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a sunrise alarm clock and how does it work?
A sunrise alarm clock is a device that uses simulated sunshine to help ease you awake, and maybe lull you to sleep. It’s designed to gradually increase or decrease in brightness over a set period of time, in order to kick-start your body’s natural waking or sleeping rhythm. If the light alone doesn’t wake you, these alarm clocks offer a sound alarm as well, using relaxing noises to gently wake you up.
Depending on the model you choose, set the sunrise for a desired amount of time before you want to get up. This simulated sunlight helps suppress melatonin levels in your body and instead activates your body’s alertness. A gradual brightening of light makes it easier and more peaceful for you to wake up.
How do I set a sunrise alarm clock?
Check with the manufacturer of the sunrise alarm clock you have selected. The sunrise aspect of the alarm clock works like a countdown. Most models offer a 30-minute countdown to full brightness, but other models offer varied increments of time. Set the alarm for 30 minutes before you want to get up, and adjust your desired brightness level. The sunrise alarm clock will gradually brighten over the next 30 minutes, or whatever period of time you set it for.
Many sunrise alarm clocks also offer sound alarms to help you wake up. These alarms are set like your typical alarm clock. Set the clock for the desired time you want to get up and adjust the volume. If you are using the simulated sunrise and sound alarm together, set the light to brighten before your sound alarm rings.
Do sunrise alarm clocks really work?
The natural rise and fall of the sun over a 24-hour day helps regulate the body’s circadian rhythm, which sets in motion other regulatory mechanisms, such as body temperature, metabolism, and hormones. The artificial light from the simulator, which is either a full-spectrum white or yellow LED bulb, is stronger than the average standard light used in most lamps and mimics the more natural light from the sun. There is evidence to suggest that well-timed light in your wake-up routine can be beneficial to rising easier and feeling more awake.
What are the benefits of a sunrise alarm clock?
One major benefit to a sunrise alarm clock is the nice way it wakes you up. We’re all used to the annoying, relentless, traditional beeping alarm, and many of us use our phone’s built-in, tinny, ring tones. These are not ideal ways to wake up. A sunrise alarm clock uses light and relaxing sounds to calmly get you up.
Other benefits to using a sunrise alarm clock include an easier time getting up, more energy from less stress, and a better mood. You also don’t have to rely on the real sun and clear skies every morning to give you that natural boost of feel-good energy, which is helpful if it’s gloomy outside. Evidence suggests that waking up naturally with light is overall good for your long-term health.
Other Sunrise Alarm Clocks We Reviewed
We looked at 20 other sunrise alarm clocks. Even though they didn’t make our 5 best sunrise alarm clocks list, they’re still viable options for rising and relaxing to simulated sunlight. The information you need to compare each one is included with the listing.
- Budget Sunrise Alarm Clocks
- Moderately-Priced Sunrise Alarm Clocks
- Other Sunrise Alarm Clocks
- WiFi Sunrise Alarm Clocks
Budget Sunrise Alarm Clocks
Cadrim Wake up Light, Natural Sunrise Simulation with Dual Alarm Clocks
Gradually awaken to natural sounds, such as birds, waves, chimes, and piano music, using the Cadrim sunrise alarm clock. The 20 levels of warm light allow you to slowly wake up.
Key Features:
- Multiple background colors
- Two alarm settings with a snooze button
- FM radio
Cost: $21
hOmeLabs Sunrise Alarm Clock – Digital LED Clock with Sunset Simulation
Thirty minutes before the alarm, this unit gradually brightens like the dawn of a day. Set the alarm to wake you with the sound of waves, birds, or the radio.
Key Features:
- Sunset simulation included
- FM radio with a snooze button
- Multiple background colors
Cost: $19
Sunrise Alarm Clock, Wake-Up Light with Sunrise Simulation & Sunset Fading
Help reset your circadian rhythm with a sunrise alarm clock that features multiple background colors and adjustable brightness.
Key Features:
- Includes USB charging port
- Temperature and humidity display
- Snooze button
Cost: $20
Wake-Up Light, HOKEKI Alarm Clock with Sunrise Simulation and Sunset Fading
Open your eyes with a more natural stimulation, such as sunlight, with a sunrise simulator. This unit features two independent alarms.
Key Features:
- Includes a night light and snooze button
- FM radio with natural alarm sounds
- 20 levels of brightness
Moderately-Priced Sunrise Alarm Clocks
Alarm Clock Wake Up Light, XIRON Light Alarm Clock with Sunrise/Sunset Simulation
Calmly wake up with a gradual increase of light, that you can set from 10 to 60 minutes. Likewise, go to sleep with a gradual decrease in light, from 10 to 120 minutes.
Key Features:
- Two independent alarms, with a snooze button
- Natural alarm sounds, with FM radio
- 20 levels of brightness, with multiple background colors
Cost: $36
AMIR Wake-Up Light, Sunrise Simulation Alarm Clock
No more being jolted awake – naturally rise for the day via sunrise simulation. Set the sunrise for up to 30 minutes before the alarm sounds.
Key Features:
- Three light modes, including a nightlight
- Natural alarm sounds
- USB charging port included
Cost: $34
COULAX Wake Up Light LED Alarm Clock with Sunrise/Sunset Simulation
Gently awaken to the sounds of nature as the alarm clock finishes its sunrise simulation cycle. Adjust the cycle time from 10 to 60 minutes.
Key Features:
- Two independent alarms, with snooze function
- Sunset simulation included
- Adjustable volume with FM radio
Cost: $40
Sunrise Alarm Clock, Homagical Wake-Up Light with Sunrise Simulation & Sunset Fading
Set your simulated sun to rise between 10 and 60 minutes before the alarm sounds. Use the two independent alarms to schedule your weekly routine.
Key Features:
- 20 levels of brightness
- Natural alarm sounds, with a snooze option
- FM radio and adjustable volume
Cost: $36
TITIROBA Wake-Up Light, Sunrise Simulation Alarm Clock
No more rude beeping noise – enjoy waking up to sounds like birds, waves, and thunderstorms, 30 minutes after a sunrise simulation.
Key Features:
- Different background colors
- Natural alarm sounds
- Adjustable brightness level
Cost: $36
Wake Up Light Alarm Clock, Homagical Sunrise Alarm Clock with Sunset Simulation
With multiple alarm settings and background colors to choose from, this sunrise alarm clock also features a USB charging port.
Key Features:
- Two independent alarms, with a snooze function
- Natural alarm sounds, with FM radio
- Multiple light modes
Cost: $36
Wake Up Light Sunrise Alarm Clock with Sunrise/Sunset Simulation
Ensure that you get up on time with a sunrise alarm clock, which features two separate alarms for consecutive use or a varied setting. This unit also creates a sunset simulation. Plus, you can adjust the volume and brightness.
Key Features:
- Includes USB charging port and snooze function
- FM radio, with natural alarm sounds
- Multiple background colors, with nightlight
Cost: $38
Wake Up Light,TITIROBA Sunrise Simulation
Wake up to a slow rising light that simulates the sun using an alarm clock that features two independent alarms, with the option to snooze.
Key Features:
- Multiple background colors, with different light modes
- Natural alarm sounds, such as birds, waves, and chimes
- Includes FM radio and USB charging port
Other Sunrise Alarm Clocks
Philips SmartSleep Sleep & Wake-up Light Therapy Lamp
Keep your senses in tune with the natural order of light and dark using a light therapy lamp. With natural sounds and a white noise option, sleep more soundly when you wake up and go to sleep with simulated sunshine.
Key Features:
- 2-year warranty and 90-day, money-back guarantee
- USB charging port included
- FM radio
Cost: $170
Philips SmartSleep Wake-Up Light Therapy Alarm Clock with Sunrise Simulation
Rise with a simulated sun that features an adjustable brightness setting, allowing you to use it as a reading lamp or nightlight as well.
Key Features:
- 90-day, money-back guarantee
- Snooze function
- 10 levels of brightness
Cost: $50
Philips Wake-Up Light Alarm Clock with Sunrise Simulation and Radio
Naturally awaken to your own personal sunshine up to 30 minutes before the alarm is about to sound. You have the option of listening to singing birds as part of your wake-up routine, but there is a snooze option.
Key Features:
- FM radio
- 10 levels of brightness
- 90-day, money-back guarantee
Cost: $76
Philips Wake-Up Light Alarm Clock with Sunrise Simulation and Sunset Fading Night Light
Gradually wake up and go to sleep with a simulated sunrise and sunset. This unit doubles as a light therapy lamp, with up to 10 levels of brightness.
Key Features:
- FM radio and snooze function
- 20 brightness settings
- 90-day, money-back guarantee
WiFi Sunrise Alarm Clocks
LATME-Sunrise-Alarm-Clock-Wake-Up-Light
Wake up more naturally with a sunrise simulation and sunset fading nightlight. Compatible with Alexa or Google Home, control your sun simulator via voice command.
Key Features:
- Four independent alarms, with natural sounds and snooze option
- Multiple background colors, with multiple levels of brightness
- FM radio with preset stations
Cost: $34
LBell – Upgrade Smart Wake Up Light
The LBell sunrise alarm clock is compatible with Alexa and Google Home, so you can command the alarm clock through voice control. The unit features a simulated sunrise and sunset to help you achieve more blissful sleep, and awaken more naturally.
Key Features:
- Multiple background colors
- FM radio
- Four alarm settings, with snooze option
Cost: $50
Smart Wake Up Light Alarm Clock – Sunrise Alarm Clock
Set a simulated sun to rise and set with the support of Alexa or Google Home. The alarm clock features four separate alarms, with the option of seven natural sounds.
Key Features:
- Nightlight and snooze function
- FM radio with adjustable volume
- USB charging port
Cost: $46
Sunrise Alarm Clock Wake Up Light, Smart WiFi Sunset Simulation
A sunrise alarm clock that features various wake-up sounds, levels of brightness, and the option to connect the unit to Alexa or Google.
Key Features:
- Four independent alarms
- FM radio and snooze function
- Doubles as a colorful nightlight
Cost: $46
