Posted on 1st June 2022
This comparison is certified 100% impartial and follows our selection process.
Philips Wake-Up Light HF3531/01
In our opinion, this model represents the best compromise between performance and price, as it includes all the essential features of a sunrise alarm clock simulator and combines them with the quality of the Philips hardware.
Simple and elegant, this sunrise alarm clock simulator features 300 lux of adjustable light in 20 levels of intensity, 7 natural sounds to create a relaxing sound atmosphere and an FM radio function for those who prefer to wake up to music. The duration of the dawn simulation can be adjusted from 20 to 40 minutes and the Snooze mode can be activated by simply tapping the top of the device. You can also set up to 2 alarms. Lastly, during the night, the Wake Up Light can also produce a dim light to help you find your way in the dark. In short, in our opinion, it combines all the qualities of a sunrise alarm clock simulator worthy of the name, for a reasonable price.
Sunrise alarm clocks allow you to wake up gently with an increasing light intensity.
Design is an important factor in ensuring that your appliance fits in with the decor of any room.
The timer of the sunrise alarm clock is usually set at 30 minutes.
The average power of the devices is around 60 W, with a light intensity of more or less 300 lux.
Most of the devices have a dimmer switch to adjust the intensity according to your wishes.
Some models can be used as a bluetooth speaker or as an atmosphere lamp.
While this illuminated alarm clock is not necessarily a given, it has a range of features, including a Bluetooth connection and a rechargeable battery, that allow it to position itself in the market.
Beurer WL 50
Thanks to our tests, we were able to evaluate the real added value of this model. It is clear that, aesthetically speaking, it is not the most attractive and that the quality of its services is not the most accomplished. However, its practicality allows it to justify its price. Indeed, in addition to integrating a USB port and an AUX socket (cable included), it also has a Bluetooth connection and, even better, a rechargeable battery. This means that there is no risk of a power cut and that Beurer can compete with the competition. Because, contrary to what one might have thought, the battery backup is a feature that sunrise alarm clocks often lack.
Philips Somneo HF3651
This model stands out from the competition because of its intuitive and comprehensive nature. More than just a luminous alarm clock, it emphasises the wellbeing dimension, in particular thanks to its RelaxBreathe function.
This sunrise alarm clock is a real favourite. Not only does it have an extremely contemporary design, which allows it to fit into any room, but it is also particularly complete. Indeed, during our tests, we could not only be guided by the quality of its dawn and dusk simulations, as well as by its RelaxBreathe function. More than teaching us how to control our breathing, the latter allowed us to relax. This is an essential step in any sleep ritual worthy of the name.
It is not the most complete and intuitive model available, but it does have a quality of light that enhances its dawn and dusk simulations.
Lumie Bodyclock Shine 300
Although we would clearly have preferred a model with a more modern finish and more functions, we have to admit that the Lumie Bodyclock Shine 300 still managed to convince us. In our opinion, it is the model that offers the most beautiful sunrises and sunsets. Not only is the colour temperature perfectly nuanced, but the gradation is particularly fluid, first concentrating on the centre of the globe and then spreading out over its entirety (and vice versa for twilight). In short, with this device, the sunrise alarm clock has never been so well named.
Our selection
| Our choice, Best mid-range | Best budget | Best high-end | Budget alternative |
|---|---|---|---|
 | |  | |
| Philips HF3531/01 | Beurer WL 50 | Philips Somneo HF3651 | Lumie Bodyclock Shine 300 |
| In our opinion, this model represents the best compromise between performance and price, as it includes all the essential features of a sunrise alarm clock and combines them with the quality of the Philips hardware. | While this illuminated alarm clock is not necessarily a given, it has a range of features, including a Bluetooth connection and a rechargeable battery, that allow it to position itself in the market. | This model stands out from the competition because of its intuitive and comprehensive nature. More than just a luminous alarm clock, it emphasises the wellbeing dimension, in particular thanks to its RelaxBreathe function. | The Lumie Bodyclock Shine is not the most complete and intuitive model available, but it does have a quality of light that enhances its dawn and dusk simulations. |
| £ 135.99 on Amazon | Price search in progress... please wait | Price search in progress... please wait | Price search in progress... please wait |
Honorable mentions
Beurer WL 75 (£94,99 upon publication): a connected light alarm clock. Compatible with the “Beurer LightUp” application, it can be controlled remotely. A possibility that could have become a real asset if this model did not present such low quality dawn and dusk simulations…
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How to choose your sunrise alarm clock?
At a time when more and more people are complaining about difficult awakenings, sunrise alarm clocks are the perfect solution. Unlike more traditional alarm clocks, they allow users to wake up gently, to the rhythm of a light that varies in intensity for several minutes.
While these light variations may not look like much, their benefits are in fact as numerous as the models on the market. So, to help you make the best choice, we have listed a few features to consider before you buy:
- The intensity of the light: this is obviously the most important point. Generally speaking, the intensity is evaluated at at least 300 lux, for an average power of 60 W. However, because the type of bulb used in simulators is the same as that used in light therapy lamps, this measurement is sometimes increased significantly. Fortunately, most models now allow you to adjust the brightness with the dimmer switch.
- The timer or dawn time: of course, all models offer a dawn time, i.e. the time lapse between the moment when the light is at low intensity and the moment when it reaches its peak. Usually the timer is set at 30 minutes, but some devices give you the choice of several settings, sometimes up to 90 minutes.
- The display screen: this is a very important element as it not only tells you the time, but also ensures that your settings are activated. If you can, look for simulators where the screen brightness can be adjusted or even turned off completely. This way, you will not be disturbed while you sleep.
- The audio quality: most of these devices act as real clock radios. It is therefore essential that their speakers deliver good sound quality, to broadcast the radio, the tones and sometimes even music from an external audio player.
- The double alarm: this can be useful if you need to wake up at different times during the week, or if there are two of you who want to use the simulator but do not plan to get up at the same time.
- The battery backup: after pillow failure, power failure is the bane of the sleeping public. It only takes one false contact during the night for the alarm clock to stop working. So, to avoid starting the day late, opt more for simulators that offer a battery backup, capable of restoring the previous alarm settings.
- The additional features: in addition to offering a dawn simulator, some models also feature a dusk simulator. But that is not all, as others can also act as bedside lamps, atmosphere lamps and even Bluetooth speakers, thanks to their extensive connectivity.
Translated by Aylin Akturk
