Waking up naturally in time to start the day isn’t going to happen for most people. That’s where an alarm clock comes in, signalling that it’s time to get out of bed with sound, light, or even vibration. The type of alarm clock you need will depend on how much it takes to rouse you, and our selection includes versions for heavy sleepers as well as the more easily awakened.
Geemarc Sonic Bomb
Shaker and lights
The makers of the Sonic Bomb alarm clock describe it as “ballistically loud”. With its combination of an ultra-loud ring, shaker pad for placing under your pillow or mattress, and bright flashing LED lights; even the deepest sleepers won’t slumber on. You can set two alarms with a duration of one to 59 minutes but, for temporary relief, there is a snooze function.
Newgate Silent Alarm Clock
Twin bells
A classic alarm clock with bells rung by a hammer could also be an excellent choice for deeper sleepers. The silent sweep movement and reduced ticking should bring peaceful sleep before wake-up time, though. This version’s blue, but there is a range of other shades so you can complement bedroom decor.
Philips Wake-Up Light Alarm Clock
Radio built in
If you don’t want to wake up with a jolt, this sunrise simulation clock could be the answer. Over 30 minutes, the brightness of the light gradually increases to mimic a natural sunrise and can be followed up with a sound alarm from an FM radio station or bird song if you need it. The brightness is fully adjustable, and it doubles up as a lamp for before-bed reading.
OCUBE LED Digital Alarm Clock
Five alarm sounds
With a large display, this digital clock is clear to read, while the brightness is adjustable to get the preferred level. Pick from five-alarm sounds and set the volume to create the perfect wake-up, plus enjoy the option to hit the extra-large snooze button. It’s mains powered with battery back-up in case the electricity goes off.
Tisaika Silent Alarm Clock
No ticking
Just 7.5 x 4 x 7.5cm, this analogue clock won’t hog space on your bedside table. A nightlight illuminates the clock face in the dark, and it has an alarm that gets faster and louder in four stages for the morning. The snooze button can be pressed up to five times for more duvet time.
i-box Bedside Radio Alarm Clock
Built-in charger
Curvaceous lines and understated colour give this alarm clock a cool, modern aesthetic. Two radio alarms could suit a couple with different wake-up times, and up to 10 FM stations can be pre-set. A pad allows Qi-enabled phones to be charged wirelessly, plus there’s a USB port for a second device.
Bottom line
Oversleeping will be a thing of the past with the right alarm clock, and it can be a handsome addition to your bedroom whether your taste is for modern or traditional design. The Geemarc Sonic Bomb won’t leave the heaviest of sleepers undisturbed when morning comes with a combination of sound, vibration, and light doing the wake-up work.
If the most natural of experiences is your preference, the Philips Wake-Up Light Alarm Clock will deliver a sunrise in your bedroom as its light increases in intensity over half an hour. Because it functions as a reading lamp, too, it will do two jobs in one on the bedside table.
