Best ceiling projection clock 2018 – [Buyer’s Guide]

Last Updated December 1, 2023

Best ceiling projection clock of 2018

Here we have compiled a detailed list of some of the best ceiling projection clock of the 2018. After carefully examining the reviews and ratings of the people who have used them earlier this listicle has been made. Check them out and decide which one suits you the best to splurge upon. Not all ceiling projection clock are created equal though.

Test Results and Ratings

Rank	№1	№2	№3
Product
Total	4.8	4.5	4.3
Design	5 points	4 points	4 points
Materials	5 points	5 points	5 points
Performance	5 points	4 points	4 points
Quality	4 points	5 points	4 points
Awards

 

 

 

 

 

 

№1 –

Why did this ceiling projection clock win the first place?

The product is very strong. Its material is stable and doesn’t crack. I was completely satisfied with the price. Its counterparts in this price range are way worse. I don’t know anything about other models from this brand, but I am fully satisfied with this product. I really enjoy the design. It is compact, comfortable and reliable. And it looks amazing!

Design 5

Materials 5

Performance 5

Quality 4

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№2 – HoMedics

Why did this ceiling projection clock come in second place?

The material is pretty strong and easy to wash if needed. Managers explained me all the details about the product range, price, and delivery. The design quality is top notch and the color is nice. I like this product. For such a low price, I didn’t even hope it to be any better. It’s decently made.

Design 4

Materials 5

Performance 4

Quality 5

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№3 – Electrohome EAAC601 Projection Alarm Clock with AM/FM Radio

Why did this ceiling projection clock take third place?

It is inconvenient to use due to the size. I am going to get something different next time. This price is appropriate since the product is very well built. I liked the design. We’ve been using it for 2 months and it still looks like brand new. The material is incredibly nice to the touch. It has a great color, which will suit any wallpapers.

Design 4

Materials 5

Performance 4

Quality 4

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ceiling projection clock Buyer’s Guide

The Insider Pick

Let’s face it: The ring, blare, buzz, or chirp of your alarm clock is probably never going to be your favorite sound. But then again, the angry rumble of your boss, when you show up late for work after oversleeping, is even worse. So make mornings a little easier by choosing an alarm clock that makes your return to reality if not a pleasure, then at least not a pain.

You might be wondering, “Why bother with an alarm clock when I have a phone?” A fair question and many people do wake up to their cell phone’s prompting. The problem with this, however, is it makes it far more difficult to put some space between your technology and your sleep, and those are two areas of your life best kept separate.

By the time that phone hits the nightstand, you’ve lost precious sleep time, you’ve tricked your brain into thinking it’s wake-up time instead of dream time, because the glow of the blue light emitted by your phone reduces your body’s release of melatonin, the hormone that regulates your sleep cycle. Instead of relaxing, you’ve stimulated your mind. All of that adds up to poor quality sleep followed by a groggy, foggy, “I don’t know why I’m so tired,” kind of morning.

Although the Electrohome Projection Alarm Clock is our top pick, for various reasons laid out in the slides below, you should also consider the Sonic Alert Sonic Bomb Alarm Clock, the Philips Wake-Up Light, the Marathon Analog Desk Alarm Clock, and the OK to Wake! children’s alarm clock.

Electrohome

Most projection alarm clocks offer basic daylight savings time adjustments and can keep the time fairly accurate. There are some products that use atomic clocks which set the time via radio and they are extremely accurate so they should be strongly considered even if they’re a bit more expensive.

Electrohome EAAC60Projection Alarm Clock

Featuring lots of powerful abilities beyond what a basic projection alarm clock usually offers, the Electrohome EAAC60is the top pick on this list considering how affordable it is. It comes with a large 3.6” LCD dimmable display, 180-degree swivel projection, AUX input, and Advanced SelfSet technology to bring you a more enjoyable experience each day.

This clock radio is quite advanced in the sense that it’s capable of setting the time and date automatically and if the power goes out, it will save all your important alarm settings. The clock comes preconfigured with the correct time and all that remains for you to do is to specify your particular time zone and it will maintain accurate time even after a power failure.

A large 3.6” blue display lets you view the time and date as well as the temperature more clearly. If you decide that it’s too bright for you, there are three dimmer options to set the brightness according to your personal preference. The auto dimmer feature can also disable the screen completely if it bothers you at night.

When it comes to projection, this little clock does a good job always showing the time in full view no matter if you choose to project on the ceiling or on a wall. You can tilt a full 180 degrees and the adjustable focus is there to ensure that you will always have a crystal clear projection.

A dual alarm feature is integrated and you can set two separate wake times in case you and your partner need to. The alarms can automatically be disabled on weekends so you can set the right alarm schedule once and then you won’t have to deal with it again. An AUX audio input together with the digital AM/FM radio, offer a bit of entertainment and there’s even the option to wake up to your preferred radio station.

The face of the clock can be quite bright even on the lowest dim setting but it shouldn’t be a problem as the main focus is the projection which is very reliable. If you want a highly performant projection alarm clock that has pretty much all the features you’d need to bring some extra convenience in your life, the Electrohome EAAC60is clearly the answer. Overall, this product is recommended considering how relatively inexpensive it is.

Product Highlights

Modern clocks have become commonplace but if you are tired of looking at ordinary screens and want something more exciting, a projection alarm clock is the way to go. This Mesqool projection clock seems like a good solution if you want to project the time on any wall and see it clearly. Packed with lots of features and with a stylish design, this device is sure to be a big hit.

By repeatedly pressing the projection button you can make the time appear vividly on your wall and see it without issues. Even if you put the alarm clock in another angle you can enjoy a solid reverse projection. Mesqool integrated a dimmer feature for the smooth 1.8-inch display which can be a bit too bright at night. A dedicated button takes care of the problem.

When you just can’t be bothered to look for your charger or if you’re out of charging spots, this unit allows you to connect your smart device and charge it with its incorporated USB port. It’s suitable for Android devices but iOS users will need the appropriate cable switch.

Looking back over the rich features from the arsenal of this Mesqool projection alarm clock, you can be sure that this is a solid device for the money. It’s a breeze to set up, the digits are large and visible, and the projection is adjustable. Topping it off with such a fair price, this projection clock is really a no-brainer.

Electrohome EAAC475

Another interesting model from Electrohome is the EAAC475, a projection clock that comes equipped with powerful abilities and extra features like the high-speed USB charging port for smartphones and the battery backup. It delivers a decent projection experience, a pleasure to look at on any wall or ceiling. The digital AM/FM radio, SelfSet, and the programmable dual alarm complete the attractive package of this clock.

Fast USB charging is provided in this unit and this could be a very convenient option to have. If you leave a USB cable plugged into the clock’s USB port you can turn the alarm clock into a powerful nightstand USB charger for lots of compatible devices.

If you worry about a power failure that could disrupt your morning routine, the WakeUp technology has been specially developed by Electrohome to fix this problem. When the power outage happens, the built-in battery backup activates itself automatically so that the alarm will still sound according to the correct settings and the right time and date are maintained.

This projection clock comes with a 180-degree swivel and delivers a pleasant viewing as you just need to open your eyes to check the time in the morning. Always knowing the time without making unneeded compromises to your comfort zone feels pretty nice.

Another useful feature is the SelfSet technology that makes the set-up process a breeze. Just plug in the device and the preconfigured date and time will instantly appear on the large LED display that has four dimming options. If your partner has a different schedule and needs to wake up early you can use the intuitively designed dual alarms and adjust the settings to fit both of your routines more conveniently.

A nice clock with plenty of options, the Electrohome EAAC47will enhance your nights with a beautiful projection that won’t light up the room despite its brightness. The alarms are quite fancy too and even if it’s a little difficult to set up initially you can get the hang of it fairly quickly. All in all, this device has great potential and is recommended to anyone in the market for a high-quality projection alarm clock.

OnLyee Digital LED Dimmable Projection Alarm Clock

If you’re not willing to make a big investment into a projection alarm clock and just want an affordable product, this one from OnLyee seems like a very good choice. It comes with adjustable projection angle and allows you to control the focus. The large display can have its brightness turned down if you prefer and the manufacturer included an AM/FM radio tuner with 20 channels preset memory, a smartphone charging port, and a battery backup.

Convenience is key for this unit as it provides a solid projection on any ceiling or wall with a 180-degree swivel. A focus ring is used to make some adjustments when the clarity is not optimal. The display is not of the highest quality and only comes with three levels for adjusting the brightness.

If you enjoy listening to the radio, there are some good news for you as this device integrates an AM/FM built-in digital tuner with an automatic scanner. It can save up to AM stations and FM stations in its memory. The traditional buzzer that most of these alarm clocks offer can be annoying for some so OnLyee includes a handy feature to be woken up to your favorite radio station. You can also take advantage of the convenient snooze function if you feel like sleeping just a few extra minutes.

This model includes USB charging which is a bit surprising to find at this price point and it’s a welcomed feature for those times when you forgot your charger. You will require batteries for back-up that ensures the settings are safe even during power outages. Dysfunctional power lines will never again affect your morning routine.

Taking into account the easy setup, the reasonably clear projection, and all the other features that are more or less useful, the OnLyee is a decent option if you want a low-budget projection alarm clock. It may have some reliability issues but all in all, it can surprise you with the performance of the projection providing a better experience when you need to check the time in the morning.

Oregon Scientific RM313PNFA

If keeping the time as accurate as possible is an essential aspect for you, maybe the Oregon Scientific RM313PNFA would be the perfect solution if you want to get a new projection clock. Besides the ability to maintain atomic time which is considered extremely accurate, it can also monitor the indoor temperature and comes with two powering options, a battery mode or a continuous projection mode by hooking the device to a power outlet.

This is a great device as it comes with many useful features for everyone who wants more than just a simple projection clock. It monitors indoor temperature and provides the best accuracy thanks to the atomic clock. It has automatic self-correction for daylight saving time to make sure you’re never behind.

When the clock is under battery power it can project with a single touch of a button just for an interval of a few seconds and it can conserve some energy this way. If continuous projection sounds better to you, you’ll have to hook up the AC power supply that’s included by the manufacturer. The projection can be seen relatively easy but the room has to be very dark otherwise the visibility will suffer.

The clock has a flip feature for the projector which strangely is not noted in the instructions but it can be accessed by pushing either the plus or minus buttons. It may not be very useful but it’s nice to have this option for certain situations.

Oregon Scientific designed a solid product that can satisfy many users who want to look at their ceiling at night to check the time without lighting up the whole room. The device looks very stylish and seems well-built and there’s hardly any flaw about it, maybe the alarm sound is a little strange but that depends on personal preference. It is a very capable projection alarm clock, all things considered.

Projection

Some clock radios have a cool feature where they will project the date and time information at the wall or ceiling. That way you can set up the display in such a fashion where you never have to turn your head to see what time it is. This feature may also be helpful for the visually impaired as you can cast a large projection.

Gradual wake-up alarm

If you set your clock radio alarm on a setting which is too quiet, it may not wake you up on time. But if you put it on a really loud setting, it can startle you unpleasantly awake. A solution is to purchase a clock radio which has a gradual wake-up alarm. This is a setting where the alarm will begin quietly and gradually scale up in volume. That way it will not startle you, but will progressively become loud enough to wake you up.

Easy tuning and pre-sets

A clock radio which includes a large tuning knob which can turn smoothly will be easiest to tune to the station you want. Also look for a radio which allows you to program in a number of pre-sets. That way you do not have to scan through all the stations to listen to the AM or FM station that you want. If you listen to a lot of different radio stations on a regular basis, buy a radio which offers you a larger selection of pre-sets.

Multiple power options

Most clock radios run primarily or entirely on AC power. But you may find some which also can use batteries. It is uncommon for batteries to be a main power option, but they may be available as a backup power supply. That way if there is a power outage, you do not have to worry about your alarm clock not going off when you need it most. Nothing is more frustrating than getting to work late because you were asleep when a tree fell over a power line. With a battery backup, you will never again be late for work because of a power cut in the morning.

Input for MPplayers and mobile devices

This feature is now pretty much standard with all clock radios, but you should always make sure it is included if it is something you are likely to make use of. The snooze button allows you to catch a few extra minutes of sleep and then have the alarm go off again.

The Sony

Sony quality. The Sony brand name means that you won’t wind up with a piece of broken plastic shortly after you buy this clock.

Gets the job done. Use it to find out what time it is and set your morning alarm.

Large snooze bar. The snooze button is easy to feel around for in the dark.

Amber LED display. This clock’s pleasing honey colored backlight won’t distract your eyes at night.

Battery backup. If the power goes out, you’ll still wake up on time.

RCR-5BK

Great sound quality. This clock is quite small, but it sounds huge.

Buttons click when you press them. If you’re a fan of buttons that make noise, you might like this clock’s interface.

Adjustable brightness. Crank the light levels down at night if you’re sensitive to bright clock displays.

Battery backup. The RCR-5BK won’t leave you hanging if a power outage occurs.

Big, bright display. We looked at clocks in all shapes and sizes. However, almost all of them had displays that were visible from at least 20 feet away in daylight and at night. The exceptions were the three analog clocks we reviewed, which are small and require you to push a button to illuminate.

Dimmable display. Although having a bright display is nice, without the option to dim it light sleepers may be kept awake at night.

Easy snooze button. Sometimes you need a few extra minutes. If you’re fumbling to find the snooze button, you may as well find your toothbrush and start the day.

Battery backup. If your home is prone to power outages, you’ll want a clock that will be ready in case of an emergency.

Radio. Some people prefer to wake up to music, weather, news, or whatever else is playing on the radio. This feature was available on about half of the clocks we reviewed, but it adds to the price.

Multiple alarms. Whether you have two people sharing a clock or prefer a different wake-up time for the weekends, there are several clocks that allow for two separate alarm times.

Multiple sounds. Some clocks beep, others buzz, and some provide soothing sounds for that wake-up call.

USB ports. Whether you use your smartphone as a backup plan or not, there are a few clocks that offer the option to charge gadgets by your bedside.

Bluetooth. Many alarm clocks now have Bluetooth, but not in this price range. Only one of the models we reviewed included wireless music streaming.

We tested a total of 1alarm clocks. Three of those were analog clocks, which were the only models that didn’t offer AC power; they’re completely battery-operated. Six of the 1models tested also included radios.

We tested each clock in a first-floor home office and a second-floor bedroom. This helped when testing reception on the clock radios, because it gave us data from different locations. We used them during the day and at night to test out brightness levels and if they were easy to work with in the dark. We also monitored each clock for accuracy, the duration of the snooze, and if the snooze would continue after one hour.

We think the RCA RCD30 is the best alarm clock for most people. It is the textbook definition of an alarm clock in features and style with an easy-to-use button layout, a bright display, and an alarm that should wake up even heavy sleepers. It’s also the least expensive model that we tested.

Of the models we tested, the RCD30 packed the largest display size in the smallest design, so it won’t take up much room on your nightstand. The illuminated display measures approximately 3.7by 1.inches, which was visible in daylight and at night from at least 20 feet away. The large display size is a boon for people who wear glasses because you don’t need to fumble with your glasses to check the time. If a big display keeps you up at night, know that the RCD30 does have two brightness settings.

The easy operation has a lot to do with the unit’s no-frills design. It has a large snooze button across the top, so you can usually hit it without much fumbling. That snooze also doubles as an hour/minute button for setting the time and alarm. On the back, there are three switches: one for setting the time/alarm, one for turning the alarm on/off, and one for dimming the front display.

The RCD30 is a basic unit, but it has all you really need in an alarm clock, including backup via a 9-volt battery so you won’t lose your settings if the power goes out at a.m. Just know that like most of the alarm clocks we tested, when using that battery the front of the RCD30 will not display the time, but the alarm will trigger in backup mode, which can’t be said of the Mesqool Projection Clock, the Sangean RCR-5, the Sonic Alert SBB500SS, and the Sony ICF-C1.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

A few of the alarm clocks we reviewed have up and down buttons for setting the clock and alarm time. The RCA RCD30 is not one of them. The minute and hour buttons go in only one direction, so if you get distracted while setting the time and go too far, you’ll need to cycle through again. This is not unique to the RCD30, though.

Also, out of all of the digital alarm clocks we reviewed, this one had the fewest perks. There’s no radio, projection, or separate alarm sounds. In fact, the clock has one alarm at one volume. If it’s too loud (or not loud enough), there are no other options. However, it’s a reliable, basic alarm clock and priced accordingly.

Sleep timer: This lets you set a timer so the radio will turn itself off after a set period of time.

Multiple alarms: This is useful if you want to have different alarms, for example having one alarm for weekdays and another for weekends.

Bluetooth: This will let you stream music or audio wirelessly from your phone or tablet through the radio’s speaker.

USB or iPhone charging point: Several alarm clock radios offer one or two charging points so you can charge your phone overnight. iPhone or iPod dock: Useful for charging and streaming music from your iPhone or iPod.

Time projector: This lets you project the clock onto the wall or ceiling.

Nature sounds or white noise: This is useful for helping you getting to sleep.

Headphone jack: A headphone socket is useful if you want to listen to the radio without disturbing your sleeping partner or anyone else in the house.

Remote control: Handy if you want to place the radio at a distance from your bed.

Here are some features you might want to look out for

More than alarm: Many clock radios let you set or separate alarms. This means you could have different alarms for different days, or set alarms in the morning to guarantee you wake up.

Dimmable display: One common issue with clock radios is that the LCD displays can be too bright at night. Look for one that lets you dim the display or switch it off altogether.

USB charging point: Some DAB clock radios have a USB port for charging a phone overnight.

Docking station: If you have an iPhone, you could look for a clock radio with an iPhone docking station.

Pure Siesta Mi Series Digital Radio Alarm Clock

This radio is cheaper than other Pure alarm clock radios, and that is reflected in the sound quality. What the Siesta Mi Series lacks in audio quality it makes up for in functionality and design. It’s very easy to use, and the multiple alarms and adjustable sleep and snooze timers are very useful.

AZATOM Horizon

If the radios listed above seem a bit expensive, don’t worry! The AZATOM Horizon is a good choice of budget DAB clock radio. One of the best things about this radio is that it has Bluetooth so you can stream music through it from your phone, laptop or tablet.

You might not have heard of AZATOM before, but the brand has picked up a lot of positive reviews online, and is building a good reputation.

Madingley Hall DAB Radio Alarm Clock

Here’s another inexpensive DAB clock radio. The Madingley Hall is made by Majority, a newish audio brand whose products are designed in Cambridge (this radio is named after Madingley Hall, a stately home just outside Cambridge).

The Madingley Hall is a small radio with two USB ports, so you can your partner can charge your phones at the same time.

Milton DAB Bedside Digital FM Radio Alarm Clock

Another Majority clock radio, the Milton DAB Bedside Digital FM Radio is similar in many ways to the Madingley Hall Bedside radio.

This radio offers good value for money. However, the screen is quite small and could be difficult to read, plus it doesn’t dim completely.

Here are some the Spectrum’s key features

The Spectrum is attractively priced, but the process of setting the alarm is quite lengthy and inconvenient. It could certainly be improved, but it still offers good value for money.

See reviews of the Spectrum Clock Radio on John Lewis here.

FM Clock Radios

The UK government is expected to switch off the FM signal at some point in the next decade, which means it’s a good idea to get a DAB radio. However, FM radios are still very popular, and often offer better reception. Here are some of the best FM clock radios.

Clock Radios with a CD Player

Lots of us enjoy waking up or going to sleep to the sound of the radio, which explains the popularity of alarm clock radios. Most of these radios just come with FM or DAB radio, but a few have a CD player as well. Here are five of the best CD alarm clock radios currently available in the UK.

Duronic RCD14Micro Hi-Fi Audio System

The Duronic RCD14Micro Hi-Fi Audio System is a Hi-Fi with an FM radio, CD player and slots for a USB stick and an SD card. Like the Grouptronics GTMC-10reviewed above, it has two speakers offering stereo sound, but unlike the GTMC-10it can’t be mounted to the wall. Let’s look at this Hi-Fi in more detail.

Pillow speakers

Let’s face it: The ring, blare, buzz, or chirp of your alarm clock is probably never going to be your favorite sound. But then again, the angry rumble of your boss, when you show up late for work after oversleeping, is even worse. So make mornings a little easier by choosing an alarm clock that makes your return to reality if not a pleasure, then at least not a pain.

By the time that phone hits the nightstand, you’ve lost precious sleep time, you’ve tricked your brain into thinking it’s wake-up time instead of dream time, because the glow of the blue light emitted by your phone reduces your body’s release of melatonin, the hormone that regulates your sleep cycle. Instead of relaxing, you’ve stimulated your mind. All of that adds up to poor quality sleep followed by a groggy, foggy, “I don’t know why I’m so tired,” kind of morning.

Although the Electrohome Projection Alarm Clock is our top pick, for various reasons laid out in the slides below, you should also consider the Sonic Alert Sonic Bomb Alarm Clock, the Philips Wake-Up Light, the Marathon Analog Desk Alarm Clock, and the OK to Wake! children’s alarm clock.

RCA Digital Alarm Clock

The RCA Digital Alarm Clock is by far the most basic, and therefore most reasonably priced, of all of the alarm clocks that we are taking a look at. If you are that person that just needs that bare-bones alarm clock to get you out of bed in the morning without all of the bells and whistles, this is going to be a great alarm clock for you.

What do you Need to Get out of Bed in the Morning

This might be the most important question that you can ask yourself when shopping for the perfect alarm clock: what do you want and what do you need to get you out of bed in the morning? What will help you set your wake and sleep schedule the best, and what will make waking up easiest and most enjoyable for you in the morning.

Because all of us are different.​

For some of us, all we need is your basic LED display alarm clock, a single alarm, and a backup power source in case the power goes out in your house. If you tend to be more of a night owl and every morning it is a struggle to get out of bed, you may want or need some additional features to make waking up in the morning easier and more enjoyable.

At the end of the day, it all comes down to your needs and your personal preference. We have taken a look at some of the best alarm clocks so that you can check out the options that are available, and make the right choice for your schedule and needs.

Elder Friendly Features of Alarm Clocks

Having an alarm clock keeps us alert, responsible, and on top of our schedule. They are particularly important for aging adults, who might be on a strict sleep schedule; relying on your internal clock might cause one to oversleep and in consequence make it harder to fall asleep later that day.  Furthermore, take into account that seniors are prone to memory loss; an alarm clock, functioning as a loud auditory reminder, also might help provide the usually forgetful about certain tasks. With the ability to tell time and provide us with constant reminders, consider the alarm clock a highly useful device for aging adults. Though, it is important to realize that not all alarm clocks are made the same. Pending on your own physiological needs, there are certain features that seniors should look for in an alarm clock. We hope that our guide will provide you with the tools needed to pick out the appropriate alarm clock.

How we picked and tested

Big, bright display. We looked at clocks in all shapes and sizes. However, almost all of them had displays that were visible from at least 20 feet away in daylight and at night. The exceptions were the three analog clocks we reviewed, which are small and require you to push a button to illuminate.

Dimmable display. Although having a bright display is nice, without the option to dim it light sleepers may be kept awake at night.

Easy snooze button. Sometimes you need a few extra minutes. If you’re fumbling to find the snooze button, you may as well find your toothbrush and start the day.

Battery backup. If your home is prone to power outages, you’ll want a clock that will be ready in case of an emergency.

Radio. Some people prefer to wake up to music, weather, news, or whatever else is playing on the radio. This feature was available on about half of the clocks we reviewed, but it adds to the price.

Multiple alarms. Whether you have two people sharing a clock or prefer a different wake-up time for the weekends, there are several clocks that allow for two separate alarm times.

Multiple sounds. Some clocks beep, others buzz, and some provide soothing sounds for that wake-up call.

USB ports. Whether you use your smartphone as a backup plan or not, there are a few clocks that offer the option to charge gadgets by your bedside.

Bluetooth. Many alarm clocks now have Bluetooth, but not in this price range. Only one of the models we reviewed included wireless music streaming.

We tested a total of 1alarm clocks. Three of those were analog clocks, which were the only models that didn’t offer AC power; they’re completely battery-operated. Six of the 1models tested also included radios.

We tested each clock in a first-floor home office and a second-floor bedroom. This helped when testing reception on the clock radios, because it gave us data from different locations. We used them during the day and at night to test out brightness levels and if they were easy to work with in the dark. We also monitored each clock for accuracy, the duration of the snooze, and if the snooze would continue after one hour.

We think the RCA RCD30 is the best alarm clock for most people. It is the textbook definition of an alarm clock in features and style with an easy-to-use button layout, a bright display, and an alarm that should wake up even heavy sleepers. It’s also the least expensive model that we tested.

Of the models we tested, the RCD30 packed the largest display size in the smallest design, so it won’t take up much room on your nightstand. The illuminated display measures approximately 3.7by 1.inches, which was visible in daylight and at night from at least 20 feet away. The large display size is a boon for people who wear glasses because you don’t need to fumble with your glasses to check the time. If a big display keeps you up at night, know that the RCD30 does have two brightness settings.

The easy operation has a lot to do with the unit’s no-frills design. It has a large snooze button across the top, so you can usually hit it without much fumbling. That snooze also doubles as an hour/minute button for setting the time and alarm. On the back, there are three switches: one for setting the time/alarm, one for turning the alarm on/off, and one for dimming the front display.

The RCD30 is a basic unit, but it has all you really need in an alarm clock, including backup via a 9-volt battery so you won’t lose your settings if the power goes out at a.m. Just know that like most of the alarm clocks we tested, when using that battery the front of the RCD30 will not display the time, but the alarm will trigger in backup mode, which can’t be said of the Mesqool Projection Clock, the Sangean RCR-5, the Sonic Alert SBB500SS, and the Sony ICF-C1.

The Insider Pick

Let’s face it: The ring, blare, buzz, or chirp of your alarm clock is probably never going to be your favorite sound. But then again, the angry rumble of your boss, when you show up late for work after oversleeping, is even worse. So make mornings a little easier by choosing an alarm clock that makes your return to reality if not a pleasure, then at least not a pain.

You might be wondering, “Why bother with an alarm clock when I have a phone?” A fair question and many people do wake up to their cell phone’s prompting. The problem with this, however, is it makes it far more difficult to put some space between your technology and your sleep, and those are two areas of your life best kept separate.

By the time that phone hits the nightstand, you’ve lost precious sleep time, you’ve tricked your brain into thinking it’s wake-up time instead of dream time, because the glow of the blue light emitted by your phone reduces your body’s release of melatonin, the hormone that regulates your sleep cycle. Instead of relaxing, you’ve stimulated your mind. All of that adds up to poor quality sleep followed by a groggy, foggy, “I don’t know why I’m so tired,” kind of morning.

Although the Electrohome Projection Alarm Clock is our top pick, for various reasons laid out in the slides below, you should also consider the Sonic Alert Sonic Bomb Alarm Clock, the Philips Wake-Up Light, the Marathon Analog Desk Alarm Clock, and the OK to Wake! children’s alarm clock.

Antique clock’s history

Antique clock aesthetics • Check the old collectible clock’s physical attributes, antique clocks are not collected for their time keeping abilities alone, but their stately appearance contributes much to their demand. • Examine the material, clock parts, movement, case, dial, and other decorative elements of the antique clock. Make sure they are all original without unnecessary marks and no missing parts. • See to it that that antique clock maker’s signature is intact, check if the label is authentic and if that particular maker is reputable and listed in clock books.

Chain Driven Westminster Chime Clocks

Cable Driven Westminster Chime Clocks         These grandfather clocks use a key to turn arbors located in the dial that are wound once a week to raise the weights that power the clock as they drop down during the week. The Westminster chimes will play a few notes on each quarter hour and then play the 1note melody on the hour, then count the hour. There is a lever on the dial to manually turn off the chimes at will. Your hands never touch the brass on this design.

Grandfather Clocks w/night time chime shutoff option also use a key to turn arbors located in the dial that are wound once a week to raise the weights that power the clock as they drop down during the week. The Westminster chimes will play a few notes on each quarter hour and then play the 1note melody on the hour, then count the hour. There is a lever on the dial to manually turn off the chimes at will. Your hands never touch the brass on this design. There is an additional lever on the left of the dial to select an option for the chime to play continuously or to cease between 10:00PM and 7:00AM.

Triple Chime grandfather clocks also use a key to turn arbors located in the dial that are wound once a week to raise the weights that power the clock as they drop down during the week. The chimes will play a few notes on each quarter hour and then play the full chime melody on the hour, then count the hour. There is a lever on the dial to manually turn off the chimes at will or to choose between Westminster, Whittington or St. Michaels Chime melodies. Your hands never touch the brass on this design. There is an additional lever on the left of the dial to select an option for the chime to play continuously or to cease between 10:00PM and 7:00AM. You may also use an option for the clock only to count the hour without any hourly or quarter hour melody.  Cable Driven Concerto Triple Chime Clocks w/night time chime shutoff option         These selections use a key to turn arbors located in the dial that are wound once a week to raise the weights that power the clock as they drop down during the week. The chimes will play one note on the first quarter hour and one each quarter hour. The movement will then play the full chime melody on the hour and count the hour. There is a lever on the dial to manually turn off the chimes at will or to choose between Westminster, Ode to Joy or Ave Maria Chime melodies. Your hands never touch the brass on this design. There is an additional lever on the left of the dial to select an option for the chime to play continuously or to cease between 10:00PM and 7:00AM. You may also use an option for the clock only to count the hour without any hourly or quarter hour melody.

Quartz Floor Clocks  (battery operated clocks)         Quartz floor clocks use batteries to power the time, chimes and the swinging pendulum. There is no winding and the clocks are very accurate. Most are dual chime offering a choice of Westminster or Ave Maria melodies.  There is also a volume control to adjust the volume to the size of the room, chime silence and hourly only chimes. Batteries will easily last a year a time and easy to replace. Some Quartz clocks will have the three weights to resemble a mechanical movement, but these do not move and are added to enhance the style of the clock. Some models of quartz floor clocks are non-chiming. In most cases these clocks are less than half of the price a mechanical movement clock. The quartz clocks with the Harmonic Movement sounds great for a battery powered clock.

Moon Dials         Most keywound grandfather clocks will offer a functional, astrologically correct moon dial. When the image of the moon reaches the 15th day of 21/day lunar cycle it will appear at the top of the dial. It will be full moon at that time.  This dial rotates slowly clockwise over 21/days. When the image of the moon disappears, it is new moon.

How to Determine the Value of an Antique Clock

One of the first things you will discover as you start to research the value of an antique clock is that the same clock will actually have different amounts of value. This happens because the value of the clock depends on the purpose for the appraisal.

Purpose

For example, an insurance appraisal for an antique clock might be based on the replacement cost of the clock if it was destroyed in a fire or stolen. The value would be based on the average retail sale price of the clock if it were purchased in good working condition, with guaranteed authenticity, from an antique clock dealer.

If you were to donate this same clock to a charity auction, the IRS might have yet another amount determined for the value of the clock as a tax deduction.

Indoor or outdoor

Most garden clocks will be used for the garden and outdoor space, but they often make a great addition to your indoor space too. Skeleton clocks look superb in a living or dining room area, as they are simplistic in design and will work with most colour schemes thanks to their neutral colours. Small clocks also work well in most indoor spaces too.

The best clock for a garden would be waterproof, made from a resistant material such as metal. This way, no matter what weather conditions the skies throw at your clock, rest assured time will keep on ticking by.

Carvings and Wood

Quality: Quality wood and craftsmanship are practically a given when you’re getting a clock from the Black Forest. However, it’s a good habit to make sure the wood is quality and the woodcarving is clean with no splinters. One of the most common woods used by Black Forest clockmakers is linden (also known as lime wood). Many clocks sold in our Oktoberfesthaus store, such as the Schneider Deer and Rabbit Cuckoo Clock and the Schneider Beer Drinker Cuckoo Clock, are all made from Black Forest linden wood. Again, if your clock is an authentic certified Black Forest cuckoo clock, you won’t have to worry about researching this.

Options for Nighttime Shutoff

Is your clock going to wake you up in the middle of the night every hour? Make sure the clock you’re buying has a silent night mode. Most of the time, 8-day and Quartz clocks will have these. 1-day clocks often don’t. Be aware of that.

Return Policy

This screen is what the time is displayed on. LCD is a liquid crystal display and LED stands for light-emitting diode. The difference with these two is that LCD displays usually require a backlight for the time whereas an LED doesn’t.

A light and dimmer function will usually be included in LCD displays which allow you to control the brightness of the backlight making it ideal to use for sleeping.

With LED displays, the light emits from the numbered time display but you generally can’t adjust the brightness of this. Both displays are quite clear but an LED screen makes it easier to read the time from whichever you’re looking at the time from.

Temperature Sensor

Digital wall clocks with built-in sensors will be able to read the temperature of the room the clock is in. It can be pretty important when it comes to ensuring a comfortable room temperature for you to relax, work or sleep in. Some digital wall clocks have an outdoor temperature sensor that is to be placed outside which can detect the temperature outside.

Radio Controlled

Having this important feature will ensure the accuracy of your digital wall clock as many are connected to a specific time signal in the UK which will update the time right down to the second. Some will synchronise and update on a daily basis and some on a weekly basis.

When it comes to daylight saving time changes, the digital wall clock will automatically bring the time an hour forward or backward without you having to adjust it. The best thing about this feature as well is that it will remember the time if the battery runs out or if there’s a power cut.

Moon Phase

For many people, the moon phase feature on a digital clock isn’t necessary.

For some, this is a much sought after feature as it’s extremely useful for activities such as fishing, gardening, astrology or sailing.

Spiritual followers also use the phases of the moon to determine when to start certain events within their lives and some believe their moods are connected to the phases of the moon. Anyone who is after a digital clock with this feature should check it will display all eight phases of the moon to ensure accuracy.

Alarm Clock

Instead of getting a separate alarm clock, it may be more ideal to have an alarm function built into the digital clock. This can be useful in ensuring you wake up in time or used as a reminder for something.

Mounting Stand

Unless the digital wall clock is very big, most will come with a mounting stand which will enable it to be used as a desk clock. This can be useful for anyone who doesn’t plan to wall mount the clock or just wishes to stand it on a shelf.

The Acctim Fusion is splash resistant for bathroom use.

Water Resistant

Having a clock in the bathroom can be useful as it helps you to keep an eye on the time. Not many clocks are water resistant though and even if it’s away from any water splashes, getting it all steamed up won’t be good for its mechanical inner workings.

A water resistant digital wall clock is built to withstand steam build up and water splashes so it continues to work perfectly. They are also made with anti-fog display screens so you will still be able to see the time even if the whole bathroom is all steamed up.

Power Supply

How your digital wall clock is run is something that should be given thought to. If you’re planning for it to be wall mounted or move it around the home, a battery operated digital clock may be most ideal as it avoids unsightly wires and having to plug it in and out all the time. However, if you plan on using the digital clock for the desk or something similar, then a mains power plug might prove to be a better feature.

Power Cord Length

Whether you plan to wall mount or stand your digital clock, the length of the power cord should be considered. For wall mountings, make sure the power cord will be long enough for the entire length of the wall height to the reach of the power socket.

Snooze button

This feature is now pretty much standard with all clock radios, but you should always make sure it is included if it is something you are likely to make use of. The snooze button allows you to catch a few extra minutes of sleep and then have the alarm go off again.

Chronos GX Digital Game Clock

The Chronos GX Digital Game Clock is kind of the “little brother” of the original Chronos Digital Game Clock, but it has a lot to offer as well. It is the same quality chess clock with a simplified interface. If you’re someone who looks at the 70+ pre-programmed time modes that the Chronos Digital Game Clock has and thinks, “when am I ever going to use all of those?” then The Chronos GX Chess Clock may be the perfect fit for you.

The “little brother” of the original Chronos Digital Game Clock.

Because of its paired down functionality, it’s a lot easier to get set up with The Chronos GX Digital Game Clock. You don’t need to waste time reading a 6page users manual, you can just take it right out of the box and be ready to go! This clock features preset blitz timers and different tournament controls. The idea of this clock is to include only the most popular and widely used timing modes to make the clock simple to use without people missing out on anything that they really need. The Chronos GX Digital Game Clock offers chess players everything that they need, and nothing more, which provides a lot of functionality without making you feel overwhelmed.

Chronos Digital Game Clock

Of course, we have the Chronos Digital Game Clock. This product is, hands down, the best chess clock that Chronos makes, and one of the most reliable chess clocks available anywhere in 201It’s a great choice for chess players of any skill or experience level who want to have access to all of the features that a cutting edge digital Chronos Digital Chess Clock can offer, of which there are many.

The best chess clock that Chronos makes, and one of the most reliable chess clocks in the market.

The Chronos Digital Game Clock has over 70 pre-programmed time controls, as well as the ability to store up to 1more user programmed ones. It has several different modes, such as beep-at-end, beep-at-time-control, and LEDs on. You can even alter the pitch of the beep sound. This Chronos Game Clock has pre-programmed modes that let you play five minute chess, chess andante, chess byo-yomi, chess hour glass, chess progressive, GO Japanese byo-yomi, GO adante byo-yomi, GO progressive byo-yomi, GO Canadian byo-yomi, GO Ing byo-yomi, FIDE, count down, count up, Adagio, sudden death, Adante, sudden death and delay, delay with move counter, count down and delay, Shogi, and shuffle chess, just to name a few- and it does all of this on three AA batteries, which are included with your purchase.

The durability of this Chronos chess clock is also unmatched. Its sturdy metal frame and rugged enamel finish will hold up and look great for years to come, even if it suffers several falls and dings at the hands of a not so careful owner. This durability makes The Chronos Digital Game Clock a great choice to buy for young chess players who are just getting started. It’s virtually indestructible, so they’ll be able to use it now and keep it for years, getting more and more out of its extended functionality as they grow as players. There are two button versions and several colors to choose from, but whatever you choose, we recommend buying it with the protective carrying case for easy transport.

Beyond Chronos Chess Clocks

Though the Chronos chess clocks are some of the most popular digital chess clocks of 2018, you may be in the market for something a bit different. If none of these Chronos clocks strike your fancy, don’t worry because there is a whole world of chess clocks out there for you- both digital and analog. If you’re still on the hunt for your perfect chess clock, check out our other articles on the subject, like our list of the best digital chess clocks of 2018, or our overview page with the best chess clocks in general.

How to cite the article; suggest additional literature

An optical clock is a clock the output of which is derived from an optical frequency standard.

As explained in the article on optical frequency standards, such a reference is based on atoms or ions which are kept in an optical trap and subject to laser cooling in order to suppress Doppler broadening.

An optical clock can offer an extremely high frequency precision and stability, exceeding the performance of the best cesium atomic clocks.

Recently, however, very much simpler and much more versatile while equally precise optical clockworks have been realized on the basis of frequency combs from femtosecond mode-locked lasers.

Time Clock-Free Implementations

Some situations make certain clocking technologies impractical for a given work setting. Sometimes, environmental conditions make certain clocking types unsuitable, particularly when any imaging system is used within the clocking technology.

Sometimes, your time and attendance solution provider can recommend a ruggedized time clock that supports the clocking technology you prefer. If a given clocking technology is truly unsuited for your environment, the solution provider will steer you in the right direction.

Unique scenarios such as this require personalized recommendations; please contact us if you have any questions.

Time Clock Features

Time clock features and the functionality that is available right from the terminal will vary widely amongst both hardware manufacturers and the software developers that integrate the hardware. The good time and attendance integrators will customize your time clock based on your desired functionality so you get the most out of your investment.

Dual Sensor Technology

Cameras

Germany’s southwestern region known as the Black Forest or Schwarzwald has been producing authentic cuckoo clocks for nearly 300 years. Schwarzwald is the well established home of the cuckoo clock. Black Forest wood carvers and clockmakers alike are considered to be the best in the world. These past and present craftsmen built the standard by which all coo coo clocks are measured.

In an effort to preserve the art, integrity and standards of fine cuckoo clock making the Black Forest Clock Association was formed.  Also known as VdS or Verein die Schwarzwalduhr, this group of producers, traders, and cuckoo clock experts sought to formalize the strict practices the region is so well known for. Together they created a certification process designed protect the Black Forest tradition and represent quality around the world.

THE MECHANICAL MOVEMENT

Powered by weights and gravity, the hard brass movements do not require electricity to function making them eco-friendly. Once made entirely of wood, these movements have been used in black forest cuckoo clocks for centuries.

Most cuckoo clock craftsmen today use industry standard REGULA movements by SBS Feintechnik.  SBS operates in the Black Forest village of Schonach, Germany and is known throughout the region for its high quality clockworks.

THE QUARTZ MOVEMENT

Music, movement and animations in quartz cuckoos are electronic simulations of the mechanical cuckoo clock. Maintenance is simple and usually limited to changing batteries.

Quartz cuckoo clocks do not qualify for VdS certification since they are imitations of the authentic mechanical movement. Still, there are reputable manufacturers that produce quality quartz cuckoo clocks with an authentic look.

Let’s cover the basics: 

1-DAY cuckoo clocks usually offer manual shut-off only. You will rarely if ever find a 1-DAY clock with an automatic shutoff. Since 1-Day are wound daily the switch is usually set while winding.

An automatic switch can be set to the on, off, or automatic position. When set to the automatic position it will silence the clock automatically for to 1hours beginning between 8pm and 10pm in the evening.

8-DAY clocks generally have a manual shut-off. Many but not all 8-DAY clocks are available with an automatic shut-off option.  Most muscial clocks in the upper price range will include the automatic shut-off feature as standard.

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Help & advice

Modern clocks have become commonplace but if you are tired of looking at ordinary screens and want something more exciting, a projection alarm clock is the way to go. This Mesqool projection clock seems like a good solution if you want to project the time on any wall and see it clearly. Packed with lots of features and with a stylish design, this device is sure to be a big hit.

By repeatedly pressing the projection button you can make the time appear vividly on your wall and see it without issues. Even if you put the alarm clock in another angle you can enjoy a solid reverse projection. Mesqool integrated a dimmer feature for the smooth 1.8-inch display which can be a bit too bright at night. A dedicated button takes care of the problem.

When you just can’t be bothered to look for your charger or if you’re out of charging spots, this unit allows you to connect your smart device and charge it with its incorporated USB port. It’s suitable for Android devices but iOS users will need the appropriate cable switch.

There’s a dual alarm function for your convenience and it can be set to wake you up using a radio station. The buttons for controlling the radio and all the other features of the device are intuitively placed on the top and can be easily accessed even when you’re feeling extra sleepy.

Looking back over the rich features from the arsenal of this Mesqool projection alarm clock, you can be sure that this is a solid device for the money. It’s a breeze to set up, the digits are large and visible, and the projection is adjustable. Topping it off with such a fair price, this projection clock is really a no-brainer.

WhatsApp

Many people use their smartphones as alarm clocks because the last thing they use before sleeping is their smartphone. It is convenient, but perhaps it is not wise to store all our eggs in one basket. Technology can fail, and total dependency on only one gadget may likely lead to loss and chaos. If the smartphone battery dies before the alarm could ring, the day will likely only get worse from there.

Alarm Settings

Power Backup

Alarm clocks must have a power backup to ensure that the alarm will ring even if the batteries fail or there is a power outage. Some clocks have a power supply option or use AAA batteries. Lithium batteries are commonly used to preserve enough power for the alarm to ring and to keep the alarm settings saved.

Electrohome EAAC60Projection Alarm Clock Radio

The EAAC60is a modern clock for tech-savvy people. Its menu is a bit complicated, but it packs a ton of great functions. Blurred projection displays are a thing of the past with this clock. Not only does it score great in the display area, but it also has a music alarm function to make getting up feeling so much better.

Philips has created a projector so small it could be used to surprise unsuspecting co-workers who were blissfully unaware that a meeting was in their future.

Selling for an affordable price, it features an easy setup and is able to project content only drawing power via USB. Unlike Philips older PicoPix mini projectors (some of which appeared on this very list), the Philips PicoPix PPX40has a 100 lumens brighness, which means it doesn’t have to be used in pitch black conditions to see, though it’s still not as bright as full-size projectors.

Can run loudly

If your meetings are never in the same location often, you’re going to want a no-nonsense projector that’s easy to carry. For that, we can recommend the Epson EB-S0Weighing in at 2g pounds, and measuring 297‎ x 23x 77mm, it also comes with a carry case included, which makes this a great business projector for people often out on the road. It supports connecting via USB, WiFi, VGA, HDMI, or the mobile MHL. Not only is it easy to move around with, it’s extremely easy to use, so much so that booting and choosing your input source only took a mere 3seconds in our testing. This is all with an intensely strong lamp, which maxes out at 3000 lumens.

It is ideal for those who need a simple, portable projector for anything except for streaming video, as we experienced quality issues there, with output being either grainy or stuttering. So it’s not the best projector for watching films on, but as a business projector, it’s excellent.

Optional WiFi dongle

Both machines run very loud and very bright, thanks to the Pro8600’s 6000 lumen and the Pro8520HD’s 5000 lumen capable lamps. So if you’re looking to make presentations to people who drift off when the lights go out, make sure you consider these options. Neither are great with USB, but if you’re looking to present video, both have HDMI slots – the Pro8520HD actually offers two, if that’s something you would need.

Both projectors render HD color video beautifully, although Pro8520HD arguably over-saturates the colors. While the video on the Pro8520HD is of great quality, you’re going to need to have any audio pretty loud, thanks to a whirring fan that hovered around 7decibels in our testing. While the Pro8600 suffers the same noise pollution – its fan reaches 6decibels – it does feature a useful ECO mode that can dampen the noise. As you would expect from projectors marketed on their HD quality, these units can get an image large enough for native HD proportions.

No automatic keystone

The Sony VPL-FHZ5is designed to be installed once and not moved for a long time. At 26.pounds nobody will be volunteering to move it between floors, or even carting it between rooms. It measures 15.3″ x 19.8″ x 5.8″ (W x D x H) and we believe it best positioned on a ceiling, even though that will make it even harder to ever move. With all that size, there is a lot to say about it.

Noteworthy for being the first 3LCD projector – a projection chip technology popularized by Epson and Panasonic – with a lamp-less treatment, thanks to a blue laser light source deployed by Sony. For all that above hype and hubbub, the enormous price should not shock you.

It’s seriousness isn’t just from a top-out of 4,000 lumens, but the fact that it can go for 20,000 hours, reducing the routine expense of replacing burnt out lamps that projectors generally include.

Low light output

Despite its small size, it can project images up to 120 inches in size, and it has a built-in 6,000mAh battery that can power the projector for up to hours, which makes it rather flexible, as you don’t have to worry about finding a plug socket to power the device. In a rather nice touch, the projector can also double as a power bank for other mobile devices.

The Asus ZenBeam Eisn’t the most powerful portable projector, but its versatility, ease of setup and eye catching design gives it a place on our list of best business projectors.

Underpowered 2W speakers

With a lamp that can reach up to 800 lumens, you can still run a presentation in whatever room you can bring it to, provided you can shade the windows and lower the lighting. It comes with an SD Card slot, a USB slot, an MHL-ready HDMI input (for connecting DVD/Blu-ray players and also smartphones/tablets) and a VGA input for laptops.

Much like other portable projectors we talk about here, just because you can pass video through this unit doesn’t mean you should. For it’s price, though, making you pay even more for an optional WiFi dongle (ViewSonic recommends its PJ-WPD-200, which brings Miracast and DLNA compatibility) feels like you’re getting nickel & dimed.

Expensive

If you really want to wow at presentations, or turn a whole wall into an interactive whiteboard for brainstorming sessions, then the Epson BrightLink 685Wi is definitely worth considering.

It’s an interactive projector that allows people to draw, write and modify the items it projects onto a screen. It comes with a range of software to help you create these impressive projections, and can wirelessly connect to a huge range of devices.

The Epson BrightLink 685Wi certainly isn’t cheap, but it’s a decent investment if you’re looking for a business projector that can be used in a large number of innovative ways.

Sleep timer: This lets you set a timer so the radio will turn itself off after a set period of time.

Multiple alarms: This is useful if you want to have different alarms, for example having one alarm for weekdays and another for weekends.

Bluetooth: This will let you stream music or audio wirelessly from your phone or tablet through the radio’s speaker.

USB or iPhone charging point: Several alarm clock radios offer one or two charging points so you can charge your phone overnight. iPhone or iPod dock: Useful for charging and streaming music from your iPhone or iPod.

Time projector: This lets you project the clock onto the wall or ceiling.

Nature sounds or white noise: This is useful for helping you getting to sleep.

Headphone jack: A headphone socket is useful if you want to listen to the radio without disturbing your sleeping partner or anyone else in the house.

Remote control: Handy if you want to place the radio at a distance from your bed.

Here are some features you might want to look out for

More than alarm: Many clock radios let you set or separate alarms. This means you could have different alarms for different days, or set alarms in the morning to guarantee you wake up.

Dimmable display: One common issue with clock radios is that the LCD displays can be too bright at night. Look for one that lets you dim the display or switch it off altogether.

USB charging point: Some DAB clock radios have a USB port for charging a phone overnight.

Docking station: If you have an iPhone, you could look for a clock radio with an iPhone docking station.

Here are some the Spectrum’s key features

The Spectrum is attractively priced, but the process of setting the alarm is quite lengthy and inconvenient. It could certainly be improved, but it still offers good value for money.

See reviews of the Spectrum Clock Radio on John Lewis here.

Clock Radio

It is both a clock and an AM/FM radio. They easily fit on your nightstand with a small size, but their speakers are loud enough to fill up a room. Many current models come with suitable connectivity to allow you to stream music and other contents from an external player such as tablets, mobile phones, or computers. Some models even have the Bluetooth technology too.

Wireless Radio

It may run through two media – Wi-Fi connection and Bluetooth technology. Wi-Fi-enabled radios will give you access to numerous stations from all over the world. On the other hand, Bluetooth enabled devices will let you stream contents from media players while you move around the house.

Satellite Radio

Available in both portable and home player versions, these devices are a good option for listening to songs, sports talk, and news at home, while you’re driving, or when you’re out. Satellite stations provide strong signals, so all of these radios broadcast programs with crystal-clear sound.

Weather Radio

There are also other types such as shortwave radios, vintage radios, boom boxes, etc.

Unique Characteristics of Radio Alarm Clocks

These come in many different styles and colors. You should choose one that makes you happy when you look at it after waking up in the morning. In addition, the clock radio is most likely to be in your bedroom, so the design should fit the existing décor.

Beyond the appearance, you should consider the practical needs too. The display should be big enough so that you have no problem reading the time even if it’s far from the bed. However, you surely don’t want the bright light to keep you awake the whole night. Some units come with adjustable brightness control or automatic dimmer function when you turn the room lights off.

Performance

The audio quality of an alarm clock is not that much important, but it is in this case because this unit also acts as a radio. You will need a device with larger stereo speakers if you want to enjoy enhanced audio performance while listening to instrumentals and songs. Furthermore, the clock radios that offer iPod connectivity or built-in CD player are likely to have better sound quality.

The alarm feature generally gives the option of playing music from a radio station or an external player besides having pre-set tones. Many models have the dual alarm setting, allowing the user to set two different alarms. It’s a practical solution if you need to wake up at different times on different days or two people using the same clock. Some newer models even allow setting more than two alarms.

Some advanced models have the option of increased volume where the sound of alarm becomes gradually louder up to a certain level. There is also an automatic setting that keeps the alarm off on weekends or selected days.

Additional Features

Almost all the clock radios have the feature of preset memory setting that allows the user to set dedicated buttons for various stations. Just pushing a button will give you access to your favorite station.

Some advanced models offer the options of the built-in CD player, iPod dock, and Bluetooth technology. All these features let you listen to your favorite music at the leisure time and wake up to the tunes of your choice.

These units also have battery back-up. So, even there’s a disruption in the electricity system or a power failure, the alarm will still ring on time.

HomtimeCPro

Homtimeis renowned for manufacturing innovative products. Another great product from the brand is the CPro that can be a cool, compact addition to your wake-up routine. With plenty of features and a reasonable price tag, the gadget can easily be your new audio entertainment hub.

Featuring a box-like shape, the CPro has a neat and clean look with an LCD screen and two USB ports on the front panel and two push buttons on the top. The rear side houses the speaker, and control switches for volume, temperature, and time settings. A side panel has the power input jack and the battery case.

The unit is made of black hard plastic that is well built. Its nice design and user-friendly interface have made it suitable for kid’s or guest’s bedroom and as a travel alarm clock.

The unit has a 3.2-inch LCD that shows time and other data in white color on the black background so that you can read them clearly. It also has four levels of dimming for the user to adjust the brightness to the personal preference.

Electrohome EAAC470 Alarm Clock Radio

With scores of features and a moderate price, the EAAC470 Alarm Clock Radio from Electrohome is a device you can depend on. It will fulfill your entertainment requirements while never misses out to wake you up on time. It is a perfect clock radio to use a home and during travel.

The EAAC470 looks like a triangular bar that can easily fit into any contemporary bedroom with its stylish look and compact build. The black plastic body and the buttons seem well constructed that are unlikely to break off even after falling on the ground.

The display shows time, calendar, and indoor temperature readings.

Timex T236BQX FM Dual Alarm Clock Radio

The T236BQX from Timex could be the best choice as your next alarm clock if you are looking for one. The company is known for manufacturing quality watches for men and women. So, you can trust this device for providing you with accurate timing and be your mini entertainment hub.

The unit looks like a rectangular box with eight inches length and less than three inches width. It’s a bit heavier (weighs 1.4lbs) than other similar products, but this bit of extra weight saves it from getting knocked over easily.

The device is compact with a large display on the front and several control buttons on the top. However, the buttons are large but don’t have any bump or divot, making it tough to separate them in a dark room.

The 1.2-inch LED display shows the digits for time, date & year, and radio frequency in green or red color. The big numbers are highly readable from across the room and do not interrupt the sleep. In addition, you can control the brightness with the Hi/Lo settings.

Sony ICFC1

Sony is a world-famous brand that is familiar for manufacturing innovative, high-quality, and reliable electronics. The Sony ICFCis an alarm clock that you can depend on for having accurate timing and timely reminders. It has a built-in radio system and several advanced functions but still maintains high usability.

The ICFCis a no-frills cube-shaped device that comes in two versions – black and white. It’s a cute clock radio that maintains a clean interface with some practical features. It has a display on the front side and some controls and inputs on the top, rear, and side panels.

It looks good and a bit futuristic because of the cube-like form.It has a small footprint,but its shape and the 1.2lbs weight have given it some stability to not to trip so easily.

The LCD screen is pretty large that displays the digits in orange color so that you can read them from anywhere across a room. It shows alarm, time, and Daylight Saving Time (DST) indicator. You can control the screen’s brightness at three levels to ensure that you can sleep at night without any distraction.

Timex T235WY

Timex is an iconic American watch brand that has gained worldwide popularity for their timeless designs and uncompromised quality. Similarly, the Timex T235WY is a high-quality, innovative alarm clock radio that is likely to suit the needs of every person who needs an alarm clock.

Available in black and white colors, the T235WY looks stylish and fits with any modern décor. It will take only small space on your nightstand, and there’s low chance to knock it over because of its 1.6lbs weight.

The clock seems good quality and the construction feel sturdy. The buttons and display don’t have any cheap feel to them. Besides, the switches have slight bumps, so it’s easy to find them even when the light is off.

The 1.8-inch LED screen shows time and channel frequency. It displays the digits in big fonts and red color, making it easy to read from anywhere in a room. It is possible to adjust the brightness too in case if you need dim lighting at the time of sleeping.

Performance                              

The dual alarm feature gives the users the freedom of waking up at separate times without the need of setting them every time. Just set them once and it will do the rest with the auto ‘repeat’ and ‘shut off’ options.

You can use either a buzzer sound or a radio channel as your wake up tone, which starts as a soft sound and becomes gradually louder, so you don’t feel annoyed after waking up. It has a snooze button for a few extra minutes of sleep and a timer option that shuts off the radio after the specified time. It’s a great feature for those who like to fall asleep to their favorite radio program.

The 2-inch speaker sounds great when you play the radio. However, it also does a decent job when you play songs from your smartphone or iPod.

Peakeep Little Digital FM Radio Dual Alarm Clock

There are nine buttons that make it easier to control all the settings and utilize all the functions. Some switches have dual functions depending on whether the radio is on or off.

It comes with a 1.5-inch LED display that shows time, radio frequency, and alarm in big red digits. The screen is bright enough to read it clearly even in the daytime. However, you can use the dimmer option to get a comfortable sleep at night.

This is the second time we have ordered this item for personal use. We wore the first one out. Several years ago, I ordered this item for gifts for my teenage grandchildren. They have taken them with them to college.

User Manual

Oregon Scientific RRM222PA-BK PRYSMA Atomic Projection Clock Radio with Outdoor Temperature provides the most accurate time for your home! Wakeup to the alarm clock with projection of the time and outdoor temperature projected on your ceiling or wall that’s easy to read when you first get up to start your day. With Oregon Scientific PRYSMA atomic projection clocks you can plan your day’s activities by using the convenient barometric pressure weather forecast.

Color temperature

After lumens, the next concept you’ll want to understand is color temperature. Measured on the Kelvin scale, color temperature isn’t really a measure of heat. Instead, it’s a measure of the color that a light source produces, ranging from yellow on the low end of the scale to bluish on the high end, with whitish light in the middle.

An easy way to keep track of color temperature is to think of a flame: it starts out yellow and orange, but when it gets really hot, it turns blue. You could also think of color temperature in terms of the sun — low, yellowy color temperatures mimic the tone of light at sunrise or sunset, while hotter, more bluish-white color temperatures are more akin to daylight (sure enough, bulbs with color temperatures like these are commonly called “daylight” bulbs). This is also why a lot of people prefer high color temperatures during the day and lower color temperatures in the morning and evening.

Generally speaking, incandescents sit at the bottom of the scale with their yellow light, while CFLs and LEDs have long been thought to tend toward the high, bluish end of the spectrum. This has been a steady complaint about new lighting alternatives, as many people prefer the warm, familiar, low color temperature of incandescents. Manufacturers are listening, though, and in this case they heard consumers loud and clear, with more and more low-color-temperature CFL and LED options hitting the shelves. Don’t believe me? Take another look at those two paper lamps in the picture above, because they’re both CFL bulbs — from the same manufacturer, no less.

Sylvania often color codes its packaging. Blue indicates a hot, bluish color temperature, while the lighter shade indicates a white, more neutral light.

Bulb shape

As you’re probably aware, light bulbs come in a fairly wide variety of shapes. Sure, it’s easy enough to tell a hardware store clerk that you want “one of those flamey-looking lights,” or “just a normal ol’ bulby light bulb,” but knowing the actual nomenclature might save you some time.

Watch this

Let’s start with the base of the bulb, the part that screws in. In the US, the most common shape by far is E26, with the “E” standing for Edison and the “26” referring to the diameter of the base in millimeters. You might also see E2bulbs from time to time, which is the European standard. Those should still fit into common American fixtures, but keep in mind that voltage ratings are different in the two regions, with American bulbs rated for 120 volts compared to 220-240 volts in Europe. For smaller sockets, like you might find with a candelabra, you’ll want to look for an E1base.

As for the bulb itself, the typical shape that you’re probably used to is an A1bulb. Increase that number to A2or A23, and you’ve got the same shape, but bigger. Bulbs made to resemble flames are F-shaped, which is easy enough to remember, as are globes, which go by the letter G. If it’s a floodlight you want, you’ll want to look for “BR” (bulging reflector) or “PAR” (parabolic aluminized reflector). Those bulbs are designed to throw all their light in one direction only, which makes them useful for spot lighting, overhead lighting and the headlights in your car.

Your automated-lighting options

It used to be that if you wanted your lights to turn on and off automatically, then you had to rely on a cheap wall socket timer, the kind you might use to control a Christmas tree. These days, with a modest boom in smart lighting currently under way, it’s easier than ever to dive into the sort of advanced automation controls that can make any home feel modern and futuristic. Use the right devices, and you’ll be able to control your lights in all sorts of creative ways, and make your life a little bit easier in the process.

The most obvious way to get started with smart lighting is with the bulbs themselves. You’ve got plenty of intelligent options from brands both big and small, and to find the one that’s best for you, you’re going to need to understand what sets them apart.

The first thing to look at is how the bulbs communicate with you. Some offer direct connections with your smart phone via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, which makes setup as simple as screwing the thing in and following in-app pairing instructions.

Others transmit using a distinct frequency like ZigBee or Z-Wave. Bulbs like those might be a better fit for bigger smart home setups, as it’s typically a little easier to sync them up with things like motion detectors and smart locks. Setup can be slightly more advanced, as you’ll need a separate hub or gateway device capable of translating that distinct frequency into a Wi-Fi signal your router can comprehend.

Some smart bulbs come with their own gateway. Others, like the Cree Connected LED, require a third-party control device, like the Wink Hub.

Color control

If you’re looking for a little more color in your life, then be sure and take a look at a product like the Philips Hue Starter Kit. Aside from being fully automatable via a mobile app and control hub, the Hue LED bulbs are capable of on-demand color changes. Just pull out your phone, select one of millions of possible shades, and the light will match it. And if you’re into voice control, Hue bulbs hit the compatibility trifecta — they’ll work with Siri, Alexa, and the Google Assistant.

Hue lights are also directly compatible with the popular web service IFTTT, with recipes already available that will change the color of your lights to match the weather, or to signal a touchdown from your favorite football team, or even to indicate when your stocks are doing well.

Recent Products

The Sony ICFCis another cool alarm clock that is on the lower end of the pricing range. It has a cool, simple, compact design that will seamlessly fit in with the decor of your bedroom.

Added Features

That’s pretty much it, right? Not quite. Alarm clocks are becoming stocked with some wild and fun features that make them not only a lot more enjoyable to use but also a lot more calming and less disruptive when it concerns getting you out of bed in the morning.

Here are just a few examples of what companies are doing with alarm clocks today.

Isn’t that wild? There is an abundance of options out there that helps you to get better sleep and make waking up more pleasant.

Elder Friendly Features of Alarm Clocks

Having an alarm clock keeps us alert, responsible, and on top of our schedule. They are particularly important for aging adults, who might be on a strict sleep schedule; relying on your internal clock might cause one to oversleep and in consequence make it harder to fall asleep later that day.  Furthermore, take into account that seniors are prone to memory loss; an alarm clock, functioning as a loud auditory reminder, also might help provide the usually forgetful about certain tasks. With the ability to tell time and provide us with constant reminders, consider the alarm clock a highly useful device for aging adults. Though, it is important to realize that not all alarm clocks are made the same. Pending on your own physiological needs, there are certain features that seniors should look for in an alarm clock. We hope that our guide will provide you with the tools needed to pick out the appropriate alarm clock.

What to Look For in an Alarm Clock

 

 

 

 

 

Final Word

First of all thanks for reading my article to the end! I hope you find my reviews listed here useful and that it allows you to make a proper comparison of what is best to fit your needs and budget. Don’t be afraid to try more than one product if your first pick doesn’t do the trick.

Most important, have fun and choose your ceiling projection clock wisely! Good luck!

So, TOP3 of ceiling projection clock

• №1 —
• №2 — HoMedics
• №3 — Electrohome EAAC601 Projection Alarm Clock with AM/FM Radio