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To test the clock radios, we spent a few nights with each model. This allowed us to judge the ergonomics, the handling and the quality of display of each. We took into account the design as well as the size on the bedside table. For the power supply, we measured the length of the cable as well as the presence of a battery compartment or a memorization of the settings to cope with power cuts. Regarding the features, we focused mainly on those related to sleep and radio.

The selection of the 4 best clock radios to choose in 2023

  • Google Nest Hub (2nd generation): the best features
  • Lenco iCR-210: the most classic
  • JBL Horizon2: the most stylish
  • Philips HF3531/01: the dawn simulator

Google Nest Hub (2nd generation): the best features

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This connected model has all the latest features necessary to fall asleep and wake up in the best conditions. It has a touch screen, voice assistance, and limited buttons, making it intuitive to use. What we really appreciated in our tests was the sleep analysis which turned out to be very consistent. We found the sound to be in good quality, and it allows you to stream music on Spotify. We just regret the lack of USB-C port, and some settings must be made by the Google Home application.

The most:

  • Sleep analysis
  • Features (dawn simulator, relaxing sounds...)

Cons:

  • No USB-C port
  • Settings by Google Home

Lenco iCR-210: the most classic

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Compact and lightweight, this alarm clock fits perfectly on the bedside table. With its screen reduced to the essentials, it has nine buttons very well located but quite noisy. Thanks to the clear instruction manual, everything is rather simple to understand and during our test, we quickly got used to how it works. It can plug into an outlet or run on batteries. Functions include dual alarm, reminder function, sleep timer and frequency memorization. On the other hand, if the radio reception is good, the sound quality is quite average.

The most:

  • Simple and effective
  • Easy to learn

The least:

  • Average sound quality

JBL Horizon2: the most stylish

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With an elegant but quite massive design, this clock radio blends perfectly into a decoration. Its brightness sensor does not dazzle you at night. Its large wheel allows you to adjust the different features (double alarm, Snooze, memorization ...). But, what impressed us most during our tests was its great power, excellent sound quality and Bluetooth connection to use it as a speaker. Downside, we would have preferred USB-C ports instead of 2 USB-A ports to charge our smartphone.

The most:

  • Design
  • Sound quality

The least:

  • No USB-C port

Philips HF3531/01: the dawn simulator

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This dawn simulator is the most bulky model we have tested. It combines touch and physical buttons The adjustable brightness makes it possible to cope with any environment. It has an interesting combination of natural lights and sounds. In addition, there are an interesting amount of settings for custom use and during our test, we found the alarm clock very pleasant. It also serves as a bedside lamp. Despite this, there are some shortcomings and the absence of USB-C ports.

The most:

  • Its brightness
  • Its features

Cons:

  • Does not remember stations
  • No USB-C port

Other models tested

  • Metronic 477003: This simple model has some basic features. Its radio reception is good but its sound quality is really not pleasant. It remains interesting for its price.
  • Echo Dot (5th generation): This screenless speaker can be used as an Alexa. All settings are made from the app. To can also create routines which is interesting.
  • Echo Show 8 (2nd generation): It adapts to its environment but lacks a little responsiveness. It can be used with voice commands and has routines. On the other hand, it is bulky on a nightstand and some options are dependent on a powerful Wi-Fi and the Prime subscription.
  • Geemarc Sonic Bomb: This bomb-shaped alarm clock is quite aggressive and has a powerful alarm and vibrates. He does not own the radio.
  • Philips HF3505/01: This dawn simulator is intuitive and simple. It is also very nice. It lacks a few features, however.

3 key criteria for choosing the right clock radio

According to our product experts, here are the key criteria to consider when choosing your clock radio.

Ergonomics and resistance

Some alarm clocks come in different styles and shapes but, it is especially necessary to think about the practical aspect

Ensure readability, robustness so that it is as practical as possible according to your needs

Features

  • Clock radios can now have a variety of functions, it's up to you to determine which ones seem essential to you
  • The connected aspect allows you to program your device via an app
  • Double alarm is handy if you need to wake up 2 people with a single alarm clock
  • The audio quality that will allow a more pleasant sound
  • Other additional features exist such as the digital tuner, sleep programming, ceiling time display and dawn or dusk simulator

The battery

  • Alarm clocks work either with a mains outlet or batteries
  • The battery may be needed in the event of a power outage to help you out

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