
This device is also larger than the typical alarm clock, and it's somewhat heavy to move around - not ideal for small bedside tables with limited space. However, the app-controlled version is about $100 more. I prefer a more customizable option with extra features that help me keep track of my sleep, and that's why I continue using the Philips SmartSleep Connected. For instance, it lacks the AmbiTrack sensor that monitors my sleep environment and encourages better sleep habits. This device doesn't have the extra features from the Philips SmartSleep Connected that I love. First, it would be ideal if it could be controlled through the SmartSleep app. There are a few things that the Philips SmartSleep is missing. (I suggest tapping on it very slightly, as too much force might cause damage to the unit.) The alarm sound stops, but the light stays on for up to nine minutes. I snoozed my alarm by tapping softly on the front of the device. The Philips SmartSleep mimics one of the most invigorating and natural sunrises that I have seen in a wake-up lamp. I set it to wake me up gradually over 30 minutes to the gentle sounds of "Nepal bowls." Waking up to the serene sunrise simulation with beautiful, refreshing orange-and-yellow hues and the uplifting sounds was such a pleasant experience. I set my weekly wake-up alarm by pressing through the soft-touch controls to select my preferred light intensity, sound level, and wake-up time. The guide provides step-by-step, illustrated instructions that I was able to follow as I configured the device. Setting up my Philips wake-up lamp was easy with its user-friendly instructions. It's a much simpler model compared to the app-enabled Philips SmartSleep Connected and is also completely manual. Users can also adjust their wake-up profile to gradually brighten for 20 to 40 minutes (30 minutes by default). The time display can be set to a 12- or 24-hour clock. The smart snooze lasts only up to nine minutes and can be activated with a slight tap. The Philips SmartSleep is also meant to be used as a bedside lamp that can be switched on and off by pressing the corresponding side button. What's great about this device is that it mimics such a beautiful sunrise that gradually prepares your body for a more gentle and refreshing wake-up experience. When I tested the Philips SmartSleep Wake-Up Light for our best sunrise alarm guide, I experienced reduced sleep inertia and enhanced mood in the first couple of nights using it. A similar study found that exposure to the same type of artificial light had a positive effect on individuals' cognitive performance, well-being, and mood. A research study found that symptoms of sleep inertia had decreased in people who were exposed to an artificial dawn signal in the morning. Fortunately, there are some solutions to reduce those unpleasant episodes.
If for some reason you're unable to wake up to natural sunlight (for example, if you sleep with blackout curtains, like me) you're most likely waking up to the jarring sound of an alarm, often resulting in sleep inertia. The rising sun in the morning triggers the production of cortisol as we're gradually exposed to its natural light - this serves as a natural indicator to our biological clock to shift from being asleep to awake. In addition to good sleep habits, one good solution to wake up feeling more refreshed and in a better mood is by reducing those sudden awakenings. In sleep science, we refer to this as " sleep inertia." This temporary physiological state is the result of an abrupt awakening that interferes with the natural transition from sleep to wakefulness.

Many Amazon customers have said this alarm clock has helped make waking up easier, allowing them to be more alert and ready for the day to begin than traditional alarm clocks, which can leave users feeling pretty groggy, not to mention that horrible spike in heart rate when your alarm scares you out of sleep.Waking up to a blaring alarm can be a startling experience that provokes confusion, grogginess, and irritability.


Our very own deputy editor tried a copycat version from a less expensive brand and ran into a myriad of issues with it, including difficulty programming it, harsh sound options, and a subpar light gradient compared to the Philips light. It’s worth grabbing while it’s at a discount instead of trying to go for an off-brand version. The Philips wake-up light is a little on the pricey side, but the good news is that right now it’s 20% off on Amazon. Better yet, it has a snooze button on the top like a traditional alarm clock. It can also function as an FM radio and a bedside light. You can also program the light to simulate both a sunset and a sunrise to help you drift off and wake up with gradual, rather than abrupt, light. What makes this alarm clock so special? For one, there are 20 brightness settings and five wake-up sounds to choose from.
