The best clock radio: Keeping you on schedule
Contributing Editor
The perfect blend of practicality and convenience, the best clock radio keeps your life on schedule, and offers entertainment. Clock radios are extremely common these days.
In a world that’s packed full of exciting digital tools and ever-evolving tech, our tabletop and portable radios can do everything from Bluetooth streaming to charging our phones.
Some of the more advanced radios on the market can let you take calls hands-free in between sessions of talk radio, while others give you access to hundreds of online channels thanks to an embedded Wi-Fi connection.
No matter how advanced the modern radio becomes, there’s one feature we’ll always need on a great radio: a clock.
Clock radios have been around for decades now, ensuring anyone and everyone can keep track of the time, whether they’re in their living room, driving to work, or pumping iron at the gym.
The best clock radios can include everything from emergency devices you can take with you on your next hike and power with sunlight, to beside radios that double up as an alarm.
To help you keep your life ticking along smoothly, we’ve researched some of the best sounding clock radio products on the market, as well as those with the best reception, features, and added extras.
Here’s your guide to the ultimate clock radios available today.
1. Prunus J-288 clock radio (best mini radio)
If you’re looking for the best clock radio to take with you around the house, or even into the garden, the Prunus J-288 could be just the thing.
This lightweight and portable AM/FM clock radio is perfect for the person on the go, with a slim design that can even fit in your pocket.
There’s an extra-long antenna included so you can enjoy a better quality of reception too.
Whether you’re listening through headphones or the in-built speakers, the Prunus will deliver an excellent quality of sound.
There’s a USB flash-drive input included and a TF flashcard slot for playing your own music too.
You even get a Bluetooth connection for streaming. We were blown away by the functionality of this tiny radio, and how effective it is for such a compact device.
Features include:
- Excellent AM/FM reception
- Headphone jack for private listening
- TF card and USB drive
- Bluetooth streaming
- Hands-free calling with in-built microphone
- Power-saving battery
- Aux input option
- Bright clock display
The LCD screen goes into sleep mode on this device when you haven’t used it for a while, but you can always just tap a button to check the time.
You can also set a sleep timer to decide when your alarm should switch off.
On the downside, there’s no alarm function, and we couldn’t turn down the brightness of the screen either.
Pros:
- Good AM/FM reception
- Power-saving battery performance
- Bluetooth streaming and multiple input options
- Hands-free calling included
- Good quality of sound
Cons:
- Limited volume
- No option to change the brightness of the screen
- Clock doesn’t have an alarm function
2. Fuse Vert clock radio (best for vinyl)
If you’re looking for the best sounding clock radio that also looks incredible on your bedside table or living room counter – look no further.
This Fuse Vert clock radio is one of the most eye-catching products we’ve seen on the market.
Offering a combination of a vinyl record player, FM radio, and alarm system, the Fuse Vert seems to have it all.
The unique design of this product is fantastic for drawing attention. It holds your records up vertically so you can see them spinning in real-time. Trust us when we say this is sure to be a talking point in any home.
What’s more, because the device is carved out of real wood, it’s ready to stand the test of time too.
Perfect for bringing the future and the past together in one, this clock radio is brimming with potential.
You’ll get:
- Unique vintage record player
- 5-watt full-range speakers
- Wooden casing
- FM radio with presets
- Bluetooth streaming
- USB flash-drive and aux-in
- Easy to use design
- Clock with alarm function
This isn’t the smallest clock radio we’ve seen, so it might not fit well into every bedroom.
If, however, you’ve got a lot of space around the house, and you want to show off your love of music in a unique way, you’re going to love this product.
We particularly like the alarm functions built-in, to help you organise your day.
Pros:
- Stunning and unique design
- Alarm clock function
- Excellent sound quality
- Built-in record player
- Bluetooth streaming
Cons:
- Not a great deal of volume
- Wood can warp in the heat
3. Sony Compact clock radio (best compact)
If you’re looking for something small to fit perfectly into a compact bedroom, then we’ve got the best clock radio for you.
The Sony Compact AM/FM radio comes with everything you need for your bedroom, including a time projection feature that allows you to display the time on your wall or ceiling in seconds.
There’s a gradual wake alarm to help you rise slowly when you don’t want too much of a shock.
The clear LCD screen comes with adjustable brightness, so you can reduce the glare of the numbers and limit your chances of being woken up mid-dream.
Another fantastic feature of the Sony Compact clock radio is it comes with the option to fall asleep to soothing nature sounds too, with a range of different options to choose from.
You will get features like:
- AM/FM radio with 10 presets
- Soothing nature sounds
- Fantastic sleep timer
- Dual alarm functionality
- Gentle gradual alarm sounds
- Adjustable display brightness
- Time projection feature
- USB port for playing your own music
There are a lot of things to love about this radio, including the fact it automatically sets the time according to things like daylight savings.
What’s more, there’s a considerable snooze button for when you want just another ten minutes in bed.
On the downside, there’s no Bluetooth or any advanced features, which is odd given the hefty price tag.
The instructions for this clock radio can be quite difficult to follow.
Pros:
- Great compact design
- AM/FM radio options
- Projection for your clock
- Adjustable display brightness
- Soothing relaxation sounds
Cons:
- Difficult to use at times
- No Bluetooth for a hefty price tag
4. DreamSky clock and radio (best with temperature)
These days, the best clock radio products can deliver a lot more features than you might expect.
Enter the DreamSky clock radio; it doesn’t just tell the time, it also shows you the temperature outside too!
This elegant digital alarm clock comes with a range of dimmer options for the display, so you don’t have to worry about being woken up by blinking lights.
There’s only FM radio on this clock, so you won’t be able to listen to AM or shortwave. On the plus side, the FM radio comes with an excellent reception, and multiple pre-sets to choose from.
An extra USB charging port means you can charge your devices through your clock, rather than searching for an extra outlet.
There’s an adjustable alarm sound and multiple snooze options to choose from too.
Features of the DreamSky clock and radio include:
- USB charging port for external devices
- Multiple dimmer options for the screen
- Digital FM radio
- Adjustable alarm sound
- Multiple snooze options
- Battery backup feature
- Clear LCD screen
There’s no Bluetooth included with this device, and it’s missing a few extra features that would make it more appealing, like AM radio.
You do, however, get a USB charging station built-in. What’s more, the fact there’s a battery backup to ensure you never miss your alarm is great for some extra peace of mind.
Pros:
- Backup battery included
- Multiple alarm options
- Dimmable display
- USB device charging
- Adjustable snooze
Cons:
- No Bluetooth or AM radio
- Not the best sounding clock radio
- Limited reception
5. Brandstand CubieBlue (best for charging)
Have you ever lamented the fact you have too few outlets next to your bed? Maybe you need to keep a diffuser, laptop, and smartphone plugged in on your nightstand, but there’s just not enough space?
The Brandstand CubieBlue could be the ideal option.
Perhaps the best clock radio for charging purposes, this device comes with two tamper-resistant USB ports so you can charge anything with ease.
The alarm clock is incredibly easy to set, so you don’t have to interpret instructions for hours on end.
Aside from FM radio, this device comes with access to a Bluetooth speaker so you can stream your favorite music straight from your phone.
There’s also a backup battery built-in just in case your power goes off at any point during the night.
The great thing about this clock radio is the charging ports aren’t just suitable for phones. Aside from 2 USB ports, you also get 2 outlets that can deliver enough power for CPAP machines and computers too.
Features include:
- Dimmable display with 3 light levels
- Easy-to-use alarm clock
- Two outlets for bigger machines
- 2 USB charging ports
- Bluetooth streaming
- Battery backup built-in
- Automatic update for daylight savings time
- Surge protector plug
There’s even a pass-through plug included on this device, so when it’s plugged into your wall, you can still plug something else in on top of it.
This is one of the most convenient charging devices we’ve ever seen, it just happens to come with an FM radio and clock feature too!
Pros:
- Excellent range of charging options
- Fantastic dimmable screen
- Easy-to-use alarm
- Battery backup included
- Bluetooth streaming
Cons:
- Bluetooth range could be a little better
- FM radio reception is limited
6. Sangean WR-2 AM/FM (best reception)
Sometimes, getting the best clock means compromising on the quality of your radio’s performance. That doesn’t have to be the case with this product from Sangean.
A compact tabletop radio with in-built clock and excellent tuning, the Sangean WR-2 AM/FM system has it all.
One of the best reception clock radio options we’ve seen, the Sangean gives you in-depth control over your tuning. What’s more, there’s acoustic bass compensation for a richer sound too.
With 10 memory pre-sets to choose from, you can find your favorite channels at the touch of a button.
The clock feature in this device comes with an alarm function that allows you to wake up to the sound of the radio, or a buzzer.
There’s an adjustable sleep and snooze function built-in too.
The Sangean WR-2 AM/FM includes:
- Stereo headphone output
- Backlit LCD display with dimmer adjustments
- 10 memory preset stations
- Multiple alarm and snooze options
- Acoustic bass compensation
- Attractive wooden enclosure
- 3-inch front-firing speaker
- Advanced digital tuning system
For such a small cabinet, the Sangean delivers a lot of fantastic sound.
The easy-to-read LCD comes with the option to change the brightness according to three different levels. That means you don’t have to worry about your clock radio keeping you awake.
One downside is the bass can be quite overwhelming on higher volumes.
Also, the alarm functionality can be a bit tricky to use.
Pros:
- Attractive traditional design
- Excellent tuning and reception
- Good sound quality and volume
- Bass boost feature
- Sleep and snooze function
Cons:
- Difficult to set the alarm
- Bass is a bit much on higher volumes
7. Byron Statics clock radio (best retro)
The Byron Statics clock radio might not be the most advanced device we’ve seen on the market, but it is one of the more eye-catching options.
Designed with a unique retro aesthetic, this radio features an analogue clock, and a digital clock, so you get the best of both worlds.
With excellent reception and an extra-long antenna, you can rest assured you’ll be able to find a range of channels to listen to.
The alarm clock comes with a gradual sound wake-up feature, which means you don’t have to worry about waking up to the shrill sound of a bell.
There’s a timer built-in, so you can make sure your clock radio goes to sleep at the same time you do.
You’ll have access to features like:
- FM radio with excellent reception
- Telescopic antenna
- Portable and compact design
- Analog and digital clock
- Built-in snooze timer
- Dimmer for the digital clock
- Back-up battery support
- Alarm clock with gradual wake-up
If you’re looking for a clock radio with a unique retro appeal, then this could be the purchase for you.
There aren’t, however, a lot of advanced features to explore here. There’s only FM radio to choose from, which limits your options, and you can’t stream content via Bluetooth.
While the reception is good, it’s not the best sounding clock radio around.
Pros:
- Attractive retro design
- Portable and compact
- Built-in snooze timer and gradual wakeup
- Dimmer for your digital clock
- Back-up battery
Cons:
- No advanced features
- Not perfect sound
- Limited FM channels
8. I-box wireless charging radio (best with QI)
If you’re looking for something a little more futuristic in your clock radio, how about something that can charge your device wirelessly as you sleep?
This bedside clock from i-box combines QI wireless charging with a dual alarm so you can set your schedule to suit you.
The compact shape of the radio means it fits well into any room, no matter the size.
What’s more, because there are five illumination options for the LED clock, you can avoid too much distracting light while you sleep.
Despite its small sound, the i-box is surprisingly good at delivering an incredible level of room-filling sound.
You can tune into FM or play your own music via Bluetooth streaming.
There’s also 10 pre-sets available to help you find the right channels faster. To make life even easier, this wireless charging clock radio even comes with an extra USB port for powering a second device.
Features of the I-box wireless charging radio includes:
- Dimmable LED display
- USB port for secondary charging
- QI wireless charging pad
- FM radio with 10 presets
- Dual alarm functionality
- Wake up to FM stations or a buzzer
- 12-month warranty included
- Bluetooth connection for wireless streaming
- Large and tactile snooze button
The i-box is a fantastic option for anyone who wants a modern clock radio with a few bonus features.
You can choose between a 12-hour and 24-hour clock display, and the dimming levels mean it’s easy to find something that doesn’t disrupt your sleep.
On the downside, this product is a little pricey, and it can be difficult to get your phone situated on the QI charge just right.
Pros:
- Excellent Bluetooth connection
- Dual alarms with snooze function
- Wireless and wired charging options
- Great dimmable display
- Nice compact design
Cons:
- QI charging is fiddly to use
- Quite expensive
- No AM radio
9. Crolitec smart clock radio (best with smart speaker)
Sticking with the idea of finding a more modern option for your best clock radio, let’s take a look at the Crolitec smart radio.
This fantastic device combines soothing light-changing features with alarm clock functionality to help you wake up on the right side of the bed.
The linear light simulates sunrises and sunsets, to work with your circadian rhythm. You can set your sunrise light to begin at the same time as your morning alarm, for a more natural waking experience.
There are a range of snooze times to choose from, and multiple alarm settings to suit different needs.
This device comes with smart app voice control. You can link it with Amazon Alexa or Google Home to set your alarms or switch between FM stations with nothing but your voice.
Along with FM radio, you also get 7 natural sounds to choose from when you need help relaxing too.
You’ll get:
- Natural sunrise and sunset lighting
- Smart app voice control
- Extended snooze and alarm timers
- Multiple alarm wake-up options
- FM radio with automatic searching
- Natural sounds for relaxation
- High-level volume adjustments
- Phone charging USB
Change the way you fall asleep and wake up each morning with a clock that uses light, as well as sound to help you start your day.
This intelligent clock and radio is bound to be a fun option for anyone who might be sick of their old-fashioned alarm clock.
It also comes with a USB port for charging your device while you snooze.
On the downside, the snooze button and other buttons can be a little difficult to find when you’re sleepy.
Pros:
- Sunrise and sunset lighting
- Smart app control
- FM radio with searching
- Phone USB charging
- Attractive design
Cons:
- Bright clock display
- Hard to find the buttons when sleepy
How to choose the best radio alarm clock
Like most things in the world of radio shopping, finding the right clock radio all depends on what you’re looking for.
If you’re looking for something that looks incredible and can play more of your music collection when you’re bored, then the Fuse Vert clock radio could be the ideal choice. We were impressed by its unique design and its fantastic full-range speakers.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for the best compact radio to fit into a smaller bedroom, then you might prefer something like the Sony, with its sleep timer functionality, soothing nature sounds to help you fall asleep, and time projection feature.
Here are just some of the features worth thinking about when you’re looking for your new clock radio:
Features
Besides your clock, what more do you need from your radio? Are you looking for something that has both AM/FM connections? Do you need a device that can stream music from your phone and external devices with Bluetooth? Are you hoping for the best clock radio CD player? For charging functionality, we love the Brandstand CubieBlue, which allows you to charge up to five devices from one clock!
Alarm options
What sort of alarm options are you looking for with your clock? Do you want something that just tells the time, or a radio clock that also comes with dual alarms for both the weekend and the weekdays? We love the Crolitec smart clock as an option for waking up with something other than a shrill beeping noise each day. The natural sunrise and sunset features are great for managing your circadian rhythm.
Design
Exploring design options with a clock radio means thinking about how it looks and what it can do. The Fuse Vert clock looks incredible, but it won’t be able to fit into a compact space as well as the Sony clock radio. On the other hand, the i-box wireless charging radio combines QI charging with a compact and attractive design, so you get extra functionality without taking up too much space.
Controls
How much control will you have over your alarm clock radio? The Sony compact radio allows you to project your time onto a wall or your bedroom ceiling, but you can’t control it with just your voice. On the other hand, the Crolitec smart clock connects with Amazon Alexa or Google Home so you can control it from a distance, but there aren’t as many options for dimming your clock display.
Portability
Do you want an alarm you can take with you when you go camping or travel around the world? Something large and bulky like the Sangean might give you a great tuning experience, but it’s not very portable. For those who want to travel, we would recommend sticking with something lightweight and compact, like the Prunus J-288.
Which is the best clock radio?
The best clock radio all depends on you and what you want out of your new investment.
In terms of design, we’re split between the Fuse Vert clock for its stylish appearance and ability to play vinyl records, and the Crolitec for its sunset and sunrise features.
For reception and sound quality, you can’t go wrong with the Sangean WR-2 AM/FM.
This high-performance speaker comes with an acoustic bass compensation built-in to help you get a better quality of sound. The advanced digital tuning system means finding the right channels is easier than ever.
Which clock radio will you be investing in? Don’t forget to check out our other reviews and lists for insights into some of the other top-rated radios on the market today.
Radio Fidelity: For the love of radio.
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