Sleep phase alarm clock: three models in comparison

Get up easier
Sleep phase alarm clock for morning grouches: three models in comparison

In contrast to a normal alarm clock, the sleep phase alarm clock should recognize the perfect time to wake us up. This is made possible by a permanent analysis of our movements during sleep – and the associated different phases of sleep. They provide information about how deeply we are currently sleeping. Because the fact is: In a light sleep phase it is much more pleasant to be woken up and rested to start the day than in a deep sleep phase. You probably know that too: if you suddenly wake up, you feel dull and sluggish. This feeling usually runs through the whole day. To make it easier to get up, a sleep phase alarm clock can be useful. But how exactly does it actually work and how do the current models differ? An attempt to explain.

How does a sleep phase alarm clock work?

Before we go into how it works, you need to know that there are two different types of sleep phase alarm clocks: those that can record brain activity – and those that measure (physical) movement. The first variant is not intended for private use, but is used in professional sleep laboratories. The second variant, on the other hand, is suitable for at home and is therefore decisive for the following summary.

A basic distinction is made between four different sleep phases:

As the name suggests, the phases are on the one hand about the duration and on the other hand about the intensity of sleep: In the light sleep and REM phases (REM stands for Rapid Eye Movement and translates as “rapid eye movement”) We dream a lot and move accordingly more. If we are woken up in one of these phases, for example because the alarm clock goes off, it is usually very easy to get up. In the deep sleep phase, on the other hand, our body recovers from the previous day, so that we move less – and sleep particularly soundly. As a result, we automatically feel limp and exhausted when we are suddenly woken up. And that’s exactly why there is the sleep phase alarm clock. He should be able to recognize the light and deep sleep phases of a person in order to wake him up more gently. This is made possible by recognizing the increased movements during the light sleep and REM phases.

Analysis: How to evaluate your sleep

We usually set an alarm clock to wake us up exactly when we want to get up. Which can inevitably lead to us being torn from a deep sleep phase. With the sleep phase alarm clock, however, no time is set, but a period of time – as soon as you know your morning almost-awake phases. In order to determine this, the device must be fed with data. The technology required for analysis can be found in the following models, for example:

1. Sleep sensor plus Sleep phase alarm clock

This is a so-called sleep sensor from Beurer that you can use for professional sleep analysis: The SleepExpert only has to be pushed under your mattress to measure and evaluate your movements while you sleep. According to the manufacturer, the device is able to differentiate between light and deep, awake and REM sleep phases. This means that the model can also be used as a sleep phase alarm clock. With the help of the collected data and the integrated fresh wake function, you will be gently woken up every morning in the right phase.

2. Smartwatch or fitness tracker

Most digital wristwatches are now also able to measure your movements while you sleep: The Apple Watch Series 3 for example, you can use the “Sleep Cycle” app to record and analyze your sleep phases. You then have the opportunity to evaluate the data and adapt it to your inner rhythm. In other words, you set the alarm clock on your watch so that it always wakes you up during the period when you are in a light or REM sleep phase. Alternatively, you can also use a fitness tracker, such as von Fitbit – or a cheaper variant of Yamay.

3. Sleep cycle tracker plus light alarm clock

This is also a kind of sensor that is placed under the mattress and analyzes your sleep cycle (i.e. your heart rate, breathing cycles and movements). According to the manufacturer, it can Aura Sleep System The Withings will use the data it collects to gently wake you up when you are lightly asleep. In addition to the intelligent wake-up function “Smart WakeUP”, the device also includes a light alarm clock: The dimmable LED light is said to have a positive effect on your sleep-wake cycle by using certain light waves that produce melatonin (the sleepy hormone) can contribute.

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