A wakeup light is my secret weapon against dark and depressing mornings — here are 9 worth picking up as we head into autumn

As autumn approaches and mornings grow darker, sunrise alarm clocks are gaining popularity as a tool to improve sleep quality and morning alertness. These devices mimic natural sunlight, gradually brightening to wake users gently rather than through abrupt, aggressive alarms. Beyond basic brightening features, advanced models offer customizable soundscapes—ranging from nature sounds to white noise—and sunset functions designed to assist with winding down in the evening. Brands such as Lumie, Philips, Hatch, and Beurer lead the market with various options, including integrated radio and specialized sleep-wake features. While some users may find specific nature sounds distracting, the consensus suggests that these devices significantly reduce morning grogginess. With a wide variety of models available, consumers can choose between simple light-based alarms or comprehensive, all-in-one sleep solutions to help navigate the transition into darker, colder months.