Projection Clocks
We’ve all craned our neck and squinted in the middle of the night to see what time it is, how long before the alarm goes off, or how much time has passed since we zoned out.
A projection clocks is sometimes called a ceiling clock because, besides appearing on the clock face, the time is projected by a beam of light to create an enlarged image of the clock face on any suitable projection surface, most often the ceiling. See one once and you’ll shake your head in agreement over what a cool idea it is.
Projection clocks come in a wide variety of formats and offer lots of features besides the time display. Many also receive a wireless signal from an outdoor sensor and also show the temperature. Some give you indicators of the weather forecast. Others project other information, like business logos or news alerts.
They essentially come in two varieties – low-brightness (using a red LED-based projector) and high-brightness (powered by a powerful halogen bulb) and two formats – analog or digital. Prices range from under $20 to over $100, depending on the bells and whistles. They are widely available at many of the big box retail stores, though, as always, shopping online provides invariably better prices and selection.
We here at bestprojectionclocks.com try to review all of them and share our findings here with you. Based on our experience, the one feature we most recommend you consider when looking for the best projection clock to purchase is to make sure it it receives atomic time. Provided by the US National Institute of Standards and Technology, Time and Frequency Division, Boulder, Colorado, atomic time is measured through vibrations of atoms in a metal isotope that resembles mercury. The result is extremely accurate time that is broadcast wirelessly and is received by the better projection clocks, thus insuring accuracy.
We also strongly urge you to make sure you get a projection alarm clock. The numbers may be bright and easy to read up there on the ceiling but if you are fast asleep, you need a little help to open those eyes.
You can browse through our blog and product review posts to find the right model for you. And if we can help in any way, don’t hesitate to e-mail us.