The Hatch Restore 3, the latest iteration of Hatch’s popular smart sleep clock, builds upon its predecessors with a focus on enhancing both the falling asleep and waking up experience. While retaining the core functionality of the previous models, particularly its strength as a sound machine, the Restore 3 introduces key design changes and improvements to brightness, making it a more compelling option for those seeking a comprehensive sleep solution. The original Restore, launched in 2020, paved the way for this third-generation model, which boasts a larger footprint and a revamped button layout designed for more intuitive control. This evolution addresses some of the shortcomings of the Restore 2, particularly its inadequate brightness for a sunrise alarm, while expanding upon its strengths in soundscapes and guided sleep content.
One of the most noticeable changes in the Restore 3 is its physical design. Departing from the minimalist two-button setup of the Restore 2, the new model features a more complex array of controls. Three buttons reside on the top: a pause button for temporarily halting any ongoing routine, an “Unwind Swap” button for toggling between pre-selected bedtime routines (up to three with a Hatch+ subscription), and the prominent “Big Button.” This multi-functional Big Button serves as the central control, initiating bedtime routines, progressing through different sleep stages, snoozing the alarm, and even acting as a volume dial. Furthermore, two side-mounted buttons offer direct access to a bedside lamp feature and alarm toggling, adding to the device’s versatility and ease of use.
The enhanced control scheme reflects Hatch’s emphasis on customizable sleep routines. Through the accompanying Hatch Sleep app, users can curate personalized sequences of soundscapes, meditations, and even podcast episodes from Hatch’s own “Pillow Talk” series. This tailored approach allows individuals to create an optimal sleep environment according to their preferences, facilitating a smoother transition to sleep. The Unwind Swap button further simplifies this process, enabling quick switching between different pre-saved routines for added convenience. While the app remains largely unchanged from previous iterations, the refined hardware interface of the Restore 3 allows for more immediate and tactile interaction with these customized routines.
Addressing a significant drawback of the Restore 2, the Restore 3 boasts a significantly brighter light. This improvement directly impacts its effectiveness as a sunrise alarm, providing a more natural and gradual awakening experience. The increased brightness ensures that the simulated sunrise is potent enough to rouse even the heaviest sleepers, a feature often lacking in previous models and other competing sunrise alarm clocks. Combined with the soothing soundscapes and guided content, the brighter light contributes to a more pleasant and refreshing wake-up experience, aligning with the principles of circadian rhythm regulation.
Beyond its function as a sunrise alarm, the Restore 3 excels as a versatile sound machine. Its extensive library of soundscapes, ambient noises, and sleep stories provides a rich auditory environment conducive to relaxation and sleep. This focus on audio content sets the Hatch Restore apart from many competitors, offering a more immersive and engaging experience. Whether it’s the gentle rustling of leaves, the calming rhythm of ocean waves, or a narrated sleep story, the Restore 3 offers a diverse array of options to cater to individual preferences and promote deeper sleep.
The addition of a dedicated bedside lamp button further enhances the Restore 3’s functionality. This feature allows users to easily activate a soft, ambient light, transforming the device into a convenient bedside lamp. This eliminates the need for a separate lamp and contributes to a clutter-free nightstand. The integration of a bedside lamp feature within the smart sleep clock streamlines the bedtime routine and reinforces the Restore 3’s role as a central hub for sleep-related functions.
While the Hatch Restore 3 represents a significant step forward in smart sleep technology, its core strength lies in its comprehensive approach to sleep. It’s not just a sunrise alarm clock or a sound machine; it’s a holistic sleep system designed to optimize both the falling asleep and waking up processes. The combination of customizable routines, enhanced brightness, a robust sound library, and convenient features like the bedside lamp makes the Restore 3 a compelling option for those seeking to improve their sleep quality. The refined physical controls and the seamless integration with the Hatch Sleep app further enhance its user-friendliness, making it a truly versatile and user-centric device. Although building upon the foundation laid by its predecessors, the Restore 3’s improvements, particularly in brightness and physical controls, solidify its position as a leading contender in the smart sleep clock market.
