Hatch Restore 3 Review: Achieving Deeper Sleep and Brighter Mornings
Price
$170.00
“Hatch Restore 3 introduces small enhancements that elevate it to one of the top smart alarm clocks available today.”
Advantages
- Sleek, minimalist design
- User-friendly controls
- Abundance of customization features
- Enhances sleep and sunrise routines
Disadvantages
- High price point
- Essential features require a paid membership
The Hatch Restore family has evolved impressively over time. The original device introduced a solid concept, and the second iteration provided added functionality. Now, with the Hatch Restore 3, it stands as one of the premier smart alarm clocks you can purchase. This model brings small improvements to its forerunner’s design, including a new button that doubles as a dial, streamlining control for users.
However, the most significant drawback from the previous model persists—its steep price. Many of the best features come with a recurring subscription fee, which could quickly accumulate if you plan to use it as your bedside clock for the long haul. Nevertheless, if you’re in the market for a smart alarm clock that offers a beautiful design, extensive customization options, and impressive functions, the Hatch Restore 3 is a hard contender to overlook. Designed to help you wind down at night and wake up rejuvenated in the morning, it surpasses the disruptive nature of a smartphone for sleep management.
Revamped Design
The essence of the Hatch Restore 3 lies in enhancing sleep and wake efficacy through tailored Routines. For instance, at night, I can set it to play a smooth jazz piano melody while reading. When it’s time for bed, a simple tap initiates my Sleep Routine, transitioning the music to a soothing Barcelona Nightscape. In the morning, the gradual increase of light along with a gentle alarm ushers in the new day. I’ve found this device an enriching addition to my bedside table, made even more user-friendly by its revamped design compared to its predecessor.
The Hatch Restore 2 was visually appealing, and the Hatch Restore 3 maintains that aesthetic without significant alteration. The most pronounced update is the introduction of the Big Button, located at the top of the device. This button can be pressed or rotated, allowing adjustments to volume or navigation through different features. When I’m ready to start my Unwind routine, I simply press this button. Once I’ve finished my soothing jazz and reading, a second press activates my Sleep Routine. It’s large enough that I can easily swipe my arm across the bed to reach it, much like a Snooze button.
Additionally, by rotating the Big Button, I can modify the volume levels. It took a few trials for me to find the right settings, but this feature has simplified the experience of adjusting the Hatch Restore 3’s performance.
Other buttons include a Swap Button for navigating through steps in your Unwind routine (which can feature activities like meditations and soundscapes), a Pause button, an Alarm Toggle for activating or deactivating your morning reminder, and a Light Button for syncing via Bluetooth or resetting the device. You can also tap the device’s face to display the time, conveniently positioned towards the bottom of the Hatch Restore 3.
These physical controls allow for swift adjustments or navigation through Routines, making it user-friendly, especially in a dim environment where larger buttons are welcomed.
Customization at Its Best
The Hatch Restore 3 is packed with features. It can alter its color to promote relaxation, play your choice of soundscapes or music, facilitate meditation sessions, serve as a dimmable clock, and function as an alarm. Despite the variety, the Hatch Sleep app streamlines the customization process for these different functions.
It’s important to note that not all features suit everyone’s tastes. Personally, I’m not keen on engaging in a meditation session before sleep, and some soundscapes might not provide the relaxing ambiance they aim for. However, with a wide range of options available, every user is likely to find something appealing.
Moreover, you can customize individual Routines. For example, an Unwind Routine can commence with calming music as you prepare for sleep, followed by a guided meditation. While setting up these routines requires the Hatch Sleep app, once they are created, you can activate them using the Hatch Restore 3 without needing your phone. This is a notable advantage—allowing you to set aside your smartphone before bedtime.
If you fear feeling overwhelmed by choices, there’s no reason to worry. The app provides an introductory guide featuring six steps to familiarize you with its capabilities. Completing this brief tutorial only takes a few minutes, after which you’ll be proficient in using its features.
While some menus may seem cluttered, offering a wealth of content to explore, it’s important to note that the selection is impressively comprehensive. A minor issue is that some sections require extra scrolling through various options before accessing a “See More” button, which loads the entire library. However, once in that section, everything is neatly categorized into groups such as Soundscapes, Music, ASMR, and Mindfulness.
Wishing for a More Affordable Price
The Hatch Restore 3 is an impressive product, but its price tag raises some eyebrows. The initial cost is $170, and to access its full array of features, you’re likely to want a Hatch+ membership as well. This will set you back an additional $5 monthly, unlocking an expanding library of sounds, meditations, sunrise simulations, and more. For those who opt out of the membership, the available features are significantly limited, leading to an additional $60 annual cost for the benefit of using your Hatch Restore 3.
When compared to other smart alarm clocks, like the Echo Spot priced at $80, the Hatch Restore 3 clearly positions itself as a luxury option. While it undeniably excels in many respects, it can feel a bit pricey, especially with the extra fees over time.
Conclusion
If you’re on the search for a device to enhance your sleep and wake rituals, the Hatch Restore 3 stands out as an exceptional option. While it does come with a high price and a costly Hatch+ membership, those struggling with sleep patterns will find it to be a valuable companion. Not only boasting an appealing design, but it also offers user-friendly controls and extensive customization options, thanks to an improved set of buttons and a straightforward app. While you may need to explore its offerings to pinpoint the ideal soundscapes, lights, and meditations for your preferences, the Hatch Restore 3’s superb content and elegant design position it as the premier smart alarm clock available today.