Introducing the Roberts OrtusCharge: More Than Just an Alarm Clock
At first glance, the Roberts OrtusCharge might just seem like another alarm clock, but it’s much more than that. This sleek device not only wakes you up but also charges your phone wirelessly, all while looking absolutely dapper on your bedside table.
The Perks of Owning a Modern FM Alarm Clock
Let’s dive into the benefits of using this type of product:
- Superior Sound Quality: Waking up to the high-quality sound of this alarm clock is a game-changer. It’s like having a mini-concert just for you every morning.
- Wireless Charging: The convenience of dropping your phone on your alarm clock to charge overnight cannot be overstated. No more fumbling for cables in the dark.
- Modern Design: This isn’t your grandma’s alarm clock. Its sleek, modern design is a welcome addition to any nightstand.
- Clear Display: The display is crisp and clear, making it easy to read even when you’re half-asleep.
- Dual Alarms: Perfect for couples with different wake-up times or for setting a second alarm as a backup.
Un-boxing & First Impressions
Upon unboxing the Roberts OrtusCharge, I was immediately struck by its modern and stylish appearance. The build quality felt solid and durable, and its size was just right—not too bulky, yet substantial enough to feel sturdy on a nightstand. The primary function of this device, beyond telling time, is its wireless charging capability, which is a neat feature for a bedside alarm clock. My first thought? “This is going to look great in my bedroom.”
Features: Everything You Need to Know
Here’s a quick rundown of the main features:
- Modern design: Sleek and stylish, perfect for any bedroom.
- Superior sound: High-quality audio for your wake-up calls.
- Wireless charging: Conveniently charge your phone by simply placing it on top.
- USB 2.0 connectivity: For those who prefer a wired charging option.
- Clear and legible display: Easy to read, even in low light.
- Dual alarms: Ideal for different wake-up schedules.
- FM Radio: Catch up with your favourite stations as you wake.
- Bluetooth: Stream music from your phone.
- Intuitive operation: Once you get the hang of it, it’s straightforward.
- Durability: Built to last.
- Snooze function: For those extra minutes in bed.
- Attractive design: Enhances bedroom aesthetics.
However, it’s a real shame that the wireless charging is slower than expected and may overheat devices. Also, setting the alarm can be unnecessarily complex, which could be a deal-breaker for some.
My experience with the Roberts OrtusCharge has been a mix of admiration for its design and sound quality, and slight frustration with its wireless charging speed and alarm setup complexity. Despite these drawbacks, its overall functionality and the convenience it brings to the bedside table cannot be overlooked. The dual alarms and clear display are particularly noteworthy, making it a valuable addition for anyone looking to enhance their wake-up routine.
Smart Features
The Roberts OrtusCharge isn’t just a pretty face; it’s got brains too. Let’s delve into the smart features that make this alarm clock a worthy bedside companion for the tech-savvy.
Bluetooth Connectivity – The OrtusCharge seamlessly connects to your devices via Bluetooth, allowing you to stream your favourite tunes or podcasts directly from your phone or tablet. This feature is a game-changer for those who like to drift off to the sound of their chosen audio or wake up to a motivational podcast. It’s incredibly easy to set up and use, making it a standout feature.
What we liked about the Roberts OrtusCharge
Superior Sound Quality
The sound quality of the OrtusCharge is nothing short of impressive. Whether you’re waking up to the beep of an alarm or the melody of your favourite song, the clarity and richness of the sound are notable. It’s a real pleasure to have an alarm clock that doesn’t just blare annoying tones but enhances the audio experience, making mornings a bit more bearable.
Wireless Charging
Despite its slower pace, the wireless charging feature is a convenient addition. Placing your phone on top of the clock overnight ensures you wake up to a fully charged device, ready for the day ahead. It’s a neat solution to reduce clutter from charging cables and keep your bedside table looking sleek and tidy.
Durable Design
The build quality of the OrtusCharge is commendable. It feels sturdy and well-constructed, suggesting it will stand the test of time. The modern design not only looks good but feels premium too. It’s clear that Roberts didn’t cut corners when it came to the construction of this alarm clock.
Intuitive Usability
Once you get past the initial learning curve, the OrtusCharge is surprisingly easy to use. Navigating through its features becomes second nature, thanks to the intuitive interface. This ease of use is crucial for a device that’s interacted with primarily in the groggy state of pre-coffee consciousness.
What we were disappointed with
Radio Reception
The radio reception capability of the OrtusCharge leaves much to be desired. Struggling to tune into certain stations can be frustrating, especially for those who rely on the radio for their morning news or entertainment. Improving the antenna or reception quality in future models would be a significant upgrade.
Alarm Complexity
Setting the alarm can feel like solving a Rubik’s cube at times. The process is more complicated than it needs to be, which is a real shame. A more streamlined, user-friendly approach to alarm settings would make the OrtusCharge more appealing to a broader audience.
Wireless Charging Speed
While the inclusion of wireless charging is a plus, its slow pace is a drawback. In today’s fast-paced world, quick charging isn’t just a luxury; it’s a necessity. Enhancing the charging speed in future iterations would make this feature much more practical and appealing.
Getting Set Up
Setting up the Roberts OrtusCharge might initially seem like deciphering the Enigma code, but fear not, I’ve cracked it so you don’t have to. From unboxing to fully operational, the journey was a mix of anticipation and mild frustration. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ease your path:
- Unbox the device and marvel at its sleek design for a moment or two.
- Plug it in. There’s no battery option, so you’ll need a handy socket.
- Press and hold the ‘Menu’ button to enter the setup mode. This is where the fun begins.
- Use the tuning buttons to navigate through options like time, alarm, and radio presets. It’s a bit like texting on a 2000s mobile phone.
- For wireless charging, just place your phone on top. If it starts charging, you’ve done it right. If not, check your phone’s compatibility or reposition it.
- Scan for radio stations and save your favourites. This might take a few attempts to get right, especially if you live in an area with dodgy reception.
Other buyers have mentioned the initial setup being a tad cumbersome, especially the alarm settings. My tip? Keep the manual close, and maybe don’t attempt this at 3 am when you’re half asleep.
Build Quality and Extras
The Roberts OrtusCharge feels as sturdy as a British bulldog. Its build quality is evident, with a solid casing and buttons that provide satisfying feedback. However, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. The wireless charging feature, while convenient, has been reported to be slower than a snail on a leisurely stroll, and in some cases, it tends to overheat devices. It’s a real shame that such a promising feature doesn’t quite hit the mark.
The warranty is a standard affair, offering peace of mind for a reasonable period post-purchase. But, let’s be honest, in a perfect world, we wouldn’t need to think about warranties.
Who is this product best suited to?
If You’re a Fan of Modern Design
The Roberts OrtusCharge is a looker. Its sleek, modern aesthetic will complement any bedside table or office desk. If you appreciate gadgets that don’t just perform well but also enhance your room’s decor, this alarm clock is calling your name.
If You Love Multitasking
This device isn’t just an alarm clock; it’s a radio, a Bluetooth speaker, and a wireless charger rolled into one. If you like your gadgets to serve multiple purposes, you’ll find a lot to love here.
If You’re Not a Fan of Bright Lights at Night
The display is clear yet unobtrusive, with adjustable brightness. It’s perfect for those who prefer a darker room at night but still want to see the time at a glance.
Who should avoid this
Despite its charms, the Roberts OrtusCharge isn’t for everyone. If you’re looking for rapid wireless charging, you might want to look elsewhere. Similarly, if you’re a radio aficionado who demands crystal-clear reception regardless of where you are, this device might not tune into your needs. Lastly, if you prefer simplicity over multifunctionality, the complexity of setting alarms and navigating through its features might be more hassle than it’s worth.
Value for Money
Considering its multifunctionality and design, the Roberts OrtusCharge offers decent value for its price point. It’s not the cheapest alarm clock out there, but it’s also not just an alarm clock. You’re getting a Bluetooth speaker, a radio, and a wireless charger in a stylish package. However, with the noted issues around wireless charging and radio reception, it’s worth weighing up how much these features matter to you.
The verdict: Is the Roberts OrtusCharge worth a buy?
My experience with the Roberts OrtusCharge has been a journey of highs and lows. On one hand, its design, sound quality, and display are top-notch. On the other, the wireless charging and radio reception left me wanting more. It’s a bit like having a sports car that can’t go above 60 mph. Sure, it looks fantastic and has a comfy seat, but you can’t help feeling a bit short-changed.
Compared to similar products, the OrtusCharge stands out for its design and sound quality. However, if you’re after reliable wireless charging or impeccable radio reception, there might be better-suited options out there.
In summary, if you value aesthetics and sound quality over the nitty-gritty of wireless charging efficiency, the Roberts OrtusCharge could be a great addition to your home. But if you’re expecting top-of-the-line functionality across all its features, you might want to keep looking.
Detailed Specs
| Display type: | Clear and legible display |
| Style: | Modern FM Alarm Clock |
| USB Ports?: | Yes, USB 2.0 connectivity |
| Fast charging: | No, wireless charging is slow |
| Brand: | Roberts |
| Sound Quality: | Superior |
| Usability: | Intuitive operation |
| Durability: | Well-constructed |
| Display: | Clear visibility |
| Design: | Sleek, modern look |
| Radio Reception: | Struggles with tuning |
| Wireless Charging: | Slower than expected |
| Alarm Complexity: | Unnecessarily complex |
| Warranty: | Standard period |
| Value for Money: | Good, considering features |
