Emerson CKS1507 Smartset Radio Alarm Clock, 1.4" Blue LED Digital Display, USB Charging Port, Bluetooth Connectivity, Alarm to Radio or Buzzer, Black
Quick take
The Emerson CKS1507 is a compact clock radio with a 1.4-inch blue LED display, adjustable brightness, Bluetooth streaming, and FM radio with preset stations. It also offers dual alarms, a small nightlight, and a rear USB port for overnight phone charging. The main caveat is setup consistency, since several buyers report SmartSet and backup battery issues that require manual time/date setup.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Bluetooth streaming plus FM radio, with up to 20 FM presets for easier access to stations.
- Dual alarms with flexible scheduling (weekdays, weekends, or all days) and wake options (FM station or buzzer).
- Adjustable blue LED brightness and an optional nightlight for easier bedside use.
- Rear USB port lets you charge a phone from the clock radio.
Cons
- SmartSet and automatic time/date behavior can fail if the backup lithium battery is dead or not active, leading to manual setup.
- Some buyers report the automatic detection on first setup may not work as expected, especially around time-zone alignment.
- Display size is small (1.4-inch), which may feel tight for anyone who wants a larger clock from across the room.
What buyers think
Buyer-review evidence is mixed. The most consistent positive themes are that the Bluetooth and FM radio functions work adequately for bedside listening, and that everyday controls like dimming the LED display, using the nightlight, and setting alarms are straightforward. Many users also like the practical value of the USB charging port and the overall compact look.
On the downside, multiple reviews highlight SmartSet and backup power issues. Some buyers report the backup lithium battery is dead, requiring replacement, and that this prevents the clock from automatically setting the correct time, date, and day of week after plugging it in. A few reviews also mention the first-time setup did not fully follow the advertised automatic behavior (for example, needing manual time-zone or manual time entry). In these cases, the radio and alarm features are still described as usable, but the automatic convenience is less reliable.
Key features that matter for daily use
SmartSet automation and backup battery reality
The CKS1507 is designed to set itself when plugged in and to keep accurate time through power outages, with automatic updates for daylight savings time and leap year. It relies on a lithium-ion backup battery to maintain the clock when power is interrupted. The practical takeaway from buyer feedback is to treat SmartSet as “usually helpful” rather than something you can always count on out of the box. If the backup battery is not active, you may have to set the time and date manually.
Bluetooth streaming and FM radio with presets
For music and news, you can stream from a phone or tablet over Bluetooth (v2.1 + EDR) or switch to FM radio. The ability to save presets (up to 20) is a real quality-of-life feature if you frequently wake to the same station, or if you want faster station access after powering up.
Dual alarms with flexible schedules
The dual-alarm setup is meant for households with different wake schedules. Alarms can be configured for weekdays, weekends, or all seven days. You can also choose a wake source, either a selected FM station or the built-in buzzer, which is useful if you want a backup option that does not depend on radio tuning.
Bedside usability: blue LED dimmer, nightlight, and USB charging
The 1.4-inch blue LED display includes brightness dimmer controls, so you can reduce glare for sleeping. There is also a soft blue nightlight that can be switched on or off. For charging, a rear USB port provides an overnight power option for a phone or similar device, helping you avoid another wall adapter on the nightstand.
Pros and cons breakdown
Who this clock radio is best for
- Shoppers who want a simple bedside clock with Bluetooth music, not just radio.
- People who prefer a dimmable LED display and like having a small nightlight option.
- Households that need two independent alarms and flexible weekday/weekend scheduling.
- Anyone who wants a built-in USB port for overnight phone charging.
Who should skip it (or plan for manual setup)
- Buyers who strongly depend on automatic time/date set-and-forget behavior from the first plug-in.
- Anyone who does not want to deal with backup battery replacement if SmartSet does not engage.
- Shoppers looking for a larger clock face for long-distance viewing (the display is compact).
How it compares to other clock radios (feature-based)
Since specific alternative models were not listed, here is how to evaluate this Emerson against other clock radios in the same budget category:
- If Bluetooth is a must: prioritize models that clearly support wireless audio and have easy switching between Bluetooth and radio. The CKS1507 offers Bluetooth plus FM.
- If you rely on automatic timekeeping: look for models that specify backup battery behavior and confirm battery included and functioning at purchase. The recurring reviews about dead backup batteries make this an important check for the CKS1507.
- If you care about bedside comfort: compare dimmer range, nightlight presence, and display size. The CKS1507 includes dimming and a nightlight, but the LED is small (1.4-inch).
- If dual alarms matter: confirm the days-of-week scheduling modes and whether it can wake to radio or buzzer. The CKS1507 supports dual alarms with flexible weekday/weekend options and radio or buzzer wake.
Buying checklist before you order
- Plan for the possibility of manual time/date setup if SmartSet does not complete automatically.
- Know that the clock uses a lithium-ion backup battery (so automatic features may be affected if backup power is not ready).
- Confirm your desired wake method: a preset FM station (for radio wake) or the buzzer.
- Consider the display size if you need to read the time from farther away.
Verdict
The Emerson CKS1507 is a feature-rich compact clock radio for Bluetooth listeners and anyone who wants dual alarms, dimmable blue LED display, a nightlight, and built-in USB charging. It is especially attractive for those who want wake-to-radio options with FM presets. Just be aware that buyer feedback suggests SmartSet convenience can be undermined by backup battery readiness, so a manual first-time setup may be part of the experience.
FAQs
Does the Emerson CKS1507 automatically set the time?
It is designed to set itself automatically when plugged in (SmartSet). However, some buyers report that automatic time/date behavior did not complete until manual setup, often linked to backup battery readiness.
Is a backup battery included?
The device requires a lithium-ion backup battery, and buyer reports suggest backup battery condition can affect whether SmartSet works right away. The listing data indicates batteries are not included, so you may want to verify whether you have the correct battery on hand.
Can you wake to Bluetooth music?
The wake options include an FM radio station or the built-in buzzer. Bluetooth is for streaming music, while the alarm wake source is tied to the radio or buzzer.
Does it have USB charging for a phone?
Yes. It includes a rear USB charging port intended for charging a smartphone or similar mobile device overnight.
How bright is the display, and is it dimmable?
It features a 1.4-inch blue LED digital display with brightness dimmer controls, and it also includes an optional nightlight that can be switched on or off.
How many FM stations can it save?
It supports saving up to 20 FM presets for quicker access to your preferred stations.
Specifications
| Product Title | Emerson CKS1507 Smartset Radio Alarm Clock, 1.4" Blue LED Digital Display, USB Charging Port, Brightness Dimmer Controls, Bluetooth Connectivity, Set Alarm to Radio, Music, or Buzzer, Black |
|---|---|
| Category | Electronics > Home Audio > Compact Radios & Stereos > Clock Radios |
| Brand | Emerson |
| Manufacturer | Emerson Radio Corp. |
| Model Number | CKS1507 |
| Color | Black |
| Size | CKS1507 |
| Item Weight | 1.03 Pounds |
| Product Dimensions | 6.2"W x 3.5"H |
| Display Type | Digital |
| Additional Features | Radio |
| Power Source | Corded Electric |
| Indoor Outdoor Usage | Indoor |
| Batteries are Included | No |
| Mounting Type | Tabletop |
| Number of Batteries | 1 Lithium Ion batteries required. |
| Alarm Clock | Yes |
| Operation Mode | Electrical |
| Smart Home Compatibility | Not Smart Home Compatible |
| Connectivity Technology | 3.5mm audio jack |
| Watch Movement | Automatic |
| Item Dimensions W x H | 6.2"W x 3.5"H |
| Screen Size | 1.4 Inches |
| Material Type | Plastic |
| Frame Material | Plastic |
| Warranty Type | 90 day from date of purchase with valid proof of purchase |
| Style Name | CKS1507 |
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