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Mario Bros. Clock: Game & Watch vs. Nintendo Sound Clock: Alarmo

The official Nintendo products behind the search term “Mario Bros. Clock” are Game & Watch: Super Mario Bros. and Nintendo Sound Clock: Alarmo—but they serve very different purposes.
Length5 min Posted Quest giverVGSources Team
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“Mario Bros. Clock” is not the official name of one specific Nintendo product. The phrase most often points to either Game & Watch: Super Mario Bros., a collectible handheld with a built-in animated clock, or Nintendo Sound Clock: Alarmo, a dedicated interactive alarm clock that can download scenes from Super Mario Bros.

They are very different devices: Game & Watch is primarily a retro game collectible, while Alarmo is designed for bedside use.

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At a glance

Feature Game & Watch: Super Mario Bros. Nintendo Sound Clock: Alarmo
Type Retro handheld game device with clock mode Standalone interactive alarm clock
Mario content Built-in animated clock, plus three games Downloadable Super Mario Bros. scenes and other Mario content
Alarm focus Clock display; do not assume full modern alarm-clock functionality Themed alarms, motion sensing, snoozing, and sleep-related records
Internet Not required for ordinary clock operation Required for downloadable scenes and updates
Power Rechargeable; USB-C cable included USB-powered; cable included, AC adapter sold separately
Best for Collectors and classic Mario fans Users who want a real Nintendo bedside alarm

Game & Watch: Super Mario Bros. as a clock

Released on November 13, 2020, for Nintendo’s 35th-anniversary celebration, Game & Watch: Super Mario Bros. combines a small handheld screen with the original Super Mario Bros., Super Mario Bros.: The Lost Levels, a Mario-themed version of Ball, and a digital clock.

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Nintendo says the clock has 35 animated scenes that change as time passes, featuring Mario characters, friends, and enemies. This makes it a charming collectible clock, but it is still a small handheld rather than a conventional bedside or wall clock.

#1 Best Overall
Amazon Basics Small Digital Oval Alarm Clock with LED Display, Nightlight, Snooze Function & Battery Backup, Black, 4.5 x 3.5 x 2.4 Inches
  • Digital alarm clock with a 0.7-inch green LED display for easily checking the time at a glance
  • Built-in nightlight gently illuminates a dark room
  • Repeating snooze function makes it possible to sleep a little longer
  • AC powered with integrated power supply. Batteries may be used as a backup power source to ensure time and alarms are retained in memory for 8 hours (refer to User Manual for details)
  • Measures 4.5 x 3.5 x 2.4 inches (LxWxH); weighs 0.4 pounds (6.6 oz) Note: Batteries are not included

The package includes a USB-C charging cable, but Nintendo says an AC adapter is not included. Because the system was tied to the 2020 anniversary period, current availability may depend on remaining stock or resale listings. Check condition, battery health, authenticity, included cable, seller reputation, and return terms before buying used.

How to display and adjust the clock

  1. Press the POWER button once to wake the screen.
  2. Press the TIME button to display the current time.
  3. With the time displayed, press PAUSE/SET to adjust the time, volume, or screen brightness.

Its other labeled controls are GAME, A, B, and the +Control Pad. The official Nintendo diagram shows the full button and hardware layout. If the screen remains blank, Nintendo recommends charging the system before assuming it has failed; see its clock and settings instructions.

Nintendo Sound Clock: Alarmo

Nintendo Sound Clock: Alarmo launched on October 9, 2024, as a dedicated alarm clock rather than a game system. It uses themed sounds, animations, and a motion sensor to make waking up interactive. Depending on the selected mode, users can snooze with a gesture, stop the alarm by getting out of bed, or operate it with physical controls.

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Rank #2
Netzu 3-in-1 Digital Clocks for Living Room, Small & Compact Alarm Clock
  • Small & Compact Plug-in Alarm Clock for Every Room: Perfect for modern homes ditching cable boxes—place it under your living room TV to replace the lost clock display, or use it as a sleek bedside alarm in the bedroom. Also ideal for home offices, gyms, or dorm desks.
  • 3-in-1 Multispace Display: Stay organized with a bright, easy-to-read display showing time, date, and indoor temperature—no more switching apps or devices.Its compact design fits seamlessly into any space, keeping you on schedule whether you’re streaming, working, or sweating.
  • Adjustable Brightness for Day & Night: Adjust screen brightness in 4 levels+OFF with a single touch of the top-mounted button—no confusing menus. Keep it dim for a distraction-free bedroom at night or boost it for clear visibility in bright gyms or sunlit home offices.
  • Plug-in Power Clock: This alarm runs on AC power (cable included), ensuring it’s always on and accurate.
  • Sleek, User-Friendly Design:Designed with simplicity in mind: a single top button controls brightness, while the clean, modern look complements any decor—from minimalist living rooms to industrial-style home gyms. Its intuitive interface works for all ages.

Alarmo includes Steady Mode, Gentle Mode, hourly chimes, Sleepy Sounds, sleep-related records, and Button Mode for people who do not want to rely on motion detection. Nintendo describes the current library as containing 74 scenes inspired by its games.

Which Mario content does Alarmo have?

The original NES Super Mario Bros. scenes are available through a free downloadable update. Nintendo also lists Mario-related content from Super Mario Odyssey, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, and Super Mario Bros. Wonder. The NES Super Mario Bros. content is therefore downloadable content, not a feature readers should assume was present in the original launch configuration.

Downloading scenes requires an internet connection and a linked Nintendo Account. If the scenes do not appear, connect Alarmo to the internet, link the account, install the relevant update, and allow the update process to finish. Availability can also vary by region.

Rank #3
Netzu Digital Alarm Clocks for Bedrooms, Loud Alarm Clock with Dual Alarms, Bold Digits, 5 Dimmers, 4 Volumes, Snooze, Bedside Clock for Deep Sleepers Kids Teens Seniors, Plug in Clock, Easy to Set
  • PLUG IN ALARM CLOCK WITH BATTERY MEMORY: This plug in alarm clock powered by USB only — all functions, including the display, require a wired power connection. You can also insert three AAA batteries (not included) as a battery backup to save all your time & alarm settings and ensure alarms still ring when power fails, but they CANNOT light up the screen or power the clock for regular daily use.
  • BEDROOM CLOCK WITH DIMABLE LED DISPLAY: The compact digital clock (6.2" x 3" x 2.8") has a 48mm blue bold font for easy time viewing from a distance. You can easily toggle between 5 brightness levels, from very bright to completely dim. It also offers 12 or 24-hour time formats to meet different time reading habits.
  • DUAL ALARM CLOCK WITH SNOOZE FUNCTION: Our bedside alarm clock supports setting two separate wake up times, convenient for family members with different schedules. There is an easily accessible snooze button on the top, enabling you to easily activate an additional 9 minutes of snooze even in a half-awake state.
  • LOUD ALARM CLOCK WITH 4 VOLUME LEVELS: Our loud alarm clock offers four levels of volume. With one click you can switch to the volume that suits you best, effectively waking you up and starting your day with a fresh start!
  • EASY-TO-USE ALARM CLOCK FOR GIFT GIVING: With clearly labeled buttons for easy operation, this table clock pleases as both functional bedside timekeeper and a considerate present. Ideal for personal use or as a considerate gift for children, seniors, teenagers, or loved ones.

Setup, placement, and power

Alarmo must remain connected to power. The box includes the clock and a USB cable, but not an AC adapter. Nintendo’s setup guidance calls for a USB-A-to-USB-C adapter rated for at least 5 V / 1.5 A / 7.5 W.

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For motion detection, place Alarmo facing the center of the bed, within arm’s reach, and no more than 8 inches above the sleeper. Nintendo lists compatible bed sizes from Twin through King. Pets, another sleeper, an electric fan, or other movement can confuse the sensor. In those situations, use Button Mode or stop the alarm with the dial instead.

Alarmo is a standalone product: it does not connect to or interact with a Nintendo Switch or successor system. Nintendo also says the device has no camera and does not share movement-related data, although online features still involve Wi-Fi and a Nintendo Account.

Rank #4
Topski Loud Alarm Clocks for Bedrooms Heavy Sleepers, Digital Bedside Clock
  • 【RGB Plug-in Alarm Clocks for Bedrooms】- Add a touch of magic to your bedroom with our clock's unique RGB color changing display. Easily toggle through different digit colors to suit your mood or preference. Say goodbye to boring, monochrome clocks and elevate your room decor with our colorful and eye-catching option.
  • 【Alarm Clock with Vibrant RGB Night Light】- Create a beautiful and calming ambiance in your sleeping space with the vibrant RGB night light. With 9 color light effects, you can easily adjust the colors to your preferred sequence. Whether you want a gentle night light or a colorful addition to your room, our clock has got you covered.
  • 【Large Numbers Desk Clock】- Our clock features a 7-inch LED display with large, clear numbers. The 2.36-inch height of the numbers ensures they can easily be read from a distance. This makes it perfect for those with sight issues, allowing them to easily tell the time without any difficulty.
  • 【Outlet Powered Alarm Clocks】- Our digital alarm clock is powered by an outlet. The battery is solely used to preserve your time settings in the event of a power outage and does not enable the alarm clock to function normally. Tip:The battery backup function requires 2 AAA batteries, which are not included with the product.
  • 【Adjustable Brightness Bedroom Clock】- Customize the brightness of your clock to meet your needs. The night light can be easily tapped on and off, and it can be dimmed to your desired level or turned off completely. The numbers on the clock can also be dimmed or turned off for those who prefer complete darkness while sleeping.

Nintendo’s support information showed system software version 4.0.0, released May 18, 2026. Firmware information can change, so check the current Alarmo support page for the latest version.

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Which Mario clock should you buy?

Choose Game & Watch if you want a collectible

Buy Game & Watch: Super Mario Bros. if playing classic Mario games matters as much as telling time, you want a self-contained device, and you like its 35th-anniversary design. It is the better choice for collectors, but not for anyone seeking a large display, motion-based alarm, or sleep features.

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Choose Alarmo if you want an actual bedside alarm

Choose Alarmo for themed wake-up sounds, animated scenes, motion-based interaction, downloadable NES Super Mario Bros. content, and sleep-related records. It is the stronger choice for a dedicated Mario-capable alarm clock, provided you have a suitable power adapter and are comfortable with optional connected features.

Best Value
Sale
DreamSky Wooden Digital Alarm Clock for Bedroom with Large Numbers
  • Easy To Use Wooden Digital Alarm Clock with Large Numbers: This modern electric alarm clock is designed with big bold 1.8 inches numbers that can be easily seen across the room, and simple to set, making it an ideal small digital clock for kids, teenagers, adults, seniors and the elderly. (Notice: The display only lit when plugged in)
  • 6 Dimmable Brightness Level: DreamSky wooden bedside clock can be easily set with adjustable dimmer for different situation of using, dark enough for sleep and bright enough to watch in the day.
  • 5 Adjustable Volume Level and Snooze Feature: Featuring an alarm volume of up to 105dB, this loud alarm clock is perfect for heavy sleepers and also accommodate light sleepers with an adjustable volume range from 70 to 105dB. And with the snooze function, you can earn a 9 minutes extra rest.
  • Plug In Clock (Not Battery Powered): The DreamSky nightstand table clock is powered by the included adapter, which can provide a stable time display, making a handy wood clock for living room, bedroom, office, kids room etc.
  • Alarm and Setting Backup: The battery backup feature of this wooden alarm clocks for bedrooms will keep the alarm work during the power outage, no worry for oversleeping. Meanwhile it can save the time setting, which can save the trouble of reset the clock. (Notice: Battery only operates alarm, not time display. The batteries are not included)

Choose a third-party clock for simple décor

A licensed Mario wall, desk, or conventional alarm clock is more appropriate if you want a large time display, inexpensive room décor, or traditional operation. Do not assume every Mario-themed clock is officially licensed. Verify the manufacturer, seller, dimensions, return policy, and licensing information.

Common problems

Game & Watch will not turn on

Press POWER once and charge the device. A blank screen may simply indicate insufficient battery charge. If it remains unresponsive after charging, consult Nintendo’s Game & Watch support.

Alarmo does not stop when someone gets out of bed

Check its placement and look for movement from pets, another sleeper, a fan, or another object. Use Button Mode when the room or bed setup is unsuitable for motion detection.

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Alarmo’s Mario scenes are missing

Confirm that Alarmo is online, a Nintendo Account is linked, and the latest relevant software update has installed. The NES Super Mario Bros. scenes require downloading rather than simply selecting them from the original clock configuration.

Price and availability

Nintendo announced Alarmo with a U.S. suggested price of $99.99 in 2024, while the retrieved Nintendo store information showed a regular price signal of $109.99. Treat those as dated official price references, not guaranteed current prices. Check the live Nintendo store or retailer-finder page before purchasing.

No current official price was established for Game & Watch in the supplied information. Since it may now be bought through remaining stock or resale listings, compare the total price with the device’s condition and included accessories.

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