5 Best La Crosse Technology Atomic Clocks (2026)
Five La Crosse Technology atomic clocks, from a 2-inch digit calendar clock to a 10-inch metal wall clock, compared for readability and easy setup.
At a Glance
La Crosse Technology 513-1419BLv4 Backlight Atomic Full Calendar Clock
↓ See why we picked itLa Crosse Technology 513-23137-INT Atomic Digital Wall/Table Clock
↓ See why we picked itLa Crosse Technology 617-1485B Atomic Color Alarm Clock with USB Charging
↓ See why we picked itLa Crosse Technology 404-54667 Atomic Wall Clock, Metal, 10-Inch
↓ See why we picked itLa Crosse Technology W88631 Digital Atomic Clock with Temperature
↓ See why we picked itLa Crosse Technology is one of the most recognized names in self-setting clocks, and its atomic models share a simple promise: pick your time zone and the clock corrects itself from the WWVB radio signal out of Fort Collins, Colorado. The five picks here cover very different jobs, from the 513-1419BLv4 with extra-large 2-inch time digits to the 404-54667 analog wall clock in a 10-inch metal build.
We evaluated each model based on product specs and buyer feedback, focusing on digit size, backlight choices, time zone coverage, and how much setup the clock asks for. The 513-23137 offers 7 US time zone settings and 12 moon phase icons, the 617-1485B adds a USB charging port with a 1.50-inch color display, and the W88631 is the slim no-frills digital with indoor temperature.
All of them keep time with quartz and only correct themselves when the radio signal arrives, mostly overnight. A window spot and fresh batteries matter more than the model number, and the sections below start with the job you want the clock to do.
6 Criteria to Look For Before Buying a La Crosse Technology Atomic Clocks (2026)
Key buying criteria so you get the right fit the first time.
Digit size
The 513-1419BLv4 has 2-inch time digits, the 617-1485B has 1.50-inch digits, and the W88631 and 513-23137 use standard calendar displays. Bigger digits help anyone who reads from a distance. Choose the largest digits that fit the space.
Backlight behavior
The 513-1419BLv4 backlight can be high, low, or off, and the 617-1485B is continuous only with its power cord, on demand with 2 AAA batteries. Pick an adapter if you want a steady glow, since battery models light only when you press a button.
Time zone coverage
The 513-23137 lists 7 US time zone settings from Atlantic to Hawaii, and the 404-54667 covers four US zones. If you live outside the contiguous states, check coverage before buying.
Analog or digital
The 404-54667 is the only analog dial, and the other four are digital with calendars or temperature. Analog looks calm, and digital spells out the day and date.
Radio signal placement
All use the 60 kHz WWVB signal from Fort Collins, which reaches about 2,000 miles. Reception is best overnight, and NIST advises placing the clock near a window facing Colorado and 1 to 2 meters from monitors. Rotating a desktop clock 90 degrees can help.
Extras you will use
The 513-23137 offers moon phases and a crescendo alarm, and the 617-1485B adds USB charging. Pick only extras you will use, since each setting adds learning.
5 Best La Crosse Technology Atomic Clocks (2026)
La Crosse Technology 513-1419BLv4 Backlight Atomic Full Calendar Clock
About this pick
The 513-1419BLv4 is the readability champion in La Crosse's lineup. The 2-inch time digits are described as extra large and easy to read, and the full weekday display option spells out the day instead of using abbreviations. A backlight that can be set to high, low, or off makes it usable in a dim room.
The backlight behaves differently depending on power. On the included AC adapter it can stay lit continuously, while on batteries it lights on demand, which saves cells but means you press a button at night. The alarm has a 10 minute snooze, though this is mainly a calendar clock, not a full alarm clock.
In ownership it is the best all-rounder for anyone who wants to see the time and day at a glance. Next to the 513-23137 it offers larger digits but fewer moon phase and time zone options, and compared with the W88631 it adds backlight and a plug-in option.
Best for: Anyone who wants a very readable calendar clock with a controllable backlight.
Check price on AmazonSpecs
- Digits: Extra large, 2-inch time
- Backlight: Hi, low, or off
- Power: AC adapter or battery on demand
- Display: Full weekday, weekday and date modes
Pros
- +Extra-large 2-inch time digits
- +Full weekday display avoids abbreviations
- +Backlight can be set to high, low, or off
- +AC adapter or battery operation
Cons
- −Battery use limits the backlight to on demand
- −Alarm features are basic
La Crosse Technology 513-23137-INT Atomic Digital Wall/Table Clock
About this pick
The 513-23137 is the most complete clock on the list. It sets itself, updates for daylight saving with an AUTO, OFF, or ON choice, and offers 7 US time zone settings from Atlantic to Hawaii. Twelve moon phase icons, a month, date, and weekday calendar, and 12 or 24 hour display round out the features.
At 11 by 8.54 inches it is a bigger piece of hardware than most, and it works as a wall or table clock. The extra options mean more settings to learn, which may not suit someone who wants to set and forget. The crescendo alarm with 10 minute snooze is a plus for a bedroom use.
In ownership the broad time zone coverage is useful for anyone outside the contiguous zones. Compared with the 513-1419BLv4 it offers more calendar and moon features but smaller emphasis on giant digits, and next to the W88631 it is far more feature rich.
Best for: People who want wide time zone coverage, a calendar, and moon phases in one clock.
Check price on AmazonSpecs
- Size: 11 by 8.54 inches
- Time zones: 7 US settings, ATL to HAW
- Calendar: Month, date, weekday, moon phase
- Alarm: Crescendo with 10 minute snooze
Pros
- +7 US time zone settings from Atlantic to Hawaii
- +12 moon phase icons and full calendar
- +DST can be set to auto, off, or on
- +Works as a wall or table clock
Cons
- −More settings to learn
- −Larger footprint than most
La Crosse Technology 617-1485B Atomic Color Alarm Clock with USB Charging
About this pick
The 617-1485B is made for a nightstand. It has a dynamic color display with 1.50-inch time digits, an alarm with a 10 minute snooze, and a USB charging port that doubles as a phone charger. Atomic time and daylight saving resets keep it accurate.
The backlight story is the main tradeoff. With the power cord it offers a continuous adjustable backlight, but on 2 AAA alkaline batteries, which are not included, it only lights on demand. The digits are smaller than the 2-inch 513-1419BLv4, so it is a bedside clock rather than a room-wide display.
Ownership is simple if you have an outlet by the bed. Compared with the 513-23137 it is smaller and adds USB charging, while against the 513-1419BLv4 it gives color and charging for less digit size.
Best for: Bedside use where a color display, alarm, and USB charging are all wanted.
Check price on AmazonSpecs
- Digits: 1.50-inch, 12 or 24 hour
- Backlight: Continuous with cord, on demand with 2 AAA
- Alarm: Time alarm with 10 minute snooze
- Extras: USB charging port, moon phase
Pros
- +Color display with 1.50-inch time digits
- +USB charging port for a phone
- +Continuous adjustable backlight on power cord
- +Alarm with 10 minute snooze
Cons
- −Smaller digits than the 2-inch model
- −Batteries give on-demand lighting only
La Crosse Technology 404-54667 Atomic Wall Clock, Metal, 10-Inch
About this pick
The 404-54667 is the only analog wall clock in this guide. It has a gray-blue chapter ring with raised seconds indicators and a matching blue second hand, inside a black stainless flush-mount frame with a protective glass lens. It syncs with the WWVB signal across four US time zones and handles daylight saving.
The tradeoff is that it is a time-only clock at 10 inches, so it does not read from as far away as a bigger dial. There is no date, temperature, or backlight, so night reading depends on room light. The description says it is built for high-traffic spaces such as living areas and kitchens.
Ownership is easy, with a time zone choice and an overnight sync. Compared with the 513-1419BLv4 it is quieter in style and has no digital display, so it suits those who prefer a dial.
Best for: People who want a classic analog dial in a sturdy metal frame.
Check price on AmazonSpecs
- Size: 10 inches
- Frame: Black stainless flush mount
- Dial: Gray-blue chapter ring, raised seconds marks
- Sync: WWVB, four US time zones with DST
Pros
- +Metal frame with a protective glass lens
- +Raised seconds marks and blue second hand
- +Syncs across four US time zones with DST
- +Classic analog look
Cons
- −Only 10 inches, so less visible from afar
- −No date, temperature, or backlight
La Crosse Technology W88631 Digital Atomic Clock with Temperature
About this pick
The W88631 keeps things focused. A large, clear display shows the time including seconds, the full weekday, the date, and indoor temperature in Fahrenheit or Celsius, all on a slim profile with a dark walnut finish and black accent. It syncs with the WWVB radio transmission, so it sets itself.
The no-frills design is both its strength and its limit. There is no alarm, no moon phase, and no backlight described, so it is a daytime display more than a bedside clock. It is the simplest in the guide to understand.
In ownership it is easy to place on a shelf or counter. Next to the 513-1419BLv4 it offers fewer features and no backlight, and compared with the 513-23137 it is far simpler to use.
Best for: Shelf and counter use where a simple display of time, day, date, and temperature is enough.
Check price on AmazonSpecs
- Display: Large, with seconds and full weekday
- Temperature: Indoor, Fahrenheit or Celsius
- Finish: Dark walnut with black accent
- Sync: WWVB from Fort Collins
Pros
- +Full weekday, date, and seconds shown clearly
- +Indoor temperature in F or C
- +Slim walnut look suits most rooms
- +Self-sets from the radio signal
Cons
- −No alarm or backlight described
- −Less suited to a dark room
How We Evaluated These La Crosse Technology Atomic Clocks (2026)
Each pick was assessed across 5 criteria weighted for real-world use.
Readability
The 513-1419BLv4 led with 2-inch digits, while the 617-1485B has 1.50-inch digits. We asked whether the time could be read across a room.
Backlight options
We reviewed backlight settings and power behavior. The 513-1419BLv4 and 617-1485B offer choices, while the W88631, the most basic pick, lists none. This matters for bedrooms.
Time zone and DST handling
We checked zone coverage and daylight saving options. The 513-23137 stood out with 7 zones and an AUTO, OFF, or ON choice.
Build and finish
We considered frame and finish details. The 404-54667 lists a stainless frame and glass lens, and the W88631 a walnut finish.
Everyday simplicity
We weighed how many settings each clock asks the owner to learn. The W88631 and 404-54667 are simplest, while the 513-23137 asks the most.
How to Choose the Right La Crosse Technology Atomic Clocks (2026)
By Room
Where the clock lives decides the style.
| Room | Pick | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Living room shelf | La Crosse Technology 513-1419BLv4 Backlight Atomic Full Calendar Clock | 2-inch digits and weekday display |
| Bedroom nightstand | La Crosse Technology 617-1485B Atomic Color Alarm Clock with USB Charging | Color display, alarm, USB port |
| Den or hall wall | La Crosse Technology 404-54667 Atomic Wall Clock, Metal, 10-Inch | Sturdy analog dial |
| Counter or desk | La Crosse Technology W88631 Digital Atomic Clock with Temperature | Slim display with temperature |
| Large table or wall | La Crosse Technology 513-23137-INT Atomic Digital Wall/Table Clock | 11 by 8.54 inch feature-rich clock |
Check which wall or shelf will carry the clock before choosing.
By Budget
| Tier | Pick | What you get |
|---|---|---|
| Simplest | La Crosse Technology W88631 Digital Atomic Clock with Temperature | Time, day, date, and temperature |
| Analog | La Crosse Technology 404-54667 Atomic Wall Clock, Metal, 10-Inch | Metal frame and glass lens |
| Mid-range | La Crosse Technology 513-1419BLv4 Backlight Atomic Full Calendar Clock | Large digits and backlight |
| Bedside | La Crosse Technology 617-1485B Atomic Color Alarm Clock with USB Charging | Color display and USB |
| Feature-rich | La Crosse Technology 513-23137-INT Atomic Digital Wall/Table Clock | 7 zones and moon phases |
Spend on digit size and backlight first.
Analog vs Digital
The biggest style choice is how you read the time.
Analog
The 404-54667 is the only analog pick, with a 10-inch dial and glass lens. Choose analog for a classic look and no extras.
Digital
The 513-1419BLv4, 513-23137, 617-1485B, and W88631 are digital with calendars. Choose digital for the date, weekday, or temperature at a glance.
Pick the 404-54667 for style and the 513-1419BLv4 for readability.
By Power and Lighting
Power type decides how the backlight behaves.
| Preference | Pick | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Steady glow | La Crosse Technology 617-1485B Atomic Color Alarm Clock with USB Charging | Continuous backlight with the cord |
| Choice of hi, low, off | La Crosse Technology 513-1419BLv4 Backlight Atomic Full Calendar Clock | Adjustable backlight |
| Battery only | La Crosse Technology W88631 Digital Atomic Clock with Temperature | Simple clock with no cord needed |
| No lighting needed | La Crosse Technology 404-54667 Atomic Wall Clock, Metal, 10-Inch | Analog dial in lit rooms |
| Wall or table | La Crosse Technology 513-23137-INT Atomic Digital Wall/Table Clock | Flexible placement |
A cord removes battery changes and gives a steady light.
For Keeping Track of the Day Specifically
Many families buy a calendar clock for orientation.
Look for
A display that spells the full weekday, shows the date, and has large digits. Set it to one mode to avoid confusion.
In this comparison
The 513-1419BLv4 offers a full weekday display with extra-large digits, and the W88631 shows the full weekday and date. The 513-1419BLv4 is the clearer match.
Avoid cycling modes quickly.
When to Spend More
A higher-end clock helps in some homes.
Spend more if
You want the best readability or feature range, which points to the 513-1419BLv4 or the 513-23137. The 617-1485B is worth it for bedside charging.
Save if
You need a basic shelf display, where the W88631 or the 404-54667 is enough.
Digit size and backlight are better uses of money than extras.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I choose between La Crosse clocks?
Choose the 513-1419BLv4 for large digits and a backlight, the 513-23137 for time zone range and moon phases, and the 617-1485B for bedside USB charging. Pick the 404-54667 for analog and the W88631 for simplicity.
Are La Crosse atomic clocks costly to run?
Running costs are low. Some use batteries and others an AC adapter. Fresh alkaline cells replaced yearly keep syncing reliable.
How do I maintain a La Crosse atomic clock?
Replace batteries on schedule, dust the display with a dry cloth, and keep it away from monitors. Move it near a window if syncing fails.
Is an atomic clock really atomic?
No. It is a quartz clock that receives the WWVB radio signal tied to NIST atomic timekeeping. It corrects itself when the signal arrives.
Why will my clock not set itself?
Common causes are weak batteries or poor reception. Place it near a window facing Colorado, keep it 1 to 2 meters from monitors, and leave it overnight.
Which model works outside the contiguous states?
The 513-23137 lists 7 US time zones from Atlantic to Hawaii, which is the widest coverage here. Others cover four US zones.
Does the backlight stay on all night?
On a power cord, the 513-1419BLv4 and 617-1485B can stay lit. On batteries, they light on demand to save power.
Bottom Line
best overall: La Crosse Technology 513-1419BLv4 Backlight Atomic Full Calendar Clock - best overall pick in this roundup.
See the full rankings above for all picks with pros, cons, and best-for summaries.
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