I need a new alarm clock. I have devised some requirements (because I can’t do anything without making a hierarchical list). My requirements seem to be not in jive with other people’s alarm clock needs (namely, loud and lots of buttons and snooze options). If you are personally in love with your alarm clock or know of one that fits my requirements, please share.

In order of importance:

1. durable–can be dropped on the floor a lot (I am uncoordinated when awake, even more so when asleep)
2. no more than a few buttons
3. preferably has a non-annoying way of waking you up (music, light, chimey)
4. not large or ugly; colorful
5. not battery operated
6. under 50 bucks

I am not a super heavy sleeper and I don’t use the snooze button. I don’t need a lot of gizmos or even the radio really. My frontrunners include (in no order):

The Sonic Boom –vibration! pink hearts! pulsating multicolored lights! oh the cheesiness! and includes plug and battery backup.  Pricey though.

Big Ben –and this one have the light feature and super awesome colors and retro looks. They seem pricey, and not so durable.

Landmark –Pretty, light up, and looks a little sturdier.

Phillips –cool looking, many sounds, but battery powered, cheap. maybe not so durable.

Slabang–battery powered, durable looking, but you can record whatever sound you want. cheap.