The Buzz On Alarm Clocks

Most people need a little help getting up in the morning, and alarm clocks usually do the trick.

But, not all alarm clocks are the same. And as we all "fall back," with Daylight Savings Time ending and clocks being pushed back an hour, Kris Connell of "Real Simple" magazine provides tips to help you choose an alarm clock to meet your needs:

Loud, Durable Clocks

Howard Miller's City Bell Clock is perfect for waking the dead. This clock features the world's loudest alarm, $63.

MOMA's Zupa Clock is perfect for the teen-ager in your life. The durable clock is made of silicone rubber and can withstand being thrown across the room by an angry riser, $55. You can order one from MOMA Design Store's toll-free phone number, 800-447-6662.

More Than A Standard Alarm Clock

LL Bean's Westclock Moon Beam is for those who don't want to be suddenly awakened by a piercing sound. This clock illuminates to wake you with a gentle light 30 seconds before the alarm goes off, $30.

With the Lexon Soap Clock, you can set the alarm to your favorite FM radio station or pre-record a wakeup greeting of your choice. It also can be pre-programmed to wake a loved one with a special morning message, $55. Order the clock by calling 888-445-3966.

Sony's Dream Machine is both an alarm clock and CD player. It allows you to set your alarm to the CD and track of your choice. Although it is expensive, the Dream Machine may be worth the splurge because you get two products in one, $189.

Good Looking Clocks

Tiffany & Co.'s Round Brass Clock is for the sophisticated sleeper. The small, round clock looks elegant and won't take up much room on your nightstand, $150. Order a clock by calling the phone number 800-526-0649.

The Westclock's Big Ben Clock was created by legendary industrial designer Henry Dreyfuss and has been waking people since 1939, $29.

The bells on the Bulova Waldron alarm clock are just for show, perfect for someone who likes an old-fashioned look but needs the modern beeping sound to get them out of bed, $17.

Clocks For Traveling

The colorful Swiss Army Travel Clock is perfect for travel. It's so small that it folds up and doubles as a pocket watch, $75.

The Braun Travel Clock is small enough to bring with you on trips. The alarm switch is so easy to find, you can turn it off without even opening your eyes, $25. It is available at Flight 001 stores or by ordering on the phone at 877-435-8663.