There is no single best personal alarm for everyone. The right one is loud enough, easy to trigger under stress, and something you will actually carry every day. Here is what matters, and how popular models compare.
1. Loudness
Most good alarms are 120dB to 140dB. At that level, a few decibels on paper matter less than you think: every alarm in this range is painfully loud at close range and carries down a street. Be wary of very high numbers with no detail on how they were measured.
2. A light
A flashing strobe helps people nearby see where you are, and can disorientate someone at close range. Some alarms add a steady torch for everyday use.
3. Power
Battery alarms never need charging but you need spares (often a 9V). Rechargeable alarms save that hassle; check the standby time so you are not charging every week.
4. Carry
An alarm in the bottom of a bag is no use. Look for a strong keychain or clip so it lives on your keys or strap.
5. Independent testing
Some UK alarms carry Sold Secure or Secured by Design recognition. It is a useful signal, particularly for employers buying for staff.
How popular models compare
We keep a side-by-side table of Ashley, She's Birdie, Defender and Minder on our personal alarm comparison page, using each brand's own published details.
Ashley Alarm 2 has a 130dB+ siren, a 200-lumen strobe and USB charging, and is carried by 130,000+ women. See Ashley Alarm 2.
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