If you’re a heavy sleeper, you know the struggle. Standard alarms are mere suggestions, and the snooze button is a path to being late. For those who can sleep through a hurricane, there’s a specific, powerful solution: the sonic bomb alarm clock. These devices remain the undisputed champions of waking the deepest sleepers. They combine a piercingly loud audible alarm with a powerful bed shaker, a one-two punch that’s virtually impossible to ignore. We’ve analysed the market, user reports, and specs to find the absolute best models for your desk and nightstand.
🚀 Quick Verdict / Top Pick
Sonic Bomb Dual Extra Loud Alarm Clock (SBB500SS)
The SBB500SS is the iconic original, offering the ultimate combination of a 113dB alarm, a powerful bed shaker, and dual alarm functionality that makes it the most versatile and effective choice for almost any heavy sleeper.
The 2026 Sonic Bomb Lineup: Compared
| Product | Alarm Modes | Bed Shaker | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sonic Bomb Dual Extra Loud (B000OOWZUK) | Audio, Vibrate, Audio + Vibrate | Included (Wired) | The All-Around Best |
| Sonic Alert Dual Alarm (B07KB8F9F5) | Audio, Vibrate, Audio + Vibrate | Included (Wired) | Reliable Performance |
| Sonic Alert Small Digital (B004OWLUWM) | Audio Only (Default) | Not Included (Optional) | Travel or Small Desks |
| Sonic Bomb Dual Alarm (B01CUNCTDA) | Audio, Vibrate, Audio + Vibrate | Included (Wired) | Alternative Aesthetics |
| Sonic Alert SB1000SS Sonic Boom (B000EX9K40) | Audio, Vibrate, Audio + Vibrate | Included (Wired) | Classic Powerhouse |
Detailed Product Reviews
1. Sonic Bomb Dual Extra Loud Alarm Clock (B000OOWZUK)
Pros
- Incredibly loud 113dB alarm
- Powerful 12-volt bed shaker included
- Dual alarm for weekday/weekend schedules
Cons
- Aggressive, non-minimalist design
- Setting the alarm can be unintuitive at first
The Breakdown: This is the benchmark model all other extra-loud alarms are measured against. It delivers a multi-sensory alert system: a piercing audio alarm, flashing red lights, and the legendary bed shaker. Its purpose is singular and effective: to wake you up, no matter what.
Key Specs:
- Alarm Volume: Up to 113 dB
- Bed Shaker: Included (12-volt, wired)
- Display: Red LED with 5-level dimmer
- Power: AC powered with 9V battery backup (battery not included)
The Community Verdict: Users consistently report this is the only alarm that works for their profound deafness or extreme deep sleeping habits. The consensus is that the combination of the sonic bomb alarm clock with bed shaker is its most effective feature. Some users note that the build quality feels lightweight, but its performance is undisputed.
Dealbreaker: Skip this if you live in a small apartment with thin walls and don’t want to antagonize your neighbors—unless you plan to use the shaker-only mode.
2. Sonic Alert Sonic Bomb Dual Alarm Clock (B07KB8F9F5)
Pros
- Proven 113dB alarm system
- Includes the powerful bed shaker unit
- Reliable dual alarm functionality
Cons
- Functionally identical to the original SBB500SS
- Dated aesthetic may not suit modern desks
The Breakdown: Market research indicates this model is functionally identical to our top pick. It features the same explosive 113dB sound, dual alarms, and the critical bed shaker component. It’s the standard-bearer for a reason, offering a no-frills, high-power wake-up call.
Key Specs:
- Alarm Volume: Up to 113 dB
- Bed Shaker: Included (12-volt, wired)
- Display: Red LED with dimmer control
- Power: AC powered with battery backup
The Community Verdict: Reviews for this model mirror the original: it’s a life-changer for those who struggle to wake up. Many point to the sonic boom alarm clock bed shaker as the single most important element, allowing them to wake up silently without disturbing a partner. The main complaint is the slightly complex setup process.
Dealbreaker: If you already own the original Sonic Bomb, there’s no reason to get this one; it’s a lateral move, not an upgrade.
3. Sonic Alert Small Digital Alarm Clock (B004OWLUWM)
Pros
- Extremely loud 113dB alarm in a compact size
- Portable and travel-friendly
- Includes battery backup for reliability
Cons
- Bed shaker is NOT included by default
- Only a single alarm setting
The Breakdown: The SB200SS model takes the raw power of the Sonic Bomb’s audio alarm and packs it into a much smaller, travel-ready form factor. It sacrifices the dual alarm and, most importantly, the included bed shaker to achieve its size. It’s a specialized tool for loudness in small spaces.
Key Specs:
- Alarm Volume: Up to 113 dB
- Bed Shaker: Not included (has a port for one, sold separately)
- Display: 0.7″ Red LED
- Power: AC powered with battery backup
The Community Verdict: Owners appreciate the sheer volume from such a small device. It’s praised for its simplicity and effectiveness as a no-frills loud alarm. The primary complaint is the lack of an included shaker, with many feeling that the sonic bomb alarm clock with bed shaker is the complete package, and this model feels incomplete without it.
Dealbreaker: If the bed shaker is a non-negotiable feature for you, skip this model and opt for one of the full-size bundles.
4. Sonic Bomb Dual Alarm Clock with Bed Shaker (B01CUNCTDA)
Pros
- Full 113dB alarm and bed shaker combo
- Unique case design stands out from the original
- Full-featured with dual alarms and dimmer
Cons
- Some users find the button placement less intuitive
- Often priced higher than the classic model
The Breakdown: The SBD375SS is a design variation on the classic Sonic Bomb formula. It retains all the critical features—dual alarm, ear-splitting volume, and the powerful bed shaker—but packages them in a different shell. For some, this aesthetic may be preferable to the original’s aggressive, bomb-like appearance.
Key Specs:
- Alarm Volume: Up to 113 dB
- Bed Shaker: Included (12-volt, wired)
- Display: Red or Green LED options available, with dimmer
- Power: AC powered with battery backup
The Community Verdict: Feedback suggests this model performs identically to the SBB500SS. The choice between them comes down purely to aesthetics and price. Those who choose this model often do so because they prefer its shape on their nightstand. The effectiveness of the sonic boom alarm clock bed shaker remains the most celebrated feature.
Dealbreaker: If you’re purely function-focused, the original model often provides the same performance for a lower price.
5. Sonic Alert SB1000SS Sonic Boom Alarm Clock (B000EX9K40)
Pros
- Powerful 113dB alert system
- Distinctive silver, retro-futuristic design
- Comes with the essential bed shaker
Cons
- Functionality is largely the same as newer models
- Typically lacks the dual alarm feature
The Breakdown: The SB1000SS Sonic Boom is one of the original powerhouse alarms. Its silver chassis and unique design set it apart visually. It delivers the same core promise: an intensely loud sound paired with a strong vibration to wake absolutely anyone.
Key Specs:
- Alarm Volume: Up to 113 dB
- Bed Shaker: Included (12-volt, wired)
- Display: Red LED
- Power: AC powered with battery backup
The Community Verdict: This is a classic, and many long-time users swear by its durability and performance. Like all models in this category, the sonic boom alarm clock with bed shaker is the main draw. Most negative feedback centers on its lack of a dual alarm, which is a standard feature on the SBB500SS models.
Dealbreaker: If you need separate alarms for weekdays and weekends, the dual alarm models are a much better fit for your routine.
Buying Guide: Choosing the Right Sonic Bomb for Your Desk
Choosing between these models is less about performance—they are all exceptionally loud—and more about features and form factor. Here’s what to consider:
1. Do You Need the Bed Shaker?
For 99% of users, the answer is a resounding yes. The shaker is the key differentiator that makes these alarms so effective. It allows you to wake up via vibration only, saving the hearing of your partner or roommate. Unless you’re buying the compact model specifically for travel and only need the audio, ensure the shaker is included.
2. Dual vs. Single Alarm
If your wake-up time varies between the weekday and weekends, a dual alarm is a massive quality-of-life improvement. Set it once and forget it. For those with consistent schedules, a single alarm like the one on the SB1000SS or SB200SS is perfectly adequate.
3. Aesthetics and Desk Space
Let’s be honest: these are not subtle desk clocks. Their design is loud, both audibly and visually. Consider how the aggressive look of the classic Sonic Bomb or the retro style of the Sonic Boom fits your workspace. While many powerful clocks for desk setups focus on utility, it’s worth thinking about how it complements your gear. If you’re curating a perfect L shaped desk setup, the more compact SB200SS might be a better fit. For users who value integrated tech, a modern alarm clock with wireless charging could be an alternative, though it will lack the raw waking power of a Sonic Bomb.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How loud is a Sonic Bomb alarm clock?
Most Sonic Bomb models are rated at 113 decibels (dB) at their highest setting. For context, this is comparable to the sound of a rock concert, a chainsaw, or a jet engine from a distance. It is significantly louder than a standard alarm clock, which is typically around 70-80 dB.
Does the Sonic Bomb bed shaker really work?
Yes. Based on overwhelming user consensus, the bed shaker (or vibrator) is extremely effective. It’s a small, disc-shaped device connected by a wire to the clock that you place under your mattress or pillow. The vibration is strong enough to wake even the deepest of sleepers without any sound, making it ideal for couples with different schedules or for the hearing impaired.
Can you use the Sonic Bomb alarm without the sound?
Absolutely. All the full-size models with the included bed shaker have multiple alarm modes. You can choose to be woken by audio only, vibration only, or a combination of both. The vibration-only mode is one of its most popular features.
Is the Sonic Bomb display too bright?
Most models come with a built-in dimmer switch, usually with 3 to 5 levels of brightness. This allows you to turn the display down to a very low level at night to avoid disrupting your sleep, or turn it up to be clearly visible during the day.
