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Not everyone feels at ease with self-defense tools that rely on physical confrontation, and I’m no exception. For many, myself included, personal safety alarms offer a straightforward alternative. These devices are especially helpful for families, whether it’s a child signaling for help after getting separated in a crowded space or a parent needing a quick way to alert others in an emergency. But personal safety devices are useful for everyone, from solo joggers to commuters and hitchhikers.
In this guide, I’ve rounded up some of the best personal safety alarms that I and WIRED staffers have tested. We also have a guide for the Best Personal Safety Apps, as well as a guide for apps that help people with disabilities travel more easily.
Updated July 2026: I’ve removed discontinued products and added an FAQ section. Prices, links, and product information were also updated.
How I Test Personal Safety Alarms
I personally trigger every alarm and, when applicable, speak to the emergency responders. Here’s how I evaluate these devices:
- Portability: I look at the size and weight of each device, prioritizing discreet devices that are easy to carry.
- Sound: Every portable alarm I choose produces between 120 and 140 decibels, which is loud enough to startle would-be assailants and alert bystanders in a crisis.
- Price: I factor in up-front costs and recurring expenses, such as subscription fees or replacement batteries. I also test battery life against manufacturer’s claims.
- Ease of use: Safety alarms should be simple to operate in high-stress situations. I assess the user experience during setup and the accessibility of customer support.
- The extras: I take stock of included features and test how well they perform compared to competitors. Some alarms include these extras at no additional charge, while other companies required paid upgrades; I keep this in mind.
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Best Overall
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I used the original Birdie for over a year, and just knowing it was clipped to my keys gave me peace of mind when I walked home at night. This gadget is like carrying a fire alarm in your pocket. If you ever feel threatened, you simply pull the pin to activate a 130-decibel siren, accompanied by a flashing strobe light; keep the speaker uncovered and directed toward your target. It’s designed to create a diversion and attract the attention of anyone within earshot.
Most recently, She’s Birdie released the Birdie 3.0, an upgraded version with extra features. This model is rechargeable, includes an on/off switch, and is designed with a flashlight you can use without activating the siren. With the She’s Birdie subscription, which costs $5 per month or $50 per year after your 30-day free trial, you’ll gain 24/7 access to a live emergency support representative, location sharing with emergency contacts, and fake call functionality if you need an excuse to leave. I haven’t tested the new Birdie 3.0 yet, but will report back soon with thoughts.
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Best for Discreet Situations
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InvisaWear Safety Wearables
Backed by home security company ADT, InvisaWear offers a range of accessories, including keychains, bracelets, and necklaces. Former WIRED reviewer Medea Giordano has tested them all and has had no issues with the features.
The functionalities require a $20 monthly subscription (iOS, Android). This includes 24/7 ADT access, in-app chat (clutch for situations when you can’t make a phone call), a voice-activation option if you can’t reach the button, and even virtual self-defense classes.
As with many personal panic alarms, the battery is nonrechargeable, so after a year or two, you’ll need to replace the button at a discounted $99. InvisaWear also encourages monthly testing to ensure the device is functioning smoothly (to do this, select “Place Test Alert” in the app’s menu).
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Best for Runners and Cyclists
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Photograph: Target; Walmart
Sabre
2-in-1 Clip-On Personal Alarm With LED Safety Light
Sabre is a trusted brand in personal safety, most notable for its line of pepper sprays and gels. It also sells a variety of defense alarms; I have yet to try every single one, but the 2-in-1 clip-on stands out for outdoor runners and cyclists. It’s weatherproof, and you can clip it onto your clothes, backpack, or bike. The LED light feature includes three modes (always on, slow flash, and fast flash) to keep you visible during nighttime walks, runs, and rides. If needed, you can press the button to trigger the 120-decibel siren that is audible up to 1,300 feet.
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Best for Backcountry Enthusiasts
Most personal safety gadgets can’t reach emergency services if you’re out of cell range, which is a problem if you’re a frequent camper or hiker, or perhaps just someone who spends time off the grid. For a reliable connection wherever you are—even in remote wilderness or on the open sea—WIRED loves the Garmin inReach Mini 2. We also cover a few more options in our satellite messenger guide.
Using the Iridium satellite network, the inReach Mini 2 enables you to send SOS alerts, messages, and location updates from nearly anywhere on Earth. WIRED contributing reviewer Kieran Alger tested it on his 1,830-mile run across Europe and found the live map feature invaluable for updating loved ones on his progress. You can also pair it with compatible Garmin watches to get notifications right on your wrist. You can send messages directly from the device or through Garmin’s Earthmate app (iOS, Android).
Honorable Mention
Photograph: Martin Cizmar
Fenix E35R Flashlight for $82: Many self-defense instructors suggest owning a flashlight as a personal safety tool as well. Besides helping you spot potential threats in the dark, the right flashlight can disorient an attacker, hopefully long enough to help you escape. Unlike mace, you haven’t hurt anyone, so if it was just a lost stranger asking for directions, no harm done. Former WIRED commerce director Martin Cizmar recommends the Fenix E35R in WIRED’s Best Flashlights and Headlamps guide. It’s compact enough to throw in a bag without weighing you down, yet durable enough to double as a self-defense weapon if all else fails.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is a Personal Safety Alarm?
A personal safety alarm is a portable device designed to alert others if you’re in danger. Think of it as a handheld, wearable security system. When activated, it emits a loud, often piercing, siren to draw attention from nearby people and potentially deter attackers. Most panic alarms blast at least 120 decibels, which is comparable to a thunderclap or a jet taking off, but volumes can vary. Many models also feature an LED flashlight, and some even go a step further by sending emergency alerts to preset contacts or 24/7 monitoring services.
TSA-friendly and allowed in places where other self-defense tools (like pepper spray) might be prohibited, personal security alarms can also offer peace of mind. Unlike your smartphone, they’re built for simplicity and speed in urgent moments; no need to unlock a device or fumble with a safety app. This makes them ideal for college students, children, and seniors who need safer alternatives to traditional self-defense tools.
Other Reasons to Consider a Personal Alarm
If you’re hiking or camping in areas with wildlife, a loud alarm might help scare off dangerous animals if they wander too close. While it’s no guarantee—and it’s always best to be educated on avoidance techniques when exploring the great outdoors—a sudden sound can sometimes discourage a rogue raccoon or coyote from venturing closer.
Some safety alarms are equipped with features that connect you to emergency responders, which can be invaluable for medical emergencies. Alternatively, a loud siren can grab the attention of someone who can call 911 on your behalf if you’re not able to.
A Note on Pepper Sprays and Gels
Pepper spray is legal in all 50 states, but be sure to read your specific state’s fine print before you purchase. Most states only allow adults 18 and older to buy and carry, but additional restrictions may apply. Wisconsin and California, for example, regulate both the size of the canister and the concentration of oleoresin capsicum (OC) it can contain. In Massachusetts and New York, you can purchase pepper spray only from a licensed in-state pharmacist, so online shopping is off the table.
It’s also important to note that pepper spray (and gel) is classified as a weapon in some jurisdictions, meaning anyone with prior convictions is prohibited from carrying it altogether. Pepper spray is also often banned in certain spaces, including but not limited to government buildings, schools, and commercial flights. Ignoring local laws could lead to fines and/or criminal charges, so double-check the rules in your place of residence before you swipe that credit card.
- Consider your lifestyle. Think about where and how you’ll use the siren alarm. A keychain alarm might be ideal for city commutes, but a wearable model is probably a better option for outdoor activities.
- Test it first. Before heading out, pull the alarm to ensure it sounds as intended. If it includes an emergency dispatch feature, test that too—be sure to notify the responder during the call that this is a test. Also, regularly check the battery.
- Stay aware. Personal alarms are tools, not shields, and they’re most effective when paired with situational awareness. When outside, stay alert to potential risks and trust your instincts.
- Have a plan. An alarm should be one part of a larger safety strategy. Plan through what you’ll do after activating it: Identify spaces to run to and know who to call for help.
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