I couldnt handle the jolt of wake up to sudden noise , it could turn the potential for a good morning bad . this method in waking be so peaceful , I like to set it to a 45 minute sunrise and then doze in a out of consciousness as it reach full brightness . have only have it for a few day so can not comment on its durability . at least it will not break from I throw it against wall in anger to shut the thing up .