I'm tough on irons and I drop them a lot. I've found that what I like is not the cheapest iron, but close -- it is the cheapest iron with the extra long cord, I usually get them at Target so standard brands and choices. If the cheap one is $14, it's $20 so still cheap. I've tried medium to more expensive irons and typically break the cases by dropping them after about 4-5 years.
I want steam and I want hot. I prefer those that don't turn off by themselves but I've been saved a couple of times by those that do... it all depends on how fast they turn off/heat up again.