The American Made Emergency Radio For 2024

Dan Simmons By, Dan Simmons
Updated
Midland - ER310, Emergency Crank Weather AM/FM Radio
Image credit: Amazon.com

The Rundown

1. Best Overall: Midland - ER310, Emergency Crank Weather AM/FM Radio

The Midland ER310 is one of the best emergency radios you can buy, thanks to a combination of low prices and a wide range of features. This is an FM and AM radio, but it also receives NOAA radio signals for those who are daring or in need of early weather warnings. Read Review

2. Best For The Price: Kaito KA500 5-way Powered Solar Power Radio

The Kaito KA500 Voyager is a portable receiver that can be used for daily and emergency preparedness purposes. It's a revolutionary radio that offers a wide range of functions and is a great choice for daily use. Read Review

3. Best Portable: C Crane CC Skywave AM, FM, Shortwave, Weather Radio

This radio receiver is highly regarded by amateur radio fans and shortwave enthusiasts. It picks up all the usual things you would dial into in an emergency: AM and local stations, shortwave, and airband. You can even pick up high-frequency conversations with ham radio. Read Review

4. Best Automatically Scan: Midland - WR400, Deluxe NOAA Emergency Weather Alert Radio

The WR-400's NOAA Weather Scan will automatically scan through 7 NOAA channels and notify you if a weather hazard, such as a tornado, flood, or thunderstorm, is present. It connects to the strongest NOAA radio station automatically, but you can diversify it by presetting. Read Review

When you’re caught in a disaster and cell service is down, your battery runs out, or you’re simply somewhere with no internet access, your standard smartphone won’t be much help. In these situations, it’s important to have reliable ways to stay informed about what’s going on around you and accessible communication methods that don’t require the Internet or WiFi.

We live in a digital world where information can come at us from any direction at any time. If a natural disaster or other emergency strikes, keeping informed and staying safe is not just important but almost essential for survival. An emergency radio is one of the best ways to keep informed and safe in an emergency situation no matter where you are.

We attempt to verify the origin of these products, but there seems emergency radios made in America are not widely available. As a result, we will recommend the products of the US and Chinese located companies that We believe to have the highest quality with preference to US-based business.

Our staff had to concentrate on studying over 15 hours to acquire such outcomes for readers. Such research depends on both customer star ratings and interviews with customers about their experience of the product. In addition, we recommend Midland - ER310, Emergency Crank Weather AM/FM Radio as one of the ideal selections. For your convenience, we've included an in-depth buyer's guide and other excellent alternatives for you to choose the final option.

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 Midland - ER310, Emergency Crank Weather AM/FM Radio
Our Score:
9.8
Midland
  • CHARGE EXTERNAL DEVICES - Quickly charge your portable devices (cell phones, tablets, etc.) using the USB charging cable (included).
  • ULTRASONIC DOG WHISTLE - Use the dog whistle to assist search and rescue teams in locating individuals during an emergency situation.
  • MULTIPLE POWER SOURCES - The ER310 features 3 sustainable power sources to recharge your radio: Solar Panel, Hand Crank, & Rechargeable 2600 mAh Battery. SOLAR PANEL - Simply recharge the internal lithium ion battery with direct sunlight. HAND CRANK - Recharge the radio during a power outage or anytime away from a power source. RECHARGEABLE 2600 mAh BATTERY - The rechargeable & replaceable long life battery provides up to 32 hours of radio operation. The ER310 can also be powered by 6 “AA” Batteries (Not Included) as a backup power solution.
  • NOAA WEATHER SCAN + ALERT - NOAA Weather Scan will automatically scan through 7 available weather (WX) band channels and locks onto the strongest weather channel to alert you of severe weather updates. NOAA Weather Alert will sound an alarm indicating that there is a risk of severe weather in your area. AM/FM radio is also available.
  • EMERGENCY FLASHLIGHT - The SOS FLASHLIGHT BEACON flashes Morse code in an emergency scenario and the Bright CREE LED (130 Lumens) can be used to signal for help. Select the Low brightness setting to conserve battery life or the High brightness setting for maximum illumination.
TOP Choice #2 Kaito KA500 5-way Powered Solar Power Radio
Our Score:
9.6
Kaito
  • Made of strong premium impact-resistant and water-resistant ABS material, suitable for both indoors home/office use and outdoors recreational activities
  • Works as an emergency mobile battery charger with built-in standard DC 5V USB output port for charging mobile devices, such as smart phones, GPS units, MP3 players, digital cameras, and etc. Other features include a 5-LED reading lamp, LED flashlight and a red LED S.O.S. beacon light
  • Comprehensive coverage of AM, FM, 2-band shortwave and 7 pre-programmed NOAA weather channels for entertainment, sports, talk-shows, breaking news around the world, and 24/7 real-time weather forecast (USA and Canada ONLY) with PEAS (Public Emergency Alert System)
  • 6-way powered portable emergency radio with hand crank generator, solar panel, compartment for 3 AA batteries (not included), 5V USB input, 5V AC/DC input with a wall power adapter (sold separately), built-in NiMH replaceable and rechargeable battery pack
  • Telescopic antenna extends up to 14.5" for high sensitivity reception assisted by advanced semiconductor circuitry design and LED signal strength indicator for pin-point tuning accuracy, and built-in speaker delivers loud and crispy sound
TOP Choice #3 C Crane CC Skywave AM, FM, Shortwave, Weather Radio
Our Score:
9.5
C. Crane
  • Includes Earbuds, Carry Case and Fold-out Backstand. 1 Year Warranty.
  • Lighted LCD Display, Rotary Volume Knob, Stereo Headphone Jack, Sleep Timer
  • Runs approx. 60-70 hrs. at moderate volume on (2) AA batteries (not included) or can be powered by an optional AC adapter
  • 400 Memory Presets, Direct Entry Keypad, Autoscan Tuning, Signal Meter
  • Small Lightweight Portable AM/FM/Shortwave/Weather/Airband Travel Clock Radio With Alarm.
  • ALARM CLOCK - The built-in clock features an alarm with a snooze button and a AM/FM Radio. Wake up to local weather, AM/FM, or buzz. It automatically switches from AM/FM to pertinent all-hazard alerts..
  • PROGRAMMING - S.A.M.E. - The Specific Area Message Encoding automatically locks on to your county’s NOAA weather radio signal requiring minimal programming from the user. CUSTOM - Program your radio to receive weather alerts/warnings from up to 25 different counties and be alerted only when those specific counties are threatened.
  • WARNING SYSTEM OPTIONS - Customize the way that you would like to be alerted: 85 dB siren alarm, voice alert, or visual LED flasher.
  • NOAA WEATHER SCAN + ALERT - NOAA Weather Scan will automatically scan through 7 available weather (WX) band channels with flood, tornado, thunderstorm, civil danger warnings, and more. It also locks onto the strongest weather channel to alert you of severe weather updates. NOAA Weather Alert will sound an alarm indicating that there is a risk of severe weather hazards and emergencies in your area.
  • EMERGENCY POWER BACK UP - The 4 “AA” Alkaline batteries (Not Included) keeps your radio operating during power outages or outside use.
  • Stay Safe And Have Fun: For Over 30 Years We'Ve Been Dedicated To Creating Award-Winning, Innovative Products For Emergency Preparedness And Entertainment; We'Re A Proud Partner Of The American Red Cross
  • Versatile And Portable: This Receiver Also Picks Up Vhf Aircraft Band And Single Sideband (Ssb); It Comes With A Leather Case With Craftsman Stitching For Ultimate Portability, Making It Ideal For Travel
  • International Radio Receiver: The Executive Satellite Receives Every Radio Wavelength—Am(Mw), Fm With Rds, Lw, And Shortwave (Sw)—Anywhere; It Features Precision Automatic Or Manual Digital Tuning
  • Keep Connected: From Weather Alert Radios And Backup Battery Packs To Solar-Powered Sound Systems, We'Ll Keep You Connected And In The Know At Home, In The Office, On The Road Or In The Great Outdoors
  • One of the smallest multiband radios with SSB. Full Range AM, FM, NOAA Weather band plus Alert, Shortwave (1711-29999kHz) with Single Side Band and VHF Aviation (Airband). Single Side Band is an efficient and reliable way to get long range information when Internet, phone or satellite is not available. Single Side Band in not available on your smartphone which makes it the ultimate off the grid backup communication system.
  • Digitally tuned multiband receiver with superior sensitivity & selectivity enhanced by multiple bandwidth settings. Selectable fast or fine tuning on all bands (except weather).
  • Clock with 12/24 hour format, alarm, rotary volume and tuning knob. Lighted LCD display, Stereo headphone jack and fold-out back stand. High quality CC Buds Earphones, faux leather radio carry case and 23’ portable Shortwave reel antenna included.
  • Run Time (on batteries): ± 70 hours (earbuds), ± 60 Hours (built-in speaker). Runs on (2) AA alkaline batteries (not included), (Optional) CC Skywave AC power adapter 5V DC 300 mA with mini USB tip. One year limited warranty.
  • Direct frequency entry, auto scan and store, 400 memories. 10 aviation memories can be scanned for activity.
  • Telescopic antenna extends up to 14" for high sensitivity and selectivity reception assisted by a pure digital tuner and advanced semiconductor circuitry design; 4 tuning methods including manual with tuning knob or keypad, direct numerical keypad entry, ATS & memory tuning with over 1,000 memories for easy access to favorite stations
  • All-purpose 5-way powered portable emergency radio, hand crank generator, solar power, 5V USB input, 6V DC wall power adapter (not included), and built-in 2,000 mAh li-ion rechargeable battery pack; suitable applications include everyday use around the house, outdoors recreational activities such as camping, backpacking, picnic, and emergency / disaster preparedness, roadside emergency, and etc., a dependable source of information and a reliable survival tool when everything else fails
  • Unique and revolutionary design with dual stereo speakers provides uncompromising sound quality not only for radio listening, but also for playing your favorite tunes via wireless Bluetooth streaming or by inserting a micro-SD memory card or connecting an external audio device to a 3.5mm audio input jack, features a fully-functional MP3 player with built-in digital sound equalizer, built-in recorder for both live and future scheduled recording of radio broadcasting
  • Durable strong premium ABS construction with digital tuner and LCD back-lit display featuring calendar, 24-hour clock with alarm, count-down sleep timer; Works as an emergency mobile battery charger with built-in standard DC 5V USB output port for charging mobile devices, such as smart phones, GPS units, MP3 players, digital cameras, and etc. Other safety features include a 5-LED reading lamp & an LED flashlight
  • Comprehensive coverage of AM, FM, Shortwave and 7 pre-programmed NOAA weather channels for entertainment, sports, talk-shows, breaking news around the world, and 24/7 weather forecast (USA and Canada ONLY) with PEAS (Public Emergency Alert System) real-time alert
8 C. Crane CCRadio-2E Enhanced CC2BE
Our Score:
8.7
C. Crane
  • Portable Radio weighing 4 lbs. Runs on 4 D sized batteries or use the included AC power cord. Up to 250 hours of run time with a fresh set of D sized batteries.
  • Get NOAA government issued alerts on the Weather band.
  • Best AM reception with the Twin-Coil Ferrite Antenna. AM, FM, NOAA Weather Band with Weather Alert and the 2-Meter Ham Band.
  • Life saving information in natural disasters like hurricanes come through on the 2-Meter Ham band
  • Clock, Alarm, Sleep timer, Headphone jack, Display light and 5 one touch memory presets. Battery Operated. Long Battery Life.
  • In and Out: Connect any audio device using the line input and listen to your favorite music and media through the Eton Satellit750’s speakers; Or broadcast your radio to other devices using the line output; Features dual alarm clock for multiple alarms
  • On Every Wavelength: The Eton Satellite 750 broadcasts every radio wavelength including AM,FM, LW, SW, SSB and VHF aircraft band frequencies; 360° rotating AM antenna pulls in even the weakest signals for full, bold sound
  • Strong and Sensitive: DSP Technology enhances tuning sensitivity and fields out interference for better quality; Program in up to 1000 channels, 100 for each band, plus you can customize up to 55 channels to tune into your favorite stations with ease
  • Keep Connected: From weather alert radios and backup battery packs to solar-powered sound systems, we'll keep you connected and in the know at home, in the office, on the road or in the great outdoors
  • Eton's Commitment to Preparedness: We're committed to helping you be prepared for everyday fun and unexpected emergency, whether you’re out on a 10-day backpacking trip or barbecuing in the backyard
10 C. Crane CCRadio 3  AM, FM, NOAA Weather Plus Alert Radio
Our Score:
8.5
C. Crane
  • EMERGENCY RADIO: Be prepared for any emergencies & disasters with the NOAA weather band plus government issued weather alerts and the 2-Meter Ham Band for locally available earthquake and hurricane communications.
  • BLUETOOTH: With the addition of Bluetooth you can receive an immense palate of new radio shows on the CCRadio 3 by pairing it with any Bluetooth capable smart speaker or phone.
  • DESIGNED FOR LONG-RANGE RECEPTION: Best AM reception comes from the patented Twin-Coil Ferrite AM Antenna. Traditional FM reception is exceptional in its ability to bring in a weak station clearly.
  • FEATURES: Clock, alarm, sleep timer, headphone jack, adjustable display light and 5 one touch memory presets per band. Comes with AC power cord, runs on 4 “D” size batteries (not included). Extra Long Battery Life of approximately 250 hours while played at a moderate volume. Comes with 1 Year Limited Warranty and C. Crane US based tech support.
  • AUDIO CLARITY: The voice reproduction of the CCRadio 3 is clear and accurate. It is easy to imagine the host is sitting next to you. When listening to your favorite radio show, podcast or audio book you can become immersed in it for a fuller experience.
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How Can You Choose The american made emergency radio Among Numerous Products From Different Brands?

It can take you much time to research the outcome of american made emergency radio. It doesn't mean you can’t get the best one for yourself. We are the experts specializing in studying market and products. We will help you with your american made emergency radio issues, no matter what time it is!

Please have a closer look at the things below to evaluate and then choose the right american made emergency radio for your need:

Size

Experienced adventurers know it is best to travel light to save time and make your journey more enjoyable. A compact radio is the best option if you aren't looking to carry extra weight or want to save space.
You will get lower quality sound quality if your device is smaller or lighter. It's not necessary to have high-quality audio in order to enjoy a weather update.

Durability & Waterproofness

You'll be more likely to drop your radio in an emergency situation or get it wet during inclement weather. You should look for radios made with durable materials such as bumpers or impact-resistant rubber skin.
Learn about the IPX rating system. It rates how water-resistant a device. This ranges between the device breaking down upon water exposure (IPX0), to being capable of enduring powerful water jets. (IPX9K).
Most radios we found fell within the IPX3 and IPX4 ranges. These are able to resist light rain or splashes coming from all directions.

Weather Alerts

If you're camping or out in the elements, it is crucial to stay informed on the weather. You can also use it if the weather is unpredictable or you are at home without power.
You should look for devices that have access to the NOAA radio channel. Up to seven radio stations broadcasting emergency warnings and weather information across the United States can be tuned in. You can even tap into the station that is most pertinent and switch on whenever a broadcast occurs.

Power Efficiency

A radio's battery life, crank or solar panel does not guarantee that it can charge quickly or lasts long. You should verify the battery's average life before you spend any money. Any battery life that exceeds eight hours is good.
The time taken to produce meaningful power can vary between cranks. It can take up to two minutes for one minute of playback at the lowest end. You can achieve more than 10 times as many minutes if you work harder.

Battery Life

However, it's less likely that the battery will need to be charged every hour. The larger batteries for emergency radios are typically between 2,000 and 2,600 mAh. This should provide you with a full day's use, before needing to recharge.
Radios that are smaller and lighter will be able to store between 850-1,999 mAh. This will allow for more frequent use or shorter emergency situations.

Extra Features

There are many features on emergency radios. These include SOS signalling and emergency buzzers, as well as table lamps and LED flashlights. Many radios can charge small electronics via USB. A larger battery is better if your phone is important.
These radios have emergency features that are essential. Make sure you look for one you can use to notify you of severe weather warnings from NOAA. A flashlight is a great option for emergencies.
Look for things that can help you find your way if you are trapped by floodwaters or in the woods. You can also use a flashing red LED light, flashlights that blink or have SOS or blinking functions, and an ultrasonic dog whistle or buzzer to help you locate your destination.

Charging Methods

There's no way to be certain that the power will remain on in an emergency. It's likely it'll go out. Make sure you have multiple options for charging your radio. To recharge the battery completely, it is easiest and most efficient to do so.
Radios with disposable batteries are a favorite of ours. It is easy to stockpile and receive several days' worth of power with minimal investment.
Although solar charging can prove useful, it is slow and requires the sun to work. This can cause problems in severe weather. A hand crank is a good alternative charging option.
Hand cranks don't all work the same. Take note of what power each crank can produce. You want a radio with a high ratio of cranking and listening, such as 10 minutes per minute.

FAQs

How Long Does A Crank Radio Last?

A crank radio generally provides 10-15 hours of radio talk time when fully charged. If other features are being used, the timeframe will be longer. You don't have to turn the radio on again to make it work.
There is no definitive answer to how long a crank radio will last. However, it generally takes 500-1000 charges to charge a device. If you don't have frequent tornadoes, you can expect to get a couple of years, if not even decades, out of the unit.

When Will I Need An Emergency Radio?

A portable emergency radio is a vital tool in times of crisis, such as a tornado, hurricane, earthquake or power cut. You will probably need an emergency radio, with climate change increasing and disasters related to weather becoming more common in many places. It is better to have this radio than not using it.

What Kind Of Radio Is Used For Emergencies?

Federal government suggests that you include a hand crank radio or battery-powered radio with NOAA weather access, alerts and notifications in your emergency kits.
Emergency radios are tuned specifically to be able to listen to AM and FM radio, as well as access NOAA weather channels. In case of power grid failure, they can be used independently from wall outlets.
A radio that can alert you to NOAA's weather warnings is a good choice. It doesn't need a plug and will work at the minimum. While useful, some perks, like integrated flashlights and USB charging ports, can be helpful, but they are not essential to emergency radios.

Do Hand-crank Radios Work?

While not all models will work perfectly, crank radios can be trusted. You can turn a crank to charge a radio battery. I.e. It should be wound up.
Although a crank radio is not as reliable or powerful as other sources of power, they can be used for a long time without needing to recharge.
The efficiency ranges from 2 minutes for 1 minute power to 90 seconds for 30 minutes power.

How Long Do Emergency Radios Last?

A good emergency radio will last for 5-10 years if kept dry and clean.

What Are The Emergency Radio Channels?

Your location will often determine which emergency radio stations you have access to. You should find the local channels as well as state emergency radio stations and keep them in your emergency kit.
The national weather service (NOAA), also has its own weather station. Non-weather updates will also be provided by the NOAA station.

How Do You Use An Emergency Radio?

You should make sure your radio is fully charged before you use it. You can access NOAA weather channels and your local radio station by charging your radio. Many radios also have a USB cable that can be used to charge the phone and act as a flashlight.

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About Dan Simmons

Dan Simmons

Dan Simmons is a writer who loves home theater and HiFi audio. As the editor of TheAudioInsights, he has helped countless people enjoy the best possible sound quality in their homes. He is an audiophile who takes great pleasure in helping others find the perfect audio equipment for their needs. When he's not writing or editing, Dan enjoys listening to music and spending time with his family.