The Best Emergency Flashlight Radio For 2024

William Shatner By, William Shatner
Updated
Midland - WR120, NOAA Emergency Radio (WR120C - Clam Packaging)
Image credit: Amazon.com

The Rundown

1. Best Overall: Midland - WR120, NOAA Emergency Radio (WR120C - Clam Packaging)

This model is equipped with a built-in clock with an alarm and snooze. It includes the ability to select what alerts you want to hear and also allows you to set up your location without having to look up the SAME codes. Read Review

2. Best For Price: Emergency Radio Hand Crank Solar 5000mAh

This model can be recharged by a hand crank, adding batteries or a USB plug. It also has a very bright flashlight with two settings, which helps get around the house and cook on the gas stove. Read Review

3. Best Design: Kaito KA500 5-way Powered Solar Power

This radio has 6-way powered portable emergency radio such as a hand crank generator, solar panel, compartment for 3 AA batteries, 5V USB input, 5V AC/DC input with a wall power adapter, and built-in NiMH replaceable and rechargeable battery pack. Read Review

4. Best Safety: Eton, American Red Cross FRX3

Stay tuned and up-to-date with this AM/FM/NOAA weather band digital radio with an alarm clock, phone charger and bright LED flashlight. Read Review

Daily, we use our computers, smartphones, and TVs to keep us aware of what’s going on around us. But if a storm knocks out the power grid, our everyday tech is not enough.

One of the essential features of the best emergency radios is the ability to keep running no matter what. Whether dealing with a tornado, blizzard, or any unforeseen event, you need to be able to keep it charged for days on end. Emergency radios ensure that you are never without critical knowledge by picking up emergency broadcasts and alerting you to severe weather or human-made disasters. Unlike standard radios, emergency radios can receive notifications and warnings from high-frequency public service band stations. Users may listen to dedicated weather channels, set the radio to alert when a weather or disaster warning is issued, and access primary AM/FM stations on an emergency radio.

We rounded up a variety of radios that run on batteries and solar energy and ones that charge via hand crank to help you find the Best emergency flashlight radio on the market.

 

Our Top Picks

The Midland - WR120C  has a public-alert certified monitor that receives 7 NOAA channels with flood, tornado, thunderstorm, and other warnings. Other than that, it has a 25-county memory system; a 90 dB siren, voice alert, and flashing LED warning systems.

This product also uses three AA alkaline batteries for emergency power backup in a power outage.

TOP Choice #2 Emergency Radio Hand Crank Solar 5000mAh
Our Score:
9.8
FEIERYA

This radio is equipped with an astonishing battery. The operated radio is a 5000mAh high capacity portable power bank; this long-life battery can be repeatedly charged up to 3000 times, charging 2 hours and using one week.

It is essential equipment in your survival gear. This product is also the brightest Emergency Radio.

TOP Choice #3 Kaito KA500 5-way Powered Solar Power
Our Score:
9.6
Kaito

This radio has a telescopic antenna that 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. It is also a built-in speaker that delivers loud and crispy sound.

Furthermore, it is equipped with comprehensive coverage of AM, FM, 2-band shortwave and seven pre-programmed NOAA weather channels.

 

The  American Red Cross FRX3 has multifunction digital devices. This AM/FM/NOAA weather band digital radio with display and alarm clock can also charge a smartphone via a USB port. It also features an LED flashlight and red flashing beacon.

We're committed to helping you be prepared for everyday fun and emergency, whether you're out on a 10-day backpacking trip or barbecuing in the backyard.

5 Sangean MMR-88 AM/FM/Weather
Our Score:
9.2
Sangean

The Sangean MMR-88 gets all seven weather channels, and the National Weather Service reports. However, the following 19 preset stations are randomly selected.
It also provides the USB Type-A socket that allows users to charge their mobile phone or MP3. After all, the weather radios are certified to send public alerts.

 


 

6 Eton Scorpion II Rugged Multipowered
Our Score:
9.1
Eton

The tough build and water resistance make this a go-anywhere option, while the crank system is built for the most excellent ease of use. The outer casing is a thick rubber, making it one of the most impact-resistant emergency radios. If you're in the middle of a severe weather storm and get roughed up, you can expect it to survive. 

 The smart multipurpose NOAA weather radio is a must-have tool when catastrophe strikes. Built-in devices such as a flashlight, USB power bank, SOS siren, and radio frequencies like AM, FM, and WM come in handy.
 You can charge this radio with the included AAA batteries or via a solar panel and then store the energy in the battery or use a USB source to power the device.

  • SOS Flashlight beacon that flashes Morse code
  • Extremely Bright Cree LED Flashlight 130 Lumens
9 HQ ISSUE Dynamo Emergency Radio
Our Score:
8.7
HQ ISSUE
  • STAY INFORMED/ ENTERTAINED: Shortwave radio keeps you informed about news, weather, music & more. Choose from 11 bands: AM/FM, shortwave 1-2 & weather bands 1-7
  • HIGH SOUND QUALITY: Hand Crank radio provides access to NOAA weather alerts & news with multiple bandwidths for a strong & clean sound transmission. Use the attached hand crank for even better sound leverage
  • LARGE LCD DISPLAY - The LCD display is backlit and can show radio station, time, or weather channels.
  • NOAA WEATHER SCAN + ALERT - NOAA Weather Scan will automatically scan through 10 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.
Product Images, Product Titles, Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API

What Factors Should You Consider While Choosing best emergency flashlight radio?

Getting to the best decision for a product purchase may take a bit of time. In a nutshell, we're available to serve you with your product problems at all hours of the day and night!

Customers are always provided with the most recent ideas. All we can do now is work as hard as we can to ensure that it continues. The buyer still has the upper hand in today's business environment. Before forming an opinion, consumers should learn more about the subject.

  • So, what's all the fuss about purchasing it?
  • What, if any, advantages does the product have?
  • Should I invest if that's the case?
  • What are the benefits of online shopping for customers?
  • What, according to buyers, is the most popular item on the market right now?

Our recommendations include AI and Big Data analysis to provide you with the most accurate view of the topic. On request, customers will receive impartial and reliable statistics.

Most of the other models on the list have undergone comprehensive testing and were approved by the inventors. So you can rest assured to consider the following:

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.

Reception & Ability To Receive NOAA Alerts

An emergency radio's primary function is to inform you. Your radio should be able to pick up both AM/FM radio stations as well as NOAA weather stations. Although most emergency radios can do this, make sure you find one with solid reception. To better receive radio waves, you should look for radios with a telescoping antenna.

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.

Price

These radios don't use expensive technology and are not designed to provide the best sound quality. Even the most advanced emergency radio systems are still affordable.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Durability

You need a radio that can withstand extreme conditions, especially if you are active. Most radios that we have looked at are water and shock-resistant. You can drop the radios on different surfaces or subject them to rain without any harm.
You need an IPX rating at minimum 4.

FAQs

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.

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.

What Does An Emergency Radio Do?

There are many features on emergency radios that will help you in a crisis situation. Notifications and transmissions from NOAA can be received by emergency radios. They also double up as flashlights and phone chargers.

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.

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 Long Do Emergency Radios Last?

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

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.

What Is The Best NOAA Radio?

NoAA Radios that are the best in their class can receive NOAA alerts as soon as they go out. In case of a power outage, they can run on their own and have integrated solar chargers or hand cranks.
Access to NOAA Alerts is one thing, but the battery life of a NOAA radio can be the most important. Although smartphones are useful, their battery life will not last more than one day. You can keep track of what's happening in your life with hand-crank radios.
You can simply turn the crank to start your radio, and you'll be able to keep up with all of the news. You can also save the battery of your phone and refill it in most cases.

In general, product information and news are now available to users. In addition, as previously said, the Internet is constantly updated with new technology. Thus, customers will need to be informed so please subscribe to our newsletter or visit our website frequently to check the latest information.

Do you have any product-related questions or concerns you'd like to share? As a result of your efforts, we will attempt to ensure even greater standards of excellence!


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About William Shatner

William Shatner

William Shatner is a writer and editor who has worked in the audio equipment, computer, and projector industries. He also enjoys repairing and modifying audio equipment, and he has a particular interest in projectors. William is a critical thinker and problem solver, and he takes great pride in his work. He currently serves as the freelance editor of The Audio Insights.