The Best Handheld Shortwave Radio For 2024
The Rundown
1. Best Overall: Greadio Portable Shortwave Radio,AM FM Transistor Radio
The Greadio Portable Shortwave Radio is a stylish and portable radio with an LCD display. It is small enough to fit in your pocket or bag, but it has a large enough battery to last for hours. Featuring an easy-to-use design, this radio can be operated by pressing a button which turns the power on. In addition, it has two convenient charging ways: the USB port and the power bank adapter. Read Review
2. Best Bang For The Buck: C Crane CC Skywave Shortwave, Weather Portable Travel Radio
This is the perfect companion to your travels. Small, lightweight and easy to use this compact radio automatically stores up to 400 presets in the preset memory with its built-in clock that lets you wake up or fall asleep to the sound of your favorite station. The time is displayed on a lighted LCD display and you can set multiple alarms by selecting a time and date. Furthermore, this portable radio comes with an AM/FM receiver, shortwave receiver and weather band receiver. Read Review
3. Best Sound Quality: Eton Elite Field AM/FM/Shortwave Desktop Radio with Bluetooth
The Eton Elite Field radio is a versatile radio that can be set up to do just about anything. The tuner has a wide range of FM and MW frequencies, it's frequency hopping capability makes this radio the best choice for all types of weather conditions, and it has Bluetooth capability, allowing you to play music from your smartphone or tablet. Read Review
4. Best Connectivity: C. Crane CC Skywave SSB AM, FM, Shortwave Radio
C. Crane CC Skywave SSB AM, FM, Shortwave Radio offers the perfect blend of portability and technology. The one-of-a-kind design allows you to broadcast your favorite programming in the car and on the go. With a super sensitive and selective receiver that automatically tunes and stores stations with 400 memories, you'll never be out of touch. Read Review
The shortwave radio is the go-to device when it comes to listening to broadcasts on the frequencies of 700 MHz, 2.6 GHz, and even 10 GHz. It can also be used for receiving various other types of transmissions like weather forecasts, maritime distress alerts, diplomatic messages, and even radio dramas. For these reasons, you need to make sure that you get the best handheld shortwave radio for your situation so that you get all of the capabilities that you need without breaking the bank in the process.
With prices ranging from under $100 to well over $1000, there are a lot of options available when purchasing a shortwave radio. The price can become an issue because sometimes it is possible to find a great deal with low-cost radios, but other times you see prices increasing rapidly as soon as you see a manufacturer advertising their product at a higher marked price. To figure out which handheld shortwave radio is right for you, let’s look at some of the things that you should keep in mind before making your final purchase decision.
You can count on our team of experts who have spent many hours conducting surveys through 2,973 real customer reviews. Because of this, we concluded that the best-reviewed product is Greadio Portable Shortwave Radio,AM FM Transistor Radio. And C Crane CC Skywave Shortwave, Weather Portable Travel Radio is another choice for you while keeping the product's quality and functionality.
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Our Top Picks
- 【New Upgraded: LCD Display with Best Reception】Equipped with a big LCD screen, you can easily and clearly to see each AM/FM/Shortwave stations when tuning the knob on this portable radio. The long antenna and advanced DSP chip ensure a ultra strong stable radio signal for you to listen to your favourite music, NPR, sports and news stations no matter at home or outdoor. Never miss a station and you will have a relax radio time with your family and friends with this am fm radio.
- 【2 Powerful Charging Ways】This am fm radio is designed for two charging ways. While you are indoor, the AC power for you to plug the charging cable(include) in the wall to listen radio whole day. If there power outage, don't worry, inserts 4 D Cell batteries(not include) in the shortwave radio that you can continue to connect and get broadcast news in real time. And the battery can be easily found in every household and stores. Keep one in your house, you will happy to have this portable radio.
- 【Simple to Operate, Convenient to Use】Not like other radios which are too small to operate, our shortwave radio is big enough to use and easy to operate for both elder and children as the knobs are large to tune and the LCD screen is clear to see. A handle on the radio makes it not difficult to take outside. Beyond that, a time setting is available for you to see on the LCD display, so it is not just a fm radio but also a clock for you. Buy this transistor radio, bring convenience to your life.
- 【Ideal Christmas Gift】With its classic appearance and simple operation, our portable radio is best sell on many countries. If you are distressing on what to buy to your parents, grandparents, uncles or aunts, this am fm radio is the best choice for you. It is a thoughtful Christmas gift to fill their heart to joy and remember you! Besides, we guarantee a 12-month warranty, 30-day money back and 24/7 customer service to make it no risk for you to purchase this fm radio.
- 【Good Sounds Quality & Earphone Jack】With a premium built in 2W speaker, this transistor radio offers a big great sound, it can easily fill a room with your favorite musics or baseball game. And you can choose high/low tune mode as you like to listen on the shortwave radio. A good choice for radio lover. Moreover, an 3.5mm earphone jack here is designed for those who wants to have private listening space. Take this portable radio for picnic,camping or party,leave a good memory with your friends.
- 400 Memory Presets, Direct Entry Keypad, Autoscan Tuning, Signal Meter
- Lighted LCD Display, Rotary Volume Knob, Stereo Headphone Jack, Sleep Timer
- Small Lightweight Portable AM/FM/Shortwave/Weather/Airband Travel Clock Radio With Alarm.
- Runs approx. 60-70 hrs. at moderate volume on (2) AA batteries (not included) or can be powered by an optional AC adapter
- Includes Earbuds, Carry Case and Fold-out Backstand. 1 Year Warranty.
- 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
- Versatile Receiver: This Radio Includes A Line-In/Line-Out And Headphone Jacks, Plus An Fm Telescopic Antenna And External Am/Fm/Shortwave Antenna Connections; Plus It Comes With A Handy Carrying Strap
- Am/Fm Shortwave Radio: With High Sensitivity, Strong Anti-Interference, Low Background Noise And Even Lower Distortion, This Bluetooth Ready Am/Fm/Shortwave Radio Delivers Excellent Audio Quality
- Fine Tuning: This Radio Features An Lcd Display With Coarse/Fine Digital Tuning, Treble/Bass Control And 50 Memory Stations; It's Bluetooth Ready So You Can Stream Your Own Music Or Favorite Podcast; Rf Gain Control
- 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.
- 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.
- Direct frequency entry, auto scan and store, 400 memories. 10 aviation memories can be scanned for activity.
- Digitally tuned multiband receiver with superior sensitivity & selectivity enhanced by multiple bandwidth settings. Selectable fast or fine tuning on all bands (except weather).
- 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.
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- ► Ultra Portable Design &High reception sensitivity:Size of this little lovely radio is as small as an MP4,Compact with 4.13*2.36*0.59 inches and weight for 74g/0.16lb,You can put it in pocket or hang it on bag with the wrist strap, small size convenient to take anywhere. The retractable 7 sections antenna and an 3 meters long external cable antenna could enhance reception sensitivity and strengthen receiving ability for FM/SM.【100% Satisfaction Assured】EXMAX provides 3-year quality warranty.
- ► Long Lasting Enjoyment:Enjoy radio the whole day. With built-in 3.7V 700mAh lithium rechargeable battery,EXD-737 digital full band radio could last for weeks.Coming with Micro USB charge cable,it can be fully charged in about 4-5 hours from DC 5V power supply/bank.Lock key prevents accidental operation when put it in your pocket or bag.An One inch easy-to-read segment-style LCD screen is backlit to see even across the room and for night operate. Alarm ringing sound/radio automatic power on.
- ► Good Sound Reception Quality & Best Gift:In an age of ever evolving electronics, radio broadcasts rock even today. Portable digital EXD-737 full band radio will take you back to younger years without compromising sound quality. With a built-in 40mm large speaker, the compact radio will give you loud voice, beautiful sound quality and accurate listening.Pick up a practical and special present for someone you care.Simple to use, yet elegant and classy, it's sure to fill their heart with joy.
- ► Full Band Hand Held Radio Receiver: EXD-737 wide band radio can receive various bands opening up a marvelous world of radio at home or on the go. It supports FM(87.5-108MHz)/AM(520-1720KHz)/SW short wave(2.3-30MHz)/ AIR aviation aircraft (118-138MHz) /CB city band(25-28MHz)/ VHF civil 30-223mHz(FM-N/FM/W) bands.VHF-N can receive coast/train/ racing/ weather channels; VHF-W can receive campus radio and TV sound;Supporting civilian VHF intercom band and US NOAA weather band frequency reception.
- ► Powerful Memory Chip:EXD-737 aviation radio can store 50 radio stations for FM/AM/CB/SW/VHF/AIR frequency band.So it could store up to 300 frequency channels if available.Simple operation design.3 different convenient Tuning Methods :Manual search/Automatic search /full automatic search and store radio,It could auto-search valid channels on each band and store it. Also you could manually tune your favorite frequency and save the channel.Open up a fresh new world with EXD-737 full band radio.
- 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
- 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
- International Road: Tune in to your favorite AM, FM, longwave or shortwave bands with manual and digital tuning; It's easy to set the spacing and frequency so your stations will come in loud and clear
- 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
- Versatile and Portable: This radio features a clock/alarm/sleep timer with time backup, rich orange LCD display and FM telescopic antenna; Powered by 6V DC adapter or 4 AA batteries (both sold separately)
- 【Comprehensive Function】For this Si4732 radio receiver, FM stereo, AM, LW, SW, SSB world band receiver,radio receiver suitable for global FM broadcast reception; Audio bandwidth filter 0.5, 1, 1.2, 2.2, 3 and 4Khz; 22 commercial and ham radio bands pre configured.
- 【Wide Application】The Full Band Si4732 radio receiver suitable for outdoor camping, listening to radio music in the kitchen, it is a necessary condition for participating in the parade and family life.
- 【Technology】The Si4732 Full band radio receiver uses multiple conversion and DSP digital demodulation technology, greatly improving the sensitivity of the radio.Audio output supports headset 3.5MM;Support 8 ohm speaker 1W output;FM supports earphone antenna. Use a 3.6v lithium battery; Support USB charging.Antenna interface uses BNC.
- 【Aluminum Alloy Case】 The portable Si4732 Full Band radio receiver made of Aluminum Alloy Case,strong and durable; the PCB retains the SI4735 package, users can replace the chip by themselves, and the software is compatible.
- 【Portable & Conveience】The full-band receivers lightweight and sturdy components and unique and exquisite design maximize portability; easily to use with both large tune knob and volume knob.
- 3.5 mm earphone output
- LED power indicator
- Telescopic antenna
- AM, FM and shortwave 3-band radio
- Built-in speaker
Buying Guide and Tips for better purchase of best handheld shortwave radio
Merchandise is much more than a physical item. It's the result of someone having an idea, working on it, and making it a reality. When you go out to buy, these would be the factors you should know once looking for best handheld shortwave radio.
In fact, this is not about how much it costs and what other people think of it, but whether it will suit your requirements and last long enough even for users to have your money's worth out of it. This article will inform consumers about how and why you buy best handheld shortwave radio.
Battery Life
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
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.
Size
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.
Power Efficiency
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.
Extra Features
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
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.
Durability & Waterproofness
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.
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FAQs
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.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.
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.
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.
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.Conclusion
best handheld shortwave radio are usually made of high-quality materials, come with a warranty in case something goes wrong, and have a lot of positive customer feedback. If you want to buy the best commodity for your necessities, you must first understand what characteristics or qualities constitute an "ideal" item.
You can also look into QFX R-35 Portable Shortwave Radio Black as an alternative to the options listed above. We hope that this list of excuses why investing in the best is worthwhile will assist you in making an informed decision when shopping online.
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