The 10 Best Shortwave Radio Of 2024, Tested By Our Experts
The Rundown
1. Best Overall: Tecsun PL880 Portable Digital Shortwave Radio
The PL880 is a great choice for AM reception because it has a high sensitivity to the weak signals. It eliminates background hisses and digital noises. The radio's SSB reception is another strength. Read Review
2. Best For The Price: C Crane CC Skywave AM, FM, Shortwave Radio
The Skywave is a portable, sensitive, and selective handheld. We were pleasantly surprised by how well this small radio received shortwave signals while testing it. Read Review
3. Best Tabletop Shortwave Radio: Sangean WR-22WL Bluetooth Tuning receiver
You will notice that the radio has 10 presets when you turn on the radio. This will allow you to quickly memorize all your favourite radio stations and broadcasts. Read Review
4. Best Vintage Radio: SUZH Retro Portable Radio AM FM Shortwave Radio
The retro-style design will undoubtedly improve the atmosphere in any room. This radio has a lot of interesting and useful features in addition to its attractive design. Read Review
Shortwave radio isn’t as well-known as AM and FM broadcasts, which many people listen to every day. The goal of shortwave radio isn't just to broadcast popular music channels all over the world. Instead, it is used to bridge geographical divides and strengthen human connections.
To get the most out of shortwave radio, you'll need a few essentials, such as a shortwave radio license and an SW system.
Good shortwave radio solutions can now be found in emergency radios, modern products, and more. There are even a few shortwave apps available.
Today we will be looking at the Best shortwave radio options available.
RELATED: Are you looking to buy the car radio with weather band in 2024? We provided helpful advice and reliable information in this article.
Our Top Picks
TOP Choice #1
![Tecsun PL880 Portable Digital Shortwave Radio]()
- PLL synthesized digital dual conversion receiver with unparallelled sensitivity & selectivity
- Full range coverage including AM/FM, Longwave & Shortwave with Single Side Band
- 24 hour alarm clock plus sleep timer from 0-120 minutes
- Powered by one rechargeable battery with built-in charger, battery included
- 4 & 5 selectable bandwidth filters on AM and SSB respectively plus single Side Band receiver with 10 Hz tuning step
- Lighted LCD Display, Rotary Volume Knob, Stereo Headphone Jack, Sleep Timer
- Includes Earbuds, Carry Case and Fold-out Backstand. 1 Year Warranty.
- 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
- 400 Memory Presets, Direct Entry Keypad, Autoscan Tuning, Signal Meter
- Easy to read high contrast LCD display with automatic and adjustable backlight
- 10 station presets (5 AM, 5 FM) with built-in Bluetooth wireless Audio streaming and USB MP3/ WMA playback
- Full function infrared remote control, FM wire antenna included. For outdoor use, you can power the radio by using a 12V DC input socket from a DC power supply
- Rotary bass and treble controls, dynamic bass compensation for rich bass, loudness on/ off with a single 3-inch 7W full range speaker with enlarged Magnet
- Clock available for FM rds-ct with 2 alarm timers by radio, buzzer or USB Settable alarm volume hws (Humane wake system) buzzer and radio adjustable Nap, Sleep and snooze timers
- 【5 in 1 Speaker Radio 】More than an portable shortwave radios, also is a portable vintage bluetooth radio that keeps up with today’s tech, too. Allows you to enjoy a rich and well-balanced sound of classic, country and rock music by Bluetooth, TF card, USB disk and AUX mode. And Bluetooth 4.0 can hook up to your device in an instant. Note: NO EARPHONE JACK
- 【A Nice Gift Choice】Have classic vintage look with today’s technology. J-110 is an accent to the furniture, which makes you feel the passions of good old days. It also makes great gift for recepient who enjoyed the original design of old transistor radio. It’s suitable for any occasions including birthdays, weddings, anniversaries, housewarming party and Christmas.
- 【Straightforward to Use】Weighs only 2.7lb and measures 9.1*3.9*5.9 inch. A simple vintage portable radio with big analog dial with warm glow inside, is more intuitive and pleasing than push-button digital interfaces. No more confusing buttons, it’s easy to use, just like a radio from a generation ago. And the portable handle included makes it easy to carry, perfect for old folks.
- 【Excellent Reception】 Equipped with powerful DSP chip and 50cm long retractable antenna, this analog tuning vintage radio has excellent signal quality to pick up enough stations. Comes with big old-school tuner dial with compact tuning knob. No needle drifts and the tuning is very spot on. Never miss a ball game and get the latest weather report wherever you are.
- 【3 Options for Charging 】AC powered radio with three ways of charging, makes sure never worry about power. You’ll need AC power when in bedroom, kitchen or office. Built-in 1200mAH rechargeable battery is perfect choice when you have a backyard BBQ. D-cell battery operated radio (NOT INCLUDED) is an essential addition to an emergency or camping kit. Note:To avoid the radio or batteries to be burnt out, please take the D-cell batteries out while charging with the rechargeable battery.
- Using Silicon Labs Si4734 DSP; To Digitalize The Analog MW / FM / SW Broadcasting Signal Base On The Modern Software Technology And Radio Principles
- Light & Snooze Function,Key Lock Function,Built-In Charging System To Charge The Ni-Mh Rechargeable Battery,Built In Dc 5v Usb Jack, Earphone Jack
- Seven Tuning Mode Selectable,LCD Display Screen,550 Preset Memories,Digital Clock Function With 12/24 Hour Format,Highly Intelligent On / Off Switch
- Accessories:1PC STEREO EARPHONE, 1PC EXTERNAL FM/SW ANTENNA, 1PC CARRYING POUCH AND ENGLISH MANUAL. 1 YEAR WARRANTY ONLY BACKED BY VAIROCANA
- Small and exquisite design, convenient to carry, excellent for walkers, hikers, campers, backpackers
6
![Tecsun Digital PL330 AM/FM/LW/SW Worldband Radio]()
- Adopts modern DSP digital demodulation technology as well as synchronized detection for enhanced and unparalleled reception sensitivity, selectivity, and anti-image interference capability across the bands
- Other convenient features include an alarm clock; a sleep timer of up to 120 minutes; external antenna input; 3.5mm audio output; 850 memories for easy access to frequently listened stations; keylock function for preserving settings
- A digital portable receiver with comprehensive radio frequency coverage including AM, FM, longwave, shortwave, and single side band
- A premium full-range 8 ohms / 250 mW speaker delivers loud, rich, crispy, dynamic and distortion-free sound for utmost entertainment experience, a 3.5 mm stereo earphone jack for private listening (stereo earphones included)
- Powered by one single 3.7V / 1,000 mAh Li-ion rechargeable battery with built-in charger, battery and micro-USB charging cable are included
- FRX3 EMERGENCY RADIO: Be prepared for any emergencies & disasters with this rechargeable weather alert radio with solar panel & hand turbine power generator. No emergency kit is complete without it. // FRX3 ALERTS: The “Alert” function automatically broadcasts any emergency weather alerts for your area. Keep it charged via solar panel, hand crank or a built-in rechargeable battery.
- EXECUTIVE: The Executive Satellite receives every radio wavelength—AM(MW), FM with RDS, LW, & Shortwave (SW)—anywhere. It features precision automatic or manual digital tuning. // This receiver also picks up VHF aircraft band & Single Sideband (SSB). It comes with a leather case with craftsman stitching for ultimate portability, making it ideal for travel.
- FRX3 KEEPS YOU PREPARED: This AM/FM/NOAA weather band digital radio with display & alarm clock can also charge a smartphone via USB port. Also features an LED flashlight & red flashing beacon. // AND IT KEEPS YOU CONNECTED: From weather alert radios & backup battery packs to solar-powered sound systems, we'll keep you connected & in the know at home, in the office, on the road or in the great outdoors.
- EXECUTIVE: The Elite Executive receives every radio wavelength—AM(MW), FM with RDS, LW, and Shortwave (SW)—at home or abroad. Plus, it also receives VHF aircraft band, Single Sideband (SSB) and includes a PLL tuner so your AM signal is strong and clear. It features a faux leather case with craftsman stitching for ultimate portability.
- BUNDLE INCLUDES: Eton Elite Executive Radio with Faux Leather Case, ARCFRX3 American Red Cross All-In-One Preparedness Device, and Car Toys Keychain. Car Toys is an Eton authorized retailer. Manufacturer Warranty.
- "My-memory" tuning memorizes and scans up to 100 frequencies
- World clock and dual clock functions, with built-in timer
- MY-memory tuning memorizes and scans up to 100 frequencies
- Four tuning methods: direct, manual, scan and preset
- PLL digital tuner receives FM, MW/AM, shortwave and longwave
- Four tuning methods: direct, manual, scan and preset
- Label presets with 6 alphanumeric letters
- PLL digital tuner receives FM, MW/AM, shortwave and longwave
- World clock and dual clock functions; built-in timer
- Label presets with 6 alphanumeric letters
- 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
- 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
10
![Kaito KA500 5-way Powered Emergency Radio]()
- A perfect radio for emergencies and disasters, it comes with all the features that you need in any emergency situation. It comes with a High quality AC type brushless generator.
- To maximize the sunlight's rays, the solar panel is designed to tilt with the suns position to receive the energy during the day time.
- The solar panel powers the radio by itself and charges the built-in batteries as well.
Product Images, Product Titles, Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API
What to Look For in a best shortwave radio?
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.
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.
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
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.
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 & 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
FAQs
How Long Do Emergency Radios Last?
A good emergency radio will last for 5-10 years if kept dry and clean.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.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 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.
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 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.
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.
There are numerous points to pick from in general, but doing so well may help you be more convenient and save time! When selecting a best shortwave radio, pay close attention to the elements listed above, and don't forget to verify the safety.
Have you picked a product like that after reading our article on how to choose and top the best shortwave radio? Hopefully, the information provided will assist you in selecting the best option for you.
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