The Best Shortwave Radio Of All Time For 2024
The Rundown
1. Best Of The Best: Kaito KA500 5-way Powered Emergency AM/FM/SW NOAA Weather Alert Radio
With a high-quality AC type brushless generator, the Kaito KA500 is the perfect radio for emergencies. It comes with all the features you need in any emergency situation, including a powerful Emergency Alert button, NOAA weather alerts and much more. The solar panel charges the built-in battery and powers the radio by itself. Read Review
2. Best Bang For The Buck: Greadio Portable Shortwave Radio,AM FM Transistor Radio
Greadio is a portable shortwave radio that can receive AM/FM and long wave signals. It has a LCD Display with best reception. It's simple to operate and convenient to use. With 2 powerful charging ways, Greadio will never let you down. Best of all, Greadio offers good sound quality and an earphone jack too! Read Review
3. Best Convenient: Retekess TR618 AM FM Radio Plug in Wall, Portable Shortwave Radios
This Retekess TR618 AM/FM radio is a portable, battery-operated radio which features an LCD display and 23.6″ extend antenna. This dual-band radio can be used indoors or out and is equipped with MP3 playback capabilities. The clock function helps you keep track of time while the battery operated design ensures that it runs on power for up to 10 hours. Read Review
4. Best Easy To Use: Tecsun PL880 Portable Digital PLL Dual Conversion AMFM Shortwave Radio
The Tecsun PL880 is a full range, dual conversion AM/FM, Longwave and Shortwave receiver with Single Side Band (SSB). This PLL synthesized digital receiver features un-paralleled sensitivity and selectivity. The Tecsun PL880 not only covers the usual broadcast bands but also has a wideband coverage of 118-1240kHz for shortwave listening. Read Review
There is something magical about listening to radio broadcasts from around the globe. The special feeling you get when you tune into a foreign station and hear music or news in a language that you understand is irreplaceable. Or at least, it used to be. Thanks to the internet, most people have ready access to thousands of different international radio stations.
But there is something to be said for listening to shortwave radio broadcasts firsthand – there's a magic in hearing those signals directly, rather than as secondhand digital recordings. Fortunately, plenty of people agree with us on that point, which is why there are still so many shortwave radios on the market today. If you’re looking for the best shortwave radio of all time, keep reading to discover our top recommendations.
Our team spent about 14 hours researching, sifting, and selecting many high-quality models. Kaito KA500 5-way Powered Emergency AM/FM/SW NOAA Weather Alert Radio is the product that receives the highest award from us. In addition to the other suggestions on this list, which are equally deserving of your consideration, we have also compiled a helpful buyer's guide to assist you in making your decision.
RELATED: If you've got to be a lover of best emergency flashlight radio, you've come to the perfect spot for valuable tips and accurate information.
Our Top Picks
TOP Choice #1
![Kaito KA500 5-way Powered Emergency AM/FM/SW NOAA Weather Alert 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.
- 【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.
- 【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.
- 【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.
- 【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.
- Handle radio with 3W speaker and a 3.5 mm headphone jack; the loud volume is enough to cover the entire room for the elderly with weak hearing to listen to their favorite radio; if you can use headphones to listen to station at night or in a stormy to avoid external sounds Disturb or disturb others
- AM FM Shortwave Radio; AM 520-1710 KHz; FM 87-108 MHz; SW 6000-18000 KHz; Built-in DSP chip makes TR618 easy to lock the radio without drifting; AM needs to avoid radiation interference from electrical appliances; connect an external antenna to get better SW reception
- Desktop radio is driven by AC 110V or 3 x D batteries; when you use AC drive you can use the timer socket to control the radio ON or OFF without adjusting knob; when you use D battery drive you can listen to the station in the drive in theater or drive in church ( Battery not included)
- Ideal Christmas gift; if there are elderly in your home who like to listen to the radio; you may wish to give this friendly operation shortwave radio as a gift to your family; TR618 can meet the needs of listening to the radio and is very easy to operate
- Portable radio with best sound; support 16GB SD card; micro SD card; USB flash drive; through the buttons at the bottom of the screen you can control to play your favorite MP3/WMA format music or audiobooks
- 24 hour alarm clock plus sleep timer from 0-120 minutes
- Powered by one rechargeable battery with built-in charger, battery included
- PLL synthesized digital dual conversion receiver with unparallelled sensitivity & selectivity
- Full range coverage including AM/FM, Longwave & Shortwave with Single Side Band
- 4 & 5 selectable bandwidth filters on AM and SSB respectively plus single Side Band receiver with 10 Hz tuning step
- Dynamo and Solar Powered AM/FM/LW Shortwave & NOAA weather radio with back-lit digital display, NOAA all hazards alert & RDS
- Calendar, alarm clock with dual settings, sleep timer, thermometer & humidity meter
- 5 Ways of Charging the radio,Auxiliary input jack available for external audio devices
- 180-degree adjustable solar panel with 5-LED reading lamp, Flashlight
- 4 tuning methods including manual, direct digit entry, ATS & memory tuning with 335 memories for easy access to favorite stations
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![C. Crane CC Skywave SSB AM, FM, Shortwave Radio]()
- Direct frequency entry, auto scan and store, 400 memories. 10 aviation memories can be scanned for activity.
- 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.
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![Emergency Radio,5000 Digital Weather Radio]()
- 【Backlit Digital LCD Screen&Easy Operation】Information about radio frequency, battery/charging status, time, alert icon, headphone, lock indicator and volume clearly show on the 𝗹𝗮𝗿𝗴𝗲 𝗟𝗖𝗗 𝗱𝗶𝘀𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘆. The 𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗿𝗴𝗲𝗻𝗰𝘆 𝗿𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗼 backlight will turn off without any operation within 15 seconds. Additionally, a convenient 3.5mm headphone jack for listening without disturbing others, enjoy your private time. Intuitive enlarges button easy to set accurate stations|wx alert|sos.
- 【User-Friendly Design&Professional Customer Service】 Design of wrist strap makes it very easy to clip for your backpack. “Lock” button prevent mistakenly touching. A sleep timer allow you listen to it while fall asleep. 𝗥𝗲𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗴𝗲𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝘄𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝗿𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗼 as a 𝗺𝘂𝘀𝘁-𝗵𝗮𝘃𝗲 𝘀𝘂𝗿𝘃𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗸𝗶𝘁𝘀 for cyclones,tsunamis, floods, earthquakes.1 Year warranty, 30 days free return, and 24 hours customer service response. Any questions, feel free to contact us, please.
- 【5 Power Way & Emergency Must Have Kit】The 𝗡𝗢𝗔𝗔 𝘄𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝗿𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗼 options with 5 way power sources--rechargeable battery&hand-crank&solar&3pcs AAA batteries&5V USB input. 5000 large-capacity rechargeable battery, which support lasting 15-100 hours. USB which provides the most efficient way to recharge 𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝘀𝘂𝗿𝘃𝗶𝘃𝗮𝗹 𝗿𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗼 in daily use.Micro USB port charge your cell phone or portable device for calling for help in emergency, such as thunderstorm, hurricanes.
- 【Superbright Flashlight&Reading Lamp&105db Loud 𝗦𝗢𝗦 𝗔𝗹𝗮𝗿𝗺】The 𝘀𝗼𝗹𝗮𝗿 𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗰𝗿𝗮𝗻𝗸 𝗿𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗼𝘀 have an extra loud SOS alarm and flashing red light to attack attention and rescued in time. The 𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗿𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗼 as flashlight continuously provides 150 to 250 Lumens bright light; as a reading lamp with a built-in 6 bright LED is designed in 150 to 250 Lumens to meet more needs. A IPX4 waterproof must-have kit for casual camping, backpacking, or wilderness survival.
- 【Manual/Auto 𝗡𝗢𝗔𝗔 𝗪𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝗔𝗹𝗲𝗿𝘁 𝗥𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗼 & AM/FM/SW】The 𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗿𝗴𝗲𝗻𝗰𝘆 𝗰𝗿𝗮𝗻𝗸 𝗿𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗼 receives broadcasts from AM/FM/SW,NOAA weather alert will automatically scan through 7 available weather channels. WX function can be set time, .NOAA weather alert will emit a siren alarm sound and red flashing light notify that life-threatening weather, earn a critical time keeps your family far away from danger. 𝗙𝗠/𝗔𝗠 𝗿𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗼 with strong reception even in poor signal areas.
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![Eton Elite Field AM/FM/Shortwave Desktop Radio]()
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
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![Portable AM FM Shortwave Radio,Battery Operated Radio]()
- 【2 Ways to Charging】This portable radio is designed with different charging methods for indoor and outdoor use. When indoors, just plug the AC charging cable into the wall and enjoy all-day broadcasting time. When you want to take this portable am fm radio outdoors,like walking, camping ,gardening and others. You only need to turn on the back of the am fm radio and install 4 x DC batteries(not included) for it to work.And the battery is easy to buy in the local market or amazon store.
- 【 Large LCD Display & Big Knob】This portable am fm radio has a simple and easy-to-operate knob and a large LCD display.Flexible knob allows you to intuitively adjust the volume and channel, and quickly adjust it to the position you want. It is friendly and easy to use for the elderly.When the volume knob is turned to "off", the LCD display shows the time. In addition, you can set the time by using the "TIME,HOUR,MINUTE" button.
- 【A Delightful Gift】This am fm radio (size: 9.4*2.4*5.9in, weight: 1.68lb) has a portable handle for carrying, a large LCD screen for easy reading, two big knobs for easy tuning, perfect for some enjoyable time at home, the park, picnics,beach, gym or playroom.Plus,it is also a gift that makes people hearts full off joy.Meanwhile,we back our battery operated Radio with 12-months Warranty! Our customer service are here for you 24/7 for anything you need and help you out.
- 【Great Sounds Quality& Earphone Jack】The radio is equipped with a large 2W speaker, which is 1/2 the size of the whole shortwave radio. This is the source of its amazing sound.Having high/Low tone satisfy your different needs in such a portable radio.The design of the low tone will bring good effect to the atmosphere, suitable for parties, dances, family gatherings,etc.High tone will sound clearer.Meanwhile,with the 3.5mm earphone jack for using with headphones not to disturb others around you.
- 【Upgraded with Best Reception】Use an advanced DSP chip as the AM FM radio brain and this battery operated radio can receive various bands opening up a marvelous world of radio at home or on the go. This am fm radio supports FM(87-108MHz)/AM(520-1710KHz)/SW short wave(4.70-18MHz).Enjoy your favorite stations to listen to music, baseball game, news.When receiving the FM radio stations, please extend the 23.6 inch antenna to obtained the best reception.
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What to Look For in a best shortwave radio of all time?
Please follow the bellow points before selecting the best shortwave radio of all time:
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.
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.
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.
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.
RELATED: We have researched 11,647 reviews from customers to create a list top 10 best emergency solar radio in 2024
FAQs
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 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.
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.
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.
In general, it's difficult to say who creates the best shortwave radio of all time since each firm has unique qualities, features, and pricing points that set them apart from the competition. We only suggest products from the most outstanding manufacturers on our site, so you can rest assured about their quality.
Please do not hesitate to contact us if you require assistance with your problems. Wish you a happy shopping!
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