The 10 Best Shtf Radio Of 2024, Researched By Us
The Rundown
1. Best Overall: BAOFENG BF-F8HP (UV-5R 3rd Gen) 8-Watt Dual Band
The BF-F8HP is a compact, 8-Watt dual-band radio. With an internal battery pack you can use the radio on power sources such as solar and micro USB (mobile phone charger) or car cigarette lighter adapter. Twice the Output Power, providing an easier user experience! Read Review
2. Best For The Price: RunningSnail Emergency Crank Radio
Be prepared for emergencies with the new RunningSnail Emergency Crank Radio. This hand crank light never runs out of power, and is a great source of lighting in the dark. The most powerful lighting functions, keeping you and your family safe. A reading lamp with a Motion sensor will greatly illuminate the area when darkness falls. Read Review
3. Best Versatile: Midland - ER310, Emergency Crank Weather AM/FM Radio
The weather band receiver provides instant access to the latest severe weather bulletins, keeps you informed of your area's forecast, and provides a constant update on the storm's movement. With a range of up to 50 miles, this rugged radio is perfect for camping trips or natural disasters. Read Review
4. Best Performance: Emergency-Radio,Puiuisoul 4000mAh Weather Radios
Keep your family and friends safe with the Puiuisoul weather radio. The Emergency Radio will provide you with everything you need in an emergency situation, be it hurricanes, tornadoes, or snowstorms. This weather radio has a 4000mAh power bank so it can be charged by hand crank or with solar power. Read Review
There are many things that you need to consider when choosing your SHTF radio. This will be one of the things that you can use to stay alert and informed during an emergency.
If you’re looking for a reliable SHTF radio, this article is for you. Before anything else, what is a SHTF radio? Short-term or emergency communication is essential during an emergency or disaster. It’s not just about making phone calls; it’s also about how you can alert others in case of an emergency. A SHTF radio is one way to do so.
Read on and discover more about the best SHTF radio available in the market today.
However, after investing in 13, we've come up with a name that's worthy of your requirement: BAOFENG BF-F8HP (UV-5R 3rd Gen) 8-Watt Dual Band. If you desire extra features not included in this model, you might look into another one, RunningSnail Emergency Crank Radio. It could better suit your needs.
RELATED: We have researched 14,586 reviews from customers to create a list top 10 best hand crank radio cell phone charger in 2024
Our Top Picks
TOP Choice #1
![BAOFENG BF-F8HP (UV-5R 3rd Gen) 8-Watt Dual Band]()
- High / Med / Low Power Settings (8W, 4W, 1W); Frequency Range: VHF: 136-174 MHz(Rx/Tx). UHF: 400-520 MHz(Rx/Tx); Broad (Wide) / Narrowband (Narrow) Selectable
- The BF-F8HP was designed in the USA and because not everyone is a radio-expert we really wanted to focus on providing an easier user experience! That starts with the new in-depth manual that guides you through the capabilities and customization of the BF-F8HP. On top of that the BF-F8HP also includes exclusive concierge customer help and warranty support. This concierge service is only available on select BaoFeng models such as the BF-F8HP, UV-82HP, and UV-5X3
- BTECH is proud to be in the USA, which allows you to have the best available local support for any issue that may arise. BTECH only engineers and develops radio products. That brand focus allows you to have the best available radios and accessories with the most features, with real USA warranty and support.
- Upgrades from our Previous Generation UV-5R: Twice the Output Power (8 watts up from 4 watts output), New Hardened Durable Radio Shell, 30% Larger Battery, V-85 High Gain Antenna (Twice the Antenna Performance), USA Support + In-depth User Guide Included; A PC03 FTDI Programming Cable is Recommended for Easier PC Programming
- Kit Includes: BF-F8HP, 2100mAh Battery, V-85 Dual Band Antenna, CH-5 Charger, CH-5 110V Adapter, Earpiece Kit, Wrist Strap, Belt Clip, User Manual
- ★【4 CHARGING MODES】Compared with 2000mah or 1000mah emergency radio on the market, the solar radio has upgraded to 4000mAh rechargeable battery, found in every household and easy to buy in the local market or amazon store. Also, Micro USB charge, Solar charge, Hand-crank could also supply the flashlight radio last for days after the storm had passed until the power back on. No matter what emergency situation you find yourself in, this hand crank light never run out of electricity!
- ★【Super-Bright 3 Mode Flashlight And Motion Sensor Reading Lamp】 If you are an outdoor enthusiast or need to walk in places without lights, the flashlight radio with 3 modes flashlight is a great alternative, which farthest lighting range exceeds10m, farther than the most other solar emergency radio. Also, a reading lamp with a Motion sensor will greatly help you get up in the mid-night to avoid waking your family. Add to cart, you will never regret that you purchase this crank flashlight radio!
- ★【2022 Newest Design MD-090P】Based on MD-090 emergency flashlight radio and customer's feedback, we've optimized and upgraded a lot of features. A biggest 4000mAh rechargeable battery can charge more than one smartphone, the most powerful lighting functions include super-bright 3 mode flashlight and motion sensor reading lamp. Also, external antenna, electricity label, comfortable hand crank, tap switch fit all your needs. The MD-090P is the best value for emergency radio in this market.
- ★【The Most Powerful Life Saver Radio】Nature is unpredictable, but you can be prepared and ready in the face of her fury. The emergency crank radio with weather band and phone charge professionally get weather broadcasts the latest weather and all hazard information for your areas like hurricanes, tornadoes and so on from 7 NOAA stations at a crystal-clear sound. Earns a critical time for you to get full preparation advance, keeping you and your family safe with this emergency weather radio.
- ★【We Care About You and The ones Your loved】 In the past years, Our emergency radio has helped more than 10,000,000 USA Civilians to live through the hurricane, tornadoes and snowstorm season, like "Dorian", "Harvey, "Irma", etc. Your voice drives us to be the best. We back our emergency weather radio with 18-months Warranty! If you are not satisfied with this NOAA weather radio, we can refund you immediately as you contact us. And our customer service is here for you 24/7 for anything you need!
TOP Choice #3
![Midland - ER310, Emergency Crank Weather AM/FM Radio]()
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- CHARGE EXTERNAL DEVICES - Quickly charge your portable devices (cell phones, tablets, etc.) using the USB charging cable (included).
- [IT'S THE PERFECT CANDIDATE FOR LIFE]- The IPX3 waterproof radio with flashlight is a great choice if you're an outdoor enthusiast or need to walk in unlit areas. In case of emergency, you can press the "SOS" button and the emergency radio will sound an alarm so that rescuers can find it in time. Perfect for camping, hiking, kayaking and other outdoor activities.
- [4000 mAh LARGE CAPACITY]- Compared with the 1000 mAh and 2000 mAh emergency radios on the market, the solar radio is upgraded to 4000 mAh replaceable battery. Hand cranking, solar charging, USB charging method. USB charging is the main power source for daily use, but you can use hand cranking and solar power to regenerate enough power in dark or no power emergencies. Charge your phone and other electronics with the 4000mAh emergency power supply. Always safe.
- [IT HAS EVERYTHING YOU CAN THINK OF]- While ensuring the basic functions of an 𝐄𝐦𝐞𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐲 𝐑𝐚𝐝𝐢𝐨 (such as NOAA/FM/AM, flashlight, solar power, hand crank, power bank), we have optimized and upgraded many features. The most outstanding features are the 3-mode flashlight and motion sensor reading light and battery indicator. Meet all your needs. Put one in your home, you will be happy with it.
- [BE THE MOST RESPONSIBLE SELLER]- Emergency radios use automatic gain control (AGC) technology to change their gain based on the level of the input signal. As a result, it's easier to capture the signal, whether it's NOAA or FM/AM. To ensure a better experience, if you are not satisfied with this hand crank radio, you can contact us and our customer service is at your service 24 hours a day! We will always be responsible for the products we sell! The product has an 18-month warranty!
- [WE CARE YOU AND YOU FAMILY]- Portable NOAA stations at a crystal-clear sound weather radio with flashlight for lighting road in dark and SOS alarm ready to Nature is unpredictable, but you can be prepared and ready in the face of her fury. In the past years, our emergency radio has helped thousands of USA Civilians to live through the hurricane, tornadoes and snowstorm season.
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![Backcountry Access BC Link 2.0 Radio]()
- Maximum Range: Approx 40 mi / 64 km line of sight
- Battery Life: Battery life: up to 400 hours in standby mode
- Useable Range: Approx 6 mi / 9.5 km line of sight
- Power: 2 Watt (FRS) conforming to new FCC rules
- Frequency: 22 FRS GMRS channels + 121 sub-channels ensures minimal interference
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![AnyTone AT-D878UVII Plus - Dual Band Analog]()
- FREE AT-D878 course included on BridgeCom University with step-by-step video tutorials to get you on DMR and making contacts fast ($97 value).
- Easy to use interface and programming software so that you don't have any trouble making new contacts.
- Up to 7w of high power transmitting so you can have maximum range using your HT.
- Upgraded 500,000 Contact List instead of 200,000 on previous models so you can grow with the DMR community.
- Front face programable with VFO channels so you can punch in repeaters and other frequencies on the fly without having to use the included programming software.
- Dual band UHF/VHF radio on DMR and analog so you can have one radio for anything on the tech bands.
- The New AnyTone AT-D878UVII PLUS Has APRS Receive and Transmit, so now you can receive other users APRS Transmissions
- ✔️Rechargeable 1800 mAh Li-ion Battery, up to 36 hours standby time, one more extra battery supports non-stop communication, car charger adapter also included;High Gain TIDRADIO-771 Antenna increase talking distance.
- ✔️High/Low power switchable meets all your needs in warehouse or outside activity; Programmable amateur radio supports keyboard programming or PC programming via CHIRP; Driver Free programming cable is included.
- ✔️Crystal clear audio make you not need yell to your partner,even in some noisy environment;Keep your hands free with the radio mic.
- ✔️VITAHUI shop is the authorized US BaoFeng Distributor;Enjoy 60 days no reason to return including the accessories;FCC Certification and Program Guide under the listing product guides and documents.
- ✔️Wide Compatibility:BaoFeng uv-5r ham radio covers most commonly used frequency range, makes it compatible with many other handheld radio such as the baofeng bf-f8hp and baofeng uv-82 series.
- ✔️Receive frequency range: VHF 136-174 MHz and UHF 400-480 MHz;Transmit frequency range:VHF 144-148MHz and UHF 420-450MHz;Fully in compliance with the FCC part 15B and part 97 regulations; FCC ID: 2AJGM-UV5R.
- ✔️All you need is in one box! Get Extended pack of BaoFeng UV-5R radio with 12pcs 1800 mAh Batteries + 1pcs Driver Free Programming Cable + 6pcs TD-771 High Gain Antennas + 6pcs Radio Mic; Reasonable price is the ham radio user and business user top choice.
- 【Kit Includes】UV-5 RA(New version),2100mAh Battery,V-85 Dual Band Antenna,CH-5 Charger,CH-5 110V Adapter, Earpiece Kit,Wrist Strap,Belt Clip,User Manual
- 【Two Way Radio】A portable radio device (transceiver) can do both transmit and receive a signal (a transceiver) A two-way radio (transceiver) allows the operator to transmit and receive to other similar radios operating on the same radio frequency
- 【Capacity Upgrade】Let your walkie-talkie come alive! Powerful 2100mAh battery,beyond the original machine (only 1800mAh), greatly increase the use time,up to 8 hours working,and provide a long battery life!
- 【Powerful Singal】High gain dual band antenna ensure you talk with your family,partner from garden to house,from middle of the hill to the top and etc.Portable radio providing you with just what you need to instantly reach your family and friends
- 【Warranty and Support】CCTV-Pro is the authorized Baofeng US distributor,all Baofeng radios we sell qualifies Baofeng's warranty,We offer 5 years after-sales service.If you have any question about Baofeng radio,Please via:1.Amazon Message Center 2.QA
9
![Weather Radio Raynic 5000 Solar Hand Crank Emergency Radio]()
- NOAA ALERT RADIO - This NOAA weather alert radio are specially designed for emergency need. But it requires being powered on and manually tuned into a local weather station to receive alerts. It has standard analog tuning of AM/FM/SW/7 preset NOAA weather channels. It is a particular device designed to receive emergency warnings for various life-threatening weather events such as cyclones, hurricanes, tsunamis, and other weather disasters.
- 5-WAY POWER SOURCES - The weather radios with multiple power backup options are the best choice.5 power sources including a hand crank, solar panel, and AC power to make it easier to keep the radio running during a prolonged situation where AC power is off.
- HOME & OUTDOOR NECESSARY - This waterproof IPX3 emergency radio with a backup power source is reliable and necessary for home use and outdoor travel, so you’ll be ready in case of any emergency events. Packing included: 1*Raynic Emergency Weather Radio,1*Handy Braid belt,1*Carabiner,1*Compass,1*Micro USB Charger,and 1*User Manual.
- PORTABLE RADIO & COMPASS - This pocket-sized portable emergency radio is surprisingly small and light. Its dimension is 7.5*3.5*4.7inch and weight 1.2LB, and it comes with SOS alarm function and a necessary compass.For hiking or trekking purpose this type of radio is a smart choice. Carrying around a large unit is quite difficult when you have to move around during emergencies.
- MULTI-USE & DURABLE- The upgraded crank radios is enough to charge your cell phone or USB devices for a brief call or a text message during an emergency. And plus a 3.5mm headphone jack, allows you to enjoy radio shows without disturbing others. This weather radio with 3W integrated flashlights and 2.5W reading lamp are handy during emergency power cuts to see any signal in the dark. can be a lifesaver during dangerous disasters like tornadoes and hurricanes.
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![Greaval Ham Radio Walkie Talkie (UV-5R 8W)]()
- Complete Set: Package contains a full set of accessories, no more worry about looking for compatible accessories. Best choice for your business. We provide 30-day hassle-free return, 18-month warranty, hardware and tech-support provided.
- Power Source: Rechargeable 2100 mAh Li-ion Battery, Supports 12-20 Hours continual use, one more extra battery supports non-stop communication, car charger adapter also included.
- Power Output: High /Medium /Low Power Switchable, Programmable Radio Supports Keyboard or PC programming (for Outdoor /Home /Workplace use, etc.)
- Wide Compatibility: The Greaval UV5R Dual-band ham radio covers the most commonly used frequency range, compatible with many other radios such as the BF-F8HP/UV 82HP, etc. Bit-Trading is authorized by Baofeng officially through Amazon's Brand Registry. The Greaval UV5R is made by Baofeng on behalf of our trademark and compatible with other UV-5R models.
- Dual-band standby, Enables you to monitor and transmit on two channels at the same time. 128 channel memory, fully in compliance with the FCC part 15B and part 90 regulations, you may need to apply for a radio license to use this device.
Product Images, Product Titles, Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API
What to Look For in a best shtf radio?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
RELATED: We've researched 14,197 customer reviews to create a list of 10 best crank radio from well-known brands for you.
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
Choosing the best shtf radio for your purposes might be a difficult challenge. It is critical to remember what you want to achieve with the purchase as well as any factors that may influence your selection.
Whether it's as basic as reading reviews before purchasing or inspecting images of best shtf radio on the market from numerous perspectives. When you wish to locate another one, you may also look at the Retekess TR618 AM FM Radio Plug in Wall, Portable Shortwave Radios, Support SD. Now, let’s pick one for you!
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