Shortwave radios are amazing devices which give liberty to the user to listen to music or audio anywhere and anytime. There is a large variety available in the market and online with different specifics. These radios have perception signals which enable them to play music not only when outside but even indoors.
Hence, a user can be lounging in her/his bedroom listening to music. At the same time, the user can be on a road trip with family and friends and can still be using this device to listen to music. Some amazing shortwave radios even come with the option of attaching earphones so other people in the surroundings do not get annoyed.
As these devices can be used indoors and outdoors hence portability is also an important issue. The radio must not be too heavy that it is impossible to carry it while traveling. Also, it must be easily portable too so that no hindrances come along the way.
What should the Best Shortwave Radios Offer?
There are a variety of technical specifications you have to keep in mind if you’re purchasing a radio. From the batteries to the signal reception and even the display, there are a plethora of factors to be on the lookout for. Moreover, portability is also another factor that may influence your decision while purchasing a shortwave radio. Thus, we’re going to walk you through some of the best shortwave radios out there.
1. Portable AM FM Shortwave Radio Battery Operated Radio
This AM FM portable short waves radio is perfect for listening to audio outdoors as well as indoors. This radio has excellent perception signals allowing it to be used anywhere irrespective of location. The user can operate this machine by connecting it at home while relaxing indoors.
Otherwise, he/she can carry this while traveling or just going for a merry picnic outside. The choice is in the hands of the customer. Visibility with this radio will not be an issue as it has a large LCD display screen. Moreover, there is a tuning knob that helps find the desired channel.
While using this device at home, simply plug the cable wire into the wall and listen to the audio of your choice. When outside, put in 4xDC batteries and enjoy the tunes. These batteries are easily available in the market or can be ordered online. The user can enjoy listening to music with the help of an ear jack of length 3.5m.
This way, the user can enjoy listening to music without disturbing others. In addition, this radio not only plays tunes but also tells the time. When it isn’t tuning, it displays the time in a 24 hour time mode which can be formatted. It weighs 760 grams.
There is an option of high tone and low tone. High tone transforms the tone of the music-making it sound clearer. On the other hand, the low tone is optimum for parties and gatherings with friends and families. Both modes help in satisfying the needs of the customer.
It is advised to stretch the antenna when listening for better audio. The antenna is 22 inches long. Also, there is a portable handle which makes it easy for this device to be carried from one place to the other.
Pros
- Has a low/high tone mode
- Displays time
- Can be played outdoors and indoors
- Not heavy
- 1-year warranty
Cons
- Does not come with batteries
2. Panasonic Portable AM / FM Radio, Battery Operated Analog Radio
The short waves AM/FM radio is not difficult to handle rather it is very simple and easy to use. It provides high-quality sound. One can easily travel while carrying this device as it is portable. It picks signals effortlessly with its antenna. Just remember to stretch it while using it for the best signal results. The user can easily see the dial as it is neon and glows in the dark. It is fluorescent which means it is easily visible. It is lightweight.
The Panasonic radio has an Auto Frequency Control (AFC) which allows hassle-free tuning without any problems whatsoever. This device can be used in unforeseen circumstances like when there isn’t any electricity in the house. It can be utilized in uneventful harsh weather, like a snowstorm or while camping in the dark.
The Panasonic radio can be plugged in with the aid of an AC adaptor while staying someplace indoors. Another option is to use 4 AA batteries (LR6/R9) to make use of it when there is no switch or adaptor to plug it into. This radio also has the option of inserting earphones with a 3.5 mm cable. This enables the customer to listen to whatever they want without disturbing the people around them.
Pros
- Easily transportable
- Big dial so great visibility
- Has Auto Frequency Control
- Uses earphones
- Lightweight
Cons
- Noisy at times.
3. Eton Elite, The Classic, Clear-Sounding AM/FM/LW/VHF/Shortwave with Single Side Band (SSB) Radio
The Eton Elite Radio catches signals of pretty much every radio wavelength. This means it can catch around 750 radio band frequencies. This means it can catch SSB, LW, AM, VHF, SW, and FM frequencies. Its AM antenna has the ability to turn around a full 360 degrees. This way it is able to catch the signals which are extremely weak to get proper sounds. Furthermore, the technology in this improves the tunning sound and avoids disruptions. It weighs 7.1 pounds.
This radio has brilliant storage capacity as it can store up to 1000 channels. The band for each channel is 100 and it is customizable till +50. This means that the user can listen to his/her favorite songs very easily. Through the line input of this radio, the user can listen to his/her favorite type of music. In addition, the radio can be connected to other devices by means of the line output. This radio comes along with an owner’s manual. Also, there is a clock included which can set a number of alarms. In this way, the customer can listen to important news-talk, information about politics, world news, latest hits, and many more according to the time they want to set.
Pros
- Extraordinary wavelength
- The antenna turns 360 degree angle
- Amazing storage capacity
- Dual alarm
- Owner’s manual
Cons
- Airband is limited.
4. NOAA Weather Radio,5-Way Powered Solar Hand Crank Emergency AM/FM/Shortwave Survival Weather Alert Radio
The NOAA radio is easily portable and can be used while traveling from one place to another without any hassle. It is essential for those who like to spend time doing outdoor activities like camping. Furthermore, its size makes it possible for easy transport.
It is quite compact in size. However, this does not mean this device is restricted to just outdoors. It can be used for specific circumstances like in emergency situations such as rainstorms and power outages. It is considered to be an important part of one’s emergency kit.
This device can be used indoors by simply plugging it into an AC plug. While outdoors, the radio will work with three AAA batteries providing a splendid experience to the customer. However, these batteries aren’t provided with the device. The NOAA weather radio has a built-in rechargeable battery of 5000mAh made of lithium. This helps in conducting all of the functions of the radio in survival mode. This includes functions like turning on the light, charging phones, etc.
In case of an event where one might need to charge his/her phone, this NOAA radio comes to the rescue. There is a 2000 mAh power bank which charges devices like mobiles, recorder cams and the likes in case of any stressful situation.
There is a mode of reading light provided to accommodate those times while camping when there isn’t sufficient light available to read something. Moreover, the brightness of not just this light but even the flashlight can be adjusted accordingly. Lastly, this marvelous device also has an alarm alert which can be helpful in case one gets lost in the wild.
Pros
- Built-in power bank
- Has a flashlight
- Has a reading light
- SOS alarm
- Compact
Cons
- The siren is too loud
5. C Crane CC Skywave AM, FM, Shortwave, Weather, and Airband Portable Travel Radio
The C Crane Skywave radio is one of its kind device. It has a stylish and easy-to-use exterior body making it a very good option for listening to favorite tunes and talk shows. Its portable and compact size permits it to be carried easily while going on vacation or a long journey in the forest. The AM perception of this device is out of this world. It can mitigate disruptions with signals. It has a shortwave length of 2.3 to 26.1 MHz. In addition, there is an NOAA weather alert that warns users of any upcoming weather emergencies.
There is an option of air bands through which announcements made by controllers of traffic can be heard. This comes in handy when there a problem arises while traveling. Also, when there’s a change in schedule due to unforeseen issues related to weather. This radio can be played for approximately 60 to 70 hours. It works with two AA batteries or it can be plugged with the help of an AC adaptor. It weighs 5.5 pounds.
Its size allows it to fit into any bag for easy transportation. The C Crane CC radio comes with 400 memory presets and a keypad for entering information. Also, there is an LCD display screen that operates by light. Furthermore, there is a knob that can be rotated to play the radio station of the user’s choice. Also, there is a clock in the format of 12/24 hours along with a timer, earphone cable port, and signal and battery meters with a lock option. This radio can be kept safe in its case too.
Pros
- Option of aviation/air bands
- A built-in timer
- LCD display screen
- Clock in 12/24 hour format
- Comes with a case
Cons
- No airband.
6. TECSUN Pl-360 Radio Digital PLL Portable Radio
The TheTECSUN Pl-360 radio is an excellent digital device. Its sensitivity is high catching even the weakest signals. The microchips used in the DSP technology in this spectacular radio are designed in the US by Silicon labs. This radio comes with a set of two antennas, one is an AM/LW antenna and the other is an FW/SW antenna. Furthermore, it can hold 450 station memories out of which 250 are reserved for SW and 100 for FM/MW.
There are multiple tuning ways through which one can listen to their favorite songs. These include the ETM which is the Easy Tuning Mode, browsing through stations, and the tuning done manually by rotating the knob. Likewise, there are multiple ways to store stations. These include the Auto Tuning storage, the semi-auto storing system, and the storing which is done manually.
This radio is packaged with a timer, a snooze option, and a clock. Furthermore, Ni-MH batteries can be charged by means of this great radio. Three AA batteries are needed to use this device or a DC of 5 volts. The batteries aren’t included with the device. It weighs 4.5 pounds and comes with a user manual. Also, it can be stored in its bag for safety and protection. Its antenna is extremely sensitive. Also, earphones are provided which have a length of 3.5 mm.
Pros
- Great quality microchips used
- High sensitivity
- Lightweight
- Comes with a special bag
- Built-in timer
- Clock in 12/24 hour format
Cons
- Batteries not provided.
7. HQ ISSUE Multi-Band Dynamo/Solar Powered Weather Radio
The non-availability of power should no longer be a problem for those who want to stay updated with the latest news, top hits, updates about the weather and so much more. Introducing the HQ ISSUE Multi-Band Dynamo/solar-powered weather radio. This magnificent machine is powered by the sun through means of solar panels which turn natural light into sound and power. In case the sun isn’t available then simply turn on the generator present to hear necessary news by utilizing many bandwidths.
It is available only in the color black. This radio has a cool design and style which can be flaunted. There is a protective covering that protects the device from wear and tear. Moreover, it does an impeccable job at supplying information regarding politics, showbiz, and the weather. It weighs 1.25 lbs.
It has 11 bands in AM/FM, weather bands ranging from 1-7, and short waves varying from 1-2. In addition, it has an LED torch, a Save your Souls light which is built-in, and a reading light as well. There is a USB port and an ear jack to facilitate charging phones and headphone cables. This device can also work with 3 AA batteries. But, they aren’t provided.
Pros
- Solar-powered device
- Protective cover
- Comes with 3 types of torches
- USB port for charging phones
Cons
- Only available in black
8. RADIWOW R-108 FM Stereo/LW/MW/SW/AIR Band/DSP Full Band Portable Radio
The RADIWOW R-108 radio has practical dimensions which are 12.×3.1×7.6cm making it a good option to carry while traveling. It is not heavy and can be carried from one place to another without it feeling like a burden. This device can be used indoors and outdoors. It showcases the temperature, sets alarms, and has a memory set. Moreover, it is an FM stereo that has DSP technology. The materials used in the manufacturing of this radio are of brilliant quality. They will aid in providing a great experience to the user.
The radio also utilizes air bands. It comes with an antenna, a user’s manual, a USB cable, and an operation manual. The RADIWOW radio uses a BL-5C battery which can be recharged. This great product has an LCD screen which lights up for easy use in the dark. The radio has a 12-month warranty and customer service which can be contacted whenever needed.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Easily portable
- Displays temperature
- Has a timer
- Uses DSP technology
Cons
- Lacks an MP3 player.
Conclusion
Shortwave radios are very trendy and handy. The majority of them can be used in the comfort of homes as well as outdoors while traveling or camping. Some of them are extremely expensive but there is a huge variety available in the market and online.
There are affordable options for those customers looking for economical shortwave radios. Sometimes, one cannot afford to miss out on important weather updates and local news about politics. In such cases, the shortwave radio comes to the rescue as it informs the users about this kind of situation through announcements.
One can access many stations through these devices. In addition, some radios are available with special features like a timer, an alert alarm, flashlights, etc. All in all, as technical as it may be to purchase a shortwave radio, we hope after reading this detailed review, you will easily be able to make the right decision.