The 10 Best Emergency Shortwave Radio, Tested And Researched
The Rundown
1. Best Overall: C. Crane CC Skywave SSB AM, FM, Shortwave, Portable Travel Radio
This unique radio is an efficient and reliable way to get long-range information when the Internet, phone, or satellite is not available. Read Review
2. Best For The Price: TECSUN PL-660 Portable AM/FM/LW/Air Shortwave World Band Radio
The radio features a sync detector for AM, and a selectable sideband reduces adjacent channel interference and fading distortion at night. Read Review
3. Best Compact: Eton Elite Executive AM/FM/Aircraft Band/SSB/Shortwave Radio Bundle
This AM/FM, shortwave, and aircraft band receiver with display and alarm clock can also charge a smartphone via a USB port. Read Review
4. Best Connectivity: Kaito Radio Voyager Max KA900
It provides uncompromising sound quality for radio listening via wireless Bluetooth streaming, inserting a micro-SD memory card, and more. Read Review
When a natural disaster strikes, electricity is often the first thing to go. In those situations, shortwave radios are one of the best ways to get information about what’s going on and where you should be headed so that you can stay safe.
If you live in a hurricane, tornado, earthquake, or flood zone and would like to have an emergency radio at home as well as in your car, there are many important things for you to know before making your purchase, like frequencies, bands, and more.
We have done extensive research and testing of multiple models of emergency radios so that we can help you make an informed decision when purchasing your emergency radio. Our number one, the C. Crane CC Skywave SSB AM, FM, Shortwave, Portable Travel Radio, is compact and portable with plenty of other useful features to alert us when there is an emergency.
If you're not sold on that one, let’s take a look at some of our other top picks for the best emergency shortwave radios.
RELATED: We evaluated the best emergency radio from 7,003 customer reviews. Read this article to determine which is the best option for you.
Our Top Picks
TOP Choice #1
![C. Crane CC Skywave SSB AM, FM, Shortwave, Portable Travel Radio]()
- 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.
- Digitally tuned multiband receiver with superior sensitivity & selectivity enhanced by multiple bandwidth settings. Selectable fast or fine tuning on all bands (except weather).
- Direct frequency entry, auto scan and store, 400 memories. 10 aviation memories can be scanned for activity.
- 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.
- Convenient rotary dial or Auto Tuning Storage Function (ATS) For FM, MW, LW & SW Band; six tuning modes in all
- Includes stereo earphone, wire antenna, and carrying pouch
- SYNC detector for AM with selectable sideband reduces adjacent channel interference and fading distortion at night
- Built In Dc 5v USB Jack, Earphone Jack, FM & SW Antenna Jack, Built-In Charging System To Charge the supplied Ni-Mh Rechargeable batteries
- Dual Conversion, AM, SW-SSB, AIR Band reception
TOP Choice #3
![Eton Elite Executive AM/FM/Aircraft Band/SSB/Shortwave Radio Bundle]()
- 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.
- 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 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.
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- Built-in Bluetooth Wireless Audio streaming with indicator, simply touch to pair with NFC technology Supports aptX decoding for high fidelity music and low latency
- AM/FM-RBDS/Weather Alert/Bluetooth/Aux-In Digital Tuning Utility Radio 5 FM1, 5 FM2, 5 AM and 5 Weather Band Station Pre-Sets
- Rain resistant, Dust resistant and Shock resistant that is IP64 Certified for Dustproof and Waterproof
- Rechargeable with charging LED indicator, DC out（5v / 1a）USB a Type socket for charging mobile phone or MP3 players
- 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
- 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
- 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
- PLL synthesized digital dual conversion receiver with unparallelled sensitivity & selectivity
- Full range coverage including AM/FM, Longwave & Shortwave with Single Side Band
- Powered by one single 18650 Li-ion rechargeable battery with built-in charger, battery included
- 24 hour alarm clock plus sleep timer from 0-120 minutes
- 4 & 5 selectable bandwidth filters on AM and SSB respectively plus single Side Band receiver with 10 Hz tuning step
8
![Kaito Voyager Pro KA600 Digital Solar Dynamo Radio]()
- 4 tuning methods including manual, direct digit entry, ATS & memory tuning with 335 memories for easy access to favorite stations
- 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
- Lighted LCD Display, Rotary Volume Knob, Stereo Headphone Jack, Sleep Timer
- Runs approx. 60-70 hrs. at moderate volume on (2) AA batteries (not included) or can be powered by an optional AC adapter
- Small Lightweight Portable AM/FM/Shortwave/Weather/Airband Travel Clock Radio With Alarm.
- Includes Earbuds, Carry Case and Fold-out Backstand. 1 Year Warranty.
- 400 Memory Presets, Direct Entry Keypad, Autoscan Tuning, Signal Meter
10
![Tecsun PL990 Digital Worldband AM/FM Shortwave Longwave Radio]()
- Analog high-IF AM circuitry plus triple conversion IF and 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
- Powered by one single 3.7V / 2,600 mAh 18650 Li-ion rechargeable battery with built-in charger, battery included
- A premium full-range 4 ohms / 3 watts speaker with built-in class AB amplifier 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)
- Other convenient features include an alarm clock with snooze function; a sleep timer of up to 120 minutes; USB audio input; external antenna input; 3.5mm audio output; 3,150 memories for easy access to frequently listened stations; keylock function for preserving settings; and a few undisclosed gems to be discovered by end users
- A digital portable receiver with comprehensive radio frequency coverage including AM, FM, longwave, shortwave, and single side band, and an MP3 player with micro-SD input, compatible with FLAC / WAV/ APE / WMA and MP3 formats, a Sandisk Ultra 16GB micro-SD card is included
Product Images, Product Titles, Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API
What to Look For in a best emergency shortwave 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
FAQs
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.
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 Do Emergency Radios Last?
A good emergency radio will last for 5-10 years if kept dry and clean.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.
It's time to start buying when you've determined the best types of best emergency shortwave radio and the characteristics you want. It's important to remember that you needn't rush out to a certain store or browse internet discounts just soon. You may quickly discover your pal thanks technological advancements, particularly the proliferation of selling sites.
Try to keep an eye on our site's regular to guarantee the latest deals best emergency shortwave radio passes our standards. As a result, you'll be able to close the gap with them. Could you kindly provide us with feedback so that we can satisfy you guys, our customers? Wish you a great shopping experience!
READ NEXT: The 10 Best Tablet 13 Inch Of 2024, Tested By Our Experts
About Nicolas Ward
