The Best Emergency Solar Radio For 2024

Piers Anthony By, Piers Anthony
Updated
Midland - ER310, Emergency Crank Weather AM/FM Radio
Image credit: Amazon.com

The Rundown

1. Best Overall: Midland - ER310, Emergency Crank Weather AM/FM Radio

The ER310 is an excellent little radio. It had excellent reception and a weather alert function. It can run indefinitely on solar and wind power thanks to a built-in rechargeable battery. You'd probably never have to do anything else to it if you kept it in a sunny window. Read Review

2. Best For The Price: RunningSnail Emergency Solar Powered Portable Radio

This radio is one of our favorites because of its compact design that is more than just a radio. The 1 W LED flashlight is ideal for use in emergencies, camping, hiking, and other outdoor activities. Because it uses solar power, it can charge while you are outside doing other things. Read Review

3. Best Powerful: Puiuisoul Emergency-Radio Weather Radios

Stay in touch with friends and family with the Puiusoul Emergency-Radio Weather Radios. Equipped with an SOS alarm that helps you to stay in contact, this device is suitable for camping, hiking, hunting, and other outdoor activities. Read Review

4. Best Portable: Kaito KA500 5-way Powered Solar Power Radio

Introducing the Kaito KA500 Voyager, a portable receiver designed for both everyday use and emergency preparedness applications. Read Review

A solar radio is useful for many reasons. You might live in an area with a lot of natural disasters or severe weather. In this case, you may need a solar radio to help you prepare for an emergency. You might enjoy backpacking, hiking, camping, or other outdoor activities and want to include a solar radio in your gear.

A good emergency weather radio can give you the information you need before heading outdoors and could even save your life. There are many different models of emergency radios available today, but which is the best? Keep reading to learn more about our top picks and what you should look for when shopping for the Best emergency solar radio.

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 Midland - ER310, Emergency Crank Weather AM/FM Radio
Our Score:
9.8
Midland
  • 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.
  • 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).
  • 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.
TOP Choice #2 RunningSnail Emergency Solar Powered Portable Radio
Our Score:
9.6
RunningSnail
  • 【No Electricity? No Worries】The Emergency Weather Radio with 4 ways power backup options are the best choice in the emergency. Except for USB charge, Power Options also include hand crank, solar panel, 3 pieces of AAA batteries (not included), making it easier to keep the emergency radio running during a prolonged situation where power is off and batteries have been used up. No matter what emergency situation you find yourself in, never worry power outage!
  • 【LCD Screen & AUX Music Player】Compare with other emergency weather radio in the market, RunningSnail's Weather Alert Radio will more cost-effective. The emergency weather radio added a large LCD screen, which gives you a clear picture of the remaining electricity, volume, channel information, and so on. Also, comes with an AUX music player, which is ideal for outdoor activities, such as camping, hiking, kayaking, and so on. What a more cost-effective emergency radio it is!
  • 【Customer Technical Support】We care about you and your loved ones and your voice drives us to be the best. We back our Emergency Weather Radio with an 18-months Warranty! If you are not satisfied with this NOAA weather radio, we will provide the solution for you immediately as you contact us. And our customer service is here for you 24/7 for anything you need! NO RISK FOR YOUR PURCHASE!
  • 【Weather Alert Radio For Emergency】Thanks to the newest DSP chips, the Emergency Weather Alert Radio will broadcast the latest emergency weather alerts from 7 NOAA stations such as hurricanes, wildfires, winter storms, and so on. What's more, compared with the other emergency radio, the Weather Alert function has been added, allowing monitoring weather alerts 24 hours a day to protect you and your family even if you are sleeping. Give the best protection to the family!
  • 【4000mAh Emergency Phone Charger】RunningSnail's Emergency Weather Radio with a 4000mAh built-in rechargeable battery will be ideal for emergency, which is enough to charge your cell phone or USB devices for a brief call or a text message during an emergency. Also, it is equipped with 1W LED light and SOS Alarm, which can easily catch people's attention for asking for help while you need it. A lifesaver during dangerous disasters like tornadoes and hurricanes.
TOP Choice #3 Puiuisoul Emergency-Radio Weather Radios
Our Score:
9.4
Puiuisoul
  • [6000 mAh LARGE CAPACITY]- Compared with the 1000 mAh and 2000 mAh emergency radios on the market, the solar radio is upgraded to 6000mAh 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.
  • [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.
  • [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!
  • [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.
  • [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.
  • 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 features include a 5-LED reading lamp, LED flashlight and a red LED S.O.S. beacon light
  • Comprehensive coverage of AM, FM, 2-band shortwave and 7 pre-programmed NOAA weather channels for entertainment, sports, talk-shows, breaking news around the world, and 24/7 real-time weather forecast (USA and Canada ONLY) with PEAS (Public Emergency Alert System)
  • Telescopic antenna extends up to 14.5" for high sensitivity reception assisted by advanced semiconductor circuitry design and LED signal strength indicator for pin-point tuning accuracy, and built-in speaker delivers loud and crispy sound
  • Made of strong premium impact-resistant and water-resistant ABS material, suitable for both indoors home/office use and outdoors recreational activities
  • 6-way powered portable emergency radio with hand crank generator, solar panel, compartment for 3 AA batteries (not included), 5V USB input, 5V AC/DC input with a wall power adapter (sold separately), built-in NiMH replaceable and rechargeable battery pack
  • Essential radio for emergency preparedness: AM/FM & NOAA weather to keep your family safe, stay informed with the latest weather and all hazard information for your area. Superior reception on AM, FM and the 7 NOAA Weather Channels. Audio designed for voice clarity makes it great for news, entertainment, sports and talk shows.
  • Comes with 1 Year Limited Warranty and C. Crane US based tech support.
  • Works as an emergency mobile battery charger in a pinch with included USB port adapter for charging mobile devices, such as smart phones.
  • 4-way powered portable emergency radio with wind up hand crank generator, solar panel, 5V AC/DC with a wall adapter (not included), built-in NiMH replaceable and rechargeable battery pack or optional 3 AA batteries (not included).
  • Well made. Low profile carry handle for portability. Includes a built-in LED flashlight for power outages, storms, fires, and other natural disasters.
  • 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
  • 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
  • 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
  • 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
  • Works as an emergency mobile battery charger in a pinch with included USB port adapter for charging mobile devices, such as smart phones.
  • Well made. Low profile carry handle for portability. Includes a built-in LED flashlight for power outages, storms, fires, and other natural disasters.
  • 4-way powered portable emergency radio with wind up hand crank generator, solar panel, 5V AC/DC with a wall adapter (included), built-in NiMH replaceable and rechargeable battery pack or optional 3 AA batteries (not included).
  • Essential radio for emergency preparedness: AM/FM & NOAA weather to keep your family safe, stay informed with the latest weather and all hazard information for your area. Superior reception on AM, FM and the 7 NOAA Weather Channels. Audio designed for voice clarity makes it great for news, entertainment, sports and talk shows.
  • Comes with 1 Year Limited Warranty and C. Crane US based tech support.
8 Kaito KA700 Bluetooth Emergency Radio
Our Score:
8.7
Kaito
  • Bright 5 LED Reading Lamp, SOS Emergency Life Saver Light and Flash Light
  • All in One Music Machine: Radio ( AM/FM/NOAA Weather), MP3 Player with SD Card, Bluetooth Speaker with Phone Hand Free, Recorder ( Radio and Voice , immediate Recorder and Time Scheduled Recorder),Alarm Clock,Text Browser, Calenda
  • 4 Way Powered: Dynamo Cranking, Solar, Rechargeable Battery (18650), Micro-USB Port
  • USB Port for charging cellphones and other Devices with USB connections. USB Cable Included
  • True Emergency Gadget that best for out door or situation you need a power and information, Perfect for Black out, Earthquake , Hurricane, and any situation that you need power and information,plus Music
  • 【3 Mode Super Flashligt and Motion Sensor&Reading Lamp】When you start exploring a strange place, taking the IPX3 waterproof radio with 3-flashlight is your better choice. The furthest lighting distance can be more than 10 meter because of the powerful batteries. In addition, with the motion sensors, the reading light will help you wake up at midnight and avoid waking up your family.
  • 【Upgraded Design】The upgraded hand crack raido has a 4000mAh bigger replaceable&rechargeable li-on batteries. The most powerful lighting functions include super-bright 3 mode flashlights, motor sensor & reading lamp.
  • 【FM/AM & Weather Radio】A Life Saver radio! Get notified first for every weather alert in your area, such as hurricanes, tornadoes and severe storms, earn a critical time to prepare and save you and your family. Keep one in your emergency bag, you'll be happy you did.
  • 【SOS Alarm to Keep Your Safety】******Feel free to find us on amazon.com for any question.******When you are in emergency, press SOS button to activate the SOS Alarm searching for help. Also, with the flashing light, you are more likely to be found.
  • 【4 Charging Modes】The upgraded hand crack radio has 4 power sources when you need a boost of power or need to recharge the raido. The hand crank lever and solar panel are both capable of regenerating enough power to keep the radio, lights, and SOS alarm ready to go when you need it most. The repleaceable 4000mAh inside ensure you have power when not able to regenerate power. Also, you can recharge the hand crack radio(inside the rechargeable battery) with power cord.
10 Midland ER300 Emergency Solar Radio
Our Score:
8.6
Midland
  • Extremely Bright Cree LED Flashlight 130 Lumens
  • Ultrasonic Dog Whistle to assist search and rescue teams
  • Replaceable 2000 mAh Rechargeable Lithium Ion Battery with USB Output for charging Portable Devices
  • AM/FM NOAA Emergency Crank Radio with Solar Power Panel
  • SOS Flashlight beacon that flashes Morse code
Product Images, Product Titles, Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API

What to Look For in a best emergency solar radio?

To buy any product seems easy, but to choose the best one is not straightforward. The time you take to research its outcome is significant. The same matter also comes to best emergency solar radio of 2024 that we include in this article. But you can relax instead of spending too much time learning the products. It’s our duty!

Here are the main features of best emergency solar radio that all of you guys should keep in mind when deciding to make a purchase:

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

FAQs

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.

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.

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.

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.

2 ratings

About Piers Anthony

Piers Anthony

Piers Anthony is a freelance writer and computer expert who enjoys helping others get the most out of their technology. He has written extensively about laptops, soundbars, and other computer-related topics, and he currently serves as the editor of The Audio Insights website. When he's not writing or tinkering with his gadgets, Piers can be found spending time with his wife and family.