The Best Survival Shortwave Radio For 2024
The Rundown
1. Best Overall: Midland - WR120, NOAA Emergency Radio (WR120C - Clam Packaging)
The Midland NOAA Emergency Alert Radio is the perfect survival radio for keeping you informed and up to date during severe weather. Read Review
2. Best For The Price: Kaito KA500 5-way Powered Emergency AM/FM/SW NOAA Weather Alert Radio
Introducing the Kaito KA500 Voyager, a portable receiver designed for everyday use and emergency preparedness applications. As an emergency preparedness tool, it offers other methods. Read Review
3. Best Quality: Midland - ER310, Emergency Crank Weather AM/FM Radio
The Midland ER310 is an excellent survival tool because it includes an ultrasonic dog whistle that can assist search and rescue personnel in locating you in an emergency. Read Review
4. Best Stores Alert: Sangean CL-100 NOAA Radio
The CL-100 supports SAME, and alert messages are displayed on the device's upward-facing display. The audio quality is excellent thanks to digital signal processing, and you can save up to five presets for both the AM and FM bands. Read Review
A reliable survival radio is an essential part of any emergency kit. You need a reliable radio that you can trust, whether you are looking for a small hand-cranked radio to carry around with you or one to store in your car or home. Your radio will be more reliable than your smartphone in times of disaster and survival situations.
Radios are more reliable than smartphones because you can always get a signal. Radio waves travel further than LTE, making them more reliable. Your radio will always be the only way to get updates if your cell phone line is down or jammed.
There are many options when it comes to choosing the best survival radio. Find out our top picks for the Best survival shortwave radio here.
RELATED: Our top 10 best communications receiver has been researched and selected by our expert team through 5,027 reviews.
Our Top Picks
TOP Choice #1
![Midland - WR120, NOAA Emergency Radio (WR120C - Clam Packaging)]()
- INCLUDED IN THE BOX - All Hazards Weather Alert Radio, AC Power Adapter and Owner’s Manual
- ALARM CLOCK - The built-in clock features an alarm with a snooze button
- NOAA WEATHER SCAN + ALERT - NOAA Weather Scan will automatically scan through 7 available weather (WX) band channels with flood, tornado, thunderstorm, civil danger warnings, and more. It also 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 hazards and emergencies in your area
- PROGRAMMING - S.A.M.E. - The Specific Area Message Encoding automatically locks on to your county’s NOAA weather radio signal requiring minimal programming from the user. CUSTOM - Program your radio to receive weather alerts from up to 25 different counties and be alerted only when those specific counties are threatened
- TRILINGUAL DISPLAY - The compact alert monitor displays emergency advisories in 3 languages: English, Spanish, and French
TOP Choice #2
![Kaito KA500 5-way Powered Emergency AM/FM/SW NOAA Weather Alert Radio]()
Best For The Price
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.
TOP Choice #3
![Midland - ER310, Emergency Crank Weather AM/FM Radio]()
- 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.
- ULTRASONIC DOG WHISTLE - Use the dog whistle to assist search and rescue teams in locating individuals during an emergency situation.
- 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.
- 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 and Public Alert Certified Weather Radio Receives all 7 NOAA Weather Channels and Reports, S.A.M.E. Broadcasts up to 25 Programmable FIPS Location Codes with 3 Messages: Warning / Watch / Advisory Lights
- Certified Public Alert Radio
- Receives all NOAA Weather Channels & Reports
- All Hazards SAME Weather Radio
- DeLuxe Table Top, AM/M Clock Radio
- LCD Dimmer & Contrast Control
- DC Power Input, Stereo Headphone Output, AM, FM and Weather External Antenna Connections, Aux-in, External Horn or Light Alert Connection and Ground Terminal
- Stores up to 20 Alert Messages and 10 Memory Station Presets 5 AM / 5 FM with EEPROM Back Up for Preset Stations
- Dual Daily Alarms with Waking to AM / FM Radio or Buzzer Alarm, Sleep and Snooze Timers, LCD Dimmer and Contrast Control Adjustments and Bass & Treble Controls
- Operates with Included AC Adapter or 4AA Batteries (not included)
- 📻 DIGITAL TUNING FOR AM FM SHORTWAVE RADIO: This 𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗯𝗮𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘆 𝗼𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝗿𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗼 uses a digital tuning button to receive the 𝗔𝗠/𝗙𝗠/𝗦𝗪 𝗿𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗼, you can also hold press "Tune+" or "Tune-" to auto-scan an available channel. Included 3.5mm 𝗵𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗽𝗵𝗼𝗻𝗲 𝗷𝗮𝗰𝗸 allows you to listen to your favorite radios at night without disturbing others. The adjustable antenna can help to enhance signal reception when needed. Lock button to avoid accidental operation
- 🔋 5 WAYS POWERED WITH LONG LASTING 5000 BATTERY: Do not need to worry about running out of power with 5 alternative charging methods: built-in 5000 rechargeable battery, 5V USB input, 3 AAA batteries, solar and hand crank. The remaining power of the built-in battery is also displayed on the large LCD screen to notice you. A 𝗺𝘂𝘀𝘁 𝗵𝗮𝘃𝗲 𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗿𝗴𝗲𝗻𝗰𝘆 𝗿𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗼 that can be your reliable life saver for indoor & outdoor activities, hurricane, heavy snow, earthquake.
- ☄ 5000 PHONE CHARGER & CAMPING FLASHLIGHT & READING LAMP: This 𝗡𝗢𝗔𝗔 𝘄𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝗿𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗼 has a built-in 𝗨𝗦𝗕 𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗴𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁 to charge your phone or other devices for emergency use. 3W integrated 𝗰𝗮𝗺𝗽𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗳𝗹𝗮𝘀𝗵𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁 & 2.5W 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗹𝗮𝗺𝗽 are available, press the red SOS button, it will make a very loud sound and a flashes a sos mores flashlight, helps to increase your chances of being rescued.
- ➽ AUTOMATIC NOAA WEATHER ALERT RADIO WITH TIME DISPLAY: No need to listen to the radio all the time before you receive the NOAA warn information! This 𝗰𝗿𝗮𝗻𝗸 𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗿𝗴𝗲𝗻𝗰𝘆 𝘄𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝗿𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗼 can also work as a clock, or you can just turn it off to save battery life. Don’t worry, as long as you set the automatic weather alert in advance, this 𝘀𝗼𝗹𝗮𝗿 𝘄𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝗿𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗼 will turn on automatic and warns you with loud alarm and flashlight red light.
- ♔ A MUST HAVE SURVIVAL KIT IN YOUR EMERGENCY BAG: When danger comes, PPLEE 1009pro 𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗿𝗴𝗲𝗻𝗰𝘆 𝘄𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝗮𝗹𝗲𝗿𝘁 𝗿𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗼 may become your most reliable partner with these practical functions, just keep one in your emergency bag! It’s also a best gift for your friends or families, suitable for Christmas, New Year or Birthday and so on. We do provide 365 days warranty, 7/24H response. Any questions, pls contact us via Amazon or our support email.
- Well made. Low profile carry handle for portability. Includes a built-in LED flashlight for power outages, storms, fires, and other natural disasters.
- 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.
- Works as an emergency mobile battery charger in a pinch with included USB port adapter for charging mobile devices, such as smart phones.
- Comes with 1 Year Limited Warranty and C. Crane US based tech support.
- 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).
- Built In Dc 5v USB Jack, Earphone Jack, FM & SW Antenna Jack, Built-In Charging System To Charge the supplied Ni-Mh Rechargeable batteries
- SYNC detector for AM with selectable sideband reduces adjacent channel interference and fading distortion at night
- Includes stereo earphone, wire antenna, and carrying pouch
- Dual Conversion, AM, SW-SSB, AIR Band reception
- Convenient rotary dial or Auto Tuning Storage Function (ATS) For FM, MW, LW & SW Band; six tuning modes in all
- LARGE HD LCD DISPLAY - A must weather radio with a large HD LCD display screen and digital tuning, you can see the battery level and current tuning frequency, which can provide reliable AM/FM/SW/WB reception, and accurately pick your favorite channel. Press on "Tune+" or "Tune-" to auto-scan and easily find your favorite show. Long press on the "Dimmer" button to turn off the backlit LCD screen and enter the power-saving mode.
- AUTOMATIC NOAA WEATHER ALERT RADIO - This weather alert radio may save your life! Especially important at night while you are sleeping! It auto-scans for emergency and weather alerts when you turn the device on or in standby mode，and alert you if any emergency warning is issued. No need to listen to the weather broadcast all day and night. Getting an NOAA alert about impending weather threats gives you a heads-up that bad weather is on the way, so you can prepare or even evacuate if necessary.
- EMERGENCY RADIO & SOS ALARM - When hurricanes, tornadoes, earthquakes, flooding, or other emergencies may occur, an NOAA alert radio can provide life-saving information. A built-in super-bright 3W flashlight and 2.5W reading lamp are critical if the power outage. It also includes a USB connector used to charge your USB-enabled smart devices for communication. Simply press the SOS button that activated a loud alert partnered with an eye-catching flashing red light for emergency assistance.
- 6-WAY CHARGING OPTIONS - An NOAA Weather radio with multiple charging backup options is the ideal choice. 6-way charging options including a built-in rechargable backup battery, an AC adapter, DC 5V USB input,hand-crank, solar panel, and 3 AAA batteries(not included in packing), which is more powerful and reliable, which can provide instant, automatic, around-the-clock messages regarding weather alerts.
- PORTABLE RADIO & HEADPHONE JACK - This portable radio is small, light, and IPX3 water-resistant, only 1.2LB, measures: 6.8×3.7×2.9 inches, which is easier to carry with you anywhere. Includes a 3.5 mm headphone jack, allowing you to listen to the weather broadcast at night without disturbing your travel buddies. Weather alerts are beneficial during outdoor adventures like fishing, camping, and hiking, can keep you well-prepared for severe weather and stay safe.
9
![Eton Elite, The Classic AM/FM/LW/VHF/Shortwave Radio]()
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- AM/FM/Shortwave Radio & NOAA Weather Alert - This portable radio has a wide range of band reception of AM, FM, Shortwave and NOAA weather stations with the extended telescopic antenna. Shortwave Radio allows you to receive some weird stations from other locations. There are also 7 weather channels are pre-programmed so you can easily tune into your local one, you will hear a Loud Alarm Sound from the NOAA weather signals if there is a severe weather hazard in your area such as storm, hurricane
- 5 Power Sources & Rechargeable Battery - This weather radio supports 5 way to keep device powered. It comes with the upgraded rechargeable battery to charge your cell phone, tablets or other devices. In case the rechargeable battery is power off, the solar panel and the crank lever can keep your radio connected and powered. You can install 3 AAA batteries into the compartment when you are not able to regenerate power, also you can just simply plug the radio in wall with DC adapter.
- Easy to Carry & 12 Months Replacement Warranty - The size for this weather radio is just7.5*3.5*4.7 inch with 1.2LB weight, and we have included a carry strap and a hang buckle so you can take it anywhere you want, this emergency radio is made of strong ABS material which is IPX3 water resistance. A necessary tool for camping, traveling, backpacking or any other outdoor activities. A ideal gift option for adventurers. - We provide our customers with 12-Months Warranty.
- Loud SOS Alarm Flashing Red Light & 3.5mm Headphone Jack - Simply press the SOS button for asking for help in case you are in danger or you would like to warn someone else, the SOS alert sound is extremely loud and can be heard miles away. There will be a flashing red light on in the meantime; The earphone jack on the right side of the radio allow you to enjoy the your favorite audio more clearly.
- 2 Bright Light Sources & Compass - Light is important when you are in the dark, this crank radio comes with 3W flashlight and a 6 LED reading lamp, which are brighter than other radios in the market, with easy to reach switch button at the right side, user-friendly design to adjusts the reading lamp to the front, making it easy for users to set and adjust the radio when they are outdoors. The campass attached on the carry strap can guide you to the correct directions when you lose your way.
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What to Look For in a best survival shortwave radio?
Sometimes, purchasing a product can draw some difficulties for shoppers, and that's why you shouldn't waste your time on unreliable sources of information. A variety of variables impact the best survival shortwave radio, along with all of the ones listed below. The formative assessment varies depending on the types and functions of the product.
We will give you some purchase guides to help you with your selection proc in the following sectors. Continue reading to learn about what you should look for when looking for the best survival shortwave radio:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 Do Emergency Radios Last?
A good emergency radio will last for 5-10 years if kept dry and clean.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 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.
Generally, new information is continuously included into of best survival shortwave radio. Visit our sites for revisions and improvements regularly.
You now have a far better knowledge of how to purchase the best survival shortwave radio on the market. Hopefully, we've supplied you with enough information to help you make an informed decision. We'll see you in the following article.
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