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10 Best Shortwave Radios 2025 in the United States
#1
Winner
Kaito KA500 5-way Powered Emergency AM/FM/SW NOAA Weather Alert Radio with Solar,Dynamo Crank,Flashlight and Reading Lamp, Color Black
The Kaito KA500 is a versatile shortwave radio designed for emergency preparedness and general use. It covers a wide range of frequencies, including AM, FM, two shortwave bands, and seven NOAA weather channels, making it suitable for staying informed about weather alerts and global broadcasts. Its sensitivity is enhanced by a telescopic antenna and semiconductor circuitry, helping it pick up signals clearly even in challenging conditions. The tuning process is aided by an LED signal strength indicator to help you find stations precisely.
Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,460
Frequency Coverage
Sensitivity
Portability
Most important from
13167 reviews
#2
Emgykit Portable Shortwave Radio - 4000mAh/14800mWh AM/FM/WB/SW Shortwave Radio with Bluetooth Speaker, Flashlight, Sleep Timer, SOS Alarm, and White Noise, Suitable for Camping, Emergency
The Emgykit Portable Shortwave Radio offers a comprehensive range of frequency coverage, including NOAA, AM, FM, and SW bands, making it versatile for various listening preferences, including emergency weather alerts. The dual tuning methods (manual and digital) provide flexibility, although the manual tuning may require some patience. With a built-in 4000mAh rechargeable battery, supplemented by hand-crank and solar charging options, this radio is well-suited for outdoor and emergency use.
Rating
10.0
Antenna
Additional Features
Most important from
614 reviews
#3
Digital AM FM Shortwave Radio with Best Reception,4000mAh Rechargeable Portable Radio with NOAA Weather Alert, Big Speaker, Digital Tuner and Stereo Earphone,Support Micro SD Card and USB MP3 Player
This digital AM/FM shortwave radio covers a wide range of frequencies (AM, FM, SW, and weather band), which makes it versatile for listening to news, music, and emergency weather alerts. Its long 23.6-inch antenna and DSP chip improve signal reception and help maintain clear sound, even with weaker stations. The large speaker delivers loud, good-quality audio ideal for home use. Tuning is simple with one-click station presets (up to 40), a clear LCD display, and backlight, which is especially helpful for older users or low-light conditions.
Rating
10.0
Frequency Coverage
Sensitivity
Tuning Methods
Most important from
931 reviews
Top 10 Best Shortwave Radios 2025 in the United States
#1
Winner
Kaito KA500 5-way Powered Emergency AM/FM/SW NOAA Weather Alert Radio with Solar,Dynamo Crank,Flashlight and Reading Lamp, Color Black
Kaito KA500 5-way Powered Emergency AM/FM/SW NOAA Weather Alert Radio with Solar,Dynamo Crank,Flashlight and Reading Lamp, Color Black
Frequency Coverage: AM, FM, 2 shortwave, 7 NOAA channels
Sensitivity: Enhanced by telescopic antenna, semiconductor
Tuning Methods: LED signal strength indicator
Portability: Just over a pound, compact, durable
Antenna: Telescopic antenna
Additional Features: Flashlight, reading lamp, USB charge, solar
Chosen by 1460 this week
Emgykit Portable Shortwave Radio - 4000mAh/14800mWh AM/FM/WB/SW Shortwave Radio with Bluetooth Speaker, Flashlight, Sleep Timer, SOS Alarm, and White Noise, Suitable for Camping, Emergency
Emgykit Portable Shortwave Radio - 4000mAh/14800mWh AM/FM/WB/SW Shortwave Radio with Bluetooth Speaker, Flashlight, Sleep Timer, SOS Alarm, and White Noise, Suitable for Camping, Emergency
Frequency Coverage: NOAA, AM, FM, SW
Tuning Methods: manual, digital
Portability: 3.15 x 2 x 5.02 inches
Additional Features: Bluetooth, USB/TF slot, 7 sounds
Digital AM FM Shortwave Radio with Best Reception,4000mAh Rechargeable Portable Radio with NOAA Weather Alert, Big Speaker, Digital Tuner and Stereo Earphone,Support Micro SD Card and USB MP3 Player
Digital AM FM Shortwave Radio with Best Reception,4000mAh Rechargeable Portable Radio with NOAA Weather Alert, Big Speaker, Digital Tuner and Stereo Earphone,Support Micro SD Card and USB MP3 Player
Frequency Coverage: AM, FM, SW, WB
Tuning Methods: one-click presets (up to 40), LCD
Portability: 4000mAh battery, 18h, 4D cells
Antenna: 23.6-inch antenna
Additional Features: MP3 player, NOAA alerts, DSP chip
Greadio Portable Shortwave Radio with Best Reception,AM FM Transistor,LCD Display,Time Setting,Battery Operated by 4 D Cell Batteries or AC Power,Big Speaker,Earphone Jack for Gift,Elder,Home
Greadio Portable Shortwave Radio with Best Reception,AM FM Transistor,LCD Display,Time Setting,Battery Operated by 4 D Cell Batteries or AC Power,Big Speaker,Earphone Jack for Gift,Elder,Home
Frequency Coverage: AM, FM, shortwave
Sensitivity: enhanced sensitivity, DSP chip
Selectivity: enhanced selectivity, DSP chip
Tuning Methods: LCD display, large knobs
Portability: Portable with handle
Antenna: long antenna
Additional Features: 3.5mm earphone jack, big speaker
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Up to 10% off
C. Crane CCRadio-2E Enhanced Portable AM FM Weather and 2-Meter Ham Band (Black) CC2BE
C. Crane CCRadio-2E Enhanced Portable AM FM Weather and 2-Meter Ham Band (Black) CC2BE
Frequency Coverage: AM, FM, NOAA alerts, 2-Meter Ham
Tuning Methods: Analog tuning, five one-touch presets
Portability: Portable, 4 lbs, 250 hours runtime
Antenna: Twin-Coil Ferrite Antenna
Additional Features: NOAA alerts, light, headphone, clock, alarm
C. Crane CC Skywave 2 AM, FM, Shortwave, NOAA Weather + Alert, VHF Aviation Band, Small Battery-Operated Portable Travel Radio with Clock and Alarm
C. Crane CC Skywave 2 AM, FM, Shortwave, NOAA Weather + Alert, VHF Aviation Band, Small Battery-Operated Portable Travel Radio with Clock and Alarm
Frequency Coverage: AM, FM, shortwave, NOAA, VHF
Sensitivity: Strong sensitivity, multiple bandwidths
Selectivity: Enhanced, multiple bandwidths
Tuning Methods: Direct entry, auto-scan, knob
Portability: 6 ounces, compact design
Antenna: Built-In AM, shortwave jack
Additional Features: Clock, alarm, LCD, headphone, stand
Tecsun PL990 Digital Worldband AM/FM Shortwave Longwave Radio with Single Side Band Reception & MP3 Player, Matte Black
Tecsun PL990 Digital Worldband AM/FM Shortwave Longwave Radio with Single Side Band Reception & MP3 Player, Matte Black
Frequency Coverage: AM, FM, longwave, shortwave, SSB
Sensitivity: analog high-IF AM circuitry, DSP demodulation
Selectivity: analog high-IF AM circuitry, DSP demodulation
Tuning Methods: synchronized detection
Portability: compact and lightweight design
Antenna: external antenna input
Additional Features: MP3 player, alarm clock, sleep timer
C. Crane CC Skywave SSB 2 AM, FM, Shortwave, NOAA Weather + Alert, Scannable VHF Aviation Band and Single Side Bands Small Battery Operated Portable Travel Radio Includes SW Wire Antenna Adapter
C. Crane CC Skywave SSB 2 AM, FM, Shortwave, NOAA Weather + Alert, Scannable VHF Aviation Band and Single Side Bands Small Battery Operated Portable Travel Radio Includes SW Wire Antenna Adapter
Frequency Coverage: AM, FM, NOAA Weather, Shortwave, VHF Aviation
Sensitivity: Enhanced by multiple bandwidth settings
Selectivity: Enhanced by multiple bandwidth settings
Tuning Methods: Fast and fine tuning, digital system
Portability: Small size, lightweight (6 oz)
Antenna: 23 ft portable shortwave reel antenna
Additional Features: 400 memory slots, fold-out stand
#10
Raddy RF919 SSB Shortwave Radio with NOAA Weather Band, Full Band FM AM SW VHF UHF AIR CB WB and SSB Receiver, with Antenna Tuner, 3 External Antenna Ports, 5000mAh Rechargeable Battery (Black)
Raddy RF919 SSB Shortwave Radio with NOAA Weather Band, Full Band FM AM SW VHF UHF AIR CB WB and SSB Receiver, with Antenna Tuner, 3 External Antenna Ports, 5000mAh Rechargeable Battery (Black)
Frequency Coverage: FM, AM, SW, SSB, VHF, UHF, AIR, CB, WB
Tuning Methods: Dual knob tuning system
Portability: 5000mAh rechargeable battery
Antenna: Three external antenna ports
Additional Features: Bluetooth, dual screens, backlight
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Buying Guide for the Best Shortwave Radios
Choosing the right shortwave radio can be a rewarding experience, especially if you enjoy listening to international broadcasts, amateur radio operators, or emergency communications. To make an informed decision, it's important to understand the key specifications and features that differentiate various models. By considering your specific needs and preferences, you can find a shortwave radio that best suits your listening habits and technical requirements.Frequency CoverageFrequency coverage refers to the range of frequencies that the shortwave radio can receive. This is important because different stations broadcast on different frequencies. Shortwave radios typically cover frequencies from 1.6 MHz to 30 MHz. Some models also include additional bands like AM, FM, and Longwave. If you want to listen to a wide variety of international broadcasts, look for a radio with broad frequency coverage. For casual listening, a basic range might suffice, but for more serious hobbyists, extensive coverage is essential.
SensitivitySensitivity is the radio's ability to pick up weak signals. This is crucial for shortwave radios because many broadcasts come from distant locations and may be weak. Sensitivity is usually measured in microvolts (µV). Radios with lower sensitivity values (e.g., 0.5 µV) can detect weaker signals better than those with higher values (e.g., 1 µV). If you live in an area with a lot of radio interference or want to pick up distant stations, a radio with high sensitivity is important. For general use, moderate sensitivity may be adequate.
SelectivitySelectivity is the radio's ability to separate closely spaced signals. This is important when multiple stations are broadcasting on nearby frequencies. Good selectivity ensures that you can clearly hear the station you want without interference from others. Selectivity is often measured in kilohertz (kHz). Radios with narrower selectivity (e.g., 2 kHz) can better isolate signals than those with wider selectivity (e.g., 6 kHz). If you plan to listen in crowded frequency environments, look for a radio with high selectivity. For less crowded areas, standard selectivity should be sufficient.
Tuning MethodsTuning methods refer to how you change the frequency on the radio. Common methods include analog tuning, digital tuning, and direct frequency entry. Analog tuning uses a dial and is often less precise but can be more engaging for some users. Digital tuning allows for more precise frequency selection and often includes features like memory presets. Direct frequency entry lets you input the exact frequency you want to listen to. If you prefer ease of use and precision, digital tuning or direct frequency entry is ideal. For a more traditional experience, analog tuning might be more enjoyable.
PortabilityPortability refers to the ease with which you can carry and use the radio on the go. This is important if you plan to use your shortwave radio while traveling or outdoors. Portable radios are typically smaller, lighter, and battery-operated. Larger, desktop models may offer better performance but are less convenient to move around. If you need a radio for travel or outdoor use, look for a compact, lightweight model with good battery life. For home use, a larger, more powerful radio might be a better choice.
AntennaThe antenna is a crucial component for receiving signals. Shortwave radios can come with built-in antennas, external antennas, or both. Built-in antennas are convenient but may not provide the best reception. External antennas can significantly improve signal quality and range. Some radios allow for the connection of additional external antennas. If you are in an area with weak signals or want to maximize reception, consider a radio that supports external antennas. For casual listening in areas with strong signals, a built-in antenna may be sufficient.
Additional FeaturesAdditional features can enhance your listening experience and convenience. These may include features like SSB (Single Side Band) for listening to amateur radio operators, synchronous detection for reducing fading and interference, and built-in recording capabilities. Other useful features might include alarm clocks, sleep timers, and backlit displays. Consider what additional features are important to you based on how you plan to use the radio. For example, if you are interested in amateur radio, SSB capability is essential. For general listening, features like a sleep timer or backlit display might be more relevant.