Tablets and mobile phones have remarkably reduced the use of the radios. But, that can never mean that the radios are a thing of the past. There are still people who are recognised as shortwave radio enthusiasts. The radios are essential for most international broadcasters as they can be presented to the whole world. This article will give you a whole idea about the shortwave radios.
Among the various options in the market, you need to look for that shortwave radio that will serve all your purposes. They are discussed briefly below.
- Type: There are four kinds of shortwave radio categorised according to the usage and form factor. The portable can be carried easily, while the tabletop needs to be connected to a power source and have a bulky design. The all-in-one enables the user to connect to all channels and the software-defined are the newest models in the market.
- Frequency Coverage: The frequency is an important factor as it decides and dictates the number of stations or AM and FM bands that can be accessed by the radio. The Frequency Range for shortwave radio is 3,000 kHz to 30,000 kHz.
- Sensitivity: This factor needs to be considered as it defines the audio quality of the radio. The ideal sensitivity for shortwave radios are 2mV to 4mv.
More details on the factors to consider are given in the “Buying Guide” provided later in the article. In this guide, we have listed the best shortwave radios with their best features, advantages and disadvantages. Read on to know all about them.
Best Shortwave Radio Chart
| Shortwave Radio | Connectivity | Power Source | Supported bands | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mesqool Shortwave Radio | USB | Lithium-ion | AM/ FM/ SW/ NOAA/ Weather | Check On Amazon |
| Retekess Shortwave Radio | AUX | DC | AM/ FM/ SW | Check On Amazon |
| Greadio Shortwave Radio | AUX | AC and Battery | AM/ FM/ SW | Check On Amazon |
| Eoxsmile Shortwave Radio | USB | AAA Batteries | AM/ FM/ SW | Check On Amazon |
| XHDATA Shortwave Radio | USB | DC | Weather/ AM/ FM/ SW | Check On Amazon |
| C. Crane Shortwave Radio | USB | AC and Battery | AM/ FM/ SW | Check On Amazon |
| Eton Shortwave Radio | Bluetooth | Battery powered | AM/ FM/ SW | Check On Amazon |
| TECSUN Shortwave Radio | USB | AC and Battery | AM/ FM/ SW | Check On Amazon |
| RADIWOW Shortwave Radio | USB | Battery powered | AM/ FM/ SW | Check On Amazon |
| Radioddity Shortwave Radio | Bluetooth | Battery powered | AM/ FM/ SW | Check On Amazon |
Best Shortwave Radio Reviews
1. Mesqool Shortwave Radio
This 7-programmed NOAA Weather forecast radio enables good reception for both AM and FM radio with the shortwave stations even if the antenna is down. You can change channels in this device by simply turning a knob in place of adjusting a dial.
The radio features a Lithium-ion rechargeable battery but can also be powered by 3 AAA batteries, USB input, solar crank, or winding up handle. This battery can also charge the cellphone in case of emergencies. With the 6 LEDs, it illuminates the room and can work as a reading lamp. Alternatively, it can also work as a flashlight. In case of emergency, it flashes the red SOS beacon, which can attract the rescuers’ attention.
There is also a 3.5mm headphone jack which makes it all the more favourable. It also includes a nylon wrist strap, compass and carabiner clip which makes it portable and suitable for camping stations.
Best Features:
- Connectivity: USB
- Power Source: Lithium-ion
- Radio Bands Supported: AM/ FM/ SW/ NOAA/ Weather Radio
- Colour: Yellow
Pros:
- 7 programmed NOAA weather channels.
- Easy operation.
- Li-ion battery.
- Features reading lamp.
Cons:
- Little on the expensive side.
2. Retekess Shortwave Radio
Retekess has come up with a portable radio which consists of multiple functions in one. It enables the user to enjoy loud and clear audio which also supports manual and automatic search for different FM, AM and SW bands.
This can alternatively work as a recorder with an inserted TF card and features 3 recording modes like radio recording/ cable in recording and mic recording. It features an in-built 1000 mAh lithium battery. With low power consumption, it can run for a long time on a single charge. The lock-keyboard feature can prevent any accidental change in the settings, and the sleep timer function can turn on the alarm when it is set. It can be charged with an USB and features a 3.5 mm earphone jack.
The portability is increased with a hand strap and stand. Also, the visibility is enhanced by the LCD screen. The long antenna improves the reception.
Best Features:
- Connectivity: AUX
- Power Source: DC
- Radio Bands Supported: AM/ FM/ SW
- Colour: Black
Pros:
- Multiple functions.
- Great audio quality.
- 3 recording modes.
- 5 mm earphones.
Cons:
- People had problems with durability.
3. Greadio Shortwave Radio
The large LCD screen is the USP of this shortwave radio which allows you to see clearly when changing through the AM, FM and SW stations. The new-age DCP chip and long antenna enhance the reception of the device.
The radio can be charged in one of two ways: either by the D-cell batteries or the DC supply. They are convenient to operate and easy to use due to the large knobs for changing through the channels. It also displays the time, which can be adjusted through the time settings. The audio quality is enhanced with the 2W speakers, and the mode can be adjusted between the low and the high mode.
It features a 3.5 mm earphone jack which allows personal listening, and the portability is increased with the strap included. The brand also offers 12-month warranty and a 30-day money-back policy.
Best Features:
- Connectivity: AUX
- Power Source: AC and Battery
- Radio Bands Supported: AM/ FM/ SW
- Colour: Grey
Pros:
- DCP chip and long antenna.
- Large LCD screen.
- Easy to use.
- 2W speakers.
Cons:
- The warranty policy is not favoured for everyone.
4. Eoxsmile Shortwave Radio
This NOAA is certified by the National Weather Service which can be preset in one of the 7 preset weather bands. It also flashes a loud SOS alarm for 9 seconds when the red light blinks.
It also features a large volume knob, and telescopic antenna that helps to adjust the volume of the radio and also enables large frequency. Along with the in-built 5000mAh rechargeable battery, it can also be powered by solar crank, USB cord or 3AAA batteries. On a single charge, this radio can last up to 13 hours. Alternatively, it can also work as a reading lamp or a LED flashlight.
It is a versatile product which can charge cellphones in case of emergency. The compass makes it ideal for camping and the hand strap increases portability. The brand offers a one-year warranty.
Best Features:
- Connectivity: USB
- Power Source: AAA batteries
- Radio Bands Supported: AM/ FM/ SW
- Colour: Yellow
Pros:
- 7 preset weather channels.
- SOS alarm for 9 seconds.
- Telescopic antenna.
- LED flashlight.
Cons:
- Some people had issues with AM bands.
5. XHDATA Shortwave Radio
This radio is a full-band high-sensitivity radio which has high-frequency width that enables all AM, FM and SW stations. It is a multiband radio which can be used for all music, study and entertainment purposes.
This radio can be charged in one of two ways as 2 AA batteries or DC supply. The power switch, tuning knob, band selector switch and volume control buttons make it easy to operate. It comes with 24-hour customer service and an effective user manual.
The compact size and lightweight design increase the portability of the device. It can fit in anyone’s pocket, and you can carry it to listen at all places.
Best Features:
- Connectivity: USB
- Power Source: DC
- Radio Bands Supported: AM/ FM/ SW
- Colour: Grey
Pros:
- High-sensitivity.
- Lightweight and compact size.
- Dual charging options.
- 24-hour customer service.
Cons:
- People think it does not work for SW bands.
6. C. Crane Shortwave Radio
This is a digitally tuned multiband receiver which features a selectively enhanced through multiple bandwidth settings and high-end sensitivity. This allows logging onto any channel on any bandwidth except for the weather.
This radio features a compact design that enables multiband radios with SSB support. On top of that, it allows the user to access full range FM and AM, NOAA weather band, VHF aviation, shortwave with single sideband. It also enables detectable fine or fast tuning on the several bandwidths. The special features include the 10 aviation memory scan, 400 memories, auto scan and store and 400 memories storage. The time can be viewed with the in-built clock in either 12-hour or 24-hour format. It is powered by AA batteries or DC supply.
The LCD display is wide, bold and clear. The faux leather carry case and CC buds earphones add to the advantages.
Best Features:
- Connectivity: USB
- Power Source: AC and Battery
- Radio Bands Supported: Weather/ AM/ FM/ SW
- Colour: Black
Pros:
- Multiband digitally tuned receiver.
- Full range frequency reception.
- Faux leather case for increased portability.
- CC buds earphones.
Cons:
- Most users complained of the bad reception.
7. Eton Shortwave Radio
With low distortion and low background noise, this is a strong anti-interference and high-sensitivity Bluetooth enabled shortwave/ AM/ FM radio that offers great audio quality.
This radio features a LCD screen which features a LCD screen and enables fine/coarse tuning, bass/ treble control and 50 memory stations. It also has RF gain controls that stream your favourite podcast or own music through bluetooth. This versatile radio has a line-out/ line-in with headphone jacks and FM telescopic antennas. The battery is solar-powered which makes it suitable for camping and backpacking trips.
The featured handy carrying strap allows you to carry it anywhere you go.
Best Features:
- Connectivity: Bluetooth
- Power Source: Battery powered
- Radio Bands Supported: AM/ FM/ SW
- Colour: Grey
Pros:
- Low distortion and low background noise.
- Bluetooth enabled.
- LCd screen.
- bass/ treble control.
Cons:
- People thought that the performance was bad for the SW and MW channels.
8. TECSUN Shortwave Radio
Tecsun has come up with a full range of frequency that enables it to connect with FM/ AM bands, song with Shortwave and Longwave with single side band.
The double PLL conversion digital receiver is synthesised for high selectivity and sensitivity. It features a 10 Hz tuning step that allows 4 to 5 selectable bandwidth filters on SSB and AM alternatively. Also, the single side band receiver enhances this property. The featured alarm clock can be set for any time.
It features a Lithium-ion battery which is rechargeable and can be charged with the provided battery.
Best Features:
- Connectivity: USB
- Power Source: AC and Battery
- Radio Bands Supported: AM/ FM/ SW
- Colour: Silver
Pros:
- Full range frequency.
- High selectivity and sensitivity.
- Featured alarm clock.
- Rechargeable Li-ion battery.
Cons:
- People had problems with the shortwave reception8.
9. RADIWOW Shortwave Radio
This is a small-sized radio which is made ideal for travelling by increasing the portability. It is lightweight which makes things even more favourable.
The use of premium-quality components and materials enable good audio quality on all kinds of broadcasts like music and voice. The stereo can be switched for the AIR SW MW LW band with the DSP receiver and the ATS band. Additional features include the temperature display, alarm clock, sleeping time, preset memories station. It saves charge with the auto-shut feature. The backlit LCD screen makes it favourable for the night.
The brand offers one-year warranty and provides 24-hour after sales service.
Best Features:
- Connectivity: USB
- Power Source: Battery powered
- Radio Bands Supported: AM/ FM/ SW
- Colour: Grey
Pros:
- High portability.
- Premium-quality components and materials.
- Many additional features.
- Backlit LCD display.
Cons:
- Some people think that the battery does not work properly.
10. Radioddity Shortwave Radio
This is a three-in-one radio as it can be alternated between a SD card music player, bluetooth speaker and a radio. The long wire antenna makes it suitable to pick up more stations through the reception.
This radio allows you to connect to any FM/ AM/ SW/ WB/ NOAA weather channels with better reception. The enhanced DSP chip improves the sensitivity of the reception and allows you to set the frequency and spacing according to your convenience. The vintage look of the radio gives retro vibes and feel.
The compact size can fit into the pocket easily and can be carried with great ease.
Best Features:
- Connectivity: Bluetooth
- Power Source: Battery-powered
- Radio Bands Supported: AM/ FM/ SW
- Colour: Olive Green
Pros:
- 3-in-1 radio.
- Long wire antenna.
- DSP chip for better reception.
- Compact size.
Cons:
- People complained of poor battery life.
Things To Consider When Buying Any Shortwave Radio
Narrowing down the options when considering any shortwave radio might seem easy but that is not the whole truth. Anyone can choose any radio from the store but you might not get everything that you are looking for. Therefore, we have listed some factors that will help you choose the best radio for you.
1. Type
There are mostly four types of the shortwave radio that are differentiated on the basis of their form-factor and usability. We have discussed all of them in detail.
- Portable: These are the highly popular options that are easily available in the market. They are usually affordable and can be carried around easily for the compact design. One of the drawbacks is that they are mostly available in analog options with very expensive digital counterparts. They are particularly helpful due to their alternate battery source which allows them to work even after the batteries are dead.
- Tabletop or Desktop: They are the conventional version of the radios as they need to be connected to a power source for functioning. They feature a bulky design and the design is not suitable for portability.
- All-in-one: These are available in both bulky and compact designs. They are favourable due to their wide range of available frequency which enables them to connect to most of the FM bands and AM bands.
- Software-defined: These are the newer versions of the radio as they need to be connected to a computer software in order to access all the radio frequencies. They come in both analog and digital versions. While the analog has strong build and are generally more durable, the digital can pinpoint on a particular channel easily.
2. Frequency Coverage
One of the most eminent features to consider when looking for any radio is considering the frequency coverage of the device. The greater or wider frequency coverage will allow you to access more stations. For just AM and FM bands, any regular radio will work but for accessing SW bands, you should go for all-in-one radios.
3. Sensitivity
The receiver of the radio has a sensitivity level which is also an important consideration. The detection of the amplitude differences affects the sound that is produced by the shortwave radio. The unit for measuring sensitivity is either millivolt or microvolt. For the AM band, the ideal sensitivity level is 4mV/m and for the FM band, the ideal sensitivity level is 4mV.
4. Antenna
The complete reception of the radio depends on the antenna featured in it. The better build quality of the longer antenna will be better than the integrated stock antenna featured in the radio. In the case of an external antenna, if installed in the radio, it produces better sound quality by enhancing the radio signal frequency.
5. Battery
Some of the radios are powered by the supply in the wall unit but that is a different issue. When considering radios with batteries, there are two majors. The first ones are those that need AA or AAA batteries. They are useful as you can change the batteries when they are drained. The second option are the Lithium-ion batteries that can be recharged once they drain out. It is recommended to go for the internal rechargeable batteries as they can be used for a longer time.
6. Sound Quality
Most of the radios come with in-built speakers. The audio quality of the radios can either make it or break it for them. People should go for radios that have impedance between 4 and 10 ohms with an average diameter of 40mm. However, the sound quality also affects the price range of the radios in which the better audio quality speakers are priced expensively.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ans: If you need a radio to talk to someone during emergencies then you should purchase a CB or ham radio. Any shortwave radio will never enable you to talk but you can listen to the emergency broadcasts on them.
Ans: The shortwaves have a unique quality to travel all the miles as they skip propagation. So, you can enjoy radio transmission from around the globe.
Ans: Talk shows and music channels are brought closer to you with the shortwave radio channels. Therefore, these devices are great for passing time.
Ans: There are several commercial and non-commercial networks that can be accessed with the help of the shortwave radios. Many countries broadcast their propaganda, news and music content to the world.
Ans: Yes, the shortwaves can be blocked but it requires too much labour, experience and time. Therefore, it is too much of a hassle to block the shortwaves.
Final word
With this guide at your disposal, choosing the best shortwave radio will be like a walk in the park. We have listed all the criteria that you need to know for buying the best shortwave radio. Therefore, you just need to apply these considerations when buying the faucet. If you still have doubts, you can write to us in the comments section below.
- If you are here for the recommendations, we have listed the top three favourites from the list. The first recommendation is Mesqool Shortwave Radio It features 7 NOAA Weather channels and easy operation.
- The second suggestion from the list is Retekess Shortwave Radio It features multiple functions and three recording modes.
- The third and final product is Greadio Shortwave Radio. It features a DCP chip and a long antenna for better reception.
