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10 Best Am Fm Radios 2026 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Panasonic RX-D55GC-K Boombox - High Power Portable Stereo AM/FM Radio, MP3 CD, Tape Recorder with USB & Music Port Sound with 2-Way 4-Speaker (Black)

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,349
Portability
Sound Quality

Most important from
975 reviews

Portability
The unit's portability is enhanced by the option to use batteries, although it works best when plugged into an outlet.
Sound Quality
The sound quality is far above average compared to similar products, with decent bass response and good highs.

The Panasonic RX-D55GC-K Boombox is designed for users seeking a portable stereo AM/FM radio with extra features. Its versatility is a major advantage, supporting not only AM/FM radio but also CDs, CD-R/RWs, MP3s, and cassette tapes, catering to fans of various audio formats. The music port allows digital audio file playback, enhancing compatibility with modern devices.

The sound quality is improved by a high-power output through a 2-way 4-speaker system, ensuring a robust listening experience. This model operates on dual voltage for international travel convenience and includes a remote control for user-friendly operation. Some potential downsides include possibly incorrect dimensions, a 4-pound weight that might affect portability, and a 10W RMS power that may not meet high volume needs.

The Panasonic RX-D55GC-K is ideal for users who appreciate a mix of radio and physical media formats, focusing on sound quality and multi-functionality rather than high portability.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,349
Portability
Sound Quality

Most important from
975 reviews

Portability
The unit's portability is enhanced by the option to use batteries, although it works best when plugged into an outlet.
Sound Quality
The sound quality is far above average compared to similar products, with decent bass response and good highs.
#2

Sangean HDR-16 HD Radio/FM-Stereo/AM Portable Radio, Black

Rating
10.0
Portability
Power Source
Sound Quality

Most important from
1372 reviews

Portability
This Sangean HDR-16 is a superb portable radio, versatile enough to be used as a tuner.
Power Source
Battery life is impressive, lasting over 30 hours at a moderate volume.
Sound Quality
Sound quality is astounding for its size, with well-engineered bass and treble controls.
Tuning Mechanism
Programming stations to the presets is incredibly easy – just press and hold until you hear the beep!
Additional Features
Later models offer 20 FM and 20 AM presets, enhancing usability and convenience.

The Sangean HDR-16 HD Radio is a compact and portable option for those who want to enjoy both digital and analog AM/FM stereo reception. It allows you to access additional content such as sports, news, and music without any subscription fees. One of its strong points is the sound quality, enhanced by its HD Radio technology, bass and treble controls, and a built-in antenna.

The radio also comes with a real-time clock, two alarms, snooze, and sleep functions, making it a handy bedside companion. The multi-function display is easy to read, showing information like the current channel, station call sign, and radio text. Portability is another plus, as it can be powered by both AC and batteries, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.

With 10 memory presets, you can quickly tune in to your favorite stations. Additional features like auxiliary connectivity and a record output to connect to a stereo receiver or pre-amp add to its versatility. On the downside, its size may not be the most compact compared to other portable radios, and some users might find the digital tuning mechanism slightly complex if they are used to analog dials. It is an excellent choice for anyone looking to explore HD radio content with the flexibility of traditional AM/FM broadcasting.

Rating
10.0
Portability
Power Source
Sound Quality

Most important from
1372 reviews

Portability
This Sangean HDR-16 is a superb portable radio, versatile enough to be used as a tuner.
Power Source
Battery life is impressive, lasting over 30 hours at a moderate volume.
Sound Quality
Sound quality is astounding for its size, with well-engineered bass and treble controls.
Tuning Mechanism
Programming stations to the presets is incredibly easy – just press and hold until you hear the beep!
Additional Features
Later models offer 20 FM and 20 AM presets, enhancing usability and convenience.
#3

Sangean WR-22BK Digital Radio, AM/FM with Bluetooth, USB, Black

Rating
10.0
Sound Quality
Additional Features

Most important from
1533 reviews

Sound Quality
The sound quality improves over time, making it an impressive unit for its price.
Additional Features
The LCD display is easy to read from across the room, and the automatic time setting through RDS works flawlessly.

The Sangean WR-22BK Digital Radio is a versatile and modern option for anyone looking to enjoy both AM and FM radio stations. It offers a frequency range that covers all standard AM and FM bands, allowing users to preset up to 10 stations (5 AM and 5 FM) for easy access. The addition of Bluetooth connectivity and USB MP3/WMA playback enhances its functionality, making it more than just a traditional radio.

This radio is relatively portable, with dimensions of 9.45 x 7.6 x 4.41 inches and a weight of 5.62 pounds, making it suitable for indoor use and manageable for occasional outdoor use with an appropriate power supply. However, it is primarily corded electric, which may limit its portability compared to battery-operated models. The sound quality is commendable, thanks to its 3-inch 7W full-range speaker and rotary bass/treble controls, offering dynamic bass compensation for richer sound.

The tuning mechanism is straightforward with an easy-to-read LCD display and rotary knobs, and the inclusion of a remote control adds convenience for users. Additional features include a built-in clock, 2 alarm timers, and various sleep/snooze functions, which make it a practical choice for bedside use. Users should note that it requires a 12V DC power supply for outdoor use, which is not included. This radio is best suited for users who appreciate good sound quality, modern features like Bluetooth and USB playback, and can manage its corded power source setup.

Rating
10.0
Sound Quality
Additional Features

Most important from
1533 reviews

Sound Quality
The sound quality improves over time, making it an impressive unit for its price.
Additional Features
The LCD display is easy to read from across the room, and the automatic time setting through RDS works flawlessly.

Buying Guide for the Best Am Fm Radios

When choosing an AM/FM radio, it's important to consider your specific needs and preferences. Whether you're looking for a portable option for outdoor activities, a high-quality sound system for your home, or a simple device for emergency situations, understanding the key specifications will help you make an informed decision. Here are some important specs to consider when selecting an AM/FM radio.
Frequency RangeThe frequency range of an AM/FM radio determines the range of stations you can receive. AM (Amplitude Modulation) typically ranges from 530 to 1700 kHz, while FM (Frequency Modulation) ranges from 88 to 108 MHz. A wider frequency range allows you to access more stations. If you enjoy a variety of radio programs, look for a radio with a broad frequency range. For general use, standard ranges are usually sufficient.
PortabilityPortability refers to how easy it is to carry the radio around. Portable radios are typically smaller, lighter, and often battery-operated, making them ideal for outdoor activities, travel, or emergency kits. If you need a radio for on-the-go use, choose a compact and lightweight model. For home use, a larger, stationary radio might be more suitable.
Sound QualitySound quality is crucial for an enjoyable listening experience. It is influenced by the radio's speaker size, design, and audio technology. Higher-end radios often have better sound quality with clearer audio and richer bass. If you are an audiophile or plan to use the radio for music, prioritize models known for superior sound quality. For casual listening or talk radio, basic sound quality may suffice.
Power SourceThe power source of an AM/FM radio can be batteries, AC power, or a combination of both. Battery-operated radios are great for portability and use during power outages, while AC-powered radios are ideal for continuous use at home. Some radios also offer rechargeable batteries or solar power options. Consider where and how you will use the radio to determine the best power source for your needs.
Tuning MethodTuning methods can be analog or digital. Analog tuning involves manually turning a dial to find stations, which can be less precise but offers a nostalgic feel. Digital tuning allows for more precise station selection and often includes features like preset stations and digital displays. If you prefer ease of use and accuracy, opt for digital tuning. For a classic experience, analog tuning might be more appealing.
Additional FeaturesAdditional features can enhance the functionality of your AM/FM radio. These may include Bluetooth connectivity, weather alerts, clock and alarm functions, and auxiliary inputs for external devices. Think about which extra features would be beneficial for your lifestyle. For example, Bluetooth is great for streaming music from your phone, while weather alerts are useful for emergency preparedness.

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