10 Best Am Fm Radios 2025 in the United States

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.

The Sangean HDR-19 is a premium AM/FM radio that brings a stylish retro design and modern features, making it a notable choice for those who appreciate both aesthetics and functionality. Its HD radio capability enhances sound quality, allowing for clearer reception of AM and FM stations. With 40 station presets, including emergency alerts, users can easily access their favorite channels. The Bluetooth connectivity is a significant plus, enabling streaming from smartphones or other devices, which adds versatility for music lovers.

Portability is somewhat limited since it’s corded electric, but its compact size (10.35"L x 6.06"W x 6.5"H) does make it easy to place on a desk or shelf. The inclusion of a USB port for charging devices is a thoughtful feature, further enhancing its usability. This radio requires batteries for backup, and while they are included, it’s something to keep in mind for uninterrupted use during a power outage.

The sound quality is noteworthy, and the real-time clock with multiple alarm settings provides practical functionality for everyday use. Some might find the tuning mechanism a bit less intuitive compared to simpler radios. The display offers a wealth of information, but this could be overwhelming for those seeking a straightforward listening experience.

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.