10 Best Am Fm Radios 2026 in the United States

The Sangean WR-16SE is a stylish AM/FM radio that stands out with its wooden cabinet design, making it an appealing addition to any room. One of its biggest strengths is the built-in Bluetooth technology, which allows for wireless streaming from your smartphone or tablet, enhancing its versatility. The soft and precise vernier tuning offers a smooth experience when selecting stations, supported by clear tuning indicators. Sound quality is noteworthy too, thanks to the 3-inch full-range speaker that delivers rich bass, making it suitable for various listening preferences.

Portability can be a concern, however, as this model is corded electric and may not be ideal for outdoor use or travel. With dimensions of 9.4 x 6.75 x 4.62 inches and a weight of just 1 pound, it can be moved easily within the home but might not suit those looking for a truly portable radio. The inclusion of an auxiliary input is a bonus, allowing you to connect external audio sources like MP3 or CD players, adding to the device's functionality.

Another aspect to consider is that while it has a built-in AM antenna, its performance may vary depending on your location. The Sangean WR-16SE is a solid choice for anyone looking for a blend of classic design, modern features, and good sound quality in the AM/FM radio category, particularly for home use.

The C. Crane CCRadio 3 is a strong choice for anyone looking for a portable AM/FM radio with excellent long-range reception. Its patented Twin-Coil Ferrite AM Antenna and good FM tuning bring in distant or weak stations clearly, making it especially useful for music, news, and talk shows. The sound quality is clear and natural, so voices sound realistic and easy to listen to for long periods. It runs on either 4 D-size batteries or an AC power cord, which gives flexibility for both home use and on-the-go situations. Battery life is impressive, lasting about 250 hours at moderate volume, although the radio weighs 4 pounds, which is a bit heavy compared to smaller portable radios. The tuning method is digital with memory presets, making it easy to save and access favorite stations quickly.

Additional features include Bluetooth connectivity, which lets you stream audio from your phone or other devices, NOAA weather band with alerts, and a 2-meter ham band for emergency communications. There are useful extras like a clock, alarm, sleep timer, adjustable display light, and headphone jack. On the downside, the radio's size and weight reduce its ultra-portability, and it requires relatively large batteries that are not included. Also, while it offers many features, it might be more than casual listeners need if they just want a simple radio.

This radio is best suited for users who value strong reception, emergency readiness, and additional digital features rather than just basic AM/FM listening.

The Sony ICF38 Portable AM/FM Radio is a practical choice for those who enjoy listening to radio stations on the go. Its modest weight of 2.02 pounds and compact dimensions (10.2 inches long, 5.6 inches wide, and 3.5 inches high) make it easy to carry around. The radio supports both AM and FM bands, allowing users to tune into a variety of frequencies. The LED tuning indicator assists users in finding the correct frequency, which can be particularly helpful in low-light conditions.

Additionally, the tone control switch enables some customization of the audio output to suit different preferences. A large built-in speaker provides clear and loud sound, and there's an earphone jack for private listening. The radio is powered by four AA batteries, making it convenient for outdoor use where power outlets may not be available. However, as it lacks a rechargeable battery option, frequent battery replacements might be necessary.

The plastic and metal construction ensures durability but may not feel premium. This radio is ideal for individuals looking for a reliable, portable AM/FM radio with basic yet practical features.