10 Best Emergency Crank Radios 2026 in the United States

The Midland ER310 Emergency Crank Weather Radio is an excellent choice for those preparing for emergencies, thanks to its thoughtful design and multiple features. One of its standout strengths is the multiple power sources it offers: it can be powered by a solar panel, a hand crank, or a rechargeable battery, ensuring that you can keep it operational during power outages or outdoor activities. The 2600 mAh rechargeable battery provides up to 32 hours of radio operation, which is impressive for emergency use. Additionally, the ability to use 6 AA batteries as a backup is a practical feature that enhances its reliability.

In terms of functionality, the ER310 includes a NOAA Weather Scan and Alert system, which ensures you stay informed about severe weather alerts. The SOS flashlight beacon and bright CREE LED light make it easy to signal for help in emergencies. The inclusion of a USB port for charging external devices is a huge plus, allowing users to keep their phones and tablets charged when they need them most.

The Midland ER310 is well-suited for campers, hikers, or anyone looking to prepare for emergencies. Its multiple power sources and features make it a reliable companion, though potential users should consider its size and durability in wet conditions.

The Midland ER310PRO emergency radio offers a strong mix of features that make it a reliable companion during power outages, storms, or outdoor adventures. It supports AM, FM, and NOAA weather bands, automatically locking onto the strongest weather channel to keep you updated on severe conditions—an important feature for safety. Its battery life is impressive, offering up to 200 hours of radio use, and it includes a 10,000 mAh power bank to charge your phone or other devices, which is very handy in emergencies.

One of its biggest strengths is the variety of power options: besides a built-in rechargeable lithium-ion battery, it can be powered by a solar panel or hand crank. This means you don’t have to rely on electricity or disposable batteries, which is great if you’re stuck outdoors or in extended outages. The addition of Bluetooth lets you listen to music from your phone, blending everyday convenience with emergency use.

Durability-wise, it has a solid plastic build and weighs about 1.65 pounds, making it portable but sturdy enough for outdoor use. The bright 130-lumen LED flashlight with an SOS beacon and an ultrasonic rescue dog siren are thoughtful extras that can help signal for help in an emergency. While the hand crank and solar charging are useful, they might not charge the battery quickly enough during heavy use or long emergencies. The plastic body, while practical, may not hold up against rough handling in extreme conditions. Also, some users who want ultra-simple radios might find the Bluetooth and multiple features a bit more complex.

The Midland ER50 is a solid choice for anyone needing a dependable emergency crank radio. It offers multiple sustainable power options, including a hand crank, solar panel, and rechargeable lithium-ion battery, which is great for long-term use when power sources are scarce. It covers AM, FM, and NOAA weather bands, providing access to important weather alerts, which are given both visually and through sound. This can be crucial for staying informed during emergencies.

The built-in flashlight is a helpful addition, featuring adjustable brightness and an SOS strobe for signaling, making it useful beyond just radio functions. The radio’s compact size and wrist lanyard make it easy to carry during travel or outdoor activities. The digital tuner and backlit display improve usability, especially in low light. However, the product’s battery life depends largely on sunlight exposure or cranking frequency, which might require some effort during extended outages.

Designed for portability and everyday use, the radio lacks waterproofing or heavy-duty ruggedness, so it’s best kept in dry conditions. For those looking for a straightforward, well-rounded emergency radio with dependable alerts and useful extras like a flashlight, the Midland ER50 provides good value and strong functionality without being overly complex.