10 Best Portable Am Fm Radios 2025 in the United States

The C. Crane CCRadio-2E Enhanced Portable AM FM Weather and 2-Meter Ham Band is a solid choice for those who prioritize strong AM reception and access to multiple bands. Equipped with a Twin-Coil Ferrite Antenna, it offers superior AM reception. This radio covers AM, FM, NOAA Weather Band, and the 2-Meter Ham Band, making it versatile for various listening needs and emergency situations.

The inclusion of the Weather Alert feature ensures you receive important NOAA government-issued alerts, which can be life-saving during natural disasters like hurricanes. The radio is also user-friendly, featuring a clock, alarm, sleep timer, headphone jack, display light, and five one-touch memory presets, adding convenience to its functionality. Weighing 4 pounds, it is relatively portable and can operate on 4 D-sized batteries or the included AC power cord. With up to 250 hours of run time on fresh batteries, it offers impressive battery life, essential for prolonged use during power outages.

However, the radio's weight and size may be a bit bulky for some users looking for a more compact option. The sound quality is decent but may not satisfy audiophiles seeking high-fidelity audio. Durability appears to be good. This radio is well-suited for those needing reliable AM reception, emergency weather updates, and portability, though it may not be the best fit for those seeking a lightweight option or premium sound quality.

The Sangean WR-16SE is a stylish AM/FM radio with a wooden cabinet that offers a variety of modern features. It stands out with its built-in Bluetooth technology, making it easy to stream music wirelessly from your devices. The radio also includes an auxiliary input for connecting other audio sources like MP3 or CD players, and a USB port for phone charging, adding to its versatility.

One of its most praised features is the deep bass compensation, which provides rich sound quality through its 10-watt full-range speaker. The vernier tuning with tuning and band indicators ensures precise frequency adjustments, making it user-friendly for those who enjoy tuning into specific stations. In terms of portability, while the radio is relatively compact and lightweight at 1 pound, it is powered by corded electric, which may limit its mobility compared to battery-operated models.

The build quality, highlighted by the dark walnut and rose gold design, gives it a premium and durable feel, ideal for indoor use. However, if you are looking for a highly portable radio for outdoor activities, the corded power supply might be a drawback. The Sangean WR-16SE is a solid choice for those who appreciate a blend of classic design and modern functionality, particularly suited for indoor use and those who want a high-quality sound experience.

The C. Crane CCRadio 3 is a standout choice for those seeking a portable AM/FM radio, especially if you prioritize long-range reception and sound quality. One of its key strengths is the patented Twin-Coil Ferrite AM Antenna, which significantly enhances AM reception, making it effective for capturing distant stations. FM reception is also commendable, ensuring clear audio even from weaker signals. The addition of Bluetooth is a fantastic feature, allowing users to connect to smart devices and expand their listening options to include various online radio shows and podcasts.

Sound quality is a major plus, as the CCRadio 3 delivers crisp and clear audio. Whether you're tuning into music, news, or talk shows, it provides an immersive listening experience. Furthermore, its durability and battery life are impressive; with around 250 hours of playtime on just 4 D batteries, this radio is ideal for outdoor activities or emergency situations. The inclusion of NOAA weather alerts and a 2-Meter Ham Band for local communications enhances its functionality as an emergency tool.

However, the radio does have some drawbacks. Its size, at 11 x 4 x 6.5 inches and weighing around 4 pounds, may not suit everyone looking for ultra-portability. While it’s not excessively heavy, some users might prefer a lighter option for travel. Additionally, while the extensive features such as the clock, alarm, and memory presets are useful, they could be overwhelming for someone who just wants a simple radio experience. Lastly, the battery is not included, which could be an inconvenience for some users.