10 Best Portable Am Fm Radios 2025 in the United States

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.

The Retekess TR604 is a solid choice if you're looking for a portable AM/FM radio that’s easy to carry around thanks to its convenient handle and compact size. It covers the essential frequency ranges for AM (520-1710 KHz) and FM (87-108 MHz), allowing you to enjoy a broad selection of local radio stations. The 23.6-inch telescopic antenna helps improve reception, especially for FM, so you can get clearer sound from distant stations. It’s powered by either three D-cell batteries or an AC power cable, which gives you flexibility whether you’re at home or on the go. This radio weighs just over 2 pounds, making it light enough for casual portability. The tuning is done with a rotary knob and dial scale designed for easy and precise frequency selection—helpful if you want to fine-tune stations without frustration.

The sound quality is decent for a radio in this price range but won't rival high-end audio devices; it’s best for talk shows, news, and casual music listening rather than audiophile-level sound. The build feels reasonably sturdy and suitable for everyday use, though it’s mostly plastic so it might not withstand very rough treatment. One minor drawback is the lack of modern features like Bluetooth or digital display, which some might miss. The Retekess TR604 delivers dependable performance for those who want a straightforward, battery-operated portable radio with good reception and basic features.

The C. Crane CC Skywave SSB 2 is a compact and versatile portable radio that excels in providing access to a wide range of bands, including AM, FM, NOAA weather alerts, shortwave, and VHF aviation. Its small size, measuring just 4.75” x 3” x 1.1”, makes it easy to carry, weighing only 6 ounces without batteries. This is particularly beneficial for travelers or those seeking a reliable communication tool for off-grid situations, like during emergencies when other services may fail. The inclusion of Single Side Band capability enhances its utility, allowing users to receive long-range information during critical times, which is a feature often missing on standard smartphones.

The radio's battery life is impressive, offering around 70 hours when using earbuds and about 60 hours with the built-in speaker, powered by two AA batteries. Additionally, the digital tuning and superior sensitivity make it easy to find and store frequencies, with the ability to save up to 400 stations, including 10 aviation memories. The lighted LCD display and rotary controls add to its user-friendly design.

A few drawbacks are worth noting. While it offers extensive features, the sound quality, although good for its size, may not satisfy audiophiles as it is not comparable to larger, dedicated audio systems. Durability could also be a concern, as its compact design might make it less robust than larger, more rugged radios. Furthermore, while the radio includes various accessories like earphones and a carry case, some users may find the need to purchase two AA batteries separately inconvenient.

The C. Crane CC Skywave SSB 2 is an excellent choice for those needing a portable, multi-band radio for travel, outdoor activities, or emergency preparedness, especially due to its versatility and long battery life. However, those seeking superior sound quality or a more rugged build might want to consider other options.