10 Best Weather Alert Radios 2025 in the United States

The Midland ER50 is a compact and lightweight weather-alert radio designed to keep you informed and safe during emergencies. It picks up NOAA weather alerts, providing both sound and light warnings to ensure important updates are not missed. This radio stands out for its eco-friendly power options — it can be charged by sunlight using a built-in solar panel or manually with a hand crank, which is very handy during power outages or when away from electrical outlets.

The included flashlight with adjustable brightness and an SOS strobe adds a useful emergency tool. It also features a digital AM/FM radio to tune into local stations for news or entertainment, displayed on an easy-to-read backlit screen. The device is small and portable, with a wrist lanyard for convenient carrying. Although it supports only the FM band for radio, it covers the essential NOAA alerts, which is the main priority for weather radios. Battery life depends on the rechargeable lithium-ion battery, which the solar and crank power help extend.

The product is user-friendly, though some users might find the small size a bit fiddly when pressing buttons. In terms of durability, it is built for travel and home use but may not be as rugged as some heavy-duty models meant for rough outdoor conditions. The Midland ER50 represents a solid choice for anyone needing a reliable, easy-to-use weather alert radio with sustainable power options and helpful emergency features.

The Midland ER310 Emergency Crank Weather Radio is a versatile and robust option for those seeking reliable weather alerts and emergency features. It supports multiple power sources, including a solar panel, hand crank, and a rechargeable 2600 mAh battery, ensuring you stay connected even during power outages. The ability to use 6 AA batteries provides an additional backup, making it highly adaptable in various situations.

Its emergency flashlight, with both high and low brightness settings, and SOS beacon that flashes Morse code, adds an extra layer of safety. The ultrasonic dog whistle is a unique feature that can assist in search and rescue operations. The NOAA Weather Scan + Alert feature ensures you are always informed about severe weather by automatically scanning and locking onto the strongest weather channel. The radio also includes AM/FM capabilities for broader listening options.

Reception quality is generally good, although it can vary depending on location. The ability to charge external devices via USB is a practical addition, especially in emergencies. However, the radio does not include SAME technology, which some users might find lacking for more specific regional alerts. Its portability is decent, with a relatively compact size and a weight of 1 pound, but it may not be the lightest option available. Although it may not have the most advanced features like SAME, its comprehensive emergency functionalities and multiple power options make it a solid choice for those needing a reliable weather-alert radio.

The Midland ER210 Emergency Compact Crank Weather AM/FM Radio is a versatile and reliable tool designed for emergency situations and outdoor use. One of its standout features is its multiple power sources; it can be recharged via a built-in solar panel, a hand crank, and a rechargeable 2200 mAh battery, ensuring you stay connected even when traditional power sources fail. This makes it particularly useful during power outages or in remote locations.

The emergency flashlight is another strong point, offering a bright 130-lumen CREE LED with an SOS beacon that flashes Morse code, which can be crucial in signaling for help during emergencies. The flashlight's adjustable brightness settings also help in conserving battery life when needed. The NOAA Weather Scan + Alert feature is excellent for staying updated on severe weather conditions, as it automatically scans and locks onto the strongest weather channel available, providing timely alerts. Additionally, it can broadcast AMBER alerts, adding another layer of safety.

The large backlit LCD display is user-friendly, making it easy to switch between radio stations, check the time, or monitor weather channels, even in low-light conditions. Its USB charging capability adds convenience, allowing you to charge other devices if necessary. However, there are some considerations to keep in mind. While the radio is portable, it may feel a bit bulky for some users, with dimensions of 9 x 2.75 x 6.5 inches and a weight of 1 pound. Additionally, while the multiple power sources are a plus, relying solely on solar or hand crank charging might not always be practical in extended emergency situations. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Midland ER210 offers a robust set of features that make it a valuable addition to any emergency preparedness kit, especially for those who need a reliable and multi-functional weather-alert radio.