Playing your selected music doesn’t give the vibe of connecting with other people as radio does. However, as old-fashioned as it may seem, listening to radio rightly appeals to the vintage times of discovering new tunes every day.
Besides daily news and weather reports, the best AM FM radio is a reliable medium when there is a blackout or other platforms like the internet fail. And, you can never be too careful about a zombie apocalypse, eh? Just kidding!
While the world is moving towards new technology every day, some people still adore the more human element of listening to radio stations.
Benefits of Using AM FM Radio
The AM FM radio these days has access to many stations, and you almost always get clear reception no matter where you are. However, having a battery-powered AM/FM radio comes in handy during emergencies.
To get a better idea about the advantages of having a radio let’s discuss some more points.
Entertainment Everywhere
The most easily derived benefit of a portable radio device is the enjoyment of its stations on the go! You can carry it around anywhere you want in your daily activities.
If it is a small AM/FM radio, you can put in your earphone, and you won’t even notice as the hours fly by, making your day more enjoyable.
A Companion in the Dark
Although everything runs on electricity in today’s world, a portable radio doesn’t. If and when there is a power outage, you can’t turn on the TV, your computer or even the internet might not work. A battery-operated AM/FM radio can become your friend during that time.
No Internet Connection is Needed!
You don’t need an internet connection to listen to the radio. Although some radio stations are only on the internet, you can listen to AM/FM stations non-stop seamlessly without any internet.
For Emergencies
During any natural disaster or any other emergencies, radios make getting any information easily accessible. A portable radio AM/FM can be a blessing in disguise on many such occasions.
Receives Long-Range Signals
If you’re a camper or a hiker, digital AM FM portable radio devices can connect you to the world no matter how far you go. The antennas and DSP chips with radios allow you to go further without having to worry about missing out on any important news.
Our Top 15 Best Portable AM FM Radio Reviews
If you want to invest in a decent radio device, we’ll help you choose the right one with our free guide.
1. Vondior Portable Pocket VX-Radio – Silver Colored
When you’re planning to hike or go on a camping trip with minimal requirements, you’d need a radio with you so as not to feel disconnected from the rest of the world. While newer and newer models are coming up every day, many still prefer the older model types.
Vondior’s classic-looking portable pocket radio can become your best friend during a power outage or on a trip. It is an excellent example of devices that bring back memories from the past and create nostalgia.
This VX-Radio operates on only two AA batteries that you can find in any store. Apart from using the most common and regular batteries, the radio will also make good use of them. Vondior has been so well made that you can use the same pair of batteries for weeks without noticing any lack of power.
It also features excellent sound quality that can fill the room or a workshop. The compact design lets you put it inside any pocket-size compartment and makes it very easy and comfortable to carry.
You can operate it very efficiently due to having very few buttons. Unlike many modern devices, it includes a telescoping antenna, an earphone jack, and a carrying strap for convenience.
Highlighted Features
- It has a compact design with a sleek look
- Works with the most commonly used AA batteries
- Features telescoping antenna and carrying strap
- Few buttons for easy use and charging stations
2. Panasonic RF-2400D Portable AM / FM Radio
This item is probably one of the most prominent portable radio devices, primarily because it is from a well-known brand like Panasonic. Its aesthetic design and retro touch give you the early 80’s feelings. RF-2400D will mainly attract old-school dudes due to its nostalgic effect.
It is a battery-operated radio that uses four AA-sized batteries. And the good news is that the device can also be powered through an AC connection.
Panasonic Portable AM/FM radio perfectly combines utility, portability, and entertainment in any location you like. It doesn’t matter whether you’re at home, hiking, or camping out in a remote area; this radio will constantly keep you connected to the rest of the world.
This easy-to-use radio also has several great features. Its antenna can be extended to 24 inches that helps with the reception strength manifolds. They’ve also included the band selector in the on/off switch to reduce the number of buttons.
The turning wheel of the device is quite large, helping you to fine-tune the stations accurately. It has an easy-to-read dial and AFC (Automatic Frequency Control) that renders infinite convenience to the user. The markings are also made to glow in the dark to make tuning easier in the dark.
The handle of this tiny device doesn’t fold like most other radios. Instead, you can fold it in the back, creating a ready-made stand.
Highlighted Features
- Traditional design for those who enjoy vintage devices
- Sound quality is outstanding in all situations and places
- Features both AC connection and battery-powered
- The knob is large to facilitate easy tuning
3. Sony ICFP26 Portable AM/FM Radio
When it comes to technology and devices Sony is known to all. If you’re gadget enthusiast, you already know how well their products are. The same goes for their portable radios as well.
The ICFP26 portable radio from Sony is a stylish handheld radio with a minimalistic design. It has been made exceptionally sturdy like all other Sony devices with great channel sensitivity.
As we’ve mentioned, its straightforward design makes it very compact as well as ultraportable. Like its predecessor, it is also reliable, durable, and resilient. However, the design might seem dull to some people.
One of the best features of ICFP26 is the battery life which is worth the money. Although it doesn’t include any rechargeable battery option, it uses two AA batteries which is very common.
The radio also comes with an external 17-inch-long telescoping antenna that catches radio signals more efficiently than its predecessor model.
Moreover, the wheel tuner has a smooth working, making it much easier to change the stations and listen to your favorite music.
There is also a separate headphone socket in this model for personal listening. It has two LED indicators displaying the tuning and current battery charge level. That helps you easily tune in and lets you know when to change the battery before it runs out.
Highlighted Features
- This model has a minimalistic and sleek design
- There is a 3.5mm headphone socket
- LED indicator for battery status included
- Requires only 2 AA batteries to function
4. Kaito KA500 5-Way Powered Radio
The Kaito KA500 is truly a unique and innovative item on our best Portable AM FM Radio list; what’s not in here! Describing all the features that are included in Kaito KA500 will probably require a whole different article! Nonetheless, we’ll mention them so that you can find out more about them yourself!
Kaito Voyager’s impressive KA500 has a unique look. Firstly, it comprehensively covers FM, AM NOAA, and 2-band shortwave all in the same device! You can get all types of necessary updates and enjoy shows from this single radio!
Kaito also features multiple light sources, which you can use for many purposes. There is a reading lamp, a flashlight, a red SOS beacon, and also an LED signal strength indicator for tuning the correct frequency.
As if that wasn’t enough, this radio also boasts no less than 5 charging options to keep the device running at all times! It has got a 5V AC/DC input with a wall power adapter and a 5V USB input port for direct charging. You can use it with 3 AA batteries as well.
As for the other two unique charging methods, this radio has a solar panel that uses sunlight for energy. The is also a manual hand crank generator that provides up to 25 hours of backup power!
But it doesn’t stop there! There is a USB output port that lets you charge various other devices like your smartphone, digital camera, etc.
Highlighted Features
- Covers AM, FM NOAA, and 2-band shortwave channels
- Feature 4 light sources like a lamp, flashlight, SOS beacon, etc.
- There are 5 charging methods, including solar power and manual hand crank
- Built-in USB output port for charging external devices like phones or cameras
- An extended telescoping antenna of over 14 inches
5. Retekess TR604 AM FM Radio
For a classic transistor-style modern-day portable radio, nothing can beat the TR604 radio from Retekess. In terms of reliability and dependability, Retekess takes the lead among most brands.
There is hardly anything to complain about with the well-built clean black design. This traditional style radio features an analog tuning capacity with simple features.
With a classic design that will mainly appeal to the elders, this radio Retekess has speakers that can handle loud sounds both indoors and outdoors. You can also hook it up with a 3.5mm audio jack for personal listening.
It produces top-notch sound quality when you tune into your favorite stations with precise tuning. This crystal clear sound is received chiefly due to the 24-inch telescoping antenna.
Besides, its sizeable easy-grip knob helps you sort through the frequencies fast as well.
The operation and portability both are easy and convenient. It is powered through an electric charging AC outlet or 3 D sized batteries, which is bigger than our previous items.
Highlighted Features
- Traditional transistor look with attractive design
- Option to charge via batteries or AC outlet
- 24-inch long telescoping antenna for better reception
- Large dial for easy viewing and easy-grip tuning knob
- Features a handle for better portability
6. PowerBear AM/FM Portable Radio
This handy radio from PowerBear should be your first choice if you want to disprove someone’s opinion that radios are things of the past.
Although affordable and comparatively cheap, PowerBear doesn’t deliver substandard performance at all. This radio is so tiny that you can easily fit it inside any pocket.
It features a high-quality built-in speaker along with a built-in earphone jack if you want help yourself out of a noisy place.
The radio runs on batteries and not on a direct AC connection. And with a running life of 800 hours, PowerBear will not fail you in your direst needs.
Highlighted Features
- Offers 800+ hours of battery backup
- The high quality speakers have the clearest sounds
- Compact and portable size
- Equipped with earphone jacket as well
7. JENSEN CD-490 Portable CD Player with Radio
This portable radio is the best choice for high-quality sound and all the radio stations available. JENSEN has everything you could ask for to get content with your payment.
The most significant benefit of this portable player is the integrated CD player that lets you listen to your favorite music. You probably still have those CDs stored somewhere in your house that you desperately want to play one more time, don’t you?
Able to cut any external noise while playing, the CD-490 will let you listen to your favorite music collection. With a near bass element present in the system, the speaker outdoes sounds you’d probably have ignored at other times.
JENSEN also has programmable memory to understand your preferences and play the station that you like. It also features an auxiliary jack to connect with other streaming devices like mp3 or iPods.
There is also an LED display with bright indicators allowing you to track the information.
Highlighted Features
- Built-in CD player for playing your old CDs
- Brilliant sound quality with a noise canceler
- Auxiliary jack for streaming devices
- Bright LED display shows all information
- It has a programmable memory
8. PRUNUS J-288 Portable Radio
A fantastic example of an all-in-one radio device is the PRUNUS J-288. There are various ways of listening to audio and music nowadays, and PRUNUS doesn’t lag.
The unique feature of this radio is the multiple listening options it provides you, including TF card, aux input, and even Bluetooth streaming! This Bluetooth radio for home also features a USB flash drive input to listen to your favorites.
The radios reception comes with an ultra-long antenna of 56cm that gets you better stability without static. It also gets you the most comprehensive selections of channels, and you can even save dozens of them easily for later.
J-288 is genuinely a multifunctional AM FM radio with a built-in 3.5mm aux-in jack. You can listen to anything privately without disturbing anyone.
The bass enhancement system of this radio creates a better sound quality as well. There is an option to lock the radio, so the setting doesn’t change in children’s hands.
There are three variables of this item, and all of them use 1200mAh Lithium batteries. Although the battery life isn’t as long as the other items on our list, it can still play continuously for 6-8 hours.
Highlighted Features
- Ultra-long antenna revives all stations easily
- Can save dozens of AM and FM stations
- USB flash drive input, TF card, and aux-input mode present
- Key lock function for protection
9. Sangean PR-D5BK AM/FM Portable Radio
When Sangean PR-D5BK was released, they claimed that it would be the last portable radio one would ever need to buy. Well, they weren’t wrong.
This model exceeds our expectations in terms of features and quality of sound. It is the best thing since the price tag becomes worth it.
On the first look, you’ll notice the dual stereo speakers that keep this beauty ahead of its competitors. These speakers provide you with excellent audio quality for a pure listening experience.
Interestingly, the PR-D5BK features two different antennas, one for each band of AM or FM. The AM band utilizes the 7.8-inch ferrite antenna band, while the 26.5-inch adjustable telescoping antenna is for the FM band. Both of these boost up the reception, and you get a heavenly quality sound.
There is a PLL tuning system installed in the radio as well that makes useless fiddling obsolete.
The tuning knob has an auto-seek option which means you don’t have to turn it manually to find reception—no more buzzing irritating sound of the radio, just pure bliss of the channel.
But the downside is the need for 6 C-sized batteries, which is a lot. Considering the price, they should’ve included a rechargeable battery.
Highlighted Features
- Two different antennas for two bands
- Auto station tuners
- Dual stereo speakers provide incredible sound
- There is a backlit LCD and real-time clock
10. Jensen SB2000RB Portable AM/FM Radio
This one has a similar classic retro-style design to some of the previous items. This tabletop-designed portable radio is painted red and pink and can make an ideal addition to your kitchen or the living room.
Jensen’s SB2000RB features a simplistic design and comes with a large 2.25″ mono speaker. Its 350mW output will enable you to listen to anything playing, even in a big space.
You can take advantage of the auxiliary port built into the radio with is amazing. Connect your digital audio players like mp3 and iPod to the device and listen to your saved songs, podcasts, and many more.
The telescoping rotary antenna it features can be adjusted to any side to improve any AM/FM reception.
Since the radio runs on batteries, you can take it anywhere you like. There is also a foldable carrying handle for ease.
Highlighted Features
- Features an auxiliary port to connect accessories like mp3 or iPod
- Rotary telescoping antenna for good reception range
- Classic and vintage style look
- Foldable carrying handle
11. ByronStatics Portable Radio
Another portable radio with a touch of nostalgia comes from ByronStatics. Honestly, it will take you back to the 1950s with its outer look, design, and aesthetics. Its cute vintage look with a large dial display is sure to turn heads.
The radio itself is designed in the most uncomplicated fashion and is also very easy to use. Other than the large dial, there are only two more buttons on the device; one for turning the radio on/off and another for controlling volume.
This analog radio is surprisingly powerful at picking up reception also. Despite its simplicity, it can pick a lot of stations with its single-dial tuning.
Speaking of tuning, it requires a bit of careful hand, and we found it a bit tricky to turn to get the exact station you want. This is because the stations on the tuning knob are pretty close to each other.
ByronStatics also takes care of the need of its user by providing a dual power source. There is the option of either using an AC adaptor or 4 AA-sized batteries. It also features a headphone jack for private listening.
Highlighted Features
- A simple and attractive vintage design that makes you nostalgic
- Very easy to use with minimal buttons and processes
- Strong and stable reception of AM and FM stations
- Powered through both AC connection and batteries
12. C Crane CC Skywave Portable Travel Radio
Among the most expensive items on our list, this Skywave Portable radio is one. Simply put, it is the best radio with all the features you can even imagine it has. The benefits you can get in return for your investment in this radio are plenty.
For one, this radio can offer up to 400 presets for memory. The LCD makes navigating everything easier.
Skywave has a new and improved circuit system that catches audio from further away. This outdoor radio can also receive signals from air traffic controllers, nearby pilots, and ground crew members.
Although it offers the most satisfactory performance, C Crane requires AA batteries to function. With them it can run between 60 to 70 hours, depending on the volume.
Highlighted Features
- Up to 70 hours of smooth operation with a pair of AA batteries
- Extremely lightweight and portable
- Includes clock and an alarm
- Features up 400 presets
13. Victrola Retro Wood Bluetooth FM/AM Radio
Victrola brings you a radio that could potentially rouse the feeling of the Victorian age! It has a timeless design that brings that feeling. This retro-styled wooden radio is just perfect for your home or office décor.
The size of this radio isn’t too big to carry or too small to hold on one hand only. It is mainly made to be adjusted with a kitchen counter décor or beside the fireplace.
Victrola retro radio looks traditional will all the modern-day features. For one, it features a built-in Bluetooth system that you can connect with your smart devices like the mp3, iPad, tablets, or smartphone. This Bluetooth has a 33 feet range without any lag.
Stream your favorite playlist, show, or podcast from any online radio and enjoy the show with this radio. You can enjoy the crisp sound with its vintage tonal quality without any distortions.
There are three knobs and one backlit analog tuner for controlling the radio. One of the three knobs is for changing the band between AM or FM; the next one is for adjusting the tone from bass to treble. And the third knob, along with the power button, also doubles as the volume controller.
Each of the knobs has an antique feeling to them, and controlling them is also relatively smooth. Overall, Victrola’s Retro Wood is one of the portable AM FM radios on our list.
Highlighted Features
- Vintage and retro wooden design
- Features powerful Bluetooth system for external streaming
- Crispy sound controls with a separate tone knob
- The analog tuner is backlit for easy use during the dark
14. PRUNUS J-160 Transistor AM FM Radio
When you want a classical vintage-looking radio with modern and technologically advanced features, you end up with the PRUNUS J-160. It has an attractive retro-style design with all the new features you find in the most modern devices.
All of our previously mentioned radios are either powered through external batteries or by AC current. This is the only one in this list that runs on a built-in rechargeable battery. To us, this is one of the essential pluses for a portable radio device.
Although analog in tuning the stations, the radio features a powerful DSP chip that makes it more sensitive to capture even the weakest of signals.
The J-160 has a lot more to offer with the Bluetooth connectivity mode, AUX input, and USB disc mode. In addition, there is also a shortwave radio function.
Although rechargeable, the device doesn’t come with a charger, and you need to buy it separately.
All in all, this is one classical and stylish-looking portable radio brimming with lots of features everyone will love.
Highlighted Features
- Powerful DSP for high-quality reception
- Built-in rechargeable battery
- Stunning retro and classic appearance
- Features Bluetooth and AUX for better connectivity
- There is also a TF card and USB disc mode
15. Sangean WR-11SE Table Top Radio
Sometimes you just want the exact radio that you saw in a black and white movie. Well, here is the chance. Sangean WR-11SE looks exactly like that decorative radio from vintage times.
There is something special about these types of retro-styled devices; they bring out an aesthetic feeling to any room, especially for this radio, the rotating and precise knobs to the single prominent speaker in a Walnut Veneer MDF cabinet, a winning combination.
The large knobs show attention to detail and craftsmanship. The size and weight of this radio perfectly complement the kitchen counter or an office desk. As you see, it is not a device to be moved around too frequently.
In addition, there is an auxiliary input to connect accessories like mp3, iPod, etc. you can connect your headphone for personal listening as well.
The tuning of this radio has a unique feel as it allows you to select the desired frequency with ease precisely.
Highlighted Features
- Stunning look with MDF cabinet in Walnut Veneer style
- Acoustic cabinet technology creates the most vivid quality sound
- Auxiliary input, headphone input, etc. are featured
- Precise and accurate tune in all AM FM frequencies
Things to Consider Before Buying Portable AM FM Radio
Since radios are used in various environments, what is mainly required of these devices may vary greatly as well. Besides, when there are too many options in the market, choosing the best one becomes difficult.
That’s why you need to think about where and why you need a portable radio. You can look for the major considerations to pick the right high-quality FM radio based on your circumstances.
Size
One of the most significant factors of a portable device is its size. Its ease of portability will mostly depend on the size of the radio. You need to pick a radio that you can easily carry around.
However, it is essential to note that smaller radio devices might have fewer features and may not have good sound quality. Besides, you can hold it in your hand and carry it wherever you want when the size is small.
Weight
Heavier radios gain weight due to the bigger size of the speaker or the battery. This means they will also be able to produce more sound and give a better battery backup.
However, heavier radios also mean you’ll have mobility issues with them. Although they might have carrying handles, it might not be easy if you’re an adventure lover and need to move around quickly.
Power Source
Most classical radios are powered either by batteries or through a direct electrical connection. However, if you want the best portable AM FM Radio, it should be powered with rechargeable batteries.
There are also emergency and survival radios with solar power and hand-cranks options for powering up.
Battery Longevity
You can never forget this one! If you want your radio to run for a long time when you’re out for days on end, the longevity of the battery becomes so much important.
Some radios offer the battery longevity of 100+ hours to almost 800 hours! This depends on the quality of the battery, which also runs parallel to the cost of the device.
Long-Range Signal
If you are one of those people who are constantly traveling, you’d need a radio that can capture signals from faraway places. Without this feature, the radio cannot be considered a good one. Besides, you can hear the radio sound better when the receiver is strong enough.
Audio Quality
Speaking of sounds, this is important as well. The quality of the sound coming out of the device is an excellent indicator of its worthiness. A high-quality AM FM radio will consistently deliver superior sound with clarity and volume. Getting a radio from a reputable brand mainly ensures a good sound quality.
Bluetooth
This is a fairly modern feature of a radio. In case you want the radio to play your favorite playlist from your phone, buying an AM FM Bluetooth portable radio can be a great choice.
User Experience and Control
You might consider this as well, is the radio easy to use? It doesn’t matter how many amazing features the portable radio has; if you have trouble using it, you don’t need it.
Good Display
Modern and advanced radios have great LED or LCDs as well. A good display can be very useful for seeing any information you need and easily changing the channels to AM/FM modes.
Build Quality
Any portable device requires a tough build quality and is durable enough to live through tough situations. We’re not talking about rugged military-grade ones. However, activities like camping or hiking will require the radio to be tough. It is not fun to find out the radio has gone dead just after a bumpy ride.
Waterproof
Although this isn’t a common feature to have, you might still look for a waterproof device. This will also guarantee that the device will also be dust and weatherproof.
Memory Preset
It can become frustrating if you need to search for your favorite station every time you turn on the radio. Having this feature will let you save the stations you enjoy most and not worry about missing any show.
Design
Finally, look for a great design that attracts you the most. There is no fixed design standard that we can suggest since it depends on your requirements and subjective preference.
AM FM Radio Brands
The leading brands we’ve reviewed are all top of the class regarding the significant features and considerations mentioned in our Buyer’s Guide section. With so many brands and models of portable radios out there in the market, finding the best AM FM radio becomes a daunting task even for a pro.
This becomes much harder for first-time buyers who don’t know enough about them or are unsure what to look for in them; we’ve made the task easier.
When you’re confused, the best option is to pick the leading and best brands on the market. Our top five brands for the portable AM FM Radio in a receding manner are as follows:
Panasonic, Sangean, Sony, Retekess, and finally Prunus
AM FM Radio vs. Internet Apps Radio
After reading all this, you might wonder, why buy a traditional radio when you can easily listen to online radio through mobile apps? That’s a valid question to ask.
Online radios indeed offer you numerous choices of playlist and favorite music or program to choose from. You can listen to your favorite online radio station from anywhere on earth and don’t have to limit yourself to a particular geographical location. Besides, the sound quality is also much, much better.
However, unlike traditional radios, online radios depend on the internet connection to work. What happens when you’re in a location where there is no internet connection? What if the internet fails for some reason?
You only need batteries for a traditional radio to work anywhere. You don’t need to worry about power outages or internet failure. Besides, listening to traditional radio stations gives you the nostalgic feeling of childhood. You don’t know what you’re gonna listen to next.
Finally, the experiencing of discovering new tunes and music every day cannot be described in words.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How does AM/FM work?
FM and AM radio signals are sent through electromagnetic waves. However, the patterns of these waves are different for the two. The FM uses a kind of electromagnetic wave that produces clear sound quality in radio but cannot be sent over a long distance like AM.
On the other hand, AM radio signals can be received from a very long distance, but the sound quality isn’t at par with FM. That is why we usually find news stations broadcast through AM while music stations through FM.
2. How can the AM/FM radio reception be improved?
Portable radios are directional, which means when you point its back towards the broadcasting station’s location, it has an easier time catching that. Besides, having antennas or connecting wires helps receive the signals better as well.
3. Is FM better or AM?
It depends on what you need. AM signals can travel far distances, and you get reception from very far away. However, the sound quality tends to be lower, and AM is cheaper.
On the other hand, the sound quality of FM is outstanding, but the reception becomes weak as you move further away from the station.
4. What other things can I do with a portable radio?
Other than listening to your favorite AM/FM channels, you can record your favorite song with it. Many modern radios feature alarm clocks as well. Besides, Bluetooth-featured radios let you play your favorite music as well.
5. What do I do when the radio only picks noise?
One of the reasons for picking up noise only on the radio is that the device is probably out of the station’s reach. If it is not that, then try extending the antenna more or changing with a new one. Because probably it isn’t catching the frequencies properly.
6. Can I wear headphones with the radio?
Yes. Almost all portable radio devices come with a headphone jack that you can plug in and listen to your favorite program without disturbing anyone else.
7. Does AM radio still exist?
Although not as much as before, there are still many AM stations throughout the country. It used to be popular once upon a time and mostly was used to transmit news stations.
8. Are radio waves dangerous?
Radiofrequency radiations generated from AM or FM stations use microwave and radio waves for broadcasting. These waves emit non-ionizing radiation that sits low in the electromagnetic spectrum. However, these radiations are not known to interact with our bodies and will not damage or affect our DNA.
These non-ionizing rays are way less harmful than Gamma rays, X-rays, or UV rays. However, some studies found higher death rates from leukemia and cancer near radio broadcasting stations. But the researchers didn’t prove any considerable correlation between radiation and death.
Final words
When you want to buy the best AM FM radio, knowing exactly how you’re planning to use it helps pick the perfect item. Portable radios are an excellent way of staying informed and getting entertained no matter where you are.
Besides, with so many other benefits of having them, we hope this guide has helped you choose the best portable radio for your needs.