Best Shortwave Radios of 2025

Kenneth Collin Avatar
Kenneth Collin
Last Updated: 1 Feb 2025

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Shortwave radios are portable electronic devices that are designed to receive radio signals on the shortwave frequency band. These radios are capable of receiving signals from around the world and are popular among radio enthusiasts, travellers, and emergency response teams. Shortwave radios are often used to listen to international news broadcasts, music, and cultural programming from different parts of the world. They are also useful for staying informed during emergencies and natural disasters when traditional communication methods may not be available. Shortwave radios come in a range of styles and sizes, from compact handheld devices to larger, more powerful models.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Tecsun PL-360 Portable AM/FM Shortwave Radio Cover #TOP 1
Tecsun PL-360 Portable AM/FM Shortwave Radio
ftb score rating icon 9.9
PRUNUS L-258 Portable AM/FM/SW Radio Cover #TOP 2
PRUNUS L-258 Portable AM/FM/SW Radio
ftb score rating icon 9.8
LIJIANI Portable Shortwave Radio with Clock Cover #TOP 3
LIJIANI Portable Shortwave Radio with Clock
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Shortwave Radios

#TOP 1

Tecsun PL-360 Portable AM/FM Shortwave Radio

PL360
Black
Tecsun PL-360 Portable AM/FM Shortwave Radio Cover
Tecsun PL-360 Digital PLL Portable AM/FM Shortwave Radio with DSP, Black (UK Version)

The Tecsun PL-360 Radio offers a variety of tuning methods to enhance your listening experience. With Easy Tuning Mode (ETM), you can quickly find your favourite stations without hassle. The manual search options allow for precise frequency adjustments, ensuring you never miss a broadcast. Additionally, the device supports FM stereo via earphones, giving you a richer sound quality. The multi-function digital control knob simplifies operations, letting you easily set the time and adjust frequencies for your convenience.

What We Like
Multiple tuning methods
FM stereo support
Easy frequency adjustments
Convenient digital control
#TOP 2

PRUNUS L-258 Portable AM/FM/SW Radio

RADIO258CR
RADIO238SW(UP)
PRUNUS L-258 Portable AM/FM/SW Radio Cover
PRUNUS L-258 Small Radio Portable and Mains, AM(MW)/SW/FM Radio Rechargeable with Bass Speaker, Large Button and Display. Stores Stations Automatically.(NO Manual Memory Stations Function)

The PRUNUS L-258 Radio is designed for ease and convenience. Its large buttons and clear digital display make it easy to operate, allowing you to tune in to your favourite stations with just one press. With the capability to store up to 297 radio stations, you can enjoy a variety of channels without the hassle of manual tuning. The powerful 2*3W speakers provide excellent sound quality, ensuring you experience deep bass and smooth treble, perfect for outdoor gatherings or relaxing at home.

What We Like
Large, easy-to-use buttons
Excellent sound quality
Portable and lightweight
Automatically scans and stores stations
#TOP 3

LIJIANI Portable Shortwave Radio with Clock

LIJIANI
SH-01
BLACK
SMAIL 5*2.7*0.8 IN
LIJIANI Portable Shortwave Radio with Clock Cover
Shortwave Radio FM/AM/SW Transistor AA Battery Powered with Orange Key Backlight LCD Display Digital Alarm Clock Sleep Timer,Best Reception Best Sound Pocket Receiver 218SW

The LIJIANI Shortwave Radio is designed for excellent reception and sound quality. With a professional DSP chip, you can enjoy clear audio across AM, FM, and shortwave bands. Its illuminated buttons make it easy to operate in low-light conditions, ensuring you can find your favourite stations at night. Plus, with three quick preset buttons, you can access your most listened-to stations effortlessly. This compact radio is perfect for outdoor activities or travel, providing an ideal companion wherever you go.

What We Like
Excellent reception quality
Compact and portable design
Easy-to-use illuminated buttons
Quick access to favourite stations
Includes a digital alarm clock
#TOP 4

Rysamton Portable AM/FM/Shortwave Radio with Alarm

Rysamton
YK-M03 Black
grey
Rysamton Portable AM/FM/Shortwave Radio with Alarm Cover
Rysamton Portable AM/FM/Shortwave Radio, Batteries Operated Pocket Radios, Large Digital Display, Clock Radio with Alarm and Sleep Function, Earphone Included

The Rysamton Portable Radio is a versatile multi-band device that supports AM, FM, and shortwave frequencies, ensuring you can listen to your favourite programmes anywhere. Its large digital display with backlight makes it easy for you to read the time and station information, even from a distance. The built-in alarm clock function allows you to wake up to your preferred station, while the sleep timer feature helps you drift off to sleep as the radio gently turns off. With multiple frequency search methods, finding your favourite stations is a breeze.

What We Like
Easy to read display
Convenient alarm clock function
Portable and battery-operated
Multiple frequency search options
#TOP 5

ZHIWHIS Emergency Radio with NOAA Alerts

ZWS-905
Yellow
ZHIWHIS Emergency Radio with NOAA Alerts Cover
ZHIWHIS Emergency Radio with Auto NOAA Alerts, 10000mAh AM FM SW Weather Radios, Hand Crank/Solar/Power Bank/SOS/Flashligh/Reading Lamp/Timer Portable Receiver with Preset, for Emergencies ZWS-905

The ZHIWHIS Emergency Radio is an essential tool for any emergency situation. With its NOAA weather alerts, you can stay informed about hazardous weather conditions, ensuring your safety. The high-quality speakers provide excellent sound, allowing you to enjoy your favourite stations or listen privately through the headphone jack. Additionally, its rechargeable capabilities, including solar and hand crank options, make it perfect for outdoor adventures, guaranteeing you never run out of power. This versatile device is ideal for camping, hiking, or unexpected emergencies.

What We Like
Multiple charging options available
Excellent sound quality
NOAA alerts for safety
Compact and portable design
Useful for outdoor activities
#TOP 6

Blaupunkt PR3BK Portable AM/FM Radio

PR3BK
Black
Blaupunkt PR3BK Portable AM/FM Radio Cover
Blaupunkt PR3BK Portable Radio - Black - Portable Radios (AM, FM, 0.3 W, 3.81 cm (1.5 inches), Black, AA)

The Blaupunkt PR3BK Radio is a compact and portable device, perfect for enjoying your favourite AM and FM stations on the go. With a power output of 0.3 W, it delivers clear audio quality, ensuring you won't miss a single word of your preferred broadcasts. Its small size features a 1.5-inch speaker, making it easy to carry and store. The radio operates on AA batteries, providing you with the convenience of portability without the hassle of needing a power outlet.

What We Like
Portable and lightweight design
Supports AM and FM bands
Good audio quality
Battery-operated convenience
Compact size for easy storage
#TOP 7

Retekess V117 Portable AM FM Radio

FAUF9207A
Black
Retekess V117 Portable AM FM Radio Cover
Retekess V117 Portable Analog Radio,Portable AM FM Radios Battery,Good Sound Quality Speaker and Headphone Jack, Suitable for Home,Emergency

The Retekess V117 Radio is a compact and portable AM/FM/SW radio, perfect for those who enjoy listening on the go. Weighing just 4.65oz and featuring a lanyard, it’s easy for you to carry while out for a walk. The radio offers excellent reception, thanks to its 18.9-inch retractable antenna, ensuring you can enjoy clear broadcasts without interference. With a powerful 2.24-inch speaker, you can expect loud and clear sound quality, making it ideal for various settings. Plus, its battery operation means you can stay informed during power outages.

What We Like
Lightweight and portable design
Excellent reception quality
Loud, clear sound
Battery-operated for emergencies
#TOP 8

Raddy RF206 Portable Digital Shortwave Radio

Raddy
RF206
Raddy RF206 Portable Digital Shortwave Radio Cover
Raddy RF206 Digital AM FM Shortwave Radio Portable Radio Receiver, 8W Speaker, LCD Display, Support BT/TF Card/USB Playback, Battery Powered by AC/AA Batteries for Home, Gift

The Raddy RF206 Radio offers extensive band coverage, allowing you to enjoy AM, FM, and a wider shortwave range. This versatility means you can easily tune into a variety of stations for diverse content. With support for USB, TF card, and Bluetooth audio playback, you can enjoy high-quality music and broadcasts in lossless format. Its 8W powerful speakers ensure clear audio, making it ideal for listening while cooking or engaging in other activities. The user-friendly design, featuring a large LCD and big buttons, makes navigation straightforward and convenient.

What We Like
Extensive band coverage
Supports multiple audio formats
Powerful 8W speakers
User-friendly design
#TOP 9

Eton Mini Digital Shortwave Radio

Eton
NELITEEXECUTIVE
Mineral Gray
Eton Mini Digital Shortwave Radio Cover
Mini Shortwave Radio,Digital,4-1/8" H

The Eton Shortwave Radio is a compact and portable device that allows you to enjoy a variety of shortwave broadcasts. Standing at just 4-1/8" high, it is easy to carry, making it perfect for travel or outdoor activities. Made in China, it combines modern digital technology with user-friendly features. This radio enables you to listen to broadcasts from around the world, providing you with entertainment and information wherever you are. Its small size does not compromise on performance, ensuring a great listening experience.

What We Like
Compact and portable design
Digital technology for better reception
Ideal for travel and outdoor use
Access to global broadcasts
#TOP 10

Sangean PR-D6BU Compact Portable Radio

PR-D6BU
Blue
Sangean PR-D6BU Compact Portable Radio Cover
Sangean PR-D6BU AM/FM Compact Analog Portable Radio

The Sangean PR-D6BU Radio offers excellent AM/FM analog tuning, ensuring you can easily find your favourite stations. With superb audio quality and reception, you can enjoy clear sound whether you are at home or on the go. The rotary bass and treble control allows you to personalise your listening experience, ensuring that you get the best sound for any genre. Additionally, the dial scale display makes tuning simple and straightforward, providing a user-friendly experience for all ages.

What We Like
Excellent audio quality
Easy tuning with dial display
Customisable bass and treble
Portable and easy to carry
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can you still buy shortwave radios?

Best overall: Tecsun PL-880 Digital Shortwave Radio. Tecsun is one of the better-known brands in shortwave radios, and one of the few that still consistently produces shortwave-capable radios.

2. Does anyone still use shortwave?

“Media Network” began in 1981 as a weekly shortwave program; in 2000 that show ended in favor of its current online presence. “Other regions vary from country to country,” said Sennitt. “Shortwave is still significant in much of Africa, South Asia and parts of Latin America.”

3. How far can a shortwave radio reach?

Shortwave radio travels much farther than broadcast FM (88–108 MHz). Shortwave broadcasts can be easily transmitted over a distance of several thousand miles, including from one continent to another.

4. Are shortwave radios useful?

Shortwave is used not just by international radio stations or radio amateurs but is also essential for aviation, marine, diplomatic and emergency purposes.

Editor's Notes

During our shortwave radio research, we found 12 shortwave radio products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 10,349 customer reviews through our big data system to write the shortwave radios list. We found that most customers choose shortwave radios with an average price of £37.23.

The shortwave radios are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of shortwave radios, including Tecsun, prunus, LIJIANI, Rysamton, ZHIWHIS. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 448 consumers with an average rating of 4.8.

Written by
Kenneth Collin Avatar

Kenneth Collin graduated from Imperial College, London, at 22. He is a UX/UI designer, a web developer, and a writer, amongst others. At age 14, Kenneth programmed his first app. Kenneth's app served as a remote control for censored devices. "When I was 8, I would pick up scraps from electronics and try to rebuild or at least fix them," Kenneth said in one of his recent articles on Home repairs for top gadgets.