Best Shortwave Radios of 2026
* We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.
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
Top 10 Shortwave Radios
XHDATA D109WB Portable Rechargeable Emergency Shortwave Radio Receivers with SOS Alarm FM/AM/LW Radio Mains or Battery Powered Dual Alarms Clock Headphones Output TF/Bluetooth MP3 Player
All Band Shortwave Radio Receiver, ATS 20+ FM AM LW SW SSB World Band Portable Digital Receiver, Built in Battery, Speaker Antenna, 0.96 Inch Screen for Outdoor Camping Home
Retekess TR112 Shortwave Radio,FM VHF SW AIR Band Portable Pocket Radio,Supporting APP Control,Rechargeable,Bass Stereo SOS Alarm,TF/MP3,Suitable for Enthusiasts
Emgykit R11 Portable Shortwave Radio - 4000mAh/14800mWh NOAA/SW/AM/FM, Solar/Hand Crank/USB Charging, Bluetooth Receiver/USB/TF Playback,with Compass,Flashlight,SOS for Camping & Emergencies - Grey
Eton Mini Digital Shortwave Radio
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.
ATS 20+ Full Band Radio Receiver, Portable Shortwave Radios with Antenna, AM LW SW SSB All World Band Frequency Radio Receiver for Outdoor Camping Home
Full Band Radio Receiver, FM AM MW SW SSB DSP Shortwave Multi Modes Portable Handheld Radio Recorder with Spectrum Scanning ATS25X2, High Accuracy All Band Radio Receiver
Raddy RF919 SSB Shortwave Radio, Full Band FM AM SW VHF UHF AIR CB and SSB Receiver, with Antenna Tuner, 3 External Antenna Ports, 5000mAh Rechargeable Battery, EarPhone Jack
LIJIANI Portable Shortwave Radio with Clock
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.
ATS-20 Full Band Radio Receiver, Portable Shortwave Digital Radio With Built-in Battery, Speaker, and Antenna for Outdoor Camping
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.
During our shortwave radio research, we found 46 shortwave radio products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 2,343 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 £20.00.
The shortwave radios are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of shortwave radios, including XHDATA, Sxhlseller, Retekess, Emgykit, Eton.
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.