10 Best Shortwave Radios 2025 in the United States

The C. Crane CCRadio 3 is a solid choice for those looking for a reliable shortwave and AM/FM radio with good long-range reception. It covers multiple bands including AM, FM, NOAA weather alerts, and even the 2-Meter Ham Band, which is great for emergency communication. Its patented Twin-Coil Ferrite AM antenna helps pull in distant AM stations clearly, and FM reception is strong enough to bring weak stations in without much static. Bluetooth connectivity is a bonus, allowing you to stream audio from your phone or smart speaker, which expands listening options beyond traditional radio.

The radio is designed with user-friendly tuning and offers 5 one-touch memory presets per band, making it easy to switch between favorite stations. It also includes handy features like a clock, alarm, sleep timer, adjustable display brightness, and a headphone jack. Portability is decent—the radio weighs about 4 pounds and runs on 4 D batteries (not included), providing up to approximately 250 hours of playtime at moderate volume. This makes it convenient for outdoor use or emergency kits.

However, the radio is somewhat larger and heavier than ultra-portable models, which might be less ideal if you need something very compact. While the sound quality is clear and pleasant for voice, it may not satisfy users wanting high-fidelity audio. Also, though it includes a weather band with alerts, it does not have shortwave coverage beyond the ham band, so it may not cover all shortwave listening interests. Lastly, the price may be higher compared to simpler radios, but the enhanced features and build justify it for many. This radio suits listeners who want dependable, long-range AM/FM reception, emergency features, and added Bluetooth functionality packed into a portable unit. It is particularly useful for emergency preparedness and casual shortwave or ham band users, but less optimal if you prioritize ultra-lightweight design or extensive shortwave band coverage.

The Eton Elite Field Radio is a versatile device that covers AM/FM and Shortwave bands, making it suitable for radio enthusiasts. Its Bluetooth feature allows you to stream your favorite music. The radio is designed for exceptional reception with strong anti-interference technology, ensuring clear and reliable performance.

You can fine-tune your listening experience with its RF gain control and treble/bass adjustment. Having 50 memory stations makes it easy to access your preferred channels quickly, and the built-in alarm and sleep timer add extra convenience. The radio's external antenna connections and FM telescopic antenna enhance signal reception, and the Local/DX switch helps optimize signal based on your location.

However, its size and weight (5.25 pounds, 12.4 x 6.5 x 3 inches) might not be ideal for those looking for a truly portable option. Additionally, while the rich LCD display is a plus, its retro tabletop design may not appeal to everyone. If you need a reliable shortwave radio with good sound quality and additional features like Bluetooth, the Eton Elite Field Radio is a solid choice, especially for home use. However, it may not be the best option if you require a lightweight, highly portable device.

The Tecsun H501 is a versatile shortwave radio that excels in providing a wide range of frequencies, making it suitable for both casual listeners and radio enthusiasts. It covers AM, FM, longwave, and shortwave bands, including single side band (SSB) reception, which is a great feature for those interested in amateur radio or international broadcasting. The inclusion of an MP3 player with micro-SD support adds to its usability, allowing users to play their favorite audio formats easily.

In terms of performance, the H501 boasts impressive sensitivity and selectivity, thanks to its advanced analog and digital circuitry. This means that users can expect clear and stable reception, even in areas with weaker signals. The dual speakers provide quality sound, with the ability to adjust treble and bass for a richer listening experience, which can be particularly enjoyable for music lovers.

Portability is another strong point, as the radio is designed to be lightweight and easy to carry, making it suitable for outdoor use or travel. The range of additional features, including an alarm clock, sleep timer, and extensive memory for stations, enhances its practicality for daily use. The Tecsun H501 is a reliable shortwave radio that offers extensive frequency coverage, good sound quality, and portability, though users should be mindful of the battery requirements and consider how they plan to use it, especially in louder settings.