When nothing else electronic works, a crank radio might be the last thing that does. The simple and apparent reason for this is that most important electronic devices, through which one can receive important information on storms and other dangers, are generally tied to the power grid. Even battery operated devices like laptops and cell phones are still tied to the grid, because they run out of juice in short hours, or at most a few days. Crank operated and solar charged radios will work for years on end without even being near an outlet, and are worth keeping around just for that piece of mind. So whether you’re riding out an especially powerful storm, or out in the wilderness where power grids are but a fantasy, a crank radio is a great thing to have.
Best Crank Radio Reviews & Recommendations
Best Overall: FosPower Emergency Solar Hand Crank Portable Radio
A Product You Can Count On
The sleek and modern looking FosPower Emergency Solar Hand Crank Portable Radio has a nice aesthetic, but will take care of you in a pinch. The device has four complete sources of power that can all be used depending on the situation. These include the always-available hand crank, solar cells for when the sun is up, a compartment for three AAA batteries when they are available, and an incredibly power-dense 2000mAh power bank. In addition, The AM/FM radio has a built-in pair of LEDs, that provide light for safety and reading. With an extensive array of power sources, an awesome feature this radio has is a USB charging port to keep other devices charged and ready, no matter the situation.
Most Premium: Midland ER310
For When Only the Best Will Do
When preparing for potential emergencies, skimping on essentials is not a good idea, and the Midland ER310 is definitely not skimping on anything. Packed with features, this rugged and reliable crank radio can also be powered by its internal 2600 mAh power pack, a set of six AA batteries, or the solar panel on top. It also includes a powerful LED flashlight, dog whistle, and USB charge port to keep cell phones and other devices fully charged even in the worst of circumstances. The radio itself can automatically scan through several weather channels and lock on to the strongest signal, making getting to appropriate information in a pinch a snap. Even the powerful internal power pack itself can sustain radio operation for 32 hours.
Best Value: Esky 3 LED Flashlight Emergency Radio
Safety for Less
While getting an emergency radio with an array of bells and whistles may feel comforting, something like the Esky 3 LED Flashlight Emergency Radio is all you really need. With the ability to charge with a hand crank, solar, or by USB, the radio has all the capability one actually needs to stay informed when things aren’t going to plan. In addition, the radio has three LEDs integrated that make for a great flashlight. The overall design is tough, and as an added bit of safety is also water resistant. This Esky radio also has a USB port that ca be used to charge other devices, like phones and tablets. For less than half the cost of many other emergency radios, this device packs in everything one needs to be safe, and more.
Most Versatile: Kaito KA500
Full of Purpose
The Kaito KA500 is full of capabilities that are useful in an emergency situation. This starts with power sources. The KA500 can be given life through the standard emergency radio array of electrical sources, including a hand crank, a solar panel, a bank of three AA batteries, and a built in battery pack. But there are additional sources of power the device can use just as well, including a 5V USB input and a 5V AC/DC input with a wall power adapter. This versatility continues into the various radio functions of the unit, which can cover the standard AM and FM bands as well as 2-band shortwave and 7 pre-programmed NOAA weather channels. Preparation doesn’t get more prepared than this.
Most User-Friendly: RunningSnail Emergency Weather Radio
Straightforward and Simple
When assembling a Go-Kit for if things go bad, it’s best to stick with things that don’t require fiddling, and the RunningSnail Emergency Weather Radio is as straightforward as they come. With a surprisingly low price and a suite of charging possibilities and features, this emergency radio won’t let you down, and part of that is the unit’s simplicity. It features a minimum number of controls that are clearly labeled and easy to manipulate, all in a rugged package that can handle the rough treatment to be expected in an emergency. The radio can be charged through an internal battery bank, the integrated solar panel, the hand crank, and a micro USB input. When things don’t go as planned, and the situation is complex, it’s best to have a simple tool at your disposal.
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