10 Best Shortwave Radios 2026 in the United States
#1
Winner
Tecsun PL990 Digital Worldband AM/FM Shortwave Longwave Radio with Single Side Band Reception & MP3 Player, Matte Black
The Tecsun PL990 Digital Worldband Radio is a feature-packed device that excels in frequency coverage, offering AM, FM, longwave, shortwave, and single side band (SSB) reception. This makes it highly versatile for radio enthusiasts who want to explore a wide range of frequencies. The radio utilizes advanced technologies like analog high-IF AM circuitry and DSP digital demodulation, which significantly enhance its sensitivity and selectivity, allowing for clearer and more reliable reception even in challenging environments. Additionally, the synchronized detection feature helps minimize interference, ensuring a better listening experience.
Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,156
Sensitivity
Selectivity
Portability
Most important from
285 reviews
#2
Raddy RF919 SSB Shortwave Radio with NOAA Weather Band, Full Band FM AM SW VHF UHF AIR CB WB and SSB Receiver, with Antenna Tuner, 3 External Antenna Ports, 5000mAh Rechargeable Battery (Black)
The Raddy RF919 SSB Shortwave Radio stands out with its multi-band reception capabilities, covering FM, AM, SW, SSB, VHF, UHF, AIR, CB, and WB frequencies, making it versatile for users interested in various broadcasting channels. Its dual knob tuning system allows for precise adjustments, which is great for those who enjoy fine-tuning their reception. The dual screens are a nice touch, providing useful information about signal strength and reception status, while the customizable backlight adds a bit of flair.
Rating
9.7
Frequency Coverage
Tuning Methods
Portability
Most important from
286 reviews
#3
Midland - ER310, Emergency Crank Weather AM/FM Radio - Multiple Power Sources, SOS Emergency Flashlight, Ultrasonic Dog Whistle, & NOAA Weather Scan + Alert (Red/Black)
The Midland ER310 is a versatile emergency shortwave radio designed with multiple power options that make it very reliable during power outages or outdoor adventures. It supports AM/FM and NOAA weather bands, with an automatic weather scan and alert feature that keeps you updated on severe weather conditions. Its three power sources—solar panel, hand crank, and rechargeable battery—offer flexibility, ensuring the radio stays powered without needing frequent battery replacements.
Rating
9.7
Tuning Methods
Additional Features
Portability
Most important from
5867 reviews
Top 10 Best Shortwave Radios 2026 in the United States
#1
Winner
Tecsun PL990 Digital Worldband AM/FM Shortwave Longwave Radio with Single Side Band Reception & MP3 Player, Matte Black
Tecsun PL990 Digital Worldband AM/FM Shortwave Longwave Radio with Single Side Band Reception & MP3 Player, Matte Black
Frequency Coverage: AM, FM, longwave, shortwave, SSB
Sensitivity: analog high-IF AM circuitry, DSP demodulation
Selectivity: analog high-IF AM circuitry, DSP demodulation
Tuning Methods: synchronized detection
Portability: compact and lightweight design
Antenna: external antenna input
Additional Features: MP3 player, alarm clock, sleep timer
Chosen by 1156 this week
Raddy RF919 SSB Shortwave Radio with NOAA Weather Band, Full Band FM AM SW VHF UHF AIR CB WB and SSB Receiver, with Antenna Tuner, 3 External Antenna Ports, 5000mAh Rechargeable Battery (Black)
Raddy RF919 SSB Shortwave Radio with NOAA Weather Band, Full Band FM AM SW VHF UHF AIR CB WB and SSB Receiver, with Antenna Tuner, 3 External Antenna Ports, 5000mAh Rechargeable Battery (Black)
Frequency Coverage: FM, AM, SW, SSB, VHF, UHF, AIR, CB, WB
Tuning Methods: Dual knob tuning system
Portability: 5000mAh rechargeable battery
Antenna: Three external antenna ports
Additional Features: Bluetooth, dual screens, backlight
Midland - ER310, Emergency Crank Weather AM/FM Radio - Multiple Power Sources, SOS Emergency Flashlight, Ultrasonic Dog Whistle, & NOAA Weather Scan + Alert (Red/Black)
Midland - ER310, Emergency Crank Weather AM/FM Radio - Multiple Power Sources, SOS Emergency Flashlight, Ultrasonic Dog Whistle, & NOAA Weather Scan + Alert (Red/Black)
Frequency Coverage: AM/FM and NOAA weather bands
Selectivity: basic AM/FM
Tuning Methods: basic AM/FM
Portability: about 1 pound, compact size
Antenna: built-in antenna
Additional Features: auto weather scan, flashlight, USB
Tecsun H501 Digital Worldband AM/FM Shortwave Longwave Radio with SSB Reception, Dual Speakers, & MP3 Player, Matte Black
Tecsun H501 Digital Worldband AM/FM Shortwave Longwave Radio with SSB Reception, Dual Speakers, & MP3 Player, Matte Black
Frequency Coverage: AM, FM, LW, SW, SSB
Tuning Methods: Analog and digital
Portability: Lightweight and easy to carry
Additional Features: MP3 player, micro-SD, alarm clock
C. Crane CC Skywave SSB 2 AM, FM, Shortwave, NOAA Weather + Alert, Scannable VHF Aviation Band and Single Side Bands Small Battery Operated Portable Travel Radio Includes SW Wire Antenna Adapter
C. Crane CC Skywave SSB 2 AM, FM, Shortwave, NOAA Weather + Alert, Scannable VHF Aviation Band and Single Side Bands Small Battery Operated Portable Travel Radio Includes SW Wire Antenna Adapter
Frequency Coverage: AM, FM, NOAA Weather, Shortwave, VHF Aviation
Sensitivity: Enhanced by multiple bandwidth settings
Selectivity: Enhanced by multiple bandwidth settings
Tuning Methods: Fast and fine tuning, digital system
Portability: Small size, lightweight (6 oz)
Antenna: 23 ft portable shortwave reel antenna
Additional Features: 400 memory slots, fold-out stand
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Tecsun PL880 Portable Digital PLL Dual Conversion AM/FM Longwave Shortwave Radio with SSB (Single Side Band) Reception
Tecsun PL880 Portable Digital PLL Dual Conversion AM/FM Longwave Shortwave Radio with SSB (Single Side Band) Reception
Frequency Coverage: AM, FM, Longwave, Shortwave
Sensitivity: Excellent
Selectivity: Excellent
Tuning Methods: PLL synthesized digital dual conversion
Portability: Compact and lightweight
Additional Features: Selectable filters, sleep timer, alarm clock
C. Crane CCRadio 3 Long Range Reception AM, FM, NOAA Weather Plus Alert and 2-Meter Ham Band Portable Digital Radio with Bluetooth
C. Crane CCRadio 3 Long Range Reception AM, FM, NOAA Weather Plus Alert and 2-Meter Ham Band Portable Digital Radio with Bluetooth
Frequency Coverage: AM, FM, NOAA alerts, 2-Meter Ham
Tuning Methods: User-friendly, 5 one-touch presets
Portability: 4 lbs, 4 D batteries, 250 hrs
Antenna: Patented Twin-Coil Ferrite AM
Additional Features: Bluetooth, clock, alarm, sleep timer
Eton Elite Executive AM/FM/Aircraft Band/SSB/Shortwave Radio
Eton Elite Executive AM/FM/Aircraft Band/SSB/Shortwave Radio
Frequency Coverage: AM, FM, shortwave
Tuning Methods: manual, automatic, keypad
Portability: AC adapter, AA batteries, leather case
Additional Features: PLL, SSB, 700 stations, Bluetooth
C. Crane CCRadio-2E Enhanced Portable AM FM Weather and 2-Meter Ham Band (Black) CC2BE
C. Crane CCRadio-2E Enhanced Portable AM FM Weather and 2-Meter Ham Band (Black) CC2BE
Frequency Coverage: AM, FM, NOAA alerts, 2-Meter Ham
Tuning Methods: Analog tuning, five one-touch presets
Portability: Portable, 4 lbs, 250 hours runtime
Antenna: Twin-Coil Ferrite Antenna
Additional Features: NOAA alerts, light, headphone, clock, alarm
#10
DreamSky AM FM Radio Portable - Shortwave Radio Battery Powered or Plug in Wall for Home Outdoor, Strong Reception, Large Dial Easy to Use, Digital Time Display, Transistor Antenna, Seniors Small Gift
DreamSky AM FM Radio Portable - Shortwave Radio Battery Powered or Plug in Wall for Home Outdoor, Strong Reception, Large Dial Easy to Use, Digital Time Display, Transistor Antenna, Seniors Small Gift
Frequency Coverage: AM, FM, shortwave
Tuning Methods: analog dials
Portability: portable
Antenna: long-range transistor
Additional Features: earphone jack, LCD display, tone selection
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Buying Guide for the Best Shortwave Radios
Choosing the right shortwave radio can be a rewarding experience, especially if you enjoy listening to international broadcasts, amateur radio operators, or emergency communications. To make an informed decision, it's important to understand the key specifications and features that differentiate various models. By considering your specific needs and preferences, you can find a shortwave radio that best suits your listening habits and technical requirements.Frequency CoverageFrequency coverage refers to the range of frequencies that the shortwave radio can receive. This is important because different stations broadcast on different frequencies. Shortwave radios typically cover frequencies from 1.6 MHz to 30 MHz. Some models also include additional bands like AM, FM, and Longwave. If you want to listen to a wide variety of international broadcasts, look for a radio with broad frequency coverage. For casual listening, a basic range might suffice, but for more serious hobbyists, extensive coverage is essential.
SensitivitySensitivity is the radio's ability to pick up weak signals. This is crucial for shortwave radios because many broadcasts come from distant locations and may be weak. Sensitivity is usually measured in microvolts (µV). Radios with lower sensitivity values (e.g., 0.5 µV) can detect weaker signals better than those with higher values (e.g., 1 µV). If you live in an area with a lot of radio interference or want to pick up distant stations, a radio with high sensitivity is important. For general use, moderate sensitivity may be adequate.
SelectivitySelectivity is the radio's ability to separate closely spaced signals. This is important when multiple stations are broadcasting on nearby frequencies. Good selectivity ensures that you can clearly hear the station you want without interference from others. Selectivity is often measured in kilohertz (kHz). Radios with narrower selectivity (e.g., 2 kHz) can better isolate signals than those with wider selectivity (e.g., 6 kHz). If you plan to listen in crowded frequency environments, look for a radio with high selectivity. For less crowded areas, standard selectivity should be sufficient.
Tuning MethodsTuning methods refer to how you change the frequency on the radio. Common methods include analog tuning, digital tuning, and direct frequency entry. Analog tuning uses a dial and is often less precise but can be more engaging for some users. Digital tuning allows for more precise frequency selection and often includes features like memory presets. Direct frequency entry lets you input the exact frequency you want to listen to. If you prefer ease of use and precision, digital tuning or direct frequency entry is ideal. For a more traditional experience, analog tuning might be more enjoyable.
PortabilityPortability refers to the ease with which you can carry and use the radio on the go. This is important if you plan to use your shortwave radio while traveling or outdoors. Portable radios are typically smaller, lighter, and battery-operated. Larger, desktop models may offer better performance but are less convenient to move around. If you need a radio for travel or outdoor use, look for a compact, lightweight model with good battery life. For home use, a larger, more powerful radio might be a better choice.
AntennaThe antenna is a crucial component for receiving signals. Shortwave radios can come with built-in antennas, external antennas, or both. Built-in antennas are convenient but may not provide the best reception. External antennas can significantly improve signal quality and range. Some radios allow for the connection of additional external antennas. If you are in an area with weak signals or want to maximize reception, consider a radio that supports external antennas. For casual listening in areas with strong signals, a built-in antenna may be sufficient.
Additional FeaturesAdditional features can enhance your listening experience and convenience. These may include features like SSB (Single Side Band) for listening to amateur radio operators, synchronous detection for reducing fading and interference, and built-in recording capabilities. Other useful features might include alarm clocks, sleep timers, and backlit displays. Consider what additional features are important to you based on how you plan to use the radio. For example, if you are interested in amateur radio, SSB capability is essential. For general listening, features like a sleep timer or backlit display might be more relevant.