10 Best Shortwave Radios 2025 in the United States

The Greadio Portable Shortwave Radio offers a broad range of frequency coverage, including AM, FM, and shortwave bands, making it versatile for various listening preferences. The LCD display and large knobs make tuning straightforward, which is particularly beneficial for the elderly and children. The radio’s advanced DSP chip and long antenna are designed to deliver strong, stable signals, enhancing its sensitivity and selectivity for better reception.

Additionally, the big built-in speaker promises good sound quality, and the inclusion of a 3.5mm earphone jack allows for private listening. This radio is quite portable, featuring a convenient handle for easy carrying. It can be powered by either four D cell batteries or via an AC power cord, offering flexibility especially during power outages.

Despite these strengths, the radio's larger size might be less convenient for those seeking a highly compact device. Also, while it is user-friendly, it may have limited advanced features that some radio enthusiasts might seek. Nonetheless, it's a solid choice for a wide range of users, including families, the elderly, and those who want a reliable and straightforward radio for home or outdoor activities.

The C. Crane CC Skywave SSB 2 is a versatile and compact multiband radio ideal for travel and emergency situations. It covers a wide range of frequencies including AM, FM, NOAA Weather, Shortwave (1711-29999kHz) with Single Side Band, and VHF Aviation bands. This broad frequency coverage makes it a valuable tool for receiving long-range information, especially during natural disasters when conventional communication systems may fail.

The inclusion of Single Side Band (SSB) is a notable strength, providing a reliable way to tune into distant signals, which isn't possible on standard smartphones. The radio's sensitivity and selectivity are enhanced by multiple bandwidth settings, and it offers both fast and fine tuning on all bands, giving users precision in their searches. With 400 memory slots and a digital tuning system, it’s easy to store and access favorite stations.

Its small size and lightweight design (6 oz without batteries) make it highly portable. Accessories like a fold-out stand, earphones, a carry case, and a 23 ft portable shortwave reel antenna enhance its usability and reception quality. However, the reliance on AA batteries (not included) for power, though it provides up to 70 hours of usage with earbuds, might be seen as a limitation for some users, especially those who prefer rechargeable options. The optional AC power adapter adds flexibility but comes at an additional cost. The radio's build quality and the inclusion of a high-quality speaker ensure a good listening experience. This radio is especially suitable for those who need a reliable backup communication device and enjoy accessing a wide range of radio frequencies on the go.

The Eton Elite Executive shortwave radio is designed for users seeking a versatile and reliable listening experience across various frequency bands, including AM, FM, and shortwave. One of its standout features is its comprehensive coverage, allowing users to access a wide array of broadcasts. With precise digital tuning methods, including manual, automatic, and keypad options, tuning into your desired station is both easy and accurate. The PLL synthesized dual conversion technology enhances signal quality, minimizing distortion and providing excellent audio clarity, which is a significant advantage for shortwave enthusiasts. The inclusion of Single Sideband (SSB) support further elevates its capabilities, granting access to amateur and other specialized radio signals, making it appealing to hobbyists and professionals alike.

Portability is another strength of the Eton Elite Executive, as it comes with a stylish vegan leather case for protection and is powered by either an AC adapter or AA batteries for convenient travel. The radio's ability to store 700 programmable stations and adjustable bandwidth filters allows for a customized listening experience, catering well to individual preferences.

Despite its many strengths, there are some drawbacks to consider. Its weight of 15.5 ounces may not be as lightweight as some might prefer for extensive travel. Additionally, although the radio has Bluetooth connectivity, it may not cater to every user who desires comprehensive modern features. The Eton Elite Executive is a solid choice for dedicated shortwave listeners and travelers, balancing performance and portability, but could benefit from a few enhancements to fully meet all user needs.