The best AM radio: 9 contenders reviewed and rated!
Contributing Editor
The best AM radio is a fantastic way to enjoy a host of “classic” radio channels. Though the best AM radios are harder to find these days, there are still various options on the market
Despite many countries beginning to phase out AM technology in favor of DAB and FM, the AM era isn’t quite over yet.
There are still tons of Americans throughout the country who have an AM radio at home. After all, these devices can offer unique benefits that you can’t get anywhere else.
For instance, did you know that a quality AM radio can access channels over longer distances than FM? That means that if you’re located in remote areas in the States, you may be able to pick up frequencies better with an AM tool.
Additionally, AM has a lower bandwidth than FM radios, meaning that you can access a higher number of stations wherever you are.
Throughout the years of 1920 to 1950, good AM radios were everywhere, offering a reliable way to access the airwaves. Today, it’s becoming increasingly difficult to find a radio that offers AM signals, without compromising on performance.
Fortunately, we’re here to help.
Read on for our list of the best AM radio reviews.
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Panasonic Portable AM / FM Radio, Battery Operated Analog Radio, AC Powered, Silver (RF-2400D) | Check Latest Price |
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C. Crane CCRadio 3 Long Range Reception AM, FM, NOAA Weather Plus Alert and 2-Meter Ham Band... | Check Latest Price |
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Sangean PR-D5BK AM/FM Portable Radio with Digital Tuning and RDS (Black) | Check Latest Price |
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Sangean WR-16SE AM/FM/Bluetooth/Aux-in/USB Phone Charging 45th Anniversary Special Edition Wooden... | Check Latest Price |
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LEOTEC Portable AM FM Radio with Best Reception,Battery Operated or AC Power,Big Speaker,Large... | Check Latest Price |
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Eton - Elite Field AM/FM/Shortwave Desktop Radio with Bluetooth, Mineral Grey, 2-Band, Bluetooth... | Check Latest Price |
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Sangean WR-16SE AM/FM/Bluetooth/Aux-in/USB Phone Charging 45th Anniversary Special Edition Wooden... | Check Latest Price |
1. Panasonic RF-2400D (best for old-school performance)
There are many reasons why you might be looking for the best AM radio in an age of Bluetooth and digital streaming. One option is that you’re searching for something to appeal to your nostalgic side – a device that reminds you of a simpler time.
That’s exactly what you get from the Panasonic RF-2400D AM radio.
One of the best AM radio receiver options that’s fully portable and durable too, the Panasonic comes with an analog tuner to help you find your favorite stations. The signal strength is excellent, and there’s a 10 cm antenna included to help you tune your sound.
The robust handle on the top of the device folds down when not in use, and there’s even a large speaker for extra volume.
Features include:
- 2400 AM/FM tuner
- 10 cm speaker and antenna for better sound
- 770 MW max output
- Access to FM radio stations
- Earphone/headphone jack
- Portable handle
- Tactile tuning knob
This is a pretty basic device overall, but it’s also something you can trust to deliver a high-quality AM radio performance wherever you are.
There’s no digital synthesizer, DC-in jack, and time settings, so you can’t use it as an alarm clock. But you do get a portable radio that covers AM and FM with ease.
Pros:
- Feels brilliantly retro
- Good reception and volume
- Available to power via AC or batteries
- Clear enough sound quality
- Small and portable
- Access to multiple favorite AM stations
Cons:
- Very basic features
- No waterproofing or dust proofing
- SIMPLE, EASY-TO-USE FM/AM RADIO WITH HIGH QUALITY SOUND: Portable handheld radio with digital tuner has a simple, easy-to-use interface, with antennas that pick up both AM and FM signals
- EASY-TO-SEE DESIGN: Large dial with fluorescent pointer allows for easy viewing, even in the dark
- SMOOTH TUNING: Digital tuner with AFC (Auto Frequency Control) enables easy and stable tuning
- PERFECT FOR CAMPING, SEVERE WEATHER, OR POWER OUTAGES: Use with batteries or plug--radio comes with an AC adaptor, and also takes 4 batteries (AA/LR6/R6)
- EARPHONE/ HEADPHONE COMPATIBLE: Plug in any headphones with a 3.5 millimeter jack for privacy as you listen
2. C. Sangean H201 (best for in the shower)
The C. Crane CCRadio 3 is a great option for anyone looking for the best AM radio with long-range reception. This radio comes with a patented twin-coil ferrite AM antenna that provides excellent sensitivity and selectivity, ensuring you pick up even the weakest stations over long-distance ranges.
You can adjust the in-built Twin Coil Ferrite AM Antenna to your preferred direction, which allows you to target better clarity.
Additionally, you can use the CCRadio 3 as an emergency radio since it comes with a NOAA weather alert feature. This feature allows you to stay informed about any hazardous and extreme weather conditions in your area.
Besides the NOAA weather feature, the radio will ensure you get every bit of the locally available earthquake and hurricane communications through its 2-meter Ham radio (VHF). Consequently, you can rest assured that you’ll always be prepared for emergencies.
Features include:
- Twin Coil Ferrite AM Antenna
- NOAA weather alert feature
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Audio presets
- AC power cord
- Battery backup for use during power outages
- Built-in clock with sleep timer and alarm function
With the CCRadio 3, you also get a large LCD screen that displays the time and information about your current program.
Its Bluetooth feature allows you to use any Bluetooth-enabled smart speaker or smartphone.
Pros:
- Excellent long-range reception
- Access to emergency radio signals
- Quality sound with customizable audio presets
- Built-in alarm clock with useful features
- 1-year limited warranty
- Extra-long battery life of up to 250 hours
Cons:
- Pricey compared to other options on this list
- DESIGNED FOR LONG-RANGE RECEPTION: Best AM reception comes from the patented Twin-Coil Ferrite AM Antenna. Traditional FM reception is exceptional in its ability to bring in a weak station clearly.
- BLUETOOTH: With the addition of Bluetooth you can receive an immense palate of new radio shows on the CCRadio 3 by pairing it with any Bluetooth capable smart speaker or phone.
- AUDIO CLARITY: The voice reproduction of the CCRadio 3 is clear and accurate. It is easy to imagine the host is sitting next to you. When listening to your favorite radio show, podcast or audio book you can become immersed in it for a fuller experience.
- EMERGENCY RADIO: Be prepared for any emergencies & disasters with the NOAA weather band plus government issued weather alerts and the 2-Meter Ham Band for locally available earthquake and hurricane communications.
- FEATURES: Clock, alarm, sleep timer, headphone jack, adjustable display light and 5 one touch memory presets per band. Comes with AC power cord, runs on 4 “D” size batteries (not included). Extra Long Battery Life of approximately 250 hours while played at a moderate volume. Comes with 1 Year Limited Warranty and C. Crane US based tech support.
3. Kaito Voyager Pro KA600 (best emergency)
Some people buy a quality AM radio because they love the traditional feel of an AM tuner. Other people purchase AM technology because it’s often more reliable during emergency situations.
If you’re looking for something that can keep you connected, no matter what, try the Kaito Voyager Pro KA600.
Not only is this one of the best AM radios around, but it’s also one of the top emergency radios on the market.
The solar panel allows you to collect energy from the sun, and there’s a hand-powered crank for extra power, too. You can even use your radio to charge your smartphone in a tough spot.
This all-purpose portable AM radio comes with 6 modes of power available, making it excellent for any hiking trips or adventures.
You’ll get features like:
- Comprehensive access to FM, AM, Longwave, and Shortwave channels
- Pre-programmed NOAA weather channels
- 18-inch telescopic antenna for better sensitivity
- Durable construction with digital tuner
- LCD backlit display
- 12-hour clock with sleep timer and dual alarms
- Emergency mobile battery charger
- SOS beacon light included
- Hand crank and solar power options
If you need a durable indoor and outdoor device, then the Kaito is one of the best AM tuner options on the market. It’s perfect for keeping you connected when times are tough, with hand-cranking technology built in.
Pros:
- Multiple ways to power and charge
- Easy-to-use functionality
- Range of emergency features built-in
- Charge your smartphone battery on the move
- Durable design
Cons:
- Pretty heavy
- Flashlight button isn’t great
- Takes a lot of solar power to get enough energy
4. Sangean PR-D5 (best for digital tuning)
The hunt for the best AM radio brought the team at Radio Fidelity face-to-face with a number of brands. Sangean, however, seemed to be one of the major contenders in the market.
Once again, we have another tool from Sangean here, this time the PR-D5. This radio comes with an easy-to-read LCD display with a battery-power indicator to show you when you’re running out of juice.
There’s a 200mm Ferrite AM antenna to help boost your reception. Additionally, the device comes with support for up to 10 memory preset stations.
You can set an alarm using HWS (humane wake system) or radio settings. There’s also FM radio built-in.
Features of the PR-D5 include:
- 200mm Ferrite AM antenna for better reception
- 10 memory preset stations
- Synthesized tuning system
- Alarm by HWS or radio
- Easy-to-read LCD display
- Battery power indicator
- FM radio included
- Rotary tuning knob
- Real-time clock and alarm features
The dual 2.5 stereo speakers on the Sangean give you excellent audio quality, which is often hard to find with an AM radio.
Additionally, there’s an aux-in connection if you want to use your smartphone with the device.
Pros:
- Easy-to-use design
- Powered by batteries for portability
- Excellent AM connection with digital tuning
- 10 preset stations included
- Sleep timer, alarm, and aux-in option
- Powerful speakers
Cons:
- Tuning can be complicated
- Tuning knobs can turn sticky when exposed to heat
- 200mm Ferrite AM Antenna Bar Allows For Best AM Reception, 10 Memory Preset Stations (5 FM, 5 AM)
- PLL Synthesized Tuning System for Excellent Reception and Stereo Audio Performance
- Alarm by Radio or HWS (Humane Wake System) Buzzer and Sleep Timer
- Includes Switching AC Adapter 100-240V, 50/60Hz
- Easy to Read LCD Display with Backlight and Battery Power Indicator
5. ByronStatics Portable Radio (Best Vintage Retro)
So, what if you’re looking to add a touch of nostalgia to your home decor? Perhaps you want something that’ll take you back in time to the 1950s or 60s. In that case, the ByronStatics Portable Radio is your best bet.
The radio’s retro design creates an old-school feel, making it perfect for any vintage lover.
This classic-looking radio features an AM/FM tuning knob and an extendable antenna. The best part? It’s made out of plastic, so it won’t weigh down your backpack or purse while you’re on the go.
We loved the fact that the radio is made to be as user-friendly as possible. We found it easy to operate the radio’s three-pattern anti-skid knobs. These knobs are large and round, making it easy to tune.
Additionally, ByronStatics is highly portable thanks to its lightweight nature and strong handle.
Features include:
- AM/FM tuning knob
- Extendable antenna for better signal
- Vintage retro design
- Can use 4 AA batteries in case of a power outage
- Supports a detachable 120V~/60Hz back input
Don’t let this radio’s retro design fool you—it guarantees excellent AM and FM reception with high sensitivity and quality audio output. Also, its tuner is able to lock onto a radio station’s frequency quickly and accurately.
Pros:
- Vintage design adds character to any room
- Portable and lightweight
- Easy to use with user-friendly knobs
- Good reception for its size
Cons:
- The plastic material may not be durable in the long run
- No AC power cord is included
- Simple To Operate: Byronstatics Radio Worked Out Of The Box, Three Pattern Anti-Skid Knobs: Am/Fm/Off Knob, Volume Knob And Big Tuning Knob. Large Round Tuning Dial Easy To Read.
- Portable Radio: Lightweight With Large Handle, Support The Detachable Back Input Ac 120V~/60Hz Or 4 Aa Batteries (Not Included), Enjoy The Convenience For Home, Trips, Hunting Or Fishing.
- Excellent Reception: Am / Fm With Good Sensitivity And Audio, The Tuning Is So Simple And Finding Stations Is Very Easy, The Tuner Is Able To Lock Onto A Station And Not Drift Off.
- Am/Fm Analogue Tuner: Frequency Range Fm 88 To 108Mhz (50Khz Step) Am 520 To 1720Khz (9/10Khz Step), 16. 9 In Fm Telescopic Swivel Antenna Helps With Fine-Tuning Into The Stations.
6. Sony ZSRS60BT portable sound system (best for Bluetooth)
Just because you want some relatively old-fashioned technology in your radio, like AM tuning, doesn’t mean that you won’t want to take advantage of modern options too, like Bluetooth.
With the Sony Portable Bluetooth digital tuner, you can get the best of both worlds in one convenient package.
This device stands out as one of the tools with the best AM radio reception and a high level of performance.
There’s a CD player built-in if you want to play your own music, or you can stream using a USB stick or Bluetooth connection.
There are also up to 30 preset station options available for both AM and FM.
You will get features like:
- Professional bass sound enhancement
- 30 memory presets
- LCD display
- Up to 26 hours of battery life
- AM/FM tuner
- Bluetooth audio streaming
- USB connection
- CD playback
- Portable design
Despite being small enough to be reasonably portable, this Sony radio has much to offer. There’s even a USB recording and playback available.
You can record your favorite tracks from a CD and take them with you in USB style.
Pros:
- Advanced features like USB playback
- Bluetooth audio streaming included
- Mega bass enhancement
- Up to 26 hours of battery life
- AM/FM tuning
- CD player included
Cons:
- A little bulky and difficult to transport
- No remote
- Quiet volume without mega bass
- CD, CD-R/RW, USB, and MP3 playback, Stream music wirelessly with Bluetooth and NFC
- MEGA BASS sound enhancement, FM/AM radio with 30 memory presets and LCD display, Up to 26 hours battery life
- Audio-in for use w/ MP3 players and other audio sources, Compact design w/ handle for portability and easy to use buttons, Headphone jack
- Radio reception: FM: Approx 26 hours; CD playback: Approx. 9 hours ; Audio Station Preset 30 (FM 20, AM 10)
- Output Power - 2 + 2 Watt
7. LEOTEC Portable AM FM Radio (Best for the Elderly)
As people age, their vision and hearing capacity start to decrease, so finding the right radio for them is crucial.
The LEOTEC Portable AM FM Radio is designed specifically with the elderly in mind.
The large built-in speakers provide loud and clear sound, making it easy for older adults to listen.
LEOTEC Portable has a large tuning knob and an earphone jack. While the tuning knob is helpful for manual tuning, the earphone jack allows users to listen privately without disturbing others.
This means your elderly parent or grandparent can tune effectively into their favorite AM radio stations and listen privately.
Its precise, easy-to-read radio dial is an added advantage. It allows you to tune into your favorite station with ease and precision.
Features include:
- AM/FM tuning knob
- Built-in speaker for loud and clear sound
- 3.5mm headphone jack for private listening
- Easy-to-read radio dial
- Compact design
- Battery-powered radio (2X D size batteries)
The radio has two power source options—120V AC power for indoor use and 2X D-size batteries (not included) for outdoor use.
Pros:
- Designed specifically for the elderly
- Loud and clear sound quality
- Compact and highly portable
- Easy to operate with user-friendly tuning knobs
Cons:
- Batteries not included in the package
- The AM/FM tuning knob can be a bit stiff for some older adults
- D-size batteries may be harder to find compared to their AA counterparts
- GOOD AM/FM RECEPTION RADIO: Retractable Copper Telescopic Antenna for strong and stable reception. Frequency reception range- FM 87.5-108MHz and AM 520-1600KHz
- EASY TO USE: Radios portable am fm has a precise, easy-to-read radio dial for easy tuning. Big tuning knob for easy operating for everyone. Best gift for dad, elderly, and friends
- CLEAR AND LOUD SOUND: Big external speaker for loud sound, also a headphone 3.5 mm jack for private listening
- TWO POWER SOURCE OPTIONS: 120V AC Power Cable included for indoor use. 2X D Size Batteries powered radio (Battery Not included) for portable use
- TAKE SMALL PORTABLE RADIO ANYWHERE: Sized L8.11 x H5.11x W2.87 inches. This transistor radio is a good companion for kitchen, walking, running, excise, cleaning, camping, traveling and hiking, etc
8. Eton Elite Field radio (best desktop)
The best AM radio doesn’t have to be complicated to deliver an excellent experience. This high-performance option from Eton is one of the most reliable AM radios on the market today.
With an LCD display built-in, you can easily fine-tune your stations to find the best possible quality of sound. Unlike some of the other good AM radios on this list, the Eton allows you to adjust things like bass and treble, too.
The Eton Elite remembers up to 50 stations to help you find your favorite channels fast. What’s more, there’s a telescopic antenna, a built-in strap, and a headset input option, too.
It’s worth noting that you will need to pay a little extra for such a high-performance radio, however.
The Eton Elite includes features like:
- Best sound quality
- LCD display with fine tuning
- 50 preset memory stations
- AM/FM tuning options
- Versatile receiver
- Headphone aux-in built-in
- Portable and durable design
- Treble and bass control
The best thing about this radio is that it feels like a modern device, even if it has more “traditional” features than some of the other radios out there.
The Eton Elite is built to deliver great results wherever you are, and that’s something that really shines through with this device.
Pros:
- One of the most powerful AM radios
- Excellent audio quality
- Fine-tuning features with 50 presets
- Treble and bass control
- Minimal distortion
Cons:
- Quite expensive
- Instructions aren’t much good
- AM/FM Shortwave Radio: With high sensitivity, strong anti-interference, low background noise and even lower distortion, this Bluetooth ready AM/FM/shortwave radio delivers excellent audio quality
- Fine Tuning: This radio features an LCD display with coarse/fine digital tuning, treble/bass control and 50 memory stations; It's Bluetooth ready so you can stream your own music or favorite podcast; RF gain control
- Versatile Receiver: This radio includes a line-in/line-out and headphone jacks, plus an FM telescopic antenna and external AM/FM/shortwave antenna connections; Plus it comes with a handy carrying strap
- Keep Connected: From weather alert radios and backup battery packs to solar-powered sound systems, we'll keep you connected and in the know at home, in the office, on the road or in the great outdoors
- Eton's Commitment to Preparedness: We're committed to helping you be prepared for everyday fun and unexpected emergency, whether you’re out on a 10-day backpacking trip or barbecuing in the backyard
9. Sangean WR-16SE (best vintage)
Finally, if you’re looking for the best AM radio to give you a taste of vintage style alongside some excellent performance, you can’t go wrong with the Sangean WR-16SE.
This is a special anniversary radio offered by Sangean that provides a combination of old-fashioned aesthetics and modern features. On the surface, the Sangean looks like a traditional retro radio.
This is the kind of radio you’d find sitting in your grandma’s house, bleating out alerts about the war.
There’s AM/FM access available, as well as Bluetooth technology that granny’s radio probably didn’t have. You’ll also have Bluetooth technology built-in and high-level wireless audio streaming.
The aux input also allows for additional music-playing sources, such as CD or MP3 players.
The Sangean might seem a little expensive, but it’s packed full of charm you can’t get anywhere else.
Features include:
- Precision tuning with tactile knobs
- Beautiful vintage design
- Deep bass compensation
- High-level volume support
- Aux input for additional audio sources
- Access to FM stations
- Bluetooth technology included
- Headphone output
- USB charging
This AM radio delivers a perfect blend of the past and future.
Features like USB charging and Bluetooth means that you can access the convenience of the modern age. At the same time, the unique design and AM tuning remind you of the golden years of radio.
Pros:
- Stunning vintage design
- Precision tuning available
- Bluetooth included with AM and FM
- Deep bass compensation
- Aux input support
- USB charging
Cons:
- Charging doesn’t work perfectly
- Not super accurate for tuning
- Am/ Fm Analog Radio With Built-In Bluetooth Technology Version 4.1 Class Ii Wireless Audio Streaming
- Soft And Precise Vernier Tuning With Tuning And Band Indicators
- Deep Bass Compensation For Rich Bass With A 3 Inch 10 Watts Full Range Speaker
- Auxiliary Input For Additional Audio Sources, Like Mp3 And Cd Players.
Top tips for choosing good AM radios (Key Features)
Our best AM radio reviews have hopefully given you an insight into some of the AM technology that’s still available on the market today. However, you may be having a hard time choosing from so many good AM radios.
The first step in making your decision is figuring out the difference between an AM and FM radio.
Remember, although AM radios can sometimes deliver a lower sound quality than FM, they also have more scope. If you live in a rural place or you like to go out hiking a lot, then an AM frequency might give you more opportunities to find local stations than an FM radio.
As sometimes it’s easy for an AM radio to struggle with delivering high-quality audio, it’s extra important to make sure that you’re using the right technology. Finding an AM radio that has the right audio codecs and a good high-level tuning station is essential.
Other points to think about when choosing a quality AM radio include:
Budget
Some AM radios are more expensive than others. It’s a good idea to ensure that you know how much you can reasonably afford to spend before you start shopping.
Other connections
Aside from AM, what other kind of radio do you want to listen to? Would you like digital frequencies and Bluetooth built-in? Alternatively, would you prefer to just find a radio with AM/FM support?
Durability
Most of the time, people purchase AM radios because they want to take them hiking or to distant locations. If that’s the case for you, it’s a good idea to look for a radio that’s durable and unlikely to be damaged by moisture.
Ease of use
How easy is it to find a good signal with your AM radio? Are you stuck switching between channels for hours? Are there pre-set memory stations available that you can visit at the touch of a button?
Portability
Is this radio small enough to carry with you on your next camping trip? Are there multiple ways to charge it if you can’t get to an outlet? A versatile AM radio will be a lifesaver in an emergency situation.
Listening options
Can you just tune in through the radio speaker? Or are you able to add some headphones and listen privately? Will your AM radio play music from other devices through a cable connection or CD player?
Finding a quality AM radio for your home
AM radios deliver a very different experience to FM radios and their digital counterparts. For instance, if you’re using your AM radio largely for talk-shows, then you might prefer an analog radio that allows you to get a clearer reception for talk stations.
Remember, your AM radio will typically get the best reception when it’s placed near a window.
If you have a hard time finding channels, choosing a device that allows you to save your favorite stations to presets will save you a lot of time and effort.
Another thing to keep in mind when choosing the best AM radio is that it’s common to get interference when your radio is close to another device, like a fluorescent light or a laptop.
While some sources of interference will be impossible to turn off, such as hard-wired technology and smoke detectors in your home, knowing which products cause disturbances can help.
If you’re concerned that you’re often exposed to a lot of different sources of interference, it might be a good idea to choose an AM radio that comes with FM and digital frequency options too.
Choosing the best AM radio
Ultimately, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution to choosing the best AM radios. Good AM radios come in a variety of shapes and sizes, to suit all kinds of preferences.
For some people, the best AM radio will be one that can continue to deliver an excellent experience no matter the circumstances. For instance, the Kaito Voyager offers one of the most dependable products for use in emergency scenarios. If you ever run out of battery, you can expose your radio to sunlight to get some extra juice or use the built-in crank.
Alternatively, if you’re looking for an AM radio that gives you the vintage style and sophistication of an old radio, with some extra modern features, you might prefer the Sangean WR-16SE.
This stunning radio gives you the best of both worlds in a device that you’ll be proud to display in your living room, kitchen or bedroom.
Remember, when you’re choosing your radio, keep an eye out for any device that can give you a good combination of sound-quality, practicality, and performance.
What’s your favorite AM radio on the market right now? Let us know in the comments or join the conversation with us on social media!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is AM Reception Poor at Night?
AM reception may be poor at night because some AM radio stations are required to cut their wattage in some places at night. If this is the case, all you can hear is static.
How Far Can You Pick UP AM Radio?
YOu can pick up AM radio stations up to a 100-mile radius during this day. Of course, this depends on the quality of your radio. These signals can travel hundreds of miles at night.
To find out what people listen to on their AM radios, you can check out NYC’s Top 11 AM Radio Stations versus LA’s Top 15 AM Radio Stations
Radio Fidelity: For the love of radio.
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