The 10 best internet radios: Let’s get connected
Contributing Editor
The best internet radio is a valuable investment for today’s audio and radio show fans. As you’ll see in our internet radio reviews, there are a host of great options out there, all designed to give you more variety in what you listen to.
After all, the radio has come a long way since the days of Guglielmo Marconi (or Tesla, depending on who you believe). We can do a lot more than listen to fundamental AM/FM frequencies today.
Depending on the kind of radio system you choose, you’ll have access to everything from DAB+ digital radio to Bluetooth streaming services and maybe even your own CD player.
In more modern kits, you can even access internet stations, too. That means that you have unlimited access to radio stations from around the world, in addition to all the FM and DAB frequencies you might have.
An internet radio gives you immediate access to a wider selection of channels, podcasts, and other online audio. At the same time, it means you can essentially future-proof your radio purchase. While FM stations might be on the way out, the internet isn’t going anywhere anytime soon.
Another fab thing about getting an internet radio? Even if you lose your FM or DAB signals, you can still listen to radio online as long as you have an internet connection.
So, which is the best internet radio available today?
Well, that depends.
Internet clock radios and DAB devices used to be relatively niche products. However, these days, when intelligent speakers and smart connections are everywhere, it’s becoming increasingly easy to find a radio with its own internet connection.
Fortunately, to save you the effort of searching for yourself, we’ve done the hard work for you. Here are our top 10 best internet radios available today.
1. Roberts Smart Black Radio
We admit to being great fans of the Roberts Radio Brand here at Radio Fidelity.
After testing and reviewing different Roberts radios, we’ve come to the conclusion that these are some of the best options on the market.
Roberts is not left behind in the era of the internet. The Company’s Roberts Smart Black Radio (link to Amazon) is an excellent piece of technology.
Brimming with Roberts’ signature style, this device combines excellent all-around performance with a wide variety of features.
There’s support built-in for Spotify Connect, Deezer, and Amazon Music so you can stream your favourite tunes online.
The radio’s Bluetooth connectivity gives you the convenience of streaming music from your smartphone or tablet from the comfort of your bed.
Its remote control capability means you don’t have to move from the bed to regulate the volume—you can conveniently do that with the remote control without even lifting your foot.
Because it’s a Wi-Fi-enabled radio, you can listen to your favourite radio stations online. This is especially important in situations when you encounter poor AM and FM radio signal reception.
For just under £190, you can expect features like:
- FM, DAB, DAB+, and internet radio
- Bluetooth streaming
- Full-colour screen
- Access to Amazon Music and Deezer
- Spotify Connect compatibility
- Remote control
The Roberts Smart Black Radio doesn’t just come with Roberts’ iconic style. The device also features the exceptional sound quality that you would expect from Roberts, with an acoustically tuned wooden cabinet to give extra depth to your music.
Additionally, the radio is highly versatile in terms of power source. It’s both battery and mains-powered. You can also use an optional rechargeable battery pack, especially if you want to listen to the radio outdoors.
We love the intuitive design and phenomenal performance of this radio. However, like any internet radio, your Roberts Smart Black Radio could drop connection from time to time
Pros:
- Sensational sound quality
- Easy to use
- Stylish design
- Endless ways to listen to music
- Rechargeable battery pack
Cons:
- Wi-Fi can drop occasionally
- A bit expensive
2. Roberts Stream 94L Smart Radio
The Stream 94L Smart Radio (link to Amazon) is another excellent radio from Roberts. This is an advanced version of the company’s award-winning stream 94i.
As an upgraded version, the Stream 94L comes with user-friendly functions, a powerful processor, and a speedier start-up. These features mean setting up and using the radio is easier, especially if you’re in a hurry to catch up with a specific talk radio show.
By combining the traditional FM radio and digital DAB/DAB+, this radio gives you a wide array of stations. You can’t lack something interesting to listen to, let alone music.
During our review, we enjoyed the fact that, besides the usual radio stations, Stream 94L is equipped with Spotify Connect, Deezer, and Amazon Prime Music. These options mean you get unlimited access to music and podcasts.
What’s more, the radio’s Bluetooth connectivity makes it your best choice if you enjoy streaming music from your phone or tablet for the best audio output. It guarantees sensational sound quality since it has been fine-tuned and acoustically enhanced.
Get the Stream 94L Smart Radio (link to Amazon) for just under £191 to enjoy the following key features:
- Efficient Bluetooth connectivity
- Spotify Connect
- Natural wood casing
- FM/DAB/DAB+ connectivity
- Deezer and Amazon Prime Music
- Full-colour screen
- Remote control
One thing we loved about this radio is its audio quality. Compared with the 94i version, the 94L version has crystal-clear and high-definition audio quality. You shouldn’t expect to hear the annoying crackling sounds that happen on most radios.
Pros
- Spotify Connect
- Access to Deezer and Amazon Prime Music
- FM/DAB/DAB+ tuners
- Remote control
- User-friendly functions
Cons
- It’s a bit pricey
- Wi-Fi connection can be poor at times
3. Pure Elan Connect+
If you’re looking for an all-in-one radio that combines DAB/DAB+, internet, and FM radio, then the Pure Elan Connect+ (link to Amazon) is your best choice.
After reviewing other Pure radios, including Pure Elan IR5 and Pure Siesta S6, we are certain that Pure is among the best radio brands today. These radios have been curated to meet modern demand for quality and user-friendliness.
With access to over 25,000 online radio stations across the world, you can rest assured that there will always be something to match your taste.
Additionally, the Elan Connect+ capability means you can use this radio as your personal wireless speaker. Elan Connect+ allows you to pair your phone, tablet, or laptop to the radio for seamless streaming of your best music.
As if that’s not enough, Pure Elan Connect+ has a crystal clear TFT display. With such a display, you don’t expect interruption or confusion in identifying the radio station you’re listening to or the mode. Combined with a clean and simple button layout, navigating this radio is a breeze.
For just under £75, get this radio to enjoy the following features:
- Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity
- Smart internet radio
- DAB/DAB+, and FM radio tuners
- Mains and battery-powered
- Clear navigational buttons
It would be unfair to leave without mentioning the radio’s sound quality, after all, you want amazing audio.
The Pure Elan Connect+ comes with an integrated 2x3W speaker and a digital amplifier. These features are responsible for the radio’s high-definition audio output. Therefore, you should expect clear and natural sound from this piece of technology.
Pros
- Stable Bluetooth streaming due to the Bluetooth 5.0 technology
- High-quality audio output
- An easy-to-use button layout
- Access to a wide range of internet radio stations
- Easy navigation
Cons
- Sometimes, Wi-Fi connection may be slow
- It might be bigger for those interested in portability
4. Technaxx Germany Internet Radio
The Technaxx Germany Internet Radio (link to Amazon) is one of the best internet radios.
By combining portability, loudspeakers, and a personal sleep timer, you can take this radio with you anywhere you go.
What sets this radio apart from the other internet radios is its excellent Wi-Fi reception. With the ability to connect conveniently to Wi-Fi within an 80-meter range, it’s an ideal radio for an entire home. No matter where your router is, you can rest assured of an excellent reception to stream your favourite music without interruptions.
Additionally, the radio is designed to allow you to play music from anywhere. It has a USB slot and an AUX line, making it possible to play your music from a USB drive or connect your headphones.
I must also highlight the radio’s crystal clear display. The display is one of the things most people ignore when buying a radio, only to end up regretting it when they can’t access station and track information. However, that’s not the case with the Technaxx Germany Internet Radio.
With a 2.4-inch TFT display, the radio guarantees that you’ll access crucial details like time, weather monitoring, the current radio station, and track information.
For just under £65, you get the following features:
- A highly portable radio
- Over 25,000 internet radio stations worldwide
- 3.5mm audio jack
- USB and auxiliary connection
- Wi-Fi connectivity
- Power adapter
And, what if you’re after loud music to listen with family friends? Don’t worry, Technaxx Germany Internet Radio has 2x 2W stereo loudspeakers that produce clear and pretty loud audio.
Pros
- 250 favourite stations memory capacity
- A customizable dual alarm clock
- A sleep timer
- Crystal clear display
- It weighs only 520 grams, making it highly portable
- FM radio access
Cons
- No DAB/DAB+
- Although lightweight, some people may find it longer
5. Philips DAB+ Internet Radio
Inspired by a vision to improve people’s well-being and lives through meaningful innovations, Philips has a proven track record of manufacturing some of the best audio devices.
Having been in business since 1891, this Dutch manufacturer has vast experience in what goes into making excellent radios that meet the expectations of audiophiles.
Philips DAB+ Internet Radio (link to Amazon) is one of the best internet radios with multi-pairing Bluetooth.
The multi-pairing Bluetooth feature means that this radio can pair with multiple devices. This comes in handy, especially when you want to listen to your music with family and friends in different rooms or when you’re hosting a small party.
The radio is also Wi-Fi enabled, giving you access to thousands of internet radio stations worldwide. Additionally, it has DAB/DAB+ tuners for crystal-clear sound quality.
Besides its Bluetooth connectivity feature, Philips DAB+ Internet Radio allows you to connect wired devices via audio-in and headphone-out.
For just under £170 get:
- Bluetooth connectivity
- DAB/DAB+ tuners
- Spotify Connect
- Headphone jack
- Remote control option
- Wall mount
- Infrared wireless communication technology
- Alarm function
- Slim and portable design
- Wi-Fi enabled
- Access to thousands of internet radio stations
- Audio-in and headphone-out connections
Need I say more? The Philips DAB+ Internet Radio is a complete package for anyone looking to upgrade their audio experience. Its two 2.75-inch broadband drivers guarantee an impeccable clear sound output,
Pros
- Multi-pairing Bluetooth connectivity
- Wi-Fi enabled
- High-quality sound output
- Easy to use and navigate
- Compact and portable design
Cons
- Some users may find it expensive compared to other radios on the list. However, the features and sound quality justify the price.
- Connecting to the WiFi may require some experience
6. Roberts Revival iStream 3L
Going back to our friends over at Roberts for this next internet radio, we’ve got the Revival iStream 3L (link to Amazon).
Another beautiful product from Roberts, the iStream 3L is one of the most attractive retro radio designs on the market, and it’s part of the Roberts flagship portfolio.
Since it’s the upgraded version of iStream 3, it comes with more advanced features ideal for most audiophiles.
Unlike its iStream 3 predecessor, this radio comes with advanced Bluetooth for seamless streaming, a powerful processor, and a speedy start-up.
Available in a range of colours to suit your personal sense of style, the Roberts Revival iStream combines state-of-the-art design with a range of modern features, including internet radio.
The Roberts Revival iStream 3L is smart radio compatible. Therefore, you can use Alexa to access things like Spotify, Amazon Music, and Deezer.
What’s more, the radio has an acoustically-tuned wooden casing that aids in delivering a rich, room-filling sound.
For just under £200, get to enjoy the following features:
- DAB/DAB+ and FM tuners
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Retro design for portability
- Spotify Connect, Amazon Prime Music, and Deezer
- Comprehensive music selection
Since the iStream 3L is equipped with internet, FM, and DAB+ tuners, it delivers a diverse list of radio stations. I liken this radio to someone who never gets tired of listening to different genres and stations.
Pros
- Diverse range of stations
- Elegant retro design
- Fast and efficient charging through an AC adaptor
- High-quality sound output
- Bluetooth connectivity for seamless streaming
- Smart device compatibility for easy control
Cons
- Some users may find it pricey. But considering the features, design, and sound quality, it’s a bargain.
7. Philips R8805/10 Internet Radio
Have you ever heard about a radio that supports wireless charging? If not, let me introduce you to the Philips R8805/10 Internet Radio (link to Amazon) with its unique wireless charging feature.
This internet radio has an in-built Qi charging pad that allows you to juice up your devices’ batteries wirelessly. This is a great feature, especially if you have multiple devices that need charging and limited sockets.
What’s more, the Philips R8805/10 Radio comes with a rechargeable battery that allows for portability. Take it wherever you want without worrying about power outlets.
On top of this, the radio has a large, high-gloss colour display which makes it easy to read the information displayed. It shows song information, album art, and the mode.
For just under £150, you get:
- Wireless charging pad
- 2 x 3″ full-range drivers
- In-built rechargeable battery
- High-gloss colour display
- Dual alarms and sleep timer
- Bass-reflex port
- World-wide warranty
- Multiple connectivity options, including Bluetooth and USB
- DAB/DAB+ and FM tuners
It’s also worth mentioning that with the Philips R8805/10, it’s easy to charge your mobile phone via the USB port.
Pros
- Unique wireless charging feature
- Built-in clock with dual alarms and sleep timer
- Multiple connectivity options
- Excellent sound quality
- 2.4-inch clear and easy-to-read high-gloss colour display
Cons
- The radio is a bit pricey
8. PHILIPS M8905/10 Home Audio System
As the name suggests, you can easily tell that the Philips M8905/10 Home Audio System (link to Amazon) is not just any ordinary radio. It’s a complete home audio system that comes with internet radio capabilities.
This particular model allows you to access thousands of internet radio stations and podcasts from around the world.
The M8905/10 audio system is designed to meet family needs by delivering clear, high-quality sound. It achieves this through its 100 W bass-reflex loudspeakers. Therefore, whether you have a house party or a family gathering, this audio system has got you covered.
It also comes with a built-in CD player and USB port for playing your favourite music tracks. What’s more, it has Bluetooth connectivity so that you can wirelessly stream music from your smartphone or tablet.
Being an internet radio, it allows you to connect to your home Wi-Fi so you can listen to internet radio stations. And, if you prefer traditional radio, it also has FM and DAB+ tuners.
For under £290, you get the following:
- Stereo speakers
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Spotify Connect
- CD and MP3 players
- Digital sound control
- 5.25″ woofer. Dome tweeters
- USB port
The system’s matte aluminum central unit and wooden speakers are designed to complement your home decor and bring elegance to any room.
Pros
- Multiple connectivity options
- Clear, high-quality sound output
- Access to thousands of internet radio stations and podcasts
- Built-in CD player and USB port for playing music
- Elegant design
Cons
- The system is a bit bulky and may not fit in small spaces
- It’s costly than the other internet radios on this list
9. Pure Evoke Spot Compact
The Pure Evoke Spot Compact (link to Amazon) internet radio comes with a foldable colour display that makes it easy to navigate through the menu and make selections.
It’s a compact radio with DAB/DAB+ and FM tuners, making it possible for you to listen to traditional radio stations as well.
As a smart radio, the Pure Evoke Spot Compact allows you to access internet radio stations and podcasts from around the world.
The radio’s Spotify Connect and Bluetooth connectivity makes it possible to enjoy the latest releases via streaming.
Additionally, this radio is an excellent subtle companion for your kitchen, home office, bookshelf, or bathroom due to its compact design.
What sets this radio apart is its foldable display that helps save space. Furthermore, this feature ensures you can fold out distracting light while sleeping.
For just under £160, get:
- DAB/DAB+ and FM tuners
- Internet radio capabilities
- Wi-Fi connectivity technology
- Corded electric power source
- Foldable colour display
Finally, Pure Evoke Spot Compact has 20 W of audio power that generates a state-of-the-art sound. Its 3″ full-range speaker and bass reflex port will give you the best audio experience for its size.
Pros
- Foldable colour display to save space
- Compact design
- The front is made from eco-certified recycled wood
- Access to Wi-Fi to stream your favourite songs
- Excellent sound output
- It’s highly portable
- Multiple connectivity options
Cons
- Wi-Fi connection may be a bit slow
10. Pure Evoke Play Portable
To finalize our list of the best internet radios, we have chosen the Pure Evoke Play Portable (link to Amazon).
Like any other radio from Pure, this model comes with fantastic speakers, excellent audio power, and connectivity options.
It has a portable design that allows you to take it with you wherever you go. If you love listening to music while working, then this radio is perfect for your home office.
Its portability is enhanced by the fact that it comes with a strong handle that facilitates movement from one place to another.
The Pure Evoke Play Portable combines FM, DAB/DAB+ tuners, allowing you to access traditional radio stations if need be.
With its internet radio capabilities, online radio stations, music, and podcasts are just a touch away. And with Bluetooth connectivity technology, you can easily connect your smartphone or tablet and enjoy the latest music releases.
For just under £200, you get:
- Portable design
- DAB/DAB+, FM tuners
- Internet radio capabilities
- Bluetooth connectivity technology
- Foldable colour display
- Spotify Connect
- Power adapter for fast charging
What sets this internet radio apart from the rest is that it’s designed to meet audiophile expectations in terms of sound quality. Its combination of 100 W audio output power, two 3.5-inch woofers, and 20mm soft dome tweeters guarantees stereo sound with deep bass and high clarity.
Pros
- Portability makes it perfect for home office or outdoor use
- Superior sound quality
- The front is made from eco-certified recycled wood
- Access to Wi-Fi for streaming music and online content
- Bluetooth connectivity technology enables wireless streaming
Cons
- It’s a bit expensive compared to other internet radios reviewed on this list.
Exploring the Wonderful World of Internet Radios
Before you pick the best internet radio, it might be worth exploring the benefits of these devices a little further. After all, internet radios are still pretty new to the market, and they’re getting more intuitive all the time.
Probably one of the most convenient features of an internet radio is the fact that you can connect to music and channels all over the world. You’re not limited to what’s available in your general vicinity like you are with FM.
However, because your internet clock radio will connect to the web wirelessly, you’re going to need a pretty reliable router if you want to make sure that you’re not dealing with drops in quality and constant lag.
If you’re not sure that you have the best wireless connection in your home, it might be worth looking specifically for a radio that can connect to the internet through an ethernet cable. You can do this with tools like the Ocean Digital, but most internet radios won’t come with an ethernet port.
Aside from a reliable way to get connected, there are a few other features that you might want to consider when choosing the radio that’s right for you.
For instance:
Alternative signals
Internet radio is great, but it might not be the only thing that you want. Some of the more modern radios on the market, like the Ocean Digital above, only come with internet connections.
That means that you can’t stream FM or DAB radio. Make sure that you get all the signals you want with your new radio.
Extra features
Many of the internet radios that we’ve reviewed today have come with a variety of extra features, including Spotify Connect and Bluetooth streaming.
Not every available feature will be relevant to you. However, we think that Bluetooth streaming is an excellent option to have if you want to listen to your own audio content.
Ease of use
Modern radios can be a little complicated if you’re not used to them. Internet radios don’t have the same tuners that a lot of people will be used to.
Instead, you’ll use a colour screen or app to find the stations that you want. Make sure that you feel comfortable using the interface of the radio you choose.
Power
If you want a portable radio that you can take with you outside, or just around the house, then it pays to look for one with battery power.
Something that you’ll need to keep plugged into a wall socket is often a lot less convenient. Ensure that the design is lightweight enough for you to carry too.
Alarm clock functions
Most people like to use their radio systems as an alarm clock too. If you’re looking for a WIFI radio alarm clock, make sure that alarm functionality is included with your set.
Additionally, it’s a good idea to check that you can dim the screen on your radio when you’re sleeping, so it’s not too distracting.
Budget
As you could see in our internet radio reviews above, some products are a lot more affordable than others. The Philips audio system we covered is the most expensive of the bunch, but it also offers unbeatable sound quality.
Figure out your budget before you start searching and decide how much you’re willing to pay for quality.
Choosing the Best Internet Radio
Ultimately, the best internet radio for you will depend on a number of things, including the specific features that you’re looking for, your budget, and your requirements for new tech.
Take your time to compare the internet radio reviews above, and check out some of the latest releases before you make your decision.
Our favourite option of all for sound quality is definitely Roberts Smart Black Wi-Fi radio. However, if you’re just looking for all-around performance and great design, we recommend trying the Roberts Radio Stream 94L.
Which internet radio will you be tuning into?
Do you only want to listen to the best on your new internet radio? You can tune into these radio stations for the best classical music and Latin music!
Radio Fidelity: For the love of radio.
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