9 of the best portable AM FM radio options on the market

1. Powerbear portable (best budget radio)

Available in a range of three colors, the Powerbear Portable Radio is one of the most affordable compact radios we’ve seen.

Tiny enough to fit in your pocket or backpack, this small portable AM FM radio combines easy functionality with convenience.

You don’t even need to find a place to charge your device after each use, as the radio runs on 2 AA batteries.

Simply flick the switch to jump between AM and FM channels whenever you choose. There’s also a built-in headphone port so you can listen to your music privately when you’re on the move.

A long-range antenna will keep you connected to local stations for longer, and the sturdy dials make it easy to browse through frequencies.

Features include:

• AM/ FM radio bands
• Compact and portable size
• Battery powered radio for easy functionality
• High-quality speaker
• Headphone jack for private listening
• Long-range transistor performance
• Extendable antenna
• Easy to find a range of channels

A convenient way to take your favorite music stations wherever you go, this handheld radio offers excellent value.

Although there are some limitations with the sound clarity, many channels will come through crisp and clear.

It’s a shame that there aren’t any options to “favorite” stations you like with presets. And the plastic body does feel a little fragile.

Pros:

• Headphone jack or speaker listening
• Long-range transistor performance with extendable antenna
• AM/FM access at the flip of a switch
• Battery-powered for ease of use
• Selection of color options

Cons:

• No Preset options
• Plastic body feels a little fragile

2. Jazmm AM/FM portable radio (best with 2 tone modes)

When you’re looking for the best portable AM FM radios, it’s important to search for something that offers the right range of features with exceptional ease of use.

The Jazmm AM/FM Radio comes with a classical FM/AM analog tuner, which makes finding the channels you love as easy as possible. There’s also the option to switch between high/low tone modes to alter your sound experience.

Choose between charging your radio with an electrical outlet or using batteries when you’re taking your device with you on the move.

There’s also the option to switch between private listening with a headphone jack or listening with friends through the high-quality speaker.

A 12-month warranty offers peace of mind wherever you might go with your radio.

Features include:

• Convenient FM/AM analog tuner
• Long antenna to improve signal performance
• Two different tone modes
• Two power source options to choose from
• Headphone jack and speaker
• 12-month warranty
• Portable lightweight design with handle
• Easy functionality

Though this isn’t the most advanced portable AM/FM radio available, it comes with all the features you need to stay tuned to your favorite shows on the move.

Whether you’re comfortable with technology or not, you’ll have no problem getting this device up and running. Just keep in mind that the battery compartment can be a little fiddly.

Pros:

• Easy to use for people from any background
• 12-month warranty for peace of mind
• Two power options: outlet and battery
• Lightweight portable design with handle
• Two tone modes

Cons:

• The battery compartment is quite fiddly

3. Fantocemea Small Retro Vintage Radio (Best Vintage)

If you’re searching for a radio that will take you back in time, the Fantocemea Small Retro Vintage Radio is your best choice. This is the radio that brings a touch of style to your choice of a leading portable AM FM radio with Bluetooth.

Although the radio looks like a vintage purchase on the surface, it offers many great modern features underneath. Besides listening to radio stations, it lets you play music from various channels and any media player.

What sets this radio apart from the other options on this list is its wide AM and FM frequency ranges. Its AM radio frequencies range between 530-1710KHz, while its FM frequency range is between 88-108MHz.

Why are these frequency ranges important to you? Well, with a wide range of frequencies, you can tune into and enjoy a wide variety of AM and FM radio stations. Therefore, you can rest assured that you won’t miss your favorite channel.

Moreover, since the Fantocemea comes with a portable transistor, it’s perfect for outdoor use. You can bring it with you to your picnic, concerts, and camping adventures.

Its long-lasting 1,200mAh rechargeable battery means that you won’t have to worry about running out of juice while listening to your favorite tunes.

For slightly under $24, this radio comes with the following features:

• Bluetooth connectivity
• Portable transistor
• Support for TF card, USB, and MP3 player
• Excellent AM and FM shortwave radio reception
• Built-in rechargeable Li-ion battery
• Telescopic copper antenna
• Timeless aesthetics of the 1960s

To make it even better, this radio can act as a Bluetooth speaker, and you can connect it to your phone without any hassle. Also, it has two power options—2 D cell batteries and AC power. This gives you the freedom to choose your preferred power source.

Pros

• Portable transistor for outdoor use
• Supports various media players through Bluetooth connectivity
• High aesthetics value with its 1960s retro design
• Impressive battery life
• Convenient USB charging port that saves time
• Dual power options for convenience

Cons

• Plastic build feels less durable

4. DreamSky portable AM/FM radio (best ease of use)

Sometimes, the best portable AM FM radio is the one that feels easiest to use.

When you want to access your favorite channels fast, you don’t want to fiddle with endless dials and buttons.

For simplicity and convenience, the DreamSky Portable offers an excellent product for those who want to access FM and AM signals.

Promising clear loud sound and an excellent reception, this handheld portable radio will track down available channels in no time.

You can choose between using the loudspeaker or headphone port to listen to content, plus there are multiple power options. You can charge your device using your standard home outlets or stick with batteries if you prefer.

The DreamSky Portable Radio is a fantastic choice for seniors and those who don’t like a lot of tech. Features include:

• Simple interface ideal for any radio fan
• Good quality AM/FM radio signals
• Loud high-quality audio
• Portable design with handle
• Extendable antenna to boost reception
• Attractive design (looks good in the home)
• Supports outlet or battery power
• Play time of up to 44 hours

Lasting as long as 44 hours on a full charge, the DreamSky Portable doesn’t require a lot of recharging when you want to take it with you on the move. This could even be a handy radio to have on hand for emergency situations.

One slight issue, however, is that it can be difficult to find the right channels with the dial tuners at first.

Pros:

• Easy to use for people of all ages
• Massive 44-hour battery life
• High volume from AM and FM channels
• Portable design with handle
• Works with batteries or outlet power

Cons:

• Sometimes tough to find the right channel
• No advanced features

5. Retekess TR604 (best dial)

If you’re searching for the best portable AM FM radios with a classic analog dial, then Retekess has some great products to offer.

The Retekess TR604 is an attractive, high-performance radio with a 3.5-inch speaker and the option to switch between high or low-tone performance.

Offering precise and easy tuning, the Retekess TR604 will help you sort through channel frequencies fast, whether you’re listening to AM or FM radio.

There’s a loudspeaker for enjoying music with friends, or you can stick with the 3.5mm jack for private listening via headphones.

Easy to operate at home or on the move, this product has a convenient, easy-to-read dial and comfortable grip knobs.

Features include:

• Extra-large dial for easy viewing
• Tactile knobs for adjusting the frequency
• Loudspeaker or 3.5mm headphone jack
• Portable design with handle
• Option to charge via outlet or use batteries
• Attractive design
• Telescopic antenna

With the option to choose between outlet charging or battery-powered operation, you can easily take your radio with you wherever you go.

This convenient product comes with a telescopic antenna, which is ideal for helping you track down different frequencies.

One slight issue is that the audio quality seems to suffer slightly in AM mode.

Pros:

• Excellent extra-large dial for finding channels
• Tactile knobs make it easy to adjust frequencies
• Loud-speaker or headphone listening
• Attractive portable design with handle
• Outlet or battery-powered

Cons:

• Sound quality struggles in AM mode

6. Videyas AM FM Retro Radio (Best With Multiple Audio Options)

 The Videyas AM FM Retro Radio is a mix of modern technology and retro design, making it an excellent addition to your home decor. This radio offers you various audio options for your entertainment needs.

Firstly, you can connect your phone or tablet to the radio using Bluetooth to stream your favorite music. Alternatively, you can plug in a USB drive or TF card into the designated slots on the radio for direct playback.

It also has an auxiliary input to connect your audio devices directly to the radio. These combinations of alternative audio sources make this one of the best portable AM FM radio options on the market.

As a retro radio, Videyas brings back memories of a past time. However, it also features modern functions that are essential for a great listening experience.

Its flashlight is ideal for outdoor activities like camping and hiking.

Videyas is also highly portable thanks to its lightweight nature and strong handle. You can conveniently take this radio with you everywhere and enjoy your favorite music, news, and talk shows.

For under $35, this radio offers the following features:

• Bluetooth connectivity
• USB drive and TF card support
• Multiple power options (battery, AC power cord)
• High-quality sound output
• Built-in flashlight for outdoor use

Pros

• Multiple audio options for versatile use
• Retro design with modern features
• Long-lasting rechargeable battery for extended use
• Lightweight and easy to carry around
• Durable build with a strong handle

Cons

• Bluetooth connectivity may be slow at times
• A bit larger than other options on this list

7. Victrola Retro Wood AM FM Radio (Best With Rotary Dial)

The Victrola Retro Wood AM FM Radio is a radio designed to take you back in time with its classic wooden exterior and front-facing rotary dial. Its retro design makes it an attractive piece of home decor while also serving as a functional portable AM FM radio.

The radio’s espresso-colored wooden cabinet and chrome accents give it a vintage appearance that will surely add a touch of elegance to your space. 

Apart from its aesthetics, the Victrola Retro Wood AM FM Radio offers seamless connectivity options.

Bluetooth connectivity lets you stream music directly from your phone or tablet. The best part is that the radio uses the latest Bluetooth technology with a wide range of connectivity. Therefore, you won’t have to worry about bringing your devices closer to each other to stream your favorite music tracks.  

We loved the fact that this radio is meant to be as user-friendly as possible. Its tuning knob doubles as the power button—you’ll not be looking around for a separate button to power on the radio.

Also, Victrola Retro Wood AM FM Radio has a treble and bass knob to customize your listening experience based on your taste. These knobs have a nice feel and a trendy antique vibe.

For slightly under $50, get this radio and enjoy the following amazing features:

• Wide-range Bluetooth connectivity
• FM/AM and internet radio connectivity
• A classic vintage look
• High-quality finishing
• User-friendly control knobs
• Built-in stereo speakers

A point worth noting is that Victrola, the company behind this radio, has been in business for over 115 years. Therefore, it’s highly experienced and knows what goes into making excellent radios to meet diverse customer needs.

Pros

• Excellent Bluetooth connectivity
• Great quality sound output from its stereo speakers
• Easy navigation through stations using an FM/AM tuner
• Internet radio connectivity
• Elevation to your home’s or office’s aesthetics

Cons

• It might not be your best option if you’re after portability

8. BTECH MPR-AF1 (best with headphones)

If you’re looking for a Walkman-style portable radio that you can keep in your pocket, the BTECH MPR-AF1 could be the ideal choice for you.

Available in a range of colors, this portable AM FM radio comes with a set of headphones for private listening and a long-life rechargeable battery.

This compact radio comes with its own internal antenna to help deliver the best frequencies on the move.

More than just a mini AM/FM radio, this product also comes with a range of additional functions, such as a built-in clock and a space where you can set your preferred channel presets.

To help prevent you from accidentally switching channels, you can also lock your keypad when you’re on the move.

As one of the best small portable AM FM radio options around, the BTECH offers:

• 2 different styles of headphones
• USA-built construction
• Built-in clock and alarm
• Preset channel options
• Internal ferrite bar antenna
• AM/FM radio signals
• Rechargeable long-life battery
• Backlit LCD screen
• Easy-to-use buttons

Searching for channels is quick and easy with the convenient scanning function on the BTECH MPR-AF1.

This handheld radio can give you a convenient way to tune into all of the popular radio stations you love with minimal hassle.

There’s even a handy lanyard included to attach your radio to your wrist.

One downside is that it does take quite a while for this product to charge to full power.

Pros:

• Easy-to-use design with a backlit screen
• Built-in clock included
• Preset channel options
• AM/FM radio signals
• 2 headphone style options

Cons:

• No advanced features
• Takes a long time to charge

9. Gracioso weather alert radio (best emergency)

If you live an active lifestyle that often has you grappling the great outdoors, then the best portable AM FM radio for you might be one that can withstand a range of environments.

The Gracioso Weather Alert Radio combines easy AM/FM streaming with a host of other features to give you peace of mind on your next adventure.

You get NOAA radio for weather alerts and a crystal clear radio reception in a range of environments.

The large digital LCD display helps you to keep track of time, radio frequency, battery capacity, and more.

There’s also the option to power the radio with a hand crank or solar power if AAA batteries or an outlet aren’t available. The extra power bank in the radio can charge your USB devices. There’s also an extra bright flashlight and SOS alarm clock included.

Features include:

• Multiple charging options
• Weather radio with NOAA weather channels
• Excellent SOS alarm and flashlight
• Large and clear LCD screen
• AM/FM radio streaming
• Hand crank generator for manual energy
• USB charging function for your mobile phone
• Durable design withstands various conditions

With multiple ways to power your radio, you’ll never be left out of the loop. Plus, having the option to charge your smartphone with a different power source in an emergency is helpful, too.

An LED indicator can even help you to keep track of your battery levels.

It can be challenging to get a great reception on some frequencies. When we conducted our review of this product, we also found that it was too easy to press the alarm button accidentally.

Pros:

• AM/FM and NOAA radio
• Constant use, even during a power outage
• Various options for charging, making it ideal for emergency situations
• Can power your smartphone on the move
• Excellent SOS alarm and flashlight
• Durable design

Cons:

• Not the best radio signals
• Too easy to press the alarm button