9 of the best under cabinet radio options for your kitchen
Contributing Editor
The best under cabinet radio is a fantastic way to upgrade your kitchen. Under cabinet CD radio players are compact, convenient, and great for any home.
For people who spend a lot of time in the kitchen, under cabinet radios can be an excellent way to transform your home.
These convenient entertainment machines offer quick and easy access to your favorite radio channels and CDs. Plus, they don’t take up too much space.
Under cabinet radios give you the freedom to dance to your favorite tunes while you bake, without compromising on counter space.
As technology evolves, these incredible kitchen accessories are becoming even more impressive.
These days, you can track down an under cabinet Bluetooth Radio CD player for quick connections to your smartphone.
Or you might even decide to invest in a player that can also showcase videos and TV.
We’ve tracked down some of the best under cabinet radios to help you make the perfect purchase.
Here are our best under cabinet radio contenders.
1. Jensen Modern Wireless (Best With Hands-Free Speakerphone)
If you spend a lot of time in the kitchen cooking, one of the most annoying things is receiving calls. In most cases, your hands will be wet or laden with cooking ingredients, making it hard to pick up the phone.
The Jensen Modern Wireless under-cabinet radio comes in handy to make things easier for you. The radio has an NFC-enabled hands-free speakerphone with a built-in microphone. This feature lets you conveniently make hands-free calls without worrying about wetting your phone.
Besides its hand-free phone capability, this radio is designed to keep you as active as possible in the kitchen. It has an FM stereo that lets you listen to your favorite FM radio stations while cooking.
What’s more, it comes with PLL digital tuning and station presets that make it easier to access your favorite stations. You’ll not waste much of your kitchen time scrolling to access a specific station after saving it.
Another handy feature worth mentioning is that this under-cabinet radio supports A2DP and NFC. These technologies make pairing with your smartphone or other Bluetooth-enabled devices a breeze.
For a price of slightly above $69, features include:
- Bluetooth connectivity
- FM radio
- Built-in hands-free microphone
- Built-in speakers
- A mounting hardware
- Auxiliary port
- 120V AC adapter
- Multi-functional LCD display
- Digital volume control
This would be an excellent purchase for anyone who wants to follow along with their favorite cooking stations and recipes.
Plus, you can use the clock and timer functions to keep an eye on how long your meals have been cooking.
Pros:
- Mounting hardware for easy cabinet mounting
- Convenient hands-free calls
- Efficient Bluetooth connectivity
- Stereo sound quality
- Space-saving under-cabinet design
Cons:
- Selecting presets isn’t easy
- No DVD option
- ✅ Supports A2DP, NFC for Easy Pairing, FM Stereo Receiver with Presets and PLL Digital Tuning
- ✅ Auxiliary Input Jack for Connecting Your iPod, MP3 or other Digital Audio Players
- ✅ Bluetooth/NFC Enabled Phone Hands-free Speakerphone with Built-in Microphone for your
- ✅ Multi-function LCD Display, Digital Volume Control, Clock with Timer Space-Saving Under Cabinet Design, Mounting Hardware Included, Built-in 4x LED Work Area Light
- ✅ Power: 120V AC Adaptor (included), Battery Back-up: 2 x “AAA” Batteries (not included)
2. iLive wireless under cabinet radio (best budget option)
Some people assume that under cabinet radios need to cost a fortune to be effective.
Although there are a lot of under cabinet CD radio players out there that will set you back a few hundred dollars, there are some cheaper products too.
This iLive wireless under cabinet radio offers a combination of digital FM streaming and Bluetooth.
With an easy mounting system included, you can set your new radio solution up in minutes. The LCD will help you to find stations, and there’s the option to save 20 presets.
Alongside the radio, you get a digital clock, timer, single alarm, and pairing button.
The wireless range on this radio extends about 60 feet, and there’s a battery backup system included too.
For a price of around $50, features include:
- Bluetooth with 60 feet range
- FM radio streaming
- Mounting hardware included
- LCD
- 20 memory presets
- Digital clock and timer
- Alarm
- Slim and streamlined size
The timer and digital clock on this under cabinet radio are excellent for helping you to keep track of your recipes.
With the extra battery backup system, you can ensure that a power outage doesn’t mess up your cooking too.
Pros:
- 60 feet Bluetooth range
- LCD with presets
- Timer and digital clock
- FM radio
- Battery backup
Cons:
- No CD player
- Limited sound quality
- Bright LED light illuminates your kitchen range, workspace, or anywhere in you home that will benefit from energy-efficient light
- Fill your space with rich HD audio from dual speakers, adding a festive ambience to your space
- Stream wirelessly from your smart device with the latest Bluetooth technology
- Digital clock with timer function brings functionality and versatility to your kitchen
- Enjoy simple installation and elevate your home décor with this stylish, modern & functional device
3. Sylvania SKCR2713 (best ease of use)
This under cabinet radio CD player from Sylvania isn’t the most advanced under cabinet radio we’ve seen – but it is one of the simpler options for people who just want basic features.
This easy-to-install system comes with a CD player built-in, so you can enjoy all of your favorite tracks easily.
There’s a Bluetooth connection, and FM radio too.
Cost-effective and reliable, the Sylvania under cabinet radio comes with built-in speakers to play a range of music from the radio, and your music collection.
There’s a single-button solution to connect to any Bluetooth device. Plus, the display makes finding and saving stations straightforward too.
Sylvania even includes a digital clock and timer in this device to help you time your recipes while you listen to your favorite tunes.
There’s support for AC power and a backup battery in case of a power failure.
For a price of around $48, features include:
- Built-in CD player
- AC adapter and battery power
- Bluetooth 3.0 streaming
- LED readout for checking stations
- Clock and timer
- Mounting kit
- Fully functional remote control
- Easy-to-use interface
- Built-in speaker
- FM radio
It’s a shame that this radio doesn’t come with any AM connection, but you can still enjoy a variety of different music experiences with it.
One other slight downside is that this product is somewhat bulkier than some of the alternatives we’ve seen.
4. Sony ICFCDK50 under cabinet radio (best audio)
Often, if you want an affordable under cabinet CD radio player, you’ll need to compromise on other features, like Bluetooth streaming, or high-fidelity audio.
Often, this means that many customers end up with a radio that doesn’t sound as great as they would like.
The Sony IFCDK50 solves that problem – for a price.
This high-performance device is the best under cabinet radio we’ve tried for audio quality.
The bass reflex sound system offers sensational deeper tones, while the built-in audio cable means you can connect to other devices.
The built-in CD player even accepts CDs that you’ve made yourself.
Alongside CD support, this under cabinet radio also offers digital FM/AM tuning with 15 available presets. There’s an easy-set cooking timer to help with your recipes, and automatic time setting too.
The price is a little high though.
For around $500, you get:
- Digital AM/FM tuner
- 15 pre-set station options
- Slim under cabinet design
- Automatic time setting
- CD-R and RW playback
- Built-in audio cable
- One-touch cooking timer
- Magnetic remote
The magnetic remote control included with this device easily connects to your fridge when not in use so that you can find it fast.
Plus, every component of this product offers accessibility and simplicity – so any member of the family can enjoy it.
The biggest downside is the considerable price tag, which will take this item out of the running for many customers.
There’s also no Bluetooth option.
Pros:
- Digital AM/FM tuner with 15 pre-sets
- Fantastic high-performance audio
- Magnetic remote with easy-to-use controls
- Built-in audio cable
- One-touch cooking timer
Cons:
- Expensive
- No Bluetooth
- Bass reflex sound system for rich, deep bass tones
- Built-in audio cable for digital music players
- CD player that accepts burned CD-R/RWs
- Digital FM/AM tuner with 15 presets; one-touch cooking timer
- Magnetic remote control for attaching to fridge
5. iLive Bluetooth under cabinet player (best with built-in cable)
iLive is one of the most common brand names you’ll come across in the world of under cabinet radios. The company offers a wide selection of versatile products for a decent price.
This under cabinet Bluetooth radio CD player promises a wide range of entertainment options in a compact package.
Slim and streamlined, the device fits perfectly under your kitchen counter, with a built-in cooking timer to support your cooking adventures.
The LCD comes packed with handy information, including a digital clock, alarm, kitchen timer, and the option to browse through 20 presets.
With iLive, you can listen to your favorite CDs, or tune in to FM radio stations, there isn’t any option for AM radio.
Bluetooth streaming is also available for your connected device.
For a price of around $85, features include:
- Slimline design
- CD player
- Audio cable
- Remote control included
- 20 station presets
- FM radio
- Bluetooth wireless streaming
- LCD with digital clock and timer
Simple and convenient, this under cabinet radio is surprisingly impressive for its low price tag.
You get a decent amount of bass from the audio, as well as an audio input cable so you can connect external speakers and other devices.
With Bluetooth connectivity, nothing is stopping you from connecting to internet stations too.
On the other hand, the reception isn’t the best, and it is quite difficult to attach any external antenna.
Pros:
- CD player
- 20 station presets and FM radio
- Audio cable for external attachments
- Bluetooth streaming
- Easy to use design
Cons:
- Slim CD/Radio Under Cabinet Music System w/Bluetooth Wireless Streaming
- Bluetooth streaming provides an unrivaled level of control of your listening experience
- Listen to your favorite CD;s or FM radio stations Includes 20 station presets
- LCD display, Kitchen timer, Digital clock, Alarm, Can be set to either buzzer or radio
- Built-in cooking timer eliminates the need for an additional timer in your kitchen for food preparation
6. iLive Bluetooth IKBC384SMP3U (Best With Remote Control)
Remote control is a handy feature, especially in the kitchen environment. You want to control your radio from any corner without leaving your food to overcook.
iLive Bluetooth IKBC384SMP3U is among the latest models with excellent remote control performance. It ensures seamless control from any corner of the kitchen.
We featured this product on our list of the best under-cabinet radios for a good reason. The radio incorporates a space-saving design that doesn’t take up counter space.
Also, this under-cabinet radio offers the best entertainment for kitchen enthusiasts. From CDs, news, music, and FM radio stations to Bluetooth, you have a variety of options to listen to.
The best part—this radio has an easy-to-read LCD with a clock, DC backup, and a timer. That means you’ll have an easy time monitoring and knowing how long your food has been cooking.
For slightly above $54, features include:
- Bluetooth connectivity
- MP3, CD, and radio capabilities
- A USB port
- Digital clock and kitchen timer
- Remote control
- 20 FM station presets
- LCD display
- DC/AC power adapter
The battery backup option means you can use this radio even during power outages. All you have to do is keep a pair of AA batteries for use in case of power interruptions.
With multiple audio input sources, you won’t get bored with this under-cabinet radio for your kitchen.
Pros:
- Effective remote control performance
- Slim design that saves your kitchen’s space
- Clear LCD display
- Clock and kitchen timer for cooking
- MP3 connectivity
- Easy access to station presets
- Automatic device pairing
Cons:
- AA batteries not included
- Multiple features may require some learning for correct usage
- ✔This Under Cabinet from iLive doesn’t take up counter space while letting you isten to what you love. Enjoy CD's or music, news, weather, and traffic with the FM radio or connect via Bluetooth or USB to listen to your CD-MP3s. The easy to read LCD display includes a clock with DC back up and a timer. Included is a remote control for controlling things across the room and a simple mounting kit for easy installation.
- ✔Slim under cabinet radio and CD Mp3-CD player with Bluetooth wireless streaming and USB,Supports Bluetooth v 2.0 with a 33 foot range
- ✔Listen to your favorite CDs or FM radio stations; Includes 20 FM station presets
- ✔LCD display, kitchen timer, digital clock,and remote;Supports automatic device pairing
- Please be sure the source “CD” is selected when attempting to play a compact disc. or a Mp3 CD
7. Jensen Bluetooth wireless radio (best with aux input)
Another example of one of the best under cabinet radio solutions on the market, the Jensen Bluetooth wireless radio, promises a slim design, a powerful performance, and a Bluetooth connection.
There’s no CD player included with this device, but you can enjoy your favorite music through a one-touch button for Bluetooth streaming.
The multi-media entertainment system also includes a digital FM tuner. You don’t get an exterior antenna here, but you should still be able to track down some local stations quite easily.
One other impressive feature of this product is the aux input, which allows you to connect digital players if you don’t want to rely on Bluetooth.
The Jensen under cabinet radio is easy to mount and use, with an affordable price tag of around $79, features include:
- Convenient remote control
- Under-cabinet slimline design
- Bluetooth streaming
- Digital FM tuner with 20 station presets
- Cooking timer and clock
- Aux input for wired connections
- Optional backup battery
Like some of the other best under cabinet radios we’ve seen, this Jensen solution comes with an optional backup battery to keep your clock working no matter what.
There’s also a handy cooking timer so you can avoid spoiling your meals.
The biggest downside is the lack of reception, which you can’t adjust because there’s no external antenna.
Pros:
- Easy-to-use functionality
- Bluetooth streaming included
- Digital FM tuner with 20 presetspre-sets
- Cooking clock and timer included
- Aux input option
Cons:
- Not the best reception
8. Tyler TKS1WH Bluetooth (Best With LED Surface Work Lighting)
Depending on the location of your kitchen cabinet, the place can be a bit dark, making it hard to see clearly the station or name of the track you’re listening to. This is where the Tyler TKS1WH Bluetooth under-cabinet radio comes in handy.
The Tyler TKS1WH Bluetooth is equipped with LED work surface lighting that makes it easy to visualize the information displayed on the screen and also working surfaces.
Therefore, you don’t have to worry even if your kitchen’s lighting is poor.
The radio guarantees a stereo sound quality that will cover your entire kitchen thanks to its dual built-in speakers. This is an essential feature, especially for those with large kitchens.
The Tyler TKS1WH Bluetooth stands out for its touchscreen display that blends with the kitchen environment. You can use the screen while cooking and wipe it when done without it getting damaged.
What’s more, the radio’s Bluetooth interface allows a hands-free function. Consequently, you can answer the phone hands-free while cooking, thanks to the built-in microphone.
For slightly above $46, features include:
- 20 FM radio station presets
- Hands-free speakerphone
- LED work surface lighting
- Built-in clock and alarm
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Two built-in speakers
The radio’s FM tuner with a 20-station memory is a handy feature for radio lovers. You don’t have to keep tuning in and searching for your favorite radio stations after saving them for the first time.
This will save you time in the kitchen to concentrate on cooking.
Pros:
- Easy radio navigation and presets
- Provides illumination for your work surfaces
- Wireless Bluetooth streaming
- Hands-free calls
- An easy-to-use touchscreen display
- Quality stereo audio output
Cons:
- No DVD
- Not battery-enabled
- Tyler's TKS1-WH radio brings wireless music to the kitchen or anywhere in the house! The radio has an FM tuner with a 20 station memory and a Bluetooth function for wireless streaming from smartphones or tablets.
- The Tyler TKS1-WH kitchen radio features two built-in speakers.
- The kitchen radio's range of features is rounded out by a times, dual alarm, sleep timer and snooze function.
- The radio comes equipped with a practical LED lighting ti illuminate the work of surfaces below. The device's touch screen display can be used during cooking and then easily wiped clean afterwards.
- The Bluetooth interface of the radio allows a practical hands-free function. Incoming calls can be handled thanks to the radios built-in microphone. Answer the phone while you are cooking!
9. Jensen SMPS-628 (best with NFC)
Finally, let’s take a look at one of the simpler options for kitchen entertainment from Jensen.
This under cabinet radio might not be one of the more advanced products we’ve seen so far, but it offers decent performance for an affordable price.
One of the most budget-friendly items on the market, the Jensen SMPS-628 is a great addition to any kitchen.
Alongside A2DP and an FM receiver, the Jensen radio comes with a bunch of bonus features, such as a hands-free speakerphone and microphone for calling.
There’s a multi-function LCD where you can check things like volume control and set a cooking timer.
You even get built-in lights to illuminate your work surface.
Connect your device via Bluetooth with NFC one-touch pairing or add a wired connection with an aux input for your digital audio device.
For a price of around $70, features include:
- Bluetooth with NFC pairing
- PLL digital tuning
- Hands-free speakerphone and microphone
- Multi-function LCD display
- Digital clock and timer
- Mounting hardware
- LED lights for illumination
- FM radio streaming
One slight issue that you might encounter with this radio is that it’s a lot smaller than it seems.
On the plus side, it’s extremely easy to install – which is great for people who don’t want to work with a professional on fitting their kitchen.
Pros:
- Bluetooth and NFC pairing
- Hands-free microphone and speakerphone
- Multi-function LCD display
- LED lighting
- FM radio
Cons:
- Quite small
- Not much volume
- ✅ Supports A2DP, NFC for Easy Pairing, FM Stereo Receiver with Presets and PLL Digital Tuning
- ✅ Auxiliary Input Jack for Connecting Your iPod, MP3 or other Digital Audio Players
- ✅ Bluetooth/NFC Enabled Phone Hands-free Speakerphone with Built-in Microphone for your
- ✅ Multi-function LCD Display, Digital Volume Control, Clock with Timer Space-Saving Under Cabinet Design, Mounting Hardware Included, Built-in 4x LED Work Area Light
- ✅ Power: 120V AC Adaptor (included), Battery Back-up: 2 x “AAA” Batteries (not included)
How to choose the best under cabinet radio solution
Finding a reliable under cabinet radio is just like looking for any other audio investment. It’s important to start by figuring out what you want from your new device.
Under cabinet radios come in a variety of different shapes and sizes.
Some of the more expensive options might include things like Bluetooth streaming, digital screens for DVDs, and television and enhanced audio.
More affordable options might just give you the basics of FM streaming, or come with a built-in CD player.
Here are some points to consider when you’re choosing the best under cabinet radio:
Design
Ideally, your under cabinet radio should match the rest of your kitchen, be easy to install, and simple to use.
It might even be a good idea to look for a smaller radio if you don’t have as much space in your kitchen, like the iLive Bluetooth IKBC384SMP3U .
Bluetooth connectivity
Many of the best under cabinet radios come with Bluetooth so you can listen to much more than just your favorite radio stations.
The iLive Bluetooth system even comes with a CD player too. Or if you’re looking for a quick connection, you could check out the Jensen SMPS-628 with NFC.
Ease of Use
Aside from being easy to mount and packed full of fantastic entertainment, your under cabinet CD radio system needs to be easy to use.
Make sure that the buttons are clear and convenient. Check out the instructions and read the reviews to see if other customers are having any issues.
Sound quality
Sometimes, if you don’t want to spend much on your radio system, you need to compromise on things like features or sound.
A sound quality that’s too low could mean that you stop using your under cabinet radio. For truly sensational sound, we’d recommend the Sony option we reviewed above. There are plenty of good choices for people on a budget here too.
Playback options
Finally, aside from the basics like FM radio, what kind of additional playback options do you need? Do you want your system to have a CD player and DVD player? Are you looking for Bluetooth and AM radio too?
Remember that you can also find under cabinet player options with a screen for watching TV and movies too.
Which is the best under cabinet radio?
The best under cabinet radio for your needs is one that can check all of your boxes for an amazing kitchen experience. For some people, the right under cabinet radio might be the high-priced Sony radio, complete with amazing bass response and high-quality audio.
For others, the ideal option could be the iLive cabinet with a screen, which allows you to stream television and other content straight to your kitchen.
Good luck finding the cabinet radio that’s perfect for your needs, and remember to check out Radio Fidelity for more handy reviews.
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