12 Best Solar Radio in 2022 – Reviews and Buyer’s Guide

The world we live in is a very unpredictable place. You never know what mother nature will throw at you. Therefore, you need to stay prepared for any kind of natural disaster no matter what the situation is.

A solar radio is great for such situations. While a solar radio passes information and warning regarding any disaster to you, it also keeps you well- equipped with flashlights and USB charging ports for your phone. And because solar radios run on solar energy, you will never have to worry about electricity.

Moreover, a solar-powered radio is also great for outdoor activities like trekking and hiking, since you never know how long and where you have to stay.

It may not seem to be very necessary at present, but it is always best to stay prepared than regret later. So, we have prepared a list of 12 Best Solar Radios you can choose from and get one for yourself today. For the sake of you and your family’s safety, buying the best, most convenient solar radio is essential.

Therefore, we have also prepared a list of things you should consider before buying a solar radio and FAQs. This article also features a Comparison Table so you can compare different products to choose the best one for you.

Keep scrolling!

Quick Summary of Best Solar Radios

Best Solar Radio of 2022 – Reviewed

1. Aoxlant Portable Solar Radio with LED Flashlight

If you want a solar-powered radio that not only sends you alerts but also allows you to navigate your way via flashlights, this is the radio you are looking for.

Lightweight and Portable

The radio weighs only 12.5 ounces. Therefore it is not very difficult to carry around. Moreover, it’s size is also just 6.8 x 3.2 x 2.1 inches, which means it can easily fit in your pocket. So, keeping this device with you at all times during emergencies is no issue at all.

4 Charging Methods

The device features four different charging methods. First, a manual hand crank, which is installed at the back of the radio. Simply cranking the radio for about 1 minute can charge the radio enough to function upto 20 minutes as an LED light and 10-15 minutes as the radio plays. 

Secondly, the device charges automatically with the help of the solar panels installed on top of it. This is also very beneficial when you cannot access electricity. Next, the radio comes with a micro USB cable that you can connect to a port to charge it. Finally, the device also supports 3 AAA batteries, which can be replaced as well.

Multifunctional Radio

In addition to serving you as an FM radio for entertainment, this 2000mAh solar radio also includes a 1w flashlight, and 6 LED reading lights. In addition, it also has a port that allows you to charge your phone through its energy. Therefore, during the time of emergencies, you are always backed- up.

SOS Alarm

The emergency radio also contains an SOS alarm that makes you aware of any upcoming disaster nearby. Because of that, you can stay alert and prepared at all times to keep your family and yourself safe and sound.

FM/ AM/ NOAA Radio

The radio doesn’t just provide you with entertainment but also lets you listen to important weather updates in a very convenient way. It features all FM, AM, and NOAA tracking devices. So, you can locate it anywhere, or just carry it around so that you remain knowledgeable about the weather conditions at all times.

2.  Kaito KA500 Solar Power Weather Alert Radio

If you need a radio that has as many charging options as possible, you should buy this radio.

6- way Powered

The radio can be charged in six different ways. You can charge the radio via its hand crank generator located at its side to charge it. The radio even charges itself via solar panels located on its top.

Moreover, it consists of a compartment for 3 AA batteries, 5V USB input, and 5v AC/DC input, including a wall-power adapter. Finally, it also features a built-in NiMH replaceable and rechargeable battery pack.

Covers AM, FM, and NOAA

The Kaito KA500 Solar Power Weather Alert Radio covers AM, FM, and NOAA radio waves that help you get information and news. In addition, these radio waves also alert you whenever there is a chance of natural disasters.

This way, you can prepare and keep you and your family members away from any sort of harm. It also features 2-band shortwave channels and 7 pre-programmed NOAA weather channels.

Multifunctional

This emergency ready is not just a channel to transfer radio waves, but also a way for you to remain well- equipped during a crisis. It provides a mobile battery charger with a built-in DC 5V USB port. It also consists of 5 LED reading lamps, an LED flashlight, and a red LED S.O.S beacon light. 

Extendable Antenna

This radio is equipped with an antenna that stretches up to 14.5 inches. It helps the radio catch sound waves strongly and lets you stay informed and alert all the time. The antenna also enhances the tuning accuracy of the radio and provides a clear and loud sound.

Water-resistant

The radio is made out of premium quality ABS materials. These materials make the build of the device very strong and allow it to resist any harm caused by water or the wind. Thus, the device is also highly durable.

3.  FosPower Emergency Solar Hand Crank Portable Radio

If you want a solar emergency radio that will back you up through rain and snow, this is the radio for you.

3 Power Sources

This multipurpose radio has a solar panel installed on top of it to help it charge itself automatically. It also features a crank lever that you can rotate to generate power. In addition, it also includes AAA batteries to make sure the device runs well when you need it the most.

FM/ AM/ NOAA Supporting

The radio has access to FM, AM, and NOAA frequencies. This means that it will provide you with information flowing around easily. It will also keep you updated with any kind of news and updates regarding events around the world. Most importantly, it gives you access to alerts sent by the government in case there is any disaster to come. 

USB Port for Charging External Devices

The best part about this radio is that it has a USB port that allows you to charge external devices like cell phones, tablets, GPS, cameras, etc. This feature is especially convenient when you have no access to electricity or are in a remote area.

2 Extra Light Sources

This smart device features 2 extra light sources as well. It consists of 4 LED reading lights and a 1W flashlight that helps you lead your way while walking through a dark pathway. Otherwise, it will be useful if you somehow get stuck in a dark place during calamities.

SOS Alarm

The radio also has an SOS alarm system. This is an alarm that beeps when there is an emergency situation to keep you alert and prepared. With this feature, you can keep you and your family safe during difficult situations.

Water-Resistant

The radio is built out of a water-resistant rugged shell that is rated IPX3. This means the radio will stay with you through rain and snow. You won’t have to fear it being damaged, given such situations. However, it is not entirely water-resistant. Hence, it should not be submerged into water.

4. RegeMoudal Emergency Solar Hand Crank Radio

If you need a solar radio that will help you during emergencies, and also lets you enjoy radio broadcast shows privately, this is the radio you are searching for.

FM/AM/NOAA Radio

First of all, this radio device covers all FM/ AM and NOAA sound frequencies. It allows you easy access to any information flowing through the air around you. This gives you access to different radio broadcast programs like news, weather updates, and entertainment shows.

Moreover, it also allows you to get emergency messages related to weather and disasters as soon as they are sent out. This way, you and your family can stay safe and alert at all times.

4 Ways to Charge

This device can be charged in 4 different ways, assuring you of being there every time you need it. You can charge it manually by rotating the hand crank or by using Micro USB cable. It also recharges automatically with the help of the solar panels installed on top of it. Another way to supply this device with power is by installing 3 AAA batteries.

Water-Resistant

The radio device is rated IPX3. This means it is also water-resistant. It makes sure you are well- equipped with all the features of the radio despite the weather being rainy or snowy. This feature guarantees that the radio will never betray you, especially during times you need it the most.

But you should note that the water-resistance rating is not very high. So you should not carelessly leave it around or in contact with water.

SOS Alarm with Red Flashing Light

This durable radio also consists of an SOS alarm that beeps when a frequency to warn you is sent by higher authorities. It basically warns you about bad weather or any natural calamity about to occur. 

Moreover, this radio also has a red LED light that blinks with the beeping alarm to make sure people with hearing disabilities are made aware as well.

2 Light Sources

The radio device is equipped with light sources in two different ways. Firstly, it has a 6 LED reading light. Secondly, it has a 1W flashlight to help you navigate through dark ways. Since the radio is lightweight, you do not have to face any kind of inconvenience while carrying it around as well.

2000mAh Power Bank

The radio even acts as a 2000mAh power bank. During emergencies, when you don’t have access to electricity, you can charge important devices like mobile phones, tablets, cameras, or GPS devices. This is helpful while trekking to rural areas and also when disaster strikes.

5.  RunningSnail Emergency Hand Crank Self- Powered Solar Weather Radio

If you want a solar radio that is also your travel companion, this is the radio for you.

Lightweight and Small in Size

Like we mentioned before, the device is unbelievably light. It is just about 8 ounces, adding barely any weight to your backpack. Moreover, it is very small as well. Its dimensions are just 5 x 1.8 x 2.4 inches. So, it won’t even consume a lot of space.

AM/ FM/ NOAA Radio

The radio features access to FM, AM, and NOAA frequencies. This means it keeps you company by allowing you to listen to various FM/ AM radio programs while trekking or hiking. Most importantly, it also has access to NOAA frequencies.

So, in case of emergencies related to natural disasters or weather, you will be made aware early on, helping you stay safe.

Rechargeable in 3 Ways

The device can be charged in 3 different ways. You can either rotate the hand crank to charge it’s internal battery manually or allow it to consume solar energy to recharge. In addition, you can also charge it with the extra USB cable if you have access to electricity.

1W LED Flashlight

The radio device consists of 1W LED Flashlight that is very useful when it comes to navigating dark ways and caves. This feature lets you stay prepared for unexpected situations. It can also be used to scare away wild animals while walking through deep forests. Since it is lightweight, it won’t cause you any kind of inconvenience.

Acts as a Power Bank

Last but not least, the device consists of a USB charging port and provides 1000mAh power as well. With this port, you can easily charge necessary devices like cameras, GPS devices, mobile phones, tablets, etc. It helps you stay equipped no matter how remote the place you go to.

6.  Kaito KA500IP Weather Radio

If you need a multi-purpose solar radio that allows you to operate it during the dark as well, this is the radio you should buy.

Back-lit Frequency Display

The KA500IP radio has a back-lit frequency display that illuminates in the dark. If you are ever caught in a dark forest without any light, you do not have to look for other light sources to check the radio frequency. This thoughtful feature makes this radio highly useful and convenient for any moment.

5-way Powered

The radio, as we said before, finds power through 5 different sources. Firstly, it uses environment-friendly solar panels to generate power to run itself. Next, it has a compartment for 3 AA batteries as well.

You can recharge this device manually using the hand crank as well. It can also be recharged through a USB cable. This radio even features an AC/DC adaptor for charging. So, it also includes a built-in rechargeable Ni-MH battery.

FM/AM/NOAA Radio

Thankfully, the KA500IP radio covers all sound frequencies from FM to AM and NOAA. A set of 7 weather channels has been pre-set on the radio, which you can easily browse through. Since the frequency display is backlit, you can easily relax in your room, turn the lights off and listen to the radio while going to bed.

180- Degree Adjustable Solar Panel

Since this radio has 5 ways to recharge, it doesn’t always need solar energy. Therefore, you have the option to keep the solar panel safe and untouched by rotating it up to 180 degrees. Moreover, this feature can also help you locate and adjust the panel in the same direction the sun is. This makes sure your radio is completely charged.

5 LED Reading Lights

The radio also features a reading lamp of 5 LED lights. This acts like a bedtime lamp for your children and you. But more importantly, it lets you enjoy the luxury of light to navigate through dark ways during emergencies.

7. RunningSnail Solar Crank NOAA Weather Radio

If you need a very light and portable solar radio, you should look for this one!

4 Way Powered

The fashionable solar radio has four ways to recharge itself. It features a solar panel that helps it consume energy. It also has a compartment for 3 AAA batteries. Moreover, you can recharge it via a micro USB cable that comes with it or manually rotate its hand-crank.

1W LED Flashlight and Table Lamp

The RunningSnail Solar Crank NOAA Weather Radio consists of 1w LED flashlight, which you can use for navigating through dark places or even your own house during power- cuts. Moreover, the device also has 5 LED reading lights to keep your space well lit.

FM/ AM/ NOAA Radio

This radio features FM, AM, and NOAA frequencies. This means you can listen to all programs streaming on FM or AM frequencies. Moreover, this radio also supports NOAA sound frequencies, which means, in case of any urgent weather update or disaster, you will be notified immediately.

SOS Alarm With Red Flashing Light

Similarly, the radio also consists of SOS Alarms that will start blaring immediately in case of natural emergency conditions. Not just that, there is a red LED light on the radio that will start blinking for those who have hearing disabilities. This feature especially allows you to escape dangerous natural disasters.

2000 mAh Powerbank

The best of all, the radio also acts as a 2000 mAh power bank. With it, you can charge essential devices like mobile phones, tablets, GPS trackers, and cameras. You will never run out of charge with this smart device that is not just a radio but so much more than that.

8. Esky Portable Emergency Weather Radio

If you want a multi-functional solar radio that will be an all-rounder for camping trips or hiking, this is the radio for you.

Water-resistant

The device is made out of high- quality materials. This makes sure that the device lasts long. However, it also has a rugged hard plastic covering. This will never have the internal parts of the radio destroyed, and it can run for ages.

3-way Charging

You can charge this device in three different ways. You can either choose to operate the crank attached to the device manually.You can also charge the 1000 mAh battery with a USB cable. Obviously, this radio is solar so that is also one of the ways you can charge the radio as well.

FM/AM/NOAA Radio

The radio features FM, AM, and NOAA frequencies. So, in addition to being able to listen to programs, news, and notices that are being sent through the FM and AM frequencies, you can also get urgent notices. 

These urgent notices can be retrieved through NOAA sound frequencies. Thus, you will be completely aware in case there are any difficult weather conditions around your locality.

USB Power Bank

Likewise, the radio also acts as a power bank since it has a capacity of 1000 mAh charge and a USB charging port as well. It allows you to charge necessary devices like cell phones, tablets, GPS systems, etc.

9. Sangean MMR-88 Emergency Radio

If you want a radio that makes sure you are well aware of emergencies, this is the radio for you.

Digital Backlit Display

The Sangean MMR-88 Emergency radio is the smart digital- age radio that has an LCD frequency display. In addition to the display screen being LCD, it is also backlit. This means that you will have no problem operating it during the nighttime as well.

Adjustable LED flashlight

Like any other emergency radio, this radio also includes LED flashlights. However, what makes this radio stand out is the fact that its LED flashlight is adjustable. You can adjust the light to high, low, or make it blink as well. In addition, the radio also includes a weather- alert LED indicator, illumination lamp, and a charging LED indicator.

Public Alert Certified

The radio is Public Alert certified. It entertains and informs you through the programs in the FM and AM frequencies. But it also keeps you prepared for unwelcome natural conditions. The radio receives all 7 NOAA weather channels. So, you can get any urgent weather update in your area immediately. 

Loud Emergency Buzzer

In contrast to many other emergency radios, this radio makes sure you don’t miss out on receiving any warning signals through its loud emergency buzzer. Upon detecting any sort of forthcoming disaster or weather changes. The radio blares and buzzes loudly to alert you and make you prepared.

3- way Chargeable

One of the most important features of this radio is that it can be recharged in three different ways. You can recharge it via solar energy, with a charging USB cable, or by rotating the hand crank installed on it. Thus, the radio will make sure to stay with you when you need it the most.

10. Eton American Red Cross Emergency NOAA Weather Radio

If you want an easy-to-carry, lightweight radio that you can gift your friends and help them stay safe during emergencies, you should buy this solar radio.

3- way Chargeable

Like we said, the radio can be charged in three different ways. First, through its solar panels that extract energy from sunlight and convert it into power. Then, it can be charged through the extra USB cable. 

Another and the final option to charge it is by manually rotating the available hand crank. Thus, the device makes sure it keeps running, even without electricity.

FM/AM/NOAA Radio

This smart radio device features FM, AM and NOAA sound frequencies. It keeps you updated with news and entertained with various programs from the FM and AM stations.

But more importantly, it is also able to receive frequencies flowing in your area which includes information about the weather as well. It catches all 7 NOAA weather channels so that you are never left without information.

2600mAh Power Bank

The cool and handy radio even acts as a power bank. Its battery has a capacity of 2600mAh. Through this, you can charge devices like mobile phones, tablets, GPS systems, etc. This way, you are always connected to the outer world, even when disaster strikes.

SOS Red LED Alarm

This radio also features an SOS alarm that blares immediately after sensing any condition that you need to prepare for. We hope you never have to face a condition in which you are facing a natural disaster and you have nothing to help you survive. This device will pre-warn you so that you can make preparations and keep you and your family safe and sound.

Digital Backlit Tuner

The radio includes a tuner display that is digital. This digital LCD display views the channel you are listening to and lets you navigate easily. What’s even better is that the display is backlit. So, it remains convenient even while being operated in the dark.

11. iRonsnow Solar Emergency NOAA Weather Radio

If you want the best possible solar radio at the most reasonable price, you should buy this radio.

FM/AM/ NOAA/ WB Radio

The radio features FM and  AM sounds, which help you listen to the news and other informative or entertaining programs. In addition, the radio also features NOAA and WB channels that allow you to get information related to the weather immediately. It makes you aware of the weather conditions around your locality and helps you stay cautious beforehand.

3- Way Rechargeable

You can charge this multipurpose device in three ways. First, you can just leave the solar radio to charge it via the solar panels and the sunlight. You can also take the help of the manual hand crank to charge this device. Lastly, you can connect the device to the USB cable charger that connects with it. 

Highly Portable

The device is very small and lightweight. Thus, it is very easy to carry around. The radio weighs only about 7.2 ounces. It’s dimensions are 5 x 2.5 x 1.6 inches. Hence, you don’t even need a place for it in your bag. You can just carry it around without feeling like you have added extra weight to your baggage while traveling.

3- LED Flashlight

This radio also features a 3-LED Flashlight which is very bright and will assist you when you are navigating your way through a dark forest at night time during a trek. Or, you can just use it as a reading light since it provides very bright and visible light.

1000 mAh Powerbank

The radio also acts as a power bank with which you can charge devices like mobile phones, tablets and GPS systems. It’s 1000 mAh power capacity can supply enough power to charge your device completely.

12.  iRonsnow IS- 388 Real NOAA Alert Weather Radio with Alarm

If you need a solar radio that has the best capacity for charging external devices, this is the radio for you.

Comparison Table

Things to Consider Before Buying a Solar Radio

While we have already provided you with a list ofbest solar radios out there, you may still be confused about which one to choose. For that reason, we have also listed out the things you should consider while buying a solar radio. Using this list as a reference can help you buy the solar radio that best suits your convenience. So, here’s what you should look for in a solar radio.

Emergency Alerts and Warnings

A good solar radio should deliver the National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) alerts and other similar warnings to you. For that, you will require a longer range of both AM and FM frequencies. Therefore, make sure you buy a solar radio that is strong enough to receive strong waves during the time of crisis.   

Public Alerts

Another essential thing a solar radio must include is a “Public Alert” or “NOAA NWR All Hazards” logo. If a radio includes any one of these logos, it means that it meets technical standards that are required to receive alerts that are confined to a specific area, or alert you with a tone before an emergency strikes in.

External Devices

While a good solar powered radio must keep you alert at all times, it should also make you well-equipped during emergencies. Therefore, it must include devices likeflashlights and USB charging portals so that you can keep your phone with you at all times.

Moreover, it should also contain vibration devices for people who are visually impaired and lights for people whocannot hear.

Multiple Power Sources

Of course, your solar-powered radio will always run with the help of the solar panel installed on it. However, it may not always be useful. Sometimes, the weather stays cloudy the entire day and you will not have a choice but to pray that the next day would be a sunny one.

Therefore, despite being able to recharge itself via the sun and run on batteries, your solar radio must also have the option of charging it electrically via USB portals.

Waterproof and Weatherproof

Obviously, if we had to face weather or a natural emergency, we cannot reside indoors. We never know what weather conditions we have to face. In such a situation, having a solar radio that gives up because of water or snow is just not acceptable.

Therefore, you must make sure your solar-powered radio is both waterproof and weatherproof and will stay with you the entire time you need it.

FAQs

Conclusion

You now might have gathered an idea about how you can get the best possible solar radio and use it to stay safe during disasters. So, we recommend that you go and get one as soon as possible. We hope you find the best radio that helps keep you and your family safe and sound.

(Last Updated on June 30, 2022 by Sadrish Dabadi)