10 Best Shortwave Radios 2025 in the United States

The DreamSky AM FM Radio Portable is a versatile radio with several strengths, making it suitable for both home and outdoor use. It offers a wide range of frequency coverage, including AM, FM, and shortwave bands, which allows you to tune into a variety of broadcasts. The large speaker ensures clear and loud sound, enhancing your listening experience whether you're enjoying music, news, or talk shows. The high and low tone selection further customizes your audio experience, and the earphone jack allows for private listening sessions without disturbing others.

The radio's long-range transistor antenna contributes to strong and crisp reception, which is crucial for picking up stations in various locations, even remote ones. The large, smooth analog dials make tuning easy and intuitive, a feature that is particularly user-friendly for seniors or those who prefer a straightforward interface. The digital LCD time display with backlight is a nice touch, providing clear visibility of the time and station, even in low-light conditions. This radio is powered by either an AC adapter or 4 AA batteries, offering flexibility for indoor and outdoor usage. This can be especially useful during power outages or outdoor activities like camping and hiking.

However, there are a few drawbacks. The radio's reliance on AA batteries for outdoor use means you'll need to keep spares on hand, which can be inconvenient. Additionally, while the analog dials are easy to use, some users might prefer a fully digital tuning method for more precise station selection. The product's build, although functional, may not be as compact or lightweight as some other portable radios on the market, which could be a consideration for those prioritizing portability. The DreamSky AM FM Radio Portable is a solid choice for anyone seeking a reliable, user-friendly shortwave radio with good sound quality and strong reception, particularly suited for seniors and casual users.

The Tecsun Digital PL330 is a portable shortwave radio that offers a comprehensive range of frequency coverage, including AM, FM, longwave, shortwave, and single side band (SSB). This makes it versatile for users interested in exploring various radio bands. The adoption of modern DSP digital demodulation technology enhances its reception sensitivity and selectivity, ensuring better performance in picking up weak signals and reducing interference. This feature is particularly beneficial for those in areas with challenging reception conditions.

The radio's full-range speaker provides good sound quality, and the inclusion of a 3.5mm stereo earphone jack allows for private listening, which is a nice touch for personal use. It also includes useful features such as an alarm clock, a sleep timer, and 850 memory presets for easy access to your favorite stations. However, despite these strengths, the Tecsun PL330 has some drawbacks. Its portability is a strong point, given its compact dimensions (5.5 x 3.5 x 1 inches) and lightweight (7.4 ounces), but it is powered by a single lithium-ion battery, which may necessitate frequent recharging for heavy users.

Additionally, while the external antenna input can help improve reception, it might be an extra hassle for users who prefer a more straightforward setup without additional accessories. The Tecsun PL330 is a solid choice for radio enthusiasts who value a wide range of frequency coverage and modern features, though it may require some patience with battery management and external antennas.

The Tecsun PL880 is a solid choice for those interested in shortwave radios, especially if you're looking for a portable option with extensive frequency coverage. It supports AM, FM, Longwave, and Shortwave bands, offering versatile listening experiences. The PLL synthesized digital dual conversion receiver is designed to provide excellent sensitivity and selectivity, making it easier to pick up weak signals and enjoy clearer audio. Users will appreciate the selectable bandwidth filters for AM and SSB, allowing for a more tailored listening experience. Additionally, the radio features a sleep timer and an alarm clock, adding practical functionality for everyday use.

One of the standout aspects is its portability; it’s compact and lightweight, making it ideal for travel or outdoor activities. The included battery ensures you can use it without needing a power outlet. However, it's important to note that the radio does require 1 AA battery, which might need to be replaced frequently depending on usage.

While the PL880 has many strengths, it does have a few drawbacks. Some users might find the tuning method a bit challenging, especially if they're not familiar with shortwave radios. The tuning steps at 10 Hz provide precision, but it might take time to find the desired station. Additionally, a few users have mentioned occasional difficulties with the reception quality in certain areas, which could vary based on local conditions.

The Tecsun PL880 is a well-rounded portable shortwave radio that is particularly suited for enthusiasts and travelers seeking good performance and versatility in a compact design. Just keep in mind the potential learning curve with tuning and the variable reception based on your location.