10 Best Shortwave Radios 2025 in the United States

The C.Crane CCRadio-2E is a solid choice if you want a portable radio that covers AM, FM, NOAA weather alerts, and even the 2-Meter Ham band for emergency communication. Its standout feature is the Twin-Coil Ferrite Antenna, which delivers strong AM reception, making it easier to pick up distant stations clearly. The radio is fairly lightweight at 4 pounds, and can run for up to 250 hours on four D-sized batteries, which is well suited for long outdoor use or emergencies without access to power. You can also use the included AC power cord when indoors.

Tuning is straightforward with five one-touch memory presets, a display light, and a headphone jack for private listening. It also includes handy extras like a clock, alarm, and sleep timer. While the radio doesn’t specifically mention shortwave bands beyond the 2-Meter Ham band, it covers key frequencies for general listening and emergency alerts effectively.

A minor downside is that it uses fairly large batteries, which may be less convenient than rechargeable options. Additionally, it lacks digital tuning, so you might need a bit of patience to find exact frequencies. This radio is well suited for users who want a reliable, easy-to-use device for AM/FM listening, weather updates, and emergency preparedness rather than someone seeking comprehensive shortwave coverage.

The C. Crane CCRadio 3 is a solid choice for those looking for a reliable shortwave and AM/FM radio with good long-range reception. It covers multiple bands including AM, FM, NOAA weather alerts, and even the 2-Meter Ham Band, which is great for emergency communication. Its patented Twin-Coil Ferrite AM antenna helps pull in distant AM stations clearly, and FM reception is strong enough to bring weak stations in without much static. Bluetooth connectivity is a bonus, allowing you to stream audio from your phone or smart speaker, which expands listening options beyond traditional radio.

The radio is designed with user-friendly tuning and offers 5 one-touch memory presets per band, making it easy to switch between favorite stations. It also includes handy features like a clock, alarm, sleep timer, adjustable display brightness, and a headphone jack. Portability is decent—the radio weighs about 4 pounds and runs on 4 D batteries (not included), providing up to approximately 250 hours of playtime at moderate volume. This makes it convenient for outdoor use or emergency kits.

However, the radio is somewhat larger and heavier than ultra-portable models, which might be less ideal if you need something very compact. While the sound quality is clear and pleasant for voice, it may not satisfy users wanting high-fidelity audio. Also, though it includes a weather band with alerts, it does not have shortwave coverage beyond the ham band, so it may not cover all shortwave listening interests. Lastly, the price may be higher compared to simpler radios, but the enhanced features and build justify it for many. This radio suits listeners who want dependable, long-range AM/FM reception, emergency features, and added Bluetooth functionality packed into a portable unit. It is particularly useful for emergency preparedness and casual shortwave or ham band users, but less optimal if you prioritize ultra-lightweight design or extensive shortwave band coverage.

The C. Crane CC Skywave SSB 2 is a versatile and compact multiband radio ideal for travel and emergency situations. It covers a wide range of frequencies including AM, FM, NOAA Weather, Shortwave (1711-29999kHz) with Single Side Band, and VHF Aviation bands. This broad frequency coverage makes it a valuable tool for receiving long-range information, especially during natural disasters when conventional communication systems may fail.

The inclusion of Single Side Band (SSB) is a notable strength, providing a reliable way to tune into distant signals, which isn't possible on standard smartphones. The radio's sensitivity and selectivity are enhanced by multiple bandwidth settings, and it offers both fast and fine tuning on all bands, giving users precision in their searches. With 400 memory slots and a digital tuning system, it’s easy to store and access favorite stations.

Its small size and lightweight design (6 oz without batteries) make it highly portable. Accessories like a fold-out stand, earphones, a carry case, and a 23 ft portable shortwave reel antenna enhance its usability and reception quality. However, the reliance on AA batteries (not included) for power, though it provides up to 70 hours of usage with earbuds, might be seen as a limitation for some users, especially those who prefer rechargeable options. The optional AC power adapter adds flexibility but comes at an additional cost. The radio's build quality and the inclusion of a high-quality speaker ensure a good listening experience. This radio is especially suitable for those who need a reliable backup communication device and enjoy accessing a wide range of radio frequencies on the go.