No matter what digital era we are in, thousands of people out there still love old-fashioned tangible radio. Whether you are a fan of music on a laundry day or someone who loves dancing around the kitchen.
Radios will be radios, and no one can resist the classic yet the avant-garde style of these entertainment packs. Speaking of which, solar radios are becoming very popular recently.
They are cost-effective, eco-friendly, and perfect for radios lovers who suffer from electricity difficulties in their location.
Furthermore, there are solar radios for everyone, for your kitchen counter to be your perfect picnic accessory!
Walkthrough this detailed solar radios reviews and buying guide to make your pick and lead an eco-friendly life!
Read on for our expert reviews of the best solar radios available. Check the latest prices to ensure you get a great deal!
Contents
- 1 Our Top Picks
- 2 7 Best Solar Radios
- 3 Solar Radio Buying Guide
Our Top Picks
Image | Name | |
|---|---|---|
| FosPower Emergency Weather Radio | |
| UniPlus Wind Up Radio | |
| Mesqool Solar Crank Radio | |
| Midland ER300 Emergency Radio | |
| Vokida Wind Up Radio | |
| RunningSnail NOAA Solar Radio | |
| Greadio Solar Crank Radio |
7 Best Solar Radios
1. FosPower Emergency Weather Radio
FosPower is a very reputed solar device brand and offers highly reliable devices, which also holds true in this case. FosPower Emergency Weather Radio boasts of long life span and durability.
The built of this solar radio is highly reliable and offers multi-functional features like a power bank, SOS alarm, and flashlight. Furthermore, it also comes with a lifetime warranty, thus making it a bargain.
Features
3 Power Sources
FosPower Emergency Weather Radio can act as a high-quality power source for several of your devices in emergent situations. This feature of this solar radio gives you a power boost advantage irrespective of your location.
The integrated AAA batteries act as a capable power source to keep your devices charged in an emergency. Additionally, the solar crank lever and solar panel ensure a steady power source at any point in time.
2 LED Light Sources
This solar radio comes with a 1W flashlight and 4 LED reading lights to illuminate your path in the dark. Furthermore, this solar radio boasts a 2000 mAh battery capable of powering any phone or small table at all times.
NOAA Emergency Weather Broadcast
This solar radio is sure to receive emergency news and weather forecasts from AM/FM and NOAA stations in emergencies.
Furthermore, this article is designed with IPX3 technology and comes with a rain resistance rugged shell.
Limited Life Warranty
This article comes with a limited lifetime warranty which is perhaps the most attractive feature of this solar radio. You can explore the website of the brand to know more about the terms and conditions of the warranty.
Pros:
- It comes with a 2000 mAh battery
- It is multi-functional and can act as a flashlight, SOS alarm, radio, or power bank
- It can be charged via USB, solar power, and hand crank
- It offers a lifetime warranty and is water-resistant
- It boasts a long life span and provides a wide range of utilities
Cons:
- It has a low battery capacity
2. UniPlus Wind Up Radio
UniPlus Wind Up Solar Radio is a popular solar radio option among many as it offers a wide range of functionalities. Furthermore, it also boasts of being a solar-powered and hand-cranked radio on top of being a wind-up radio.
This solar radio also serves a variety of purposes – an emergency flashlight, an SOS alarm, and a power bank. This solar device can quickly charge your phones and tablets in emergency situations when they run out of charge.
Features
Multiple Charging Methods
UniPlus Wind Up Solar Radio boasts multiple charging methods and can even charge other devices to ensure your safety. This solar tool can be charged via four different ways – AAA dry batteries, hand crank charging, solar charging, and USB charging.
Furthermore, this device comes with an in-built 5000 mAh lithium battery and is capable of powering multiple digital devices.
Bright LED Reading Light & Flashlight
This solar device comes with a light source. This solar radio can illuminate your surroundings enough for you to distinguish between a bug and a leaf at night.
You can use the integrated LED lights as either flashlights or reading lights at your convenience.
Emergency Radio Support
The UniPlus Wind Up Solar Radio comes equipped with a loud SOS alarm. You can use this alarm to send signals to your pack or for help in emergency situations.
This solar radio is also suitable for extreme environments and thus is shockproof and waterproof. Then again, this solar radio reliably supports the AM/FM station, allowing you to stay up-to-date with news anywhere.
Easy To Carry
Emergencies don’t come with a predictable date, so this radio was specifically designed to combat such uncertainties. This solar device is very portable and a great addition to your emergency kit.
The UniPlus Wind Up Solar Radio is solar-powered and is practically energy saving.
Pros:
- It comes with a 5000 mAh battery
- It is multi-functional and can act as a flashlight, SOS alarm, radio, or power bank
- It can be charged via USB, solar power, and hand crank
- It is water-resistant and shockproof
- It boasts a long life span and offers a wide range of utilities
Cons:
- It doesn’t have any warranty period
3. Mesqool Solar Crank Radio
Mesqool Solar Crank Radio is a multi-functional, emergency weather alert, and rechargeable solar radio. This solar radio device comes with a hand power generator crank to keep your digital devices well powered.
This solar radio also serves a variety of purposes – an emergency flashlight, an SOS alarm, and a power bank. Furthermore, this emergency radio was specifically designed for emergency applications and helps you keep up-to-date with necessary details anytime.
Features
7 Pre-configured NOAA Station & Solid Reception On AM/SW/FM Radio
Mesqool Solar Crank Radio has 7 already programmed NOAA weather channels. To put it simply, even if you are out camping, you’ll be up-to-date with any extreme weather alert in your area.
You can also switch from radio to NOAA weather band by rotating the knob instead of turning the dial-up/down. Additionally, this device can also reliably get good reception even with its antenna down.
Multiple Power Sources
Mesqool Solar Crank Radio comes with multiple power charging options. You can charge this solar device via solar panels, crank handle, micro USB cable, or with its rechargeable battery.
This solar radio can also charge your digital devices through a USB cable. You have to insert 3 AAA batteries and set the power button to AAA before plugging any device to charge.
Bright Camping & 6 LED Reading Lights
Mesqool Solar Crank Radio comes with 6 integrated LEDs, which boast high-quality illumination capacity. You can also use this solar tool as a reading light at night. You just need to flip the solar panels outward to transform this device into a reading lamp.
Furthermore, it also has a bright 3W LED flashlight to keep you from tripping at night.
Emergency Cell phone Charger & Loud SOS Alarm
Mesqool Solar Crank Radio has an in-built 2000 mAh rechargeable Li-ion battery which can act as a portable power bank. It also has a solar field, hand crank, 5V USB input, and 3 AAA batteries that can charge your cell phone anytime.
Additionally, it also comes with a compass and a loud SOS alarm that’s loud enough to grab the attention of anyone.
Pros:
- It comes with a 2000 mAh battery
- It is multi-functional and can act as a flashlight, SOS alarm, radio, or power bank
- It can be charged via USB, solar power, and hand crank
- It is water-resistant and portable
- It boasts a long life span and offers a wide range of utilities
- It comes with a year warranty
Cons:
- It can take a while to charge
4. Midland ER300 Emergency Radio
Midland is a premium brand when it comes to solar devices and offers several reliable solar devices, a case in point. Midland ER300 Emergency Radio warrants an efficient built and purpose.
It has a battery capacity of 2200 mAh and boasts a 32-hour long runtime when fully charged. This solar radio comes with a 1-year warranty and is a multi-functional device. It also serves as a power bank, SOS alarm, and flashlight on top of being a solar radio.
Features
Multiple Charging Methods
Midland ER300 Emergency Radio can be charged via multiple sources – solar panel, rechargeable batteries, or with a dynamo.
Bright LCD Display
Midland ER300 Emergency Radio comes with a bright LCD display that allows you to see and set functions. It also enables you to see the time displayed by the digital clock and the battery level.
Powerful Power Bank
This solar radio also serves as a powerful charger for your digital devices – cell phone, etc. This article comes with a USB cable and output that allows any portable digital device to charge.
Multi-Functional
Midland ER300 Emergency Radio is a multi-functionality device, not just a solar radio. It comes equipped with various functions such as a cree 130L LED flashlight, ultrasound recall for dogs, and morse code SOS.
This device is also equipped with an FM/AM receiver specifically designed for emergency situations. It’s also an excellent companion for all your regular and outdoor activities.
Pros:
- It comes with a 2200 mAh battery
- It is multi-functional and can act as a flashlight, SOS alarm, radio, or power bank
- It can be charged via USB, solar power, and rechargeable batteries
- It is portable
- It boasts a long life span and offers a wide range of utilities
- It comes with a year warranty
Cons:
- It is quite expensive
5. Vokida Wind Up Radio
Vokida Wind Up Radio boasts a retro style and is very portable, serving style, and multiple purposes altogether. This radio is the perfect fit for those just starting with solar radios.
It’s practical, eco-friendly, stylish, and uncomplicated. This article also boasts of multiple charging options while serving various purposes. This radio can be used as a flashlight, SOS alarm, and a power bank.
Features
Powerful Power Bank
Vokida Wind Up Radio comes with an in-built 4000 mAh rechargeable battery. It can charge your cell phone, MP3, iPad, or any portable digital device with ease at any time.
Bright Reading Lamp & Torch
This solar device comes with an integrated LED torch with decent illumination capacity. The in-built LED light is fixed in the back of the solar charging cells. Hence, the solar panels need to be folded outward to turn the device into a reading light.
It also has an SOS alarm that can prove to be very helpful when lost in the dark while camping outdoors.
Multiple Charging Options
Vokida Wind Up Radio can be charged via multiple methods, four to be precise. This includes a solar panel, USB charging, hand crank, and 3 AAA batteries. So you don’t have to worry about the functioning of this solar radio even with no sun in the sky.
Waterproof
Vokida Wind Up Radio is designed with IPX3 technology and thus is waterproof. This solar radio is highly reception sensitive owing to its advanced semiconductor circuitry design and telescopic antenna.
Furthermore, this radio also receives channels like entertainment, talk shows, news, and sports apart from emergency weather alerts.
Portable
This solar radio is portable and has a compact size, allowing you to carry it in your pocket and bags if needed. You can also hang it to your bag via its lanyard, making it perfect for outdoor activities, camping, and weather alerts.
Pros:
- It comes with a 4000 mAh battery
- It is multi-functional and can act as a flashlight, SOS alarm, radio, or power bank
- It can be charged via USB, solar power, and hand crank
- It is water-resistant and portable
- It boasts a long life span and offers a wide range of utilities
Cons:
- It doesn’t have a warranty period
6. RunningSnail NOAA Solar Radio
RunningSnail NOAA Solar Radio is an excellent offering of RunningSnail, which is a high-end solar devices brand.
It has a battery capacity of 4000 mAh and boasts a 10 hours long runtime when fully charged. This solar radio comes with a 1.5 year warranty and is a multi-functional device. It also serves as a power bank, SOS alarm, and flashlight on top of being a solar radio.
Features
Energy Efficient
RunningSnail NOAA Solar Radio boasts a 4000 mAh battery capacity, which can last up to 10 hours if charged fully. Furthermore, this device can be charged via multiple sources – solar panels, USB charging, hand crank, and 3 AAA batteries.
You can keep this AM/FM radio long enough to catch up on the latest news with this large battery capacity.
Power Bank
RunningSnail NOAA Solar Radio can also charge your portable digital devices – cellphones if need be. Besides this, it is also highly receptive and automatically searches AM/FM stations.
It also has an SOS alarm to help you at times of need to keep yourself safe and known to the nearby rescue teams.
Bright LCD Display
The integrated LCD display of RunningSnail NOAA Solar Radio allows you to see the device’s battery level. Apart from this, you can also see the FM/AM channels and volume of the radio as well.
Furthermore, the LCD display automatically turns OFF if there’s no operative after a span of 60 seconds. This feature enables the devices to cut energy loss and function more efficiently.
Security & Convenience
This solar radio also comes equipped with a flashlight to keep your safety and convenience. RunningSnail NOAA Solar Radio gives off bright enough illumination for you to feel secure and safe at night.
Good Sound Quality
RunningSnail NOAA Solar Radio is specifically designed for outdoor activities like camping, hiking, and fishing. It’s also a great option for gifting purposes.
Moreover, this solar radio has a good sound quality and can be used as a speaker to play music at your yard party.
Pros:
- It comes with a 4000 mAh battery
- It is multi-functional and can act as a flashlight, SOS alarm, radio, or power bank
- It can be charged via USB, solar power, and hand crank
- It is water-resistant and portable
- It boasts a long life span and offers a wide range of utilities
- It comes with a 1.5 year warranty
Cons:
- It can take some time to charge
7. Greadio Solar Crank Radio
Greadio Solar Crank Radio is an affordable and budget-friendly solar radio device.
It has a battery capacity of 2000 mAh and boasts a 10 hours long runtime when fully charged. This solar radio is a multi-functional device and serves as a power bank, SOS alarm, and flashlight.
Features
Portable & Waterproof
Greadio Solar Crank Radio is designed with IPX3 technology and is very compact in size. This emergency radio is very portable and can be easily carried in a bag or a purse.
Multiple Charging Options
This solar radio can be charged via multiple sources – solar panels, micro USB cable, hand crank, 3 AAA batteries.
If fully charged, the Greadio Solar Crank Radio can run up to 12-10 hours as a radio and 15 hours as a flashlight.
Power Bank
Greadio Solar Crank Radio is capable of charging your cell phone or any other USB device when needed.
Flashlight And Reading Lamp
Greadio Solar Crank Radio comes with an integrated 1W radio flashlight and can also be used as a reading lamp.
This solar radio boasts of decent illumination capacity to illuminate dark spaces brightly.
Pros:
- It comes with a 2000 mAh battery
- It is multi-functional and can act as a flashlight, SOS alarm, radio, or power bank
- It can be charged via USB, solar power, and hand crank
- It is water-resistant and portable
- It boasts a long life span and offers a wide range of utilities
Cons:
- It takes long, 25 hours to be exact, to charge
Solar Radio Buying Guide
Feeling tempted to buy these solar radios, handpicked by a team of experts? Before you do so, you need to keep a few things in mind to make an informed decision on your part.
Walk through this extensive solar radios buying guide to make your way towards the best pick!
Key Takeaways
- A solar powered radio uses energy from the sun to power its internal circuitry, making it an eco-friendly and low-maintenance device.
- When buying a solar radio, consider factors such as battery capacity, additional functions (e.g., power bank, SOS alarm), and multiple charging options for outdoor use.
- Check the weatherproof and IP rating of the solar radio for durability and consider brands that offer warranties to avoid recurring expenses. Solar radios are wireless and budget-friendly, with low maintenance requirements.
What Is a Solar Powered Radio?
A solar powered radio is a battery-operated radio that uses energy from the sun to power the internal circuitry. Solar radios typically have a small solar panel on the front of the unit which captures sunlight and converts it into electrical energy. This energy is stored in the batteries and used to power the radio when needed.
How Does a Solar Powered Radio Work?
Solar powered radios rely on a small photocell to convert sunlight into electricity. Solar powered radios are often equipped with a rechargeable battery, which stores the energy captured by the photocell for use at night when there is no sunlight.
Factors To Consider While Buying Solar Radio
Solar radio is the perfect way for you to be safe and up-to-date in an emergency. These devices are energy & maintenance free and easy to install. However, solar radios come in every shape, size and have different utilities.
Therefore, it’s advisable to keep a few things in mind before going for it. A few of which have been listed below for your referral!
Battery Capacity
It’s crucial to consider the battery capacity of the solar radios. Solar radios come with rechargeable batteries. These batteries charge themselves via solar energy to function various operations.
Hence, it’s imperative to check the battery capacity of the radios before you invest in them. A battery is measured in mAh rating. The larger the mAh rating of the battery is, the longer functioning the article will give.
Power Source And Functions
Though solar radios’ primary function is to receive FM/AM radio stations, having multiple functions comes in handy. Some of the common functions are power bank capacity, SOS alarm, and flashlight.
Hence, it’s imperative for solar radios to have a range of functions besides primary utility for uncertainties.
Moreover, given one can never predict the weather or situation, it’s necessary for solar radios to have multiple charging options. Having alternate charging sources greatly helps while outdoors, be it emergency or non-emergency situations.
Weatherproof & IP
Solar radios run on solar panels. They accumulate energy from the sun during the day and utilize the same for functioning. However, solar panels are susceptible to weather (rain and frost) and dust accumulation.
Accumulation of any of these factors results in a significant drop in efficiency and potential damage. So, it’s imperative to check the waterproof and IP rating of the solar radios to avoid any damage.
Durability & Warranty
The solar radios function outdoors, so durability is a must. Also, solar radios are always in danger of losing their efficiency due to dust, debris, and water accumulation.
Make sure to invest only in those brands that offer a specific warranty period. Investing in brands that lack these factors might lead to recurring expenses later.
Benefits Of Solar Radios
Now that you know the factors you must consider before investing in solar radios. Here are the benefits of investing in these eco-friendly entertainment boxes!
Wireless
Solar radios are wireless and pretty easy to charge without having to worry about a nearby power socket.
Eco-friendly
Solar radios are super eco-friendly. They require no electricity to function. All you need to do is place them in a location with ample sunlight and let them charge.
Low Maintenance & Budget Friendly
Solar radios are very cost-effective and boast low maintenance. You just need to mindfully clean the solar panels regularly. Since the accumulation of dust can significantly affect the efficiency of the solar tools.
Conclusion
As we look towards a more sustainable future, Solar Panels Network is dedicated to helping you find the best solar radios for 2023. Our selection is designed to offer you a combination of innovation, reliability, and aesthetic appeal, perfect for the homeowner. With our expert advice, you can illuminate your outdoor space with confidence.
Our Expertise in Solar Products
At Solar Panels Network, our pride lies in the extensive expertise of our seasoned professionals and renewable energy experts. With the rising demand for eco-friendly and energy-efficient radios, we are dedicated to guiding you through the options to enhance your outdoor experience. By merging our vast knowledge with practical, real-world testing, we deliver trustworthy reviews.
Why Trust Our Reviews?
- Industry Expertise: Our experts have a deep-seated understanding of the solar industry, including solar radios. We stay updated with technological advancements to ensure our reviews reflect the cutting-edge options.
- Hands-On Testing: True to our commitment to authenticity, each solar radio on our list has been tested for performance and durability. We’ve assessed these radios in various settings to simulate how they’ll perform in your outdoor spaces, ensuring they can withstand diverse weather conditions.
- Transparency: We approach our reviews with a clear and open methodology. Every recommendation is presented with an honest assessment of its features and functionality. We aim to provide you with all the necessary information, free from any external influence so that you can make the best choice for your outdoor entertainment.
- Experience: Our team’s collective experience is invaluable in discerning the quality of solar radios. We’ve seen trends come and go and understand what features offer genuine long-term value. This experience is integral to our review process, providing you with recommendations that are not just based on technical specifications but also real usability and satisfaction.
As we look towards a more sustainable future, Solar Panels Network is dedicated to helping you find the best solar radios for 2024. Our selection is designed to offer you a combination of innovation, reliability, and audio quality, perfect for enhancing your outdoor entertainment. With our expert advice, you can enjoy your outdoor spaces with confidence.
Summing Up
Solar radios come in all shapes and sizes. However, before you invest in these solar tools, make sure to keep a few things in mind to make an informed decision.
Compromising a few factors over the other might cost you dearly. Although solar radios are versatile and offer a range of functions with little maintenance, there’s always the risk of damage.
That being said, choosing a solar radio is definitely not easy. However, you need not hit the search button as this guide includes each point in detail. Walkthrough each specification and make your pick from the top 7 solar radios in the UK!
About the Author
Solar Panels Network stands at the forefront of solar energy solutions, driven by a team of seasoned solar engineers and energy consultants. With over decades of experience in delivering high-quality solar installations and maintenance, we are committed to promoting sustainable energy through customer-centric, tailored solutions. Our articles reflect this commitment, crafted collaboratively by experts to provide accurate, up-to-date insights into solar technology, ensuring our readers are well-informed and empowered in their solar energy decisions.