Best Pocket Radios of 2025

Jerry Franklin Avatar
Jerry Franklin
Last Updated: Jan 16, 2025

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Pocket radios are small, portable radios that can fit in the palm of your hand. They are perfect for outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, or fishing, as well as for indoor use. Most pocket radios are battery-powered and can receive AM/FM radio signals. Some models also have additional features such as a built-in flashlight, alarm clock, or weather alerts. Pocket radios are a great way to stay connected to the world around you, whether you're out in nature or just running errands around town.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Panasonic RF-P50d Pocket AM/FM Radio Cover #TOP 1
Panasonic RF-P50d Pocket AM/FM Radio
ftb score rating icon 9.9
PRUNUS J-166 Portable Radio Cover #TOP 2
PRUNUS J-166 Portable Radio
ftb score rating icon 9.8
C. Crane CC Pocket AM FM and NOAA Weather Radio Cover #TOP 3
C. Crane CC Pocket AM FM and NOAA Weather Radio
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Pocket Radios

#TOP 1

Panasonic RF-P50d Pocket AM/FM Radio

RF-P50DGC-S
silver
Panasonic RF-P50d Pocket AM/FM Radio Cover
Panasonic RF-P50d Pocket AM/FM Radio Silver RF-P50D

The Panasonic RF-P50D AM/FM radio is a nicely compact pocket radio with a convenient Slide-Rule Tuning Dial and a Tuning Indicator LED for easy, one-finger FM/AM tuning. It also features a 2-1/4-inch speaker, an included hand strap, and is powered by 2 AA batteries (not included).

What We Like
Excellent reception on AM and FM
Good sound quality for size
Glowing tuning dial feature
Long battery life
Compact and portable design
What We Don't Like
Mono audio with earphones
Left earbud only operates

PRUNUS J-166 Portable Radio

J-166
Black
PRUNUS J-166 Portable Radio Cover
PRUNUS J-166 Portable Radio AM FM, Battery Operated Radio with Tuning Light, Back Clip, Excellent Reception, AM FM Radio Portable, Transistor Radio

The PRUNUS J-166 Portable Radio is a lightweight and compact AM/FM radio that offers excellent signal reception and sound quality. It features a back clip and lanyard for easy portability, a tuning indicator, a 3.5mm earphone jack, and a battery indicator. It is powered by 2 AA batteries and is perfect for camping, emergency use, and music, news, and sports broadcasts. Customers have praised its easy-to-use design, good sound quality, and excellent signal reception.

What We Like
Decent sound quality
Compact and portable
Good reception for AM/FM
Affordable price
Long battery life
What We Don't Like
Controls placement could be better
Limited tuning station indicators
#TOP 3

C. Crane CC Pocket AM FM and NOAA Weather Radio

CCPKT
Black
C. Crane CC Pocket AM FM and NOAA Weather Radio Cover
C. Crane CC Pocket AM FM and NOAA Weather Radio with Clock and Sleep Timer

The C. Crane CC Pocket AM FM and NOAA Weather Radio is a pocket-sized device that offers excellent selectivity and sensitivity for its size. It features 5 one-touch memory presets, a built-in speaker, a backlight, a sleep timer, a clock and alarm, and a removable belt clip. It runs on two AA batteries and provides a great way to quickly check favorite stations.

What We Like
Excellent sound quality
Wide volume range
Good battery life
Compact and portable
Intuitive features and controls
What We Don't Like
Pricey for a pocket radio
Speaker sound not amazing

Sangean DT-200X FM-Stereo/AM Digital Tuning Pocket Radio

DT200X
Black
Sangean DT-200X FM-Stereo/AM Digital Tuning Pocket Radio Cover
Sangean DT-200X FM-Stereo/AM Digital Tuning Pocket Radio Black

The Sangean DT-200X FM-Stereo/AM Digital Tuning Pocket Radio is a great choice for those looking for a small, portable radio. It features a drift-free PLL Synthesized tuner, 19 radom AM/FM memory presets with auto station scanning, a large backlit LCD display, and a removable belt clip. It operates on two AA batteries, and its high-impact ABS case measures just 4.2”H x 2.5”W x .75”D inches. Customers have praised its reception, sound quality, and long-lasting battery life.

What We Like
Excellent sound quality
Compact and lightweight design
Highly sensitive tuning
Durable build quality
Easy to use and manage
What We Don't Like
Cannot stand on its own
No alarm clock feature
#TOP 5

Sangean DT-400W Digital Weather Alert Radio

DT-400W
Yellow
DT-400W
Sangean DT-400W Digital Weather Alert Radio Cover
Sangean DT-400W AM/FM Digital Weather Alert Pocket Radio , Yellow

The Sangean DT-400W is a digital AM/FM/NOAA public alert weather radio with 19 random presets, a real-time clock, sleep timer, auto seek, and optional auto shut off. It features a built-in speaker with dynamic bass boost, a large backlit LCD display, and a stereo headphone output. The radio comes with a removable belt clip, FM wire antenna, and earbuds. It requires 2 AA batteries (not included).

What We Like
Excellent FM reception
Multiple preset options
Durable design
Good battery life
Compact and portable
What We Don't Like
Heavier than some models
Poor audio quality from earbuds
#TOP 6

XHDATA D220 Portable Radio

D-220-O
Orange
4.9*2.8*1.1 inches
XHDATA D220 Portable Radio Cover
XHDATA D220 Portable Radio AM FM SW Shortwave Radio Receiver Pocket Radio, 2 AA Battery Operated, Transistor Radio with Excellent Reception for Gift, Family, Elder (Orange)

The XHDATA D220 Radio is a compact and lightweight device, making it easy for you to carry it anywhere. With its simple three-button design, tuning into your favorite AM, FM, or shortwave stations is effortless, perfect for users of all ages. The radio features excellent signal reception thanks to its DSP chip, ensuring you can enjoy clear broadcasts no matter where you are. Additionally, the built-in speaker delivers loud and clear sound, and you can plug in headphones for a more personal listening experience. Stay connected and entertained with this versatile portable radio.

What We Like
Excellent FM and shortwave reception
Good sound quality for size
Simple, no-nonsense design
Phenomenal battery life
Affordable price point
What We Don't Like
Fine tuning can be challenging
Limited bass response

Retekess V112 AM FM Portable Pocket Radio

FF9202D
1.8*0.5*3.3 inches
Retekess V112 AM FM Portable Pocket Radio Cover
Retekess V112 AM FM Portable Pocket Radio, FM Receiver, Digital Tuning Stereo, with Headphones, Rechargeable Battery, for Walking, Jogging, Training, Church (Red)

The Retekess V112 AM FM Portable Pocket Radio is a great choice for those who want to listen to music, news, and other radio programs on the go. It features a lock button to prevent accidental operation, good reception and stereo sound, a long-lasting rechargeable battery, two tuning methods, and manual storage of stations. Customers have praised its solid build, great battery life, and good reception, though some have noted that the included earphones are a bit large and the lock feature can be annoying.

What We Like
Compact and lightweight design
Good sound quality
Rechargeable battery
Easy to navigate stations
Included earbuds and lanyard
What We Don't Like
Reception can be intermittent
Instructions are unclear
#TOP 8

PRUNUS J-555 Pocket Radio

J-555
Black
Pocket
PRUNUS J-555 Pocket Radio Cover
J-555 Pocket Radio AM FM USB-C Charging& Battery Operated, Excellent Reception& Clear Speaker and Headphone Jack, Back Clip, Flashlight, Transistor Radio, Portable Radio AM FM, Mini Radio

The PRUNUS Mini Radio is the world's first pocket radio that offers both AAA battery and USB-C charging options, ensuring you never have to worry about running out of power. Its ultra-compact design makes it easy to carry, fitting comfortably in your hand or pocket. You’ll appreciate the simple AM/FM switch and intuitive knobs for easy tuning and volume control, making it user-friendly for all ages. With outstanding reception thanks to its telescopic antenna and built-in DSP chip, you can enjoy clear sound quality wherever you are, whether at home or outdoors.

What We Like
Strong reception
Crystal clear sound
USB rechargeable
Compact and portable
Good battery life
What We Don't Like
Sound quality is basic
Confusing battery indicator
#TOP 9

VR-robot Portable AM/FM Pocket Radio

VR-HRD-MJX
Electronics
VR-robot Portable AM/FM Pocket Radio Cover
Personal AM/FM Pocket Radio Portable VR-robot, Mini Digital Tuning Walkman Radio, with Rechargeable Battery, Earphone, Lock Screen for Walk/Jogging/Gym/Camping Electronics

The VR-robot Portable AM/FM Pocket Radio is a compact and lightweight device that is perfect for jogging, walking, camping, and other outdoor activities. It features high-quality reception, MP3 design for exercise, lock screen to save power, and a rechargeable battery. Customers have praised its simple operation, good sound quality, and long battery life. However, some customers have noted that the earbuds are not of great quality and that it can be difficult to get a weak signal station.

What We Like
Excellent sound quality
Compact and lightweight design
Fast USB charging
Great AM and FM reception
Durable and well-made
What We Don't Like
Limited precise AM tuning
Small size may surprise
#TOP 10

Jazmm Portable AM FM Radio

Black
Jazmm Portable AM FM Radio Cover
Jazmm Portable Radio AM FM,Battery Operated Radio with 3W Large Speaker,Transistor radios with Best Reception,Pocket Radio with Back Clip,Flashlight,3.5mm Earphone Jack,Tuning Light,Gift for Elder

The Jazmm Portable Radio is designed for music lovers who want to stay connected wherever they go. With its upgraded DSP chip and 16.5-inch antenna, you can enjoy clear AM and FM signals, ensuring you never miss your favorite shows or music. The built-in 3W speaker delivers high-quality sound, making it perfect for both indoor and outdoor use. Plus, this battery-operated radio provides up to 20 hours of entertainment, and the flashlight feature is handy for emergencies. Its compact design and back clip allow for easy portability, making it an ideal companion for outdoor adventures.

What We Like
Compact size
Good sound quality
Excellent FM reception
Battery-powered convenience
Flashlight feature
What We Don't Like
Plastic feels cheap
Mono headphone jack
Buying Guide Image

Tips for Choosing the Pocket Radios

Introduction

If you're in the market for a pocket radio, you may be wondering what factors to consider when making your decision. In this article, we'll take a closer look at some key factors to keep in mind when choosing a pocket radio, from its size and design to its features and performance. By the end, you should have a better understanding of what to look for and be able to make an informed decision.

Size and Design

One of the first things you'll want to consider when choosing a pocket radio is its size and design. After all, the whole point of a pocket radio is that it's small and portable, so you want to make sure it's easy to carry around. A good rule of thumb is to look for a pocket radio that's no bigger than a deck of cards, as this will be easy to slip into your pocket or bag without adding too much bulk.

In terms of design, you'll want to choose a pocket radio that's both functional and stylish. Look for models that have a sleek, modern look and are easy to use. Some pocket radios have a simple, minimalist design, while others have more buttons and features. Consider what you need and choose a design that suits your needs.

Features

Another important factor to consider when choosing a pocket radio is the features it offers. Some of the key features to look for include:

  • AM/FM reception: Most pocket radios can receive both AM and FM signals, which means you'll have access to a wide range of stations. Look for a model that has good reception and can pick up a strong signal even in areas with a lot of interference.

  • Preset buttons: If you have a few favorite stations that you like to listen to regularly, look for a pocket radio with preset buttons. This will allow you to quickly and easily access your favorite stations without having to manually tune the radio each time.

  • Bluetooth connectivity: Some pocket radios have Bluetooth connectivity, which allows you to stream music from your phone or other devices. This is a great feature if you want to listen to your own music or podcasts, or if you want to use the pocket radio as a speaker for your phone.

  • Headphone jack: If you want to listen to your pocket radio without disturbing others, look for a model with a headphone jack. This will allow you to plug in your headphones and listen to the radio in private.

Performance

When it comes to performance, there are a few key things to consider when choosing a pocket radio. Firstly, you'll want to look at the battery life. Most pocket radios run on AA or AAA batteries, and some have rechargeable batteries. Consider how long the battery life is and whether it will be sufficient for your needs.

Another factor to consider is the sound quality. Most pocket radios have small speakers, so don't expect the same level of sound quality as a full-size radio. However, some pocket radios have better sound quality than others, so it's worth listening to a few different models to see which one sounds best to you.

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing a pocket radio is all about finding the right balance of size, design, features, and performance. Look for a model that's small and portable, has a sleek and easy-to-use design, offers the features you need, and has good battery life and sound quality. With so many options available, it's worth taking the time to shop around and compare different models to find the perfect pocket radio for you.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Do people still use pocket radios?

Yes, pocket radios are still used by many people today. They provide a simple way to listen to music or stay updated with the news. Pocket radios are convenient and portable, making them a popular choice for those who want a dedicated radio device.

2. Is FM CB better than AM?

Yes, FM CB is generally considered better than AM. FM mode offers better audio quality, clear and noise-free two-way communications. It also reduces background noise and interference, making it popular among CB users in other countries and radio bands.

3. What sounds better AM or FM?

FM radio stations generally sound better than AM stations. This is because the way AM and FM signals are encoded leads to differences in sound quality, performance, and broadcast range. While FM stations provide clearer and higher quality audio, AM stations can be heard from further distances.

4. What portable radios do police use?

Police often use the Motorola P25 APX series of two-way radios. These radios are specifically designed for officers on duty and come with unique features to meet the needs of law enforcement agencies at different department levels.

5. What radio frequency has much better sound quality?

FM radio stations have better sound quality compared to AM stations. The encoding of AM and FM signals results in differences in sound quality, performance, and broadcast range. While FM stations provide clearer and more enjoyable audio, AM stations can be received from greater distances.

Editor's Notes

During our pocket radio research, we found 24 pocket radio products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 82,486 customer reviews through our big data system to write the pocket radios list. We found that most customers choose pocket radios with an average price of $14.68.

The pocket radios are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of pocket radios, including Panasonic, PRUNUS, C.Crane, Sangean, XHDATA. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 856 consumers with an average rating of 4.8.

Written by
Jerry Franklin Avatar

Jerry Franklin's persistent curiosity and research inspire a love of writing how technical things work and help him build a wealth of knowledge in computer equipment and other electronic tools. He has always enjoyed great pleasure in taking all things apart and researching how to put them together again since his childhood.

Pocket Radios Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand Panasonic PRUNUS C.Crane Sangean Sangean XHDATA Retekess PRUNUS VR-robot Jazmm
Color silver Black Black Black Yellow Orange Red Black Electronics Black
Special Feature Portable Portable, Dust Resistant, Lightweight, Built-In AM Antenna, Shockproof Includes Earbuds and Removable Belt Clip Portable Portable Portable, Dust Resistant, Lightweight, Built-In AM Antenna, Shockproof But if there are problems with the battery or the battery is low, do not turn on the radio again, if you make sure the battery, please contact us freely, I am always here for you If the charging plug does not fit into the radio, so the radio will not charge. Please pull it hard to check if it can be inserted? If there is no harm, send me an email., Note: The automatic protection function: if it does not work, it will turn off automatically after 90 minutes, this time if you can turn on the radio again, keep listening. It means that the battery is no problem. Portable, Lightweight, Rechargeable, Built-In Flashlight Portable Back Clip, Portable, Tuning Light, Excellent Reception, Built-In Flashlight
Tuner Technology FM, AM FM: 87-108 MHz, AM:520-1730 kHz AM/FM FM, AM AM/FM/WX AM/FM AM FM AM/FM FM, AM AM/FM
Power Source Battery Powered Battery Powered Battery Powered Battery Powered Battery Powered Battery Powered Battery Powered Corded Electric Battery Powered Battery Powered
Radio Bands Supported FM, AM AM/FM FM, AM AM/FM AM/FM/Weather 3-Band, FM, AM, SW AM/FM - 2-Band FM, AM
Item Weight 4 ounces 5.1 ounces - 8 ounces - 6.7 ounces 1.9 ounces 3.6 ounces 1.59 ounces 4.4 ounces
Style RF-P50 Classic - Radio DT-400W Modern Modern Classic - Portable
Connectivity Technology - Auxiliary Radio - AM/FM/WX 3.5mm Audio USB USB USB Auxiliary
Batteries 1 A batteries required. 2 AA batteries required. - 2 AA batteries required. - AA batteries required. 1 Lithium Ion batteries required. 1 Lithium Polymer batteries required. (included) 1 Lithium Ion batteries required. (included) -
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.7
ftb score rating icon 8.5
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