Best Antenna Portable Shortwave Radios of 2025

Jerry Franklin Avatar
Jerry Franklin
Last Updated: Jan 8, 2025

* We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

Antenna portable shortwave radios are perfect for those who love to explore the great outdoors or for those who simply want to stay connected in case of emergencies. With their compact and lightweight design, these radios can easily fit in a backpack or pocket. They are equipped with an antenna that allows for reception of a wide range of frequencies, making it easy to tune in to local and international stations. These radios are also battery-powered, making them ideal for use in remote areas without access to electricity. Overall, antenna portable shortwave radios are a reliable and convenient option for anyone looking for a portable radio.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

DreamSky Portable AM FM Radio Cover #TOP 1
DreamSky Portable AM FM Radio
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Retekess TR638 Portable Radio Cover #TOP 2
Retekess TR638 Portable Radio
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Raddy RF886 Portable Radio Cover #TOP 3
Raddy RF886 Portable Radio
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Antenna Portable Shortwave Radios

#TOP 1

DreamSky Portable AM FM Radio

Grey
DreamSky Portable AM FM Radio Cover
DreamSky AM FM Radio Portable - Shortwave Radio Battery Powered or Plug in Wall for Home Outdoor, Strong Reception, Large Dial Easy to Use, Digital Time Display, Transistor Antenna, Seniors Small Gfit

The DreamSky Portable Radio offers a fantastic listening experience with its large speaker that delivers clear and loud sound, perfect for enjoying music or catching up on the news. It features strong reception capabilities, ensuring you can easily tune into AM, FM, and shortwave stations, even in remote areas. The user-friendly analog dials make it simple for you to adjust the volume and find your desired station with ease. Additionally, the digital LCD time display with backlight allows you to see the time and station clearly, even in low light, enhancing your overall convenience while using the radio.

What We Like
Clear, loud sound
Strong reception
User-friendly controls
Digital time display
#TOP 2

Retekess TR638 Portable Radio

FF9274A
black
Retekess TR638 Portable Radio Cover
Retekess TR638 Portable Radios AM FM,Digital Shortwave Radio,Adjustable Brightness Display,External Antenna Jack,USB/TF,Bluetooth Radio for Home

Retekess Portable Radio is a versatile device that offers AM FM radio reception with the best signal, thanks to its external antenna jack. The adjustable display brightness allows you to set the perfect level for day or night viewing. With Bluetooth connectivity, you can stream music wirelessly or play your favorite songs from a USB/TF card. The timer switch function lets you set sleep and wake-up timers, ensuring you fall asleep and wake up to your preferred radio stations or music.

What We Like
Best reception
Adjustable display brightness
Bluetooth connectivity
Time switch function

Raddy RF886 Portable Radio

Raddy
black
Raddy RF886 Portable Radio Cover
Raddy RF886 Portable Shortwave Radio AM/FM/SW/VHF/WB Digital Radio BT Connection with NOAA and Alert, Rechargeable Pocket Radio w/ 9.85 Ft Wire Antenna

The Raddy Portable Radio is a versatile device that goes beyond standard FM/AM radios. It includes VHF and shortwave bands, allowing you to access a wider range of radio stations. Stay updated on weather conditions with 7 NOAA weather bands. Enjoy precise digital tuning and store up to 396 stations effortlessly. Benefit from dual antennas for stronger signal reception, ensuring a powerful radio capability wherever you go. With BT connectivity, you can connect to BT devices for excellent sound quality and enjoy private listening with headphones.

What We Like
Broader Reception Range
Digital Tuning with Station Storage
Dual Antennas for Strong Reception

Eton Elite Mini Compact Radio

NELITEMINI
Orange
Eton Elite Mini Compact Radio Cover
Eton - Elite Mini Compact AM/FM/Shortwave Radio, Internal AM Antenna and Telescoping FM/SW Antenna, Clock and Alarm, Sleep Timer, Custom Leather Case Included, Commitment to Preparedness

The Eton Elite Mini Compact AM/FM/Shortwave Radio is a mini radio receiver that allows you to tune in to your favorite local stations or listen to news and music from across the globe. Its versatile features include digital tuning, internal AM antenna, telescopic FM/SW antenna, rich orange LCD display, sleep timer, clock and alarm, and custom vegan leather carrying case. Eton is committed to your safety and emergency preparedness, and offers a range of products to keep you connected and informed in any situation.

What We Like
Compact and portable
Versatile features including digital tuning and sleep timer
Comes with custom vegan leather carrying case

Raddy RF750 Portable Shortwave Radio

RF750
Olive Green
Raddy RF750 Portable Shortwave Radio Cover
Raddy RF750 Portable Shortwave Radio AM/FM/SW/WB Receiver with NOAA Alerts - Pocket Retro Mini Radio Rechargeable, w/ 9.85 Ft Wire Antenna

The Raddy RF750 Portable Shortwave Radio is a 3-in-1 device that combines a radio, Bluetooth speaker, and SD card music player. It has AM/FM/SW/WB Radio, improved reception, a vintage equalizer look, a compact size, and a NOAA weather alert. It is perfect for campers, hikers, and emergency preparedness.

What We Like
3-in-1: Radio, Bluetooth speaker, SD card music player
Improved reception with embedded DSP chip
Retro speaker with amazing sound
Compact size and USB-C charging port
NOAA weather alert

Greadio Portable Shortwave Radio

GR-T26
Grey
9.45*2.4*5.9in
Greadio Portable Shortwave Radio Cover
Greadio Portable Shortwave Radio with Best Reception,AM FM Transistor,LCD Display,Time Setting,Battery Operated by 4 D Cell Batteries or AC Power,Big Speaker,Earphone Jack for Gift,Elder,Home

The Greadio Portable Shortwave Radio is a great choice for radio lovers. It features a big LCD screen, a long antenna, and advanced DSP chip for a strong radio signal. It is simple to operate and convenient to use with two powerful charging ways. It has a premium built-in 2W speaker and an earphone jack for private listening. It is an ideal Christmas gift for your family and friends.

What We Like
Good reception
Simple to use
Portable and lightweight
#TOP 7

Panasonic Portable AM/FM Radio

RF-2400
Silver
9.2 x 4.8 x 3.2
Panasonic Portable AM/FM Radio Cover
Panasonic Portable AM / FM Radio, Battery Operated Analog Radio, AC Powered, Silver (RF-2400D)

The Panasonic Portable AM/FM Radio (RF-2400D) is a simple, easy-to-use handheld radio with digital tuner and antennas that pick up both AM and FM signals. It has a large dial with fluorescent pointer for easy viewing, even in the dark, and a digital tuner with AFC (Auto Frequency Control) for easy and stable tuning. It can be powered by batteries or plugged in, and is compatible with any headphones with a 3.5 millimeter jack. Customers are highly satisfied with its strong AM reception, powerful-loud speaker, and quality build.

What We Like
Simple and reliable
Great sound quality
Clear reception
Dual battery supply
Easy to use
#TOP 8

Raddy RF75A APP Control Shortwave Radio

Raddy
RF75A
Army Green
Raddy RF75A APP Control Shortwave Radio Cover
Raddy RF75A APP Control Shortwave Radio, Portable Shortwave Radios AM/FM/VHF/SW/WB Weather Radio, Pocket Radio Rechargeable w/ 9.85 Ft Wire Antenna (Army Green)

The Raddy RF75A shortwave radio is a portable, multi-band receiver that offers intuitive app control and Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity. With a wider range of shortwave frequencies compared to the RF750, the RF75A can receive FM, VHF, AM, SW, and WB signals. The radio offers automatic scan and manual storage of up to 396 stations, crystal clear reception with its 9.85-foot wire antenna, and doubles as a personal music player with Bluetooth 5.0, a 3.5mm earphone socket, and a TF card socket. The compact and lightweight design makes it an ideal outdoor companion with a built-in flashlight and SOS feature for emergencies.

What We Like
Intuitive app control and Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity
Wider range of shortwave frequencies than RF750
Automatic scan and manual storage of up to 396 stations
Crystal clear reception with 9.85-foot wire antenna
Compact and lightweight design with built-in flashlight and SOS feature
#TOP 9

QODOSEN DX-286 Portable Radio

QODOSEN
DX-286
black
QODOSEN DX-286 Portable Radio Cover
QODOSEN DX-286 Portable Radio, with TEF6686 Automotive Chip,LW,AM, FM, Shortwave,Data System(RBDS/RDS),Antenna Attenuator,Antenna Switch, AMP Switch,1000 Presets,Tone Switch,Clock/UTC/Alarm/Sleep

The QODOSEN Portable Radio is designed for broadcasting enthusiasts who value high-quality sound and performance. It features the advanced NXP TEF6686 vehicle chip, ensuring excellent reception with minimal interference. You can enjoy a variety of functions like clock settings, alarm modes, and multiple tuning options, making it perfect for both entertainment and study. Additionally, its compact design allows for easy portability, so you can take it wherever you go. With 1000 preset memories, managing your favorite stations has never been easier.

What We Like
High sensitivity reception
Multiple tuning options
Compact and portable
1000 preset memories
#TOP 10

Retekess TR635 Portable Shortwave Radio

FF9269A
black
Retekess TR635 Portable Shortwave Radio Cover
Retekess TR635 Portable Digital Radio,AM FM Shortwave Radio with Best Reception,Backlight LCD Display,Clock,Battery Operated Radio or AC Power,for,Elder,Home

Retekess TR635 Radio is a versatile AM FM SW radio with a long antenna for excellent reception, allowing you to enjoy music, news, and sports both indoors and outdoors. With an external antenna jack, you can enhance signal reception, even in rural areas or urban settings, for clearer sound quality. The digital radio offers preset station options, making it simple for the elderly to use. Additionally, it features a clock display when not in use and offers two tone modes for customized listening experiences.

What We Like
Great reception
External antenna jack
Easy preset stations
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What kind of antenna do I need for shortwave radio?

An outdoor shortwave antenna will always give better results than an indoor one. A random length outdoor wire antenna installed as high above ground - and as far away from buildings and power lines as possible - will generally give quite satisfactory results.

2. How can I get better reception on my shortwave radio?

Most shortwave portables radios on the market today have a telescopic whip antenna that will suffice for casual listening. But often you can increase the antenna gain by simply adding more length in the form of a simple thin wire. Keep in mind that many radios actually ship with a clip-on antenna wire.

3. Is it worth buying a shortwave radio?

If you want a complete shortwave experience so you are able to listen to amateur broadcasters and communications from all around the world, it's worth the cost. Overall convenience. Other than the more technical stuff, you should consider features that make a radio fit your specific needs or interests.

Editor's Notes

During our antenna portable shortwave radio research, we found 24 antenna portable shortwave radio products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 170,343 customer reviews through our big data system to write the antenna portable shortwave radios list. We found that most customers choose antenna portable shortwave radios with an average price of $43.54.

The antenna portable shortwave radios are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of antenna portable shortwave radios, including DreamSky, Retekess, Raddy, Eton, Radioddity. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 3,186 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

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.