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Best USB Portable Shortwave Radios of 2026

Jerry Franklin Avatar
Jerry Franklin

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USB portable shortwave radios are a great way to stay connected to the world, even in remote areas where traditional radio signals may not reach. These radios are compact and easy to carry, making them perfect for outdoor activities such as camping or hiking. They often come equipped with a USB port, allowing them to be charged on the go with a power bank or other USB power source. With their ability to pick up a wide range of frequencies, including international broadcasts, these radios are a versatile and essential tool for anyone who wants to stay informed and entertained while on the move.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Top 10 USB Portable Shortwave Radios

PRUNUS J-150 Portable Radio Bluetooth

PRUNUS J-150 Portable Radio Bluetooth Cover

PRUNUS J-150 Portable Radio AM FM SW Bluetooth, Gifts for Dad and Mom, Retro Radios Vintage Transistor with Best Sound, Solar/D Battery Operated/USB Charging, TWS, Support TF Card/USB Playing

PRUNUS Bluetooth Radio is a small retro vintage radio that can be powered in three ways: USB charging, built-in rechargeable battery, and 2*D batteries. Its compact size and handy handle make it easy to carry around, perfect for outdoor activities like camping or fishing. Equipped with a long telescopic antenna and DSP chip, this radio has an excellent reception and can pick up more stations, including FM, AM, and Short Wave. The tuning knobs are intuitive and easy to use. In addition to being a radio, it is also a Bluetooth speaker that supports TWS, TF card, and USB playing. The faux wood grain design gives it a vintage look, making it a great addition to any interior design. It is a perfect gift for elderly, middle-aged people, and kids.

9.8
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Multiple power options
  • Good radio reception
  • Compact and portable
  • Bluetooth connectivity
  • Retro and stylish design

BAIJIALI BJL-671 Portable Radio

BAIJIALI BJL-671 Portable Radio Cover

Portable AM/FM Transistor Radio with Loud Speaker, Battery or USB Powered - Compact Emergency Radio for Indoor, Outdoor, Travel & Storms (Model BJL-671)

The BAIJIALI Portable Radio offers a versatile listening experience with AM, FM, and Shortwave capabilities, allowing you to enjoy a wide range of content from music to news. Its high-quality 5W speaker ensures clear audio, making it perfect for both relaxation and staying informed. The user-friendly design, featuring large buttons and an easy channel tuner, makes it accessible for all ages, including seniors and kids. Additionally, the radio can be powered by batteries or USB, ensuring you stay connected even during emergencies or outdoor adventures.

9.7
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Clear sound quality
  • Strong radio reception
  • Lightweight and portable
  • Long battery life
  • Easy-to-use controls

Jazmm Bluetooth AM FM Shortwave Radio

  • Jazmm
  • 6f9846ec-031e-4f5a-876d-0ee9460591cb
  • Green
Jazmm Bluetooth AM FM Shortwave Radio Cover

Bluetooth AM FM Shortwave Radio with NOAA Weather Alert,1250mAh Rechargeable Portable Pocket Radio with Best Reception,5W Big Speaker, Digital Tuner and Earphone,Support SD Card and USB MP3 Player

The Jazmm Bluetooth Pocket Radio is a versatile portable radio designed to keep you connected to your favorite stations wherever you go. It covers AM, FM, shortwave, and weather bands, so you won't miss important broadcasts or emergency NOAA alerts. With its built-in 1250mAh rechargeable battery, you can enjoy up to 12 hours of continuous listening without needing to replace batteries, making it perfect for outdoor activities. The radio features a powerful 5W speaker that delivers clear, loud sound, and it doubles as a Bluetooth speaker and MP3 player with TF card support, allowing you to listen to your playlists with ease and high-quality audio.

9.5
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Wide frequency coverage
  • Long-lasting rechargeable battery
  • Clear 5W speaker sound
  • Bluetooth and TF card support
#TOP 4

PRUNUS Retro Portable Radio

PRUNUS Retro Portable Radio Cover

PRUNUS J-110 Radio Portable AM FM,Transistor Plug in Wall AC Power&Battery Powered&Rechargeable Radio for Emergency Use,Vintage Radios with Bluetooth, for Dad and Mom, Grandma

The PRUNUS Retro Portable Radio is a vintage style radio that features excellent reception with a powerful DSP chip and 50cm retractable antenna. It has 3 options for charging, including AC power, built-in 1200mAH rechargeable battery, and D-cell battery. This 5-in-1 speaker radio is also equipped with Bluetooth 4.0, TF card, USB disk, and AUX mode, providing a rich and well-balanced sound of classic, country, and rock music. It is easy to use with a big analog dial, warm glow inside, and portable handle included. It makes a great gift choice for any occasion, and comes with a 12-month warranty, 30-day money back and 24/7 customer service.

9.4
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Vintage design
  • Clear sound quality
  • Bluetooth connectivity
  • Portable and lightweight
  • Rechargeable battery

Jazmm Digital Shortwave Radio

  • Jazmm
  • 344065df-d698-4d52-a9e3-225d09c653d8
  • Blue
  • 4000mAh
Jazmm Digital Shortwave Radio Cover

Digital AM FM Shortwave Radio with Best Reception,4000mAh Rechargeable Portable Radio with NOAA Weather Alert, Big Speaker, Digital Tuner and Stereo Earphone,Support Micro SD Card and USB MP3 Player

Jazmm Portable Radio offers a multitude of features to enhance your listening experience. With AM/FM/SW digital radio, you can enjoy a variety of programs ranging from news to music. The simple one-click input allows easy station switching and preset saving for quick access. Equipped with a 4000mAh rechargeable battery, it ensures extended usage time and supports 4D cell batteries for outdoor adventures. Additionally, it functions as an MP3 music player, allowing you to enjoy your favorite songs on the go. Stay prepared for any weather condition with the NOAA weather alert feature.

9.2
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Clear LCD Display
  • Long Battery Life
  • MP3 Playback Support
#TOP 6

Sangean WR-16SE Anniversary Special Edition Radio

Sangean WR-16SE Anniversary Special Edition Radio Cover

Sangean WR-16SE AM/FM/Bluetooth/Aux-in/USB Phone Charging 45th Anniversary Special Edition Wooden Cabinet Radio (Dark Walnut with Rose Gold)

The Sangean WR-16SE Anniversary Special Edition Radio is a portable shortwave radio that features Bluetooth 4.1 Class II wireless audio streaming, soft and precise vernier tuning with tuning and band indicators, deep bass compensation for rich bass with a 3 inch 10 watts full range speaker, and an auxiliary input for additional audio sources like MP3 and CD players. Enjoy the convenience of listening to your favorite AM/FM stations while also wirelessly streaming music from your smartphone or other Bluetooth-enabled devices. The deep bass compensation feature ensures a more enjoyable listening experience with rich bass, while the auxiliary input allows for even more audio options.

9.0
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Bluetooth 4.1 Class II wireless audio streaming
  • Deep bass compensation for rich bass with a 3 inch 10 watts full range speaker
  • Auxiliary input for additional audio sources like MP3 and CD players
#TOP 7

PRUNUS J-190 Portable Retro Radio

PRUNUS J-190 Portable Retro Radio Cover

PRUNUS J-190 Portable Radio AM FM SW Bluetooth, for Dad and Mom,Retro Radios Vintage Small Transistor Radio with Best Sound,USB Rechargeable,Rotary Knob Great, Gifts for Seniors

The PRUNUS Retro Radio offers a charming vintage design inspired by classic gramophones, adding a warm and stylish touch to any room. Its advanced reception covers AM, FM, and shortwave bands, so you can enjoy clear signals whether you're in a city or rural area. The simple rotary knobs and switches make it easy to operate, perfect for anyone who prefers straightforward controls without complicated buttons. Plus, the radio delivers rich, clear sound with a powerful speaker that fills your space with crisp highs and warm lows, creating a truly immersive listening experience. This radio combines nostalgia with modern convenience for your enjoyment.

9.0
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Retro gramophone design
  • AM/FM/SW advanced reception
  • Simple rotary controls
  • Clear, immersive sound

Emgykit Shortwave Radio

Emgykit Shortwave Radio Cover

Emgykit R11 Portable Shortwave Radio - 4000mAh/14800mWh NOAA/SW/AM/FM, Solar/Hand Crank/USB Charging, Bluetooth Receiver/USB/TF Playback,with Compass,Flashlight,SOS for Camping & Emergencies - Grey

Emgykit Portable Radio is a versatile device offering NOAA/AM/FM/SW radio stations, weather alerts, and both manual and digital tuning options. With Bluetooth connectivity, USB/TF card slots, and multiple charging methods like Type-C, hand crank, and solar power, it enhances your outdoor experience. The radio features 7 natural sounds for easy sleep, a headphone jack for private listening, and a timer shut-off to save power. Its emergency functions include a flashlight, SOS alarm, and emergency device charging, ensuring you stay connected during emergencies.

9.0
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Excellent sound quality
  • Multiple charging options
  • Compact and portable
  • Great reception for local radio
  • Useful features like flashlight and compass
#TOP 9

ONGTEED 7-Inch 720P Video Radio Bluetooth

ONGTEED 7-Inch 720P Video Radio Bluetooth Cover

720P 7Inch Screen AM FM Movie Video Radio with Bluetooth Speaker, Rechargeable Digital Shortwave MP3 MP4 Player Radio, Support USB/Micro SD Card, Loud Speaker and Headphone Jack (NO TV)

The ONGTEED 7-Inch Video Radio offers a large, clear 7-inch LCD screen where you can watch videos in HD, making it great for entertainment on the go. It has strong AM, FM, and shortwave radio reception, so you can easily find your favorite stations with the auto search or manual frequency input. With Bluetooth capability, you can wirelessly play music from your devices through its powerful speaker or use headphones for private listening. Plus, it supports USB and Micro SD cards up to 128GB, allowing you to enjoy music, videos, photos, and even e-books, making it a versatile gadget for all your multimedia needs.

9.0
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Large 7-inch HD screen
  • Strong AM/FM/SW reception
  • Bluetooth wireless playback
  • Supports USB/Micro SD cards
  • 3.5mm headphone jack
#TOP 10

PRUNUS J-211 Portable AM FM Radio

PRUNUS J-211 Portable AM FM Radio Cover

PRUNUS J-211 Portable Radio AM FM with USB C Charging and AA Battery Operated, Transistor Radio, Strong Reception& Clear Speaker, Headphone Jack, Back Clip, Lanyard, Small Radios Portable AM FM

The PRUNUS J-211 Radio offers great flexibility with two power options: you can use the built-in rechargeable battery for daily use or switch to AA batteries when you're outdoors or during power outages. Its large, easy-to-turn knobs make tuning and volume control simple, perfect for anyone looking for straightforward operation. The radio also includes a handy built-in flashlight, which is useful during blackouts or nighttime activities. You’ll enjoy strong signal reception across AM, FM, and shortwave bands thanks to its smart chip and long antenna, helping you catch clear broadcasts even in remote areas. Plus, the speaker delivers crisp and clear sound for a pleasant listening experience, with the option to plug in headphones for private listening.

8.8
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Dual power options
  • Easy-to-use controls
  • Built-in flashlight
  • Strong signal reception
  • Crisp, clear sound

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can you still buy shortwave radios?

1. Best overall: Tecsun PL-880 Digital Shortwave Radio. Tecsun is one of the better-known brands in shortwave radios, and one of the few that still consistently produces shortwave-capable radios.

2. What is the most sensitive shortwave radio?

Sangean ATS-909X ($200-250 US) You'll notice that, most of the time, the RRI broadcast is lost in the static.

3. Why are short wave radios not used anymore?

“Shortwave audiences have been in decline since then.” “AM broadcasting is expensive, and, since the end of the Cold War, many Western governments don't see the need to spend large amounts on transmitting their output on shortwave,” said Sennitt. “As a result, some have closed down their shortwave services altogether.

4. Can you use your phone as a shortwave radio?

With a shortwave radio listening app, you can track down broadcasts, find the ideal frequency to listen to at any time of day, and more. These apps are available for both Android and iOS phones, so there's something for everyone. We've put together a list of some of the best shortwave radio app options today.

Editor's Notes

During our usb portable shortwave radio research, we found 24 usb portable shortwave radio products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 41,661 customer reviews through our big data system to write the usb portable shortwave radios list. We found that most customers choose usb portable shortwave radios with an average price of $29.26.

The usb portable shortwave radios are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of usb portable shortwave radios, including PRUNUS, BAIJIALI, Jazmm, Sangean, Emgykit. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 974 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

Written by

Jerry Franklin Avatar

Jerry Franklin

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.