The Best Hand Crank Charger For 2024

Tim Powers By, Tim Powers
Updated
Kaito KA500 5-way Powered Solar Power,Dynamo Crank
Image credit: Amazon.com

The Rundown

1. Best Overall: Kaito KA500 5-way Powered Solar Power,Dynamo Crank

This 6-way powered portable emergency radio is lightweight and includes a hand crank generator, solar panel, 3 AA battery compartments and a built-in NiMH battery pack. Read Review

2. Best Bang For The Buck: DaringSnail RunningSnail Emergency Crank Radio

The RunningSnail emergency crank radio is the best value for emergency radio in this market. The newest design includes 4000mAh battery and a super-bright 3 mode flashlight. Read Review

3. Best Powerful: Puiuisoul 4000mAh Weather Radios with Hand Crank

Weather alert radios are vital in the event of natural disasters. Puiuisoul's weather radio is built to withstand violent storms and water while providing a reliable source of information. Read Review

4. Best Portable: JALL Emergency Solar Hand Crank Portable Weather Radio

This radio alerts you to weather alerts in your area, keeps you informed of any emergencies, and is a must-have for any emergency kit. Read Review

Best hand-crank chargers are an essential part of every car owner’s kit. You never know when you might get stuck in the middle of nowhere with a dead battery, and having a hand crank car charger is the perfect solution for this problem. Fortunately, there are lots of good hand-crank chargers on the market these days. They come at many different sizes, shapes and prices. And while there are many things to consider before buying one, you need to focus on the main factors of power output and ease of use. Let’s look at some of the best hand crank chargers available today.

You'll have an easier time deciding with our Kaito KA500 5-way Powered Solar Power,Dynamo Crank recommendations, which have six ways to power up a hand crank generator, solar panel, 3 AA batteries, 5V USB input, 5V AC/DC input with a wall power adapter. 

Here are the buying guides that we specially made for you guys. Follow all the words below for successful shopping!

Our Top Picks

  • 6-way powered portable emergency radio with hand crank generator, solar panel, compartment for 3 AA batteries (not included), 5V USB input, 5V AC/DC input with a wall power adapter (sold separately), built-in NiMH replaceable and rechargeable battery pack
  • Works as an emergency mobile battery charger with built-in standard DC 5V USB output port for charging mobile devices, such as smart phones, GPS units, MP3 players, digital cameras, and etc. Other features include a 5-LED reading lamp, LED flashlight and a red LED S.O.S. beacon light
  • Made of strong premium impact-resistant and water-resistant ABS material, suitable for both indoors home/office use and outdoors recreational activities
  • Comprehensive coverage of AM, FM, 2-band shortwave and 7 pre-programmed NOAA weather channels for entertainment, sports, talk-shows, breaking news around the world, and 24/7 real-time weather forecast (USA and Canada ONLY) with PEAS (Public Emergency Alert System)
  • Telescopic antenna extends up to 14.5" for high sensitivity reception assisted by advanced semiconductor circuitry design and LED signal strength indicator for pin-point tuning accuracy, and built-in speaker delivers loud and crispy sound
TOP Choice #2 DaringSnail RunningSnail Emergency Crank Radio
Our Score:
9.7
RunningSnail
  • ★【Super-Bright 3 Mode Flashlight And Motion Sensor Reading Lamp】 If you are an outdoor enthusiast or need to walk in places without lights, the flashlight radio with 3 modes flashlight is a great alternative, which farthest lighting range exceeds10m, farther than the most other solar emergency radio. Also, a reading lamp with a Motion sensor will greatly help you get up in the mid-night to avoid waking your family. Add to cart, you will never regret that you purchase this crank flashlight radio!
  • ★【4 CHARGING MODES】Compared with 2000mah or 1000mah emergency radio on the market, the solar radio has upgraded to 4000mAh rechargeable battery, found in every household and easy to buy in the local market or amazon store. Also, Micro USB charge, Solar charge, Hand-crank could also supply the flashlight radio last for days after the storm had passed until the power back on. No matter what emergency situation you find yourself in, this hand crank light never run out of electricity!
  • ★【We Care About You and The ones Your loved】 In the past years, Our emergency radio has helped more than 10,000,000 USA Civilians to live through the hurricane, tornadoes and snowstorm season, like "Dorian", "Harvey, "Irma", etc. Your voice drives us to be the best. We back our emergency weather radio with 18-months Warranty! If you are not satisfied with this NOAA weather radio, we can refund you immediately as you contact us. And our customer service is here for you 24/7 for anything you need!
  • ★【The Most Powerful Life Saver Radio】Nature is unpredictable, but you can be prepared and ready in the face of her fury. The emergency crank radio with weather band and phone charge professionally get weather broadcasts the latest weather and all hazard information for your areas like hurricanes, tornadoes and so on from 7 NOAA stations at a crystal-clear sound. Earns a critical time for you to get full preparation advance, keeping you and your family safe with this emergency weather radio.
  • ★【2022 Newest Design MD-090P】Based on MD-090 emergency flashlight radio and customer's feedback, we've optimized and upgraded a lot of features. A biggest 4000mAh rechargeable battery can charge more than one smartphone, the most powerful lighting functions include super-bright 3 mode flashlight and motion sensor reading lamp. Also, external antenna, electricity label, comfortable hand crank, tap switch fit all your needs. The MD-090P is the best value for emergency radio in this market.
TOP Choice #3 Puiuisoul 4000mAh Weather Radios with Hand Crank
Our Score:
9.6
Puiuisoul
  • [BE THE MOST RESPONSIBLE SELLER]- Emergency radios use automatic gain control (AGC) technology to change their gain based on the level of the input signal. As a result, it's easier to capture the signal, whether it's NOAA or FM/AM. To ensure a better experience, if you are not satisfied with this hand crank radio, you can contact us and our customer service is at your service 24 hours a day! We will always be responsible for the products we sell! The product has an 18-month warranty!
  • [WE CARE YOU AND YOU FAMILY]- Portable NOAA stations at a crystal-clear sound weather radio with flashlight for lighting road in dark and SOS alarm ready to Nature is unpredictable, but you can be prepared and ready in the face of her fury. In the past years, our emergency radio has helped thousands of USA Civilians to live through the hurricane, tornadoes and snowstorm season.
  • [IT'S THE PERFECT CANDIDATE FOR LIFE]- The IPX3 waterproof radio with flashlight is a great choice if you're an outdoor enthusiast or need to walk in unlit areas. In case of emergency, you can press the "SOS" button and the emergency radio will sound an alarm so that rescuers can find it in time. Perfect for camping, hiking, kayaking and other outdoor activities.
  • [IT HAS EVERYTHING YOU CAN THINK OF]- While ensuring the basic functions of an 𝐄𝐦𝐞𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐲 𝐑𝐚𝐝𝐢𝐨 (such as NOAA/FM/AM, flashlight, solar power, hand crank, power bank), we have optimized and upgraded many features. The most outstanding features are the 3-mode flashlight and motion sensor reading light and battery indicator. Meet all your needs. Put one in your home, you will be happy with it.
  • [4000 mAh LARGE CAPACITY]- Compared with the 1000 mAh and 2000 mAh emergency radios on the market, the solar radio is upgraded to 4000 mAh replaceable battery. Hand cranking, solar charging, USB charging method. USB charging is the main power source for daily use, but you can use hand cranking and solar power to regenerate enough power in dark or no power emergencies. Charge your phone and other electronics with the 4000mAh emergency power supply. Always safe.
  • 【FM/AM & Weather Radio】A Life Saver radio! Get notified first for every weather alert in your area, such as hurricanes, tornadoes and severe storms, earn a critical time to prepare and save you and your family. Keep one in your emergency bag, you'll be happy you did.
  • 【4 Charging Modes】The upgraded hand crack radio has 4 power sources when you need a boost of power or need to recharge the raido. The hand crank lever and solar panel are both capable of regenerating enough power to keep the radio, lights, and SOS alarm ready to go when you need it most. The repleaceable 4000mAh inside ensure you have power when not able to regenerate power. Also, you can recharge the hand crack radio(inside the rechargeable battery) with power cord.
  • 【SOS Alarm to Keep Your Safety】******Feel free to find us on amazon.com for any question.******When you are in emergency, press SOS button to activate the SOS Alarm searching for help. Also, with the flashing light, you are more likely to be found.
  • 【Upgraded Design】The upgraded hand crack raido has a 4000mAh bigger replaceable&rechargeable li-on batteries. The most powerful lighting functions include super-bright 3 mode flashlights, motor sensor & reading lamp.
  • 【3 Mode Super Flashligt and Motion Sensor&Reading Lamp】When you start exploring a strange place, taking the IPX3 waterproof radio with 3-flashlight is your better choice. The furthest lighting distance can be more than 10 meter because of the powerful batteries. In addition, with the motion sensors, the reading light will help you wake up at midnight and avoid waking up your family.
  • 📻 DIGITAL TUNING FOR AM FM SHORTWAVE RADIO: This 𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗯𝗮𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘆 𝗼𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝗿𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗼 uses a digital tuning button to receive the 𝗔𝗠/𝗙𝗠/𝗦𝗪 𝗿𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗼, you can also hold press "Tune+" or "Tune-" to auto-scan an available channel. Included 3.5mm 𝗵𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗽𝗵𝗼𝗻𝗲 𝗷𝗮𝗰𝗸 allows you to listen to your favorite radios at night without disturbing others. The adjustable antenna can help to enhance signal reception when needed. Lock button to avoid accidental operation
  • ➽ AUTOMATIC NOAA WEATHER ALERT RADIO WITH TIME DISPLAY: No need to listen to the radio all the time before you receive the NOAA warn information! This 𝗰𝗿𝗮𝗻𝗸 𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗿𝗴𝗲𝗻𝗰𝘆 𝘄𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝗿𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗼 can also work as a clock, or you can just turn it off to save battery life. Don’t worry, as long as you set the automatic weather alert in advance, this 𝘀𝗼𝗹𝗮𝗿 𝘄𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝗿𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗼 will turn on automatic and warns you with loud alarm and flashlight red light.
  • ♔ A MUST HAVE SURVIVAL KIT IN YOUR EMERGENCY BAG: When danger comes, PPLEE 1009pro 𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗿𝗴𝗲𝗻𝗰𝘆 𝘄𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝗮𝗹𝗲𝗿𝘁 𝗿𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗼 may become your most reliable partner with these practical functions, just keep one in your emergency bag! It’s also a best gift for your friends or families, suitable for Christmas, New Year or Birthday and so on. We do provide 365 days warranty, 7/24H response. Any questions, pls contact us via Amazon or our support email.
  • 🔋 5 WAYS POWERED WITH LONG LASTING 5000 BATTERY: Do not need to worry about running out of power with 5 alternative charging methods: built-in 5000 rechargeable battery, 5V USB input, 3 AAA batteries, solar and hand crank. The remaining power of the built-in battery is also displayed on the large LCD screen to notice you. A 𝗺𝘂𝘀𝘁 𝗵𝗮𝘃𝗲 𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗿𝗴𝗲𝗻𝗰𝘆 𝗿𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗼 that can be your reliable life saver for indoor & outdoor activities, hurricane, heavy snow, earthquake.
  • ☄ 5000 PHONE CHARGER & CAMPING FLASHLIGHT & READING LAMP: This 𝗡𝗢𝗔𝗔 𝘄𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝗿𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗼 has a built-in 𝗨𝗦𝗕 𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗴𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁 to charge your phone or other devices for emergency use. 3W integrated 𝗰𝗮𝗺𝗽𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗳𝗹𝗮𝘀𝗵𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁 & 2.5W 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗹𝗮𝗺𝗽 are available, press the red SOS button, it will make a very loud sound and a flashes a sos mores flashlight, helps to increase your chances of being rescued.
  • Stay Alert: The “Alert” function automatically broadcasts any emergency weather alerts for your area; Keep it charged via solar panel, hand crank or a built-in rechargeable battery
  • Eton's Commitment to Preparedness: We're committed to helping you be prepared for everyday fun and unexpected emergency, whether you’re out on a 10-day backpacking trip or barbecuing in the backyard
  • Emergency Radio: Be prepared for any emergencies and disasters with this rechargeable weather alert radio with solar panel and hand turbine power generator; No emergency kit is complete without it
  • Multifunction Digital Device: This AM/FM/NOAA weather band digital radio with display and alarm clock can also charge a smartphone via USB port; Also features an LED flashlight and red flashing beacon
  • Keep Connected: From weather alert radios and backup battery packs to solar-powered sound systems, we'll keep you connected and in the know at home, in the office, on the road or in the great outdoors
7 Sangean MMR-88 AM/FM/Weather
Our Score:
8.9
Sangean
  • powered by handcrank dynamo/solar panel/dc input. public alert-certified weather radio
  • dc out(5v / 0.3a)usb a type socket for charging mobile phone or mp3 player. dc in(5v / 0.5a)micro usb b type socket for charging
  • receives all 7 noaa weather channels & reports
  • Included components: product, manual
  • 19 random preset stations
  • micro usb-b input to recharge lithium battery
  • Output wattage: 0.4 watts
  • Aux-input
  • LED flashlight & emergency beacon
  • Receives AM/FM & Weather band Alerts
  • Charges your smartphone via USB
  • Multiple power options; rechargeable batteries, hand crank, solar power, and AAA batteries
  • ★【A Must Have Kit For Emergency】Based on customers' feedback, we've optimized and upgraded a lot of features. 6000mAh rechargeable battery can charge more than one cellphone, the most powerful lighting functions include a super-bright 3 mode flashlight and motion sensor reading lamp. Also, Weather Broadcast, SOS Alarm, Electricity Label, Comfortable Hand Crank, and so on, fit all your needs in emergency. The MD-090P 𝐄𝐦𝐞𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐲 𝐑𝐚𝐝𝐢𝐨 is the best cost-effective in this market.
  • ★【6000𝐦𝐀𝐡 𝐄𝐦𝐞𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐲 𝐏𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫 𝐁𝐚𝐧𝐤】RunningSnail's emergency solar radio with a 6000mAh rechargeable battery, which could provide enough emergency power for more than one smartphone to make an important call to your family or contact assistance in an emergency. Also, Micro USB charge, Solar charge, and Hand crank could also supply the emergency radio last for days after the storm had passed until the power back on. Never worry the hand crank radio runs out of electricity!
  • ★【Super-Bright 3 Mode Flashlight And Motion Sensor Reading Lamp】 If you are an outdoor enthusiast or need to walk in places without lights, the flashlight radio with 3 modes flashlight is a great alternative, which farthest lighting range exceeds10m, farther than the most other solar emergency radio. Also, a reading lamp with a Motion sensor will greatly help you get up in the mid-night to avoid waking your family. Add to cart, you will never regret that you purchase this crank flashlight radio!
  • ★【Powerful 𝐄𝐦𝐞𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐲 𝐖𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐑𝐚𝐝𝐢𝐨】Facing the unpredictable natural disaster, the 𝐄𝐦𝐞𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐲 𝐂𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐤 𝐑𝐚𝐝𝐢𝐨 with weather channel and phone charge would be far more reliable than your phone. It professionally broadcasts the latest weather and all hazard information for your areas like hurricanes, wildfires, winter storms, and so on. Earns a critical time for you to get full preparation advance, keeping you and your family safe with this emergency weather radio.
  • ★【We Care About You and The Ones Your loved】 In the past years, Our 𝐄𝐦𝐞𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐲 𝐑𝐚𝐝𝐢𝐨 has helped more than 10,000,000 USA Civilians to live through hurricane, tornadoes, and snowstorm seasons, like "Dorian", "Harvey, "Irma", etc. Also, We back our 𝐄𝐦𝐞𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐲 𝐖𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐑𝐚𝐝𝐢𝐨 with an 18-months Warranty! If you are not satisfied with this weather radio, we can refund you immediately as you contact us. And our customer service is here for you 24/7 for anything you need!
  • Plan for unforeseen emergencies - Tenergy's multifunctional NOAA weather radio is a must-have tool during disasters such as power outages, hurricanes, or earthquakes; built-in tools such as led flashlight, SOS siren, USB power bank, and radio frequencies like AM, FM, and WM are critical in a crisis.
  • Tested and certified by CE, PSE, Rohs, and includes Tenergy's 1 year warranty and lifetime support with local support based in California.
  • Backup battery bank - the built-in li-ion battery in this weather alert radio can double as a renewable power source for cell phones and electronics when fully charged.
  • Multiple ways to power - recharge the built-in 2000mAh battery by generating energy with the hand crank or solar panel, or through other power sources such as the included AAA batteries or USB power source.
  • Emergency flash lights and siren - illuminate the dark with the two LED flash lights that can shine up to 120 lumens, or use the SOS light and siren which flashes SOS in Morse code to alert others to accidents or urgent situations.
Product Images, Product Titles, Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API

What to Look For in the best hand crank charger

Perhaps as a customer, you may be looking for a best hand crank charger that may provide you with just what you want, such as being environmentally friendly, freely selected, and so on.

In this section, we will discuss with you the buying guides and main factors to consider when planning to buy the product from e-commerce websites, so that when the time comes to make your final selection, everything would be laid out in front of you.

Extra Features

There are many features on emergency radios. These include SOS signalling and emergency buzzers, as well as table lamps and LED flashlights. Many radios can charge small electronics via USB. A larger battery is better if your phone is important.
These radios have emergency features that are essential. Make sure you look for one you can use to notify you of severe weather warnings from NOAA. A flashlight is a great option for emergencies.
Look for things that can help you find your way if you are trapped by floodwaters or in the woods. You can also use a flashing red LED light, flashlights that blink or have SOS or blinking functions, and an ultrasonic dog whistle or buzzer to help you locate your destination.

Weather Alerts

If you're camping or out in the elements, it is crucial to stay informed on the weather. You can also use it if the weather is unpredictable or you are at home without power.
You should look for devices that have access to the NOAA radio channel. Up to seven radio stations broadcasting emergency warnings and weather information across the United States can be tuned in. You can even tap into the station that is most pertinent and switch on whenever a broadcast occurs.

Size

Experienced adventurers know it is best to travel light to save time and make your journey more enjoyable. A compact radio is the best option if you aren't looking to carry extra weight or want to save space.
You will get lower quality sound quality if your device is smaller or lighter. It's not necessary to have high-quality audio in order to enjoy a weather update.

Durability & Waterproofness

You'll be more likely to drop your radio in an emergency situation or get it wet during inclement weather. You should look for radios made with durable materials such as bumpers or impact-resistant rubber skin.
Learn about the IPX rating system. It rates how water-resistant a device. This ranges between the device breaking down upon water exposure (IPX0), to being capable of enduring powerful water jets. (IPX9K).
Most radios we found fell within the IPX3 and IPX4 ranges. These are able to resist light rain or splashes coming from all directions.

Charging Methods

There's no way to be certain that the power will remain on in an emergency. It's likely it'll go out. Make sure you have multiple options for charging your radio. To recharge the battery completely, it is easiest and most efficient to do so.
Radios with disposable batteries are a favorite of ours. It is easy to stockpile and receive several days' worth of power with minimal investment.
Although solar charging can prove useful, it is slow and requires the sun to work. This can cause problems in severe weather. A hand crank is a good alternative charging option.
Hand cranks don't all work the same. Take note of what power each crank can produce. You want a radio with a high ratio of cranking and listening, such as 10 minutes per minute.

Power Efficiency

A radio's battery life, crank or solar panel does not guarantee that it can charge quickly or lasts long. You should verify the battery's average life before you spend any money. Any battery life that exceeds eight hours is good.
The time taken to produce meaningful power can vary between cranks. It can take up to two minutes for one minute of playback at the lowest end. You can achieve more than 10 times as many minutes if you work harder.

Battery Life

However, it's less likely that the battery will need to be charged every hour. The larger batteries for emergency radios are typically between 2,000 and 2,600 mAh. This should provide you with a full day's use, before needing to recharge.
Radios that are smaller and lighter will be able to store between 850-1,999 mAh. This will allow for more frequent use or shorter emergency situations.

FAQs

What Kind Of Radio Is Used For Emergencies?

Federal government suggests that you include a hand crank radio or battery-powered radio with NOAA weather access, alerts and notifications in your emergency kits.
Emergency radios are tuned specifically to be able to listen to AM and FM radio, as well as access NOAA weather channels. In case of power grid failure, they can be used independently from wall outlets.
A radio that can alert you to NOAA's weather warnings is a good choice. It doesn't need a plug and will work at the minimum. While useful, some perks, like integrated flashlights and USB charging ports, can be helpful, but they are not essential to emergency radios.

What Are The Emergency Radio Channels?

Your location will often determine which emergency radio stations you have access to. You should find the local channels as well as state emergency radio stations and keep them in your emergency kit.
The national weather service (NOAA), also has its own weather station. Non-weather updates will also be provided by the NOAA station.

How Do You Use An Emergency Radio?

You should make sure your radio is fully charged before you use it. You can access NOAA weather channels and your local radio station by charging your radio. Many radios also have a USB cable that can be used to charge the phone and act as a flashlight.

How Long Do Emergency Radios Last?

A good emergency radio will last for 5-10 years if kept dry and clean.

Do Hand-crank Radios Work?

While not all models will work perfectly, crank radios can be trusted. You can turn a crank to charge a radio battery. I.e. It should be wound up.
Although a crank radio is not as reliable or powerful as other sources of power, they can be used for a long time without needing to recharge.
The efficiency ranges from 2 minutes for 1 minute power to 90 seconds for 30 minutes power.

When Will I Need An Emergency Radio?

A portable emergency radio is a vital tool in times of crisis, such as a tornado, hurricane, earthquake or power cut. You will probably need an emergency radio, with climate change increasing and disasters related to weather becoming more common in many places. It is better to have this radio than not using it.

How Long Does A Crank Radio Last?

A crank radio generally provides 10-15 hours of radio talk time when fully charged. If other features are being used, the timeframe will be longer. You don't have to turn the radio on again to make it work.
There is no definitive answer to how long a crank radio will last. However, it generally takes 500-1000 charges to charge a device. If you don't have frequent tornadoes, you can expect to get a couple of years, if not even decades, out of the unit.

Conclusion

In summary, the best hand crank charger is the one that will provide you with exactly what you want. Provided that you are not satisfied with the models listed above, we propose Emergency Weather Crank Radio 6000mAh - Solar Powered, Hand Crank for you. 

If you are unclear about how to select an item for yourself or someone else at any time in this post, please let us know! Our team of professionals is always pleased to help you find the best match.


0 ratings

About Tim Powers

Tim Powers

Tim Powers is an audio equipment & home theater gadget reviewer and the editor of TheAudioInsights.com. He has been involved in the home theater hobby since the late 1990s when he purchased his first AV receiver. Tim is also a writer, with articles appearing in various online and print publications.