The Best Hand Crank Phone Charger For 2024

William Shatner By, William Shatner
Updated
RunningSnail Emergency Crank Radio
Image credit: Amazon.com

The Rundown

1. Best Overall: RunningSnail Emergency Crank Radio

RunningSnail Emergency Crank Radio is the ultimate survival tool in any emergency situation. It's perfect for natural disasters, power outages and emergencies. The crank radio receives NOAA broadcasts for your area and provides safety information like hurricanes, tornadoes and so on. It has a full charge feature that also works as a backup battery to charge your phone in case of an emergency. Read Review

2. Best For The Price: Kaito KA500 5-way Powered Solar Power

The Kaito KA500 is a 5-way powered solar power AM/FM receiver with 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. The KA500 comes with a telescopic antenna that 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. Read Review

3. Best Quality: Raynic Weather Radio 5000 Solar Hand Crank

Stay safe in any weather event with this Raynic Weather Radio 5000. This NOAA weather alert radio are designed specifically for emergency needs. Firstly, it requires being powered on and manually tuned into a local weather station to receive alerts. It has standard analog tuning of AM/FM/SW/7 preset NOAA weather channels. The alerts can be set up to three different levels: Alert, Watch, and Extreme. Read Review

4. Best Convenient: Auto NOAA Digital 5000 Weather Radio

The Auto NOAA Digital 5000 Weather Radio is a reliable way to stay connected and prepared. This weather radio has a charge indicator so you'll know when your power is running low. It also includes a reading light and flashlight, so you can use it in the event of an emergency or power failure. This device is perfect for the outdoors person because it has 2 brightness settings for both the flashlight and reading light. Read Review

Are you frustrated about not being able to use your phone when it’s running out of battery? Are you tired of being left without any way to charge your phone quickly and conveniently? You are not alone. Many people find it extremely annoying not to be able to use their phones when they need them most. If this sounds like something that you can relate to, we have some great news for you: There is a solution! With the best hand crank phone charger, you will never struggle with a dead battery or an empty cell again.

These devices are small and compact, which means that they can fit into any bag or purse. You don’t need special skills or tools to operate one of these chargers either. They also do not require batteries, which saves you money and reduces waste. Keep reading to learn more about the benefits of these devices and our top recommendations in this regard:

However, after investing in 15, we've come up with a name that's worthy of your requirement: RunningSnail Emergency Crank Radio. If you desire extra features not included in this model, you might look into another one, Kaito KA500 5-way Powered Solar Power. It could better suit your needs.

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 RunningSnail Emergency Crank Radio
Our Score:
9.7
RunningSnail
  • ★【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.
  • ★【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!
  • ★【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!
TOP Choice #2 Kaito KA500 5-way Powered Solar Power
Our Score:
9.6
Kaito
  • 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
  • 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)
  • Made of strong premium impact-resistant and water-resistant ABS material, suitable for both indoors home/office use and outdoors recreational activities
  • 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
  • 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
TOP Choice #3 Raynic Weather Radio 5000 Solar Hand Crank
Our Score:
9.5
Raynic
  • NOAA ALERT RADIO - This NOAA weather alert radio are specially designed for emergency need. But it requires being powered on and manually tuned into a local weather station to receive alerts. It has standard analog tuning of AM/FM/SW/7 preset NOAA weather channels. It is a particular device designed to receive emergency warnings for various life-threatening weather events such as cyclones, hurricanes, tsunamis, and other weather disasters.
  • PORTABLE RADIO & COMPASS - This pocket-sized portable emergency radio is surprisingly small and light. Its dimension is 7.5*3.5*4.7inch and weight 1.2LB, and it comes with SOS alarm function and a necessary compass.For hiking or trekking purpose this type of radio is a smart choice. Carrying around a large unit is quite difficult when you have to move around during emergencies.
  • HOME & OUTDOOR NECESSARY - This waterproof IPX3 emergency radio with a backup power source is reliable and necessary for home use and outdoor travel, so you’ll be ready in case of any emergency events. Packing included: 1*Raynic Emergency Weather Radio,1*Handy Braid belt,1*Carabiner,1*Compass,1*Micro USB Charger,and 1*User Manual.
  • MULTI-USE & DURABLE- The upgraded crank radios is enough to charge your cell phone or USB devices for a brief call or a text message during an emergency. And plus a 3.5mm headphone jack, allows you to enjoy radio shows without disturbing others. This weather radio with 3W integrated flashlights and 2.5W reading lamp are handy during emergency power cuts to see any signal in the dark. can be a lifesaver during dangerous disasters like tornadoes and hurricanes.
  • 5-WAY POWER SOURCES - The weather radios with multiple power backup options are the best choice.5 power sources including a hand crank, solar panel, and AC power to make it easier to keep the radio running during a prolonged situation where AC power is off.
4 Auto NOAA Digital 5000 Weather Radio
Our Score:
9.3
Mesqool
  • Digital Tuner for Accurate Focus & Large and Easy to Read Backlit LCD Screen---No more annoying analog tuner that is hard to focus,this newest 𝗱𝗶𝗴𝗶𝘁𝗮𝗹 𝘁𝘂𝗻𝗲𝗿 𝘄𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝗿𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗼 is super easy to search accurate stations.all the information of radio frequency/battery/charging status/time/alert icon/headphone/Volume/lock indicator clearly show on the large LCD display.backlight will turn off and enter power saving modes without any operation within 15 seconds.
  • 𝗦𝗢𝗦 𝗔𝗹𝗮𝗿𝗺/IPX3 Waterproof/Headphone Jack/Lock Button/Wrist Strap/Hanging Clip-----Features an SOS mode so you can emit a loud siren and flashing red light to ask for help.Connect with 3.5mm Headphone jack for private or quiet listening alone.this newest model designed with lock button to avoid messing your settings when touched some buttons accidently.include a strap and a heavy duty metal clip to attach to a back pack for camping.
  • 5000 Replaceable/Rechargeable Built-in Battery & 5 Power Options----This 𝗪𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝗿𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗼 comes with 5000 large-capacity rechargeable Li-ion battery can charge more than one cellphone in emergecy.5 power options,never worry it power off anytime.when the built-in li-ion battery is power off,it will effortlessly charge via the backup power sources include manual winding up handle,solar panel,micro USB input connection or 3 pcs AAA battery.
  • Auto/Manual 𝗡𝗢𝗔𝗔 𝗪𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝗔𝗹𝗲𝗿𝘁 Preset, WX Timer & AM/FM/Shortwave Radio-----Once preset WX alert function,it will auto- scan all the 7 NOAA weather channels to alert you right with a siren and red flashing indicator when important updates from the national weather service were released,especially at night you are sleeping.WX function will be disabled when timer ends up(2H,4H,6H,8H,12H,16H,20H,24H or OFF).It works perfectly for listening to local AM FM radio and shortwave radio.
  • Keep Your Device Charged & High Illuminated Flashlight / Reading Lamp with 2 Brightness Options----Essential for emergencies,backout or power failure,it works not only as a weather radio but also emergency cellphone charger,a handy outdoor camping 3W flashlight or 2.5W reading light.enable you to boost your phone to get intouch and ask for a help.both led flashlight and reading lamp can be set with 2 optional brightness settings to meet individual needs.
  • 【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.
  • 【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.
  • 💎 【Prepared Yourself Ahead with 𝗡𝗢𝗔𝗔 𝗪𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝗔𝗹𝗲𝗿𝘁 𝗥𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗼】PPLEE weather radio will keep your family safe through natural disasters like hurricanes, earthquakes, wildfires, Snowstorms, and so on! Select your local weather station, this emergency radio can timely report various life-threatening severe weather issued by National Weather Service, alert you with a loud siren and flashing red light, never miss a critical time to get prepared even at night while you are sleeping!
  • 💎 【Great Reception for 𝗔𝗠 𝗙𝗠 𝗦𝗵𝗼𝗿𝘁𝘄𝗮𝘃𝗲 𝗥𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗼】Added a 3.5mm headphone jack and adjustable antenna, this 𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗿𝗴𝗲𝗻𝗰𝘆 𝗳𝗹𝗮𝘀𝗵𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁 𝗿𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗼 helps you to enjoy the AM/FM/SW radio with crystal sound and good signal. The big tuning knob makes it easier to tune into your favorite channel manually. The dimension of this 𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗰𝗿𝗮𝗻𝗸 𝗿𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗼 is 6.69 x 3.74 x 2.36 inches and weight 1LB, which is surprisingly small and light to carry around.
  • 💎 【Solid Product with Strong After-sale Service】Our 𝘄𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗽𝗿𝗼𝗼𝗳 𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗿𝗴𝗲𝗻𝗰𝘆 𝘄𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝗮𝗹𝗲𝗿𝘁 𝗿𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗼 with versatile functions can be your life-savor! We also provide an 18-months Warranty, 24/7 customer service. Any questions, pls contact us via Amazon or our support email address. Add to the cart, you will never regret purchasing this 𝗰𝗿𝗮𝗻𝗸 𝗳𝗹𝗮𝘀𝗵𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁 𝗿𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗼!
  • 💎 【Never Power Outage with 5 Charging Ways】This 𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗿𝗴𝗲𝗻𝗰𝘆 𝘄𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝗿𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗼 with multiple power backup options is the best value for 𝘀𝘂𝗿𝘃𝗶𝘃𝗮𝗹 𝗿𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗼 in this market. 5 power sources - 5000 Large Capacity Built-in Battery, Solar, Crank, 5V USB Input, 3*aaa Battery. No matter what emergency you’re in, it never runs out of electricity! Also works with most USB powered devices, this 𝘀𝘂𝗿𝘃𝗶𝘃𝗮𝗹 𝗴𝗲𝗮𝗿 could provide enough emergency power for important calls.
  • 💎 【Light Your Way with High Illuminated Flashlight & Reading Lamp】It’s a smart choice to have this 𝗿𝗲𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗴𝗲𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝘀𝗼𝗹𝗮𝗿 𝗿𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗼 no matter for indoor or outdoor usage. Provides a 3W 𝗰𝗮𝗺𝗽𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗳𝗹𝗮𝘀𝗵𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁 and 2.5W 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁, this 𝗯𝗮𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘆 𝗼𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝗿𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗼 is designed to light up your darkness when emergencies, bug out, or power failure.
  • Easy to Carry & 12 Months Replacement Warranty - The size for this weather radio is just7.5*3.5*4.7 inch with 1.2LB weight, and we have included a carry strap and a hang buckle so you can take it anywhere you want, this emergency radio is made of strong ABS material which is IPX3 water resistance. A necessary tool for camping, traveling, backpacking or any other outdoor activities. A ideal gift option for adventurers. - We provide our customers with 12-Months Warranty.
  • Loud SOS Alarm Flashing Red Light & 3.5mm Headphone Jack - Simply press the SOS button for asking for help in case you are in danger or you would like to warn someone else, the SOS alert sound is extremely loud and can be heard miles away. There will be a flashing red light on in the meantime; The earphone jack on the right side of the radio allow you to enjoy the your favorite audio more clearly.
  • 2 Bright Light Sources & Compass - Light is important when you are in the dark, this crank radio comes with 3W flashlight and a 6 LED reading lamp, which are brighter than other radios in the market, with easy to reach switch button at the right side, user-friendly design to adjusts the reading lamp to the front, making it easy for users to set and adjust the radio when they are outdoors. The campass attached on the carry strap can guide you to the correct directions when you lose your way.
  • 5 Power Sources & Rechargeable Battery - This weather radio supports 5 way to keep device powered. It comes with the upgraded rechargeable battery to charge your cell phone, tablets or other devices. In case the rechargeable battery is power off, the solar panel and the crank lever can keep your radio connected and powered. You can install 3 AAA batteries into the compartment when you are not able to regenerate power, also you can just simply plug the radio in wall with DC adapter.
  • AM/FM/Shortwave Radio & NOAA Weather Alert - This portable radio has a wide range of band reception of AM, FM, Shortwave and NOAA weather stations with the extended telescopic antenna. Shortwave Radio allows you to receive some weird stations from other locations. There are also 7 weather channels are pre-programmed so you can easily tune into your local one, you will hear a Loud Alarm Sound from the NOAA weather signals if there is a severe weather hazard in your area such as storm, hurricane
  • Aux-input
  • Multiple power options; rechargeable batteries, hand crank, solar power, and AAA batteries
  • Receives AM/FM & Weather band Alerts
  • LED flashlight & emergency beacon
  • Charges your smartphone via USB
  • 【4 Ways to Keep Power】 Solar powered radio is not just direct charging by USB cable,but also supporting hand-crank powered , solar powered and battery charged.When the electricity saved by emergency radio is used up, don't worry. You can also chargeweather alert radio by Cranking or Solar Charging to ensure that emergency weather radio has electricity to accompany you through the blackout period.
  • 【LCD Screen&Weather Alert】This weather alert radio has LCD screen which gives you a clear picture of the remaining electricity,volume,channel information.And this emergency radio has weather alert function.Once receives bad weather information,"ALERT" will flash on the screen and the device will alarm.Prepare you for disaster in advance and keep you safe in the event of disaster.
  • 【 Multi Function& Service Gurantee】The emergency weather radio with 4000 mAh battery capacity, flashlight and SOS warning, comes with AUX music players, is suitable for outdoor activities.Such as camping,hiking,cambing.We guaranty a 12-month warranty and lifetime customer service to make it no risk for your purchase.
  • 【No Electricty?Don't Worry!】Putting in the dilemma of blackout?Staring at a dead phone battery in the storm?Don't worry.A 4000mAH power bank charge your phone in an emergency or disaster. During a power cut, the fully emergency weather radio provides up to 18-20 hours of flashlight time or 18-20 hours of radio play(depending on the sound volume)or 30-35 hours of AUX music play,let you out of the dark and don't feel bored.
  • 【Ready for Emergency 】This weather alert radio is a versatile unit ,which broadcast the lastest weather and hazard information for your area in time , such as earthquake, hurricanes, winter storms and other natural disasters,ensuring that best preparation for it in advance.Using FM, AM and NOAA weather forecast station, you can also get the latest weather broadcasting even in non-stormy weather.
  • ★【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!
  • ★【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.
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What to Look For in a best hand crank phone charger?

The best hand crank phone charger is assessed based on many factors. best hand crank phone charger research varies depending on the type, feature, and quality of this product. It is not too complex to cover, yet we will give you some buying guide and solutions to these problems.

Please take a closer look at best hand crank phone charger characteristics below would be beneficial for you. Let’s look through and keep in mind:

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

FAQs

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.

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.

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.

How Long Do Emergency Radios Last?

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

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.

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About William Shatner

William Shatner

William Shatner is a writer and editor who has worked in the audio equipment, computer, and projector industries. He also enjoys repairing and modifying audio equipment, and he has a particular interest in projectors. William is a critical thinker and problem solver, and he takes great pride in his work. He currently serves as the freelance editor of The Audio Insights.