The Best Shortwave Radio Transmitter For 2025
By, Piers AnthonyUpdated
Short wave radio is a great way to stay in touch with news outside your home country. If you have access to shortwave radio or scanner, check out our list of the best shortwave radios and other equipment for listening to international broadcasters. Short wave radio is the most widely used international communication system.
It’s used by ham radio enthusiasts, military personnel, and government agencies to transmit messages around the world. The range of short wave broadcasting is very limited and transmissions are highly vulnerable to interference from other transmissions. This makes it a great choice for listening to foreign broadcasters but not so good for sending encrypted messages via ham operators. However, we have found some great shortwave radio transmitters that you can use for listening around the world if you have the right equipment.
Before making our recommendations, our specialists spend substantial time researching and analyzing customer feedback. Then we found the best shortwave radio transmitter is Eton Elite, The Classic AM/FM/LW/VHF/Shortwave Radio with Single Side Band. It is the greatest choice for its high quality. If you're looking for another one, you can consider President Lincoln II Plus 10 and 12 Meter Ham Radio.
Our Top Picks
TOP Choice #1
![Eton Elite, The Classic AM/FM/LW/VHF/Shortwave Radio with Single Side Band]()
- In and Out: Connect any audio device using the line input and listen to your favorite music and media through the Eton Satellit750’s speakers; Or broadcast your radio to other devices using the line output; Features dual alarm clock for multiple alarms
- 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
- 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
- On Every Wavelength: The Eton Satellite 750 broadcasts every radio wavelength including AM,FM, LW, SW, SSB and VHF aircraft band frequencies; 360° rotating AM antenna pulls in even the weakest signals for full, bold sound
- Strong and Sensitive: DSP Technology enhances tuning sensitivity and fields out interference for better quality; Program in up to 1000 channels, 100 for each band, plus you can customize up to 55 channels to tune into your favorite stations with ease
TOP Choice #2
![President Lincoln II Plus 10 and 12 Meter Ham Radio]()
- Same as LINCOLN II but 12 meter band added, key "CH19/9" replaced by "Emergency Channel 1 and 2" programmable by user; HF output power 35W PEP SSB instead of 31W PEP SSB, 35W FM instead of 28W; AM is same 12W RMS 48WPEP.
- Dual watch; Key locking; SWR (Power Reading/SWR); Preset emergency (EMG 1/2); TOT (Time Out Timer) adjustable.
- VFO Mode w/ continuous scanning; Multi-functions LCD display; Frequencies display; S-meter; Channels and memories scan; 6 Memories; CTCSS (38 tones); DCS (104 codes).
- Public Address; Vox function (hands-free); ANL filter, NB and HI-CUT; RF Gain / Mic gain; Clarifier; Roger Beep; Front microphone plug; External loudspeaker jack.
- Rotary switch and Up/down channel selector; Volume adjustment and ON/OFF; Manual squelch and ASC; RF Power; MENU function key; Dim; Mode switch AM/FM/LSB/USB/CW.
- One of the smallest multiband radios with SSB. Full Range AM, FM, NOAA Weather band plus Alert, Shortwave (1711-29999kHz) with Single Side Band and VHF Aviation (Airband). Single Side Band is an efficient and reliable way to get long range information when Internet, phone or satellite is not available. Single Side Band in not available on your smartphone which makes it the ultimate off the grid backup communication system.
- Digitally tuned multiband receiver with superior sensitivity & selectivity enhanced by multiple bandwidth settings. Selectable fast or fine tuning on all bands (except weather).
- Clock with 12/24 hour format, alarm, rotary volume and tuning knob. Lighted LCD display, Stereo headphone jack and fold-out back stand. High quality CC Buds Earphones, faux leather radio carry case and 23’ portable Shortwave reel antenna included.
- Direct frequency entry, auto scan and store, 400 memories. 10 aviation memories can be scanned for activity.
- Run Time (on batteries): ± 70 hours (earbuds), ± 60 Hours (built-in speaker). Runs on (2) AA alkaline batteries (not included), (Optional) CC Skywave AC power adapter 5V DC 300 mA with mini USB tip. One year limited warranty.
- 【Technology】The Si4732 Full band radio receiver uses multiple conversion and DSP digital demodulation technology, greatly improving the sensitivity of the radio.Audio output supports headset 3.5MM;Support 8 ohm speaker 1W output;FM supports earphone antenna. Use a 3.6v lithium battery; Support USB charging.Antenna interface uses BNC.
- 【Portable & Conveience】The full-band receivers lightweight and sturdy components and unique and exquisite design maximize portability; easily to use with both large tune knob and volume knob.
- 【Wide Application】The Full Band Si4732 radio receiver suitable for outdoor camping, listening to radio music in the kitchen, it is a necessary condition for participating in the parade and family life.
- 【Comprehensive Function】For this Si4732 radio receiver, FM stereo, AM, LW, SW, SSB world band receiver,radio receiver suitable for global FM broadcast reception; Audio bandwidth filter 0.5, 1, 1.2, 2.2, 3 and 4Khz; 22 commercial and ham radio bands pre configured.
- 【Aluminum Alloy Case】 The portable Si4732 Full Band radio receiver made of Aluminum Alloy Case,strong and durable; the PCB retains the SI4735 package, users can replace the chip by themselves, and the software is compatible.
- EXECUTIVE: The Executive Satellite receives every radio wavelength—AM(MW), FM with RDS, LW, & Shortwave (SW)—anywhere. It features precision automatic or manual digital tuning. // This receiver also picks up VHF aircraft band & Single Sideband (SSB). It comes with a leather case with craftsman stitching for ultimate portability, making it ideal for travel.
- FRX3 EMERGENCY RADIO: Be prepared for any emergencies & disasters with this rechargeable weather alert radio with solar panel & hand turbine power generator. No emergency kit is complete without it. // FRX3 ALERTS: 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.
- EXECUTIVE: The Elite Executive receives every radio wavelength—AM(MW), FM with RDS, LW, and Shortwave (SW)—at home or abroad. Plus, it also receives VHF aircraft band, Single Sideband (SSB) and includes a PLL tuner so your AM signal is strong and clear. It features a faux leather case with craftsman stitching for ultimate portability.
- FRX3 KEEPS YOU PREPARED: This AM/FM/NOAA weather band digital radio with display & alarm clock can also charge a smartphone via USB port. Also features an LED flashlight & red flashing beacon. // AND IT KEEPS YOU CONNECTED: From weather alert radios & backup battery packs to solar-powered sound systems, we'll keep you connected & in the know at home, in the office, on the road or in the great outdoors.
- BUNDLE INCLUDES: Eton Elite Executive Radio with Faux Leather Case, ARCFRX3 American Red Cross All-In-One Preparedness Device, and Car Toys Keychain. Car Toys is an Eton authorized retailer. Manufacturer Warranty.
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![Tecsun PL-600 AM/FM/LW SSB Shortwave Radio, Black]()
- PLL Synthesized world band receiver with dual conversion technology
- Orange back-lit LCD with Frequency, Clock, Battery level & Reception strength
- AM/FM + LW + SW + SSB reception
- 110V AC adapter and English Manual are included
- 600 memories + Dual alarm clock + 1-120 minutes sleep timer
- 【Good Sounds Quality & Earphone Jack】With a premium built in 2W speaker, this transistor radio offers a big great sound, it can easily fill a room with your favorite musics or baseball game. And you can choose high/low tune mode as you like to listen on the shortwave radio. A good choice for radio lover. Moreover, an 3.5mm earphone jack here is designed for those who wants to have private listening space. Take this portable radio for picnic,camping or party,leave a good memory with your friends.
- 【Ideal Christmas Gift】With its classic appearance and simple operation, our portable radio is best sell on many countries. If you are distressing on what to buy to your parents, grandparents, uncles or aunts, this am fm radio is the best choice for you. It is a thoughtful Christmas gift to fill their heart to joy and remember you! Besides, we guarantee a 12-month warranty, 30-day money back and 24/7 customer service to make it no risk for you to purchase this fm radio.
- 【New Upgraded: LCD Display with Best Reception】Equipped with a big LCD screen, you can easily and clearly to see each AM/FM/Shortwave stations when tuning the knob on this portable radio. The long antenna and advanced DSP chip ensure a ultra strong stable radio signal for you to listen to your favourite music, NPR, sports and news stations no matter at home or outdoor. Never miss a station and you will have a relax radio time with your family and friends with this am fm radio.
- 【2 Powerful Charging Ways】This am fm radio is designed for two charging ways. While you are indoor, the AC power for you to plug the charging cable(include) in the wall to listen radio whole day. If there power outage, don't worry, inserts 4 D Cell batteries(not include) in the shortwave radio that you can continue to connect and get broadcast news in real time. And the battery can be easily found in every household and stores. Keep one in your house, you will happy to have this portable radio.
- 【Simple to Operate, Convenient to Use】Not like other radios which are too small to operate, our shortwave radio is big enough to use and easy to operate for both elder and children as the knobs are large to tune and the LCD screen is clear to see. A handle on the radio makes it not difficult to take outside. Beyond that, a time setting is available for you to see on the LCD display, so it is not just a fm radio but also a clock for you. Buy this transistor radio, bring convenience to your life.
- 【Product Accessories】1 x SIHUADON R-108 Radio, 1 x USB Charging Cable, 1 x External Antenna, 1 x R108 English Manual, 1 x BL-5C Rechargeable Battery, 1 x Timely Customer Service.
- 【Sound Quality】High-quality materials and components enable the radio output to perform well on all broadcasts including voice and music. The backlit LCD screen is very convenient for night use.
- 【Convenience To Carry】The performance of SIHUADON R108 radio is the same as the Radiwow R108 radio. 5 x 3 x 1.2in long, small size and light weight, it can fit in the pocket and carry everywhere for entertainment or study.
- 【With Varies Function】FM Stereo LW MW SW AIR band DSP receiver with band ATS, memories preset station, sleeping time, alarm clock, temp display. Wake you up in the morning by setting the alarm, or set sleep timer to auto turn-off while listening before going to sleep.
- 【After-sale service】The radio has a one-year warranty. If you have any questions, contact us without hesitation. Important Notes: Due to long distance transportation, the R108 radios use small cards for power isolation, remove them before use, as the following steps. 1. Open the battery back cover of the R108 radio. 2. Remove the small card. 3. Install the battery correctly to use it.
- To maximize the sunlight's rays, the solar panel is designed to tilt with the suns position to receive the energy during the day time.
- The solar panel powers the radio by itself and charges the built-in batteries as well.
- A perfect radio for emergencies and disasters, it comes with all the features that you need in any emergency situation. It comes with a High quality AC type brushless generator.
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![AnyTone AT-778UV Dual Band Transceiver Mobile Radio VHF/Uhf Two Way Radio]()
- ☛Narrow Band compliant,Lighted Keypad mic, Built-in Speakers in both Radio & Mic,Built-In cooling Fan,DC power cable with fuse holder & More!!Single call, group call, selective call and emergency call are all available.
- ☛25W/15W/5W DualBand VHF/UHF Mobile Radio Transceiver! 180 degree rotatable TFT LCD displayFull alloy body for heat radiation. It is with VOX Function too.
- If you are not satisfied with it in 1 month. Please feel free to Contact with us if you have any query. We will give you prompt reply and good after service
- ☛ Please download the Programming Software from support in AnyTone website.You can find the AnyTone website address in the user's manual.
- ☛AnyTone AT-778UV Mobile Radio is complied with Federal Communications Commission (FCC) regulations. complies with Part 15B and Part 97 of FCC rule, FCC ID is T4K-778UV. Frequency Range: VHF:136-174MHz UHF:400-490MHz
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What to Look For in a best shortwave radio transmitter?
Looking for the best shortwave radio transmitter requires consideration of many criteria. Product learning varies in type, feature, and customer ranking. Overall, it comes with several difficulties in buying. So, we are available to support you occasionally.
It is beneficial for you to have a closer look at the things below to evaluate and then choose which one is suitable:
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.
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.
Reception & Ability To Receive NOAA Alerts
An emergency radio's primary function is to inform you. Your radio should be able to pick up both AM/FM radio stations as well as NOAA weather stations. Although most emergency radios can do this, make sure you find one with solid reception. To better receive radio waves, you should look for radios with a telescoping antenna.
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.
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.
Price
These radios don't use expensive technology and are not designed to provide the best sound quality. Even the most advanced emergency radio systems are still affordable.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Durability
You need a radio that can withstand extreme conditions, especially if you are active. Most radios that we have looked at are water and shock-resistant. You can drop the radios on different surfaces or subject them to rain without any harm.
You need an IPX rating at minimum 4.
You need an IPX rating at minimum 4.
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.
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.
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.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.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.
What Is The Best NOAA Radio?
NoAA Radios that are the best in their class can receive NOAA alerts as soon as they go out. In case of a power outage, they can run on their own and have integrated solar chargers or hand cranks.Access to NOAA Alerts is one thing, but the battery life of a NOAA radio can be the most important. Although smartphones are useful, their battery life will not last more than one day. You can keep track of what's happening in your life with hand-crank radios.
You can simply turn the crank to start your radio, and you'll be able to keep up with all of the news. You can also save the battery of your phone and refill it in most cases.
What Does An Emergency Radio Do?
There are many features on emergency radios that will help you in a crisis situation. Notifications and transmissions from NOAA can be received by emergency radios. They also double up as flashlights and phone chargers.How Long Do Emergency Radios Last?
A good emergency radio will last for 5-10 years if kept dry and clean.The list of best shortwave radio transmitter is updated frequently to approach the latest information. Please check our website to get any changes and additions usually.
Would you like to be given practical support about best shortwave radio transmitter of 2025? Our customer service department is always here to assist you. Please contact us as soon as possible whenever you need.
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