The Best Solar Powered Emergency Radio For 2024

Harlan Ellison By, Harlan Ellison
Updated
HQ ISSUE Dynamo Emergency Radio Hand Crank Solar Portable W/AM FM, NOAA Weather Alert
Image credit: Amazon.com

Having a reliable radio is essential if you want to stay informed and connected in disaster situations. While most people have smartphones that can remain charged, most people don’t have access to a charger when the grid goes down or their phone battery dies. A solar-powered emergency radio is one of the best ways to stay informed during natural disasters or other emergencies.

These radios use power from the sun and are capable of keeping battery charge for up to several weeks when stored away from light. They also make a great safety device for your family and pets during an emergency as they could alert them about critical warnings or instructions for evacuation before it’s too late. The best solar powered emergency radios available today all have one thing in common: they’re small, lightweight, waterproof, durable, and affordable. Let’s take a look at what we recommend as the best solar powered emergency radios on the market today...

Our experts have determined the models that would be the greatest fit for your requirements, specifically HQ ISSUE Dynamo Emergency Radio Hand Crank Solar Portable W/AM FM, NOAA Weather Alert, after doing extensive study and analysis over a considerable time. Consider Emergency Radio, FM/NOAA Weather Radio with Walkie Talkies as an alternative if you're still undecided. Other suggestions on this list are definitely worth considering, and we've put up a useful shopping guide to help you decide!

Our Top Picks

  • STAY INFORMED/ ENTERTAINED: Shortwave radio keeps you informed about news, weather, music & more. Choose from 11 bands: AM/FM, shortwave 1-2 & weather bands 1-7
  • FEEL SAFE & REASSURED: Battery powered radio is your emergency essential. NOAA weather alert sends dispatches directly to radio, and radio contains super bright LED flashlights & SOS emergency light for unpredictable disasters
  • HIGH SOUND QUALITY: Hand Crank radio provides access to NOAA weather alerts & news with multiple bandwidths for a strong & clean sound transmission. Use the attached hand crank for even better sound leverage
  • MULTIPLE OPERATING FUNCTIONS: Weather alert radio is solar powered & contains a top solar panel that converts sunlight into power/sound. When the sun is not accessible, manually hand-crank the radio for crystal clear sound. Radio can also function on 3 (AA) batteries (not included)
  • PROTECTIVE ENCLOSED CASE: NOAA weather radio is enclosed with a smooth rubberized firm case that protects the small radio from bumps & knocks
  • ✅ 12-Month Satisfaction Warranty - Qniglo multifunction walkie talkies are backed by our 12-month warranty. If you find any quality-related issues with the product or if you need any help then please contact us through the order detail page or our official contact information and we will get back to you within 12 hours to help resolve the issue.
  • ✅ 2000mAh Power Bank and 3 Charging Mode - The rechargeable weather radio with multiple power backup options will be the best choice for the emergency package. It has built-in a 2000mAh rechargeable battery to charge your phone, tablets, or other USB-powered devices. Once the crank radio shows low battery, the solar panel and the hand crank lever can regenerate enough power to keep the emergency radio, lights, and SOS working.
  • ✅ Multi-function Walkie Talkies - Qniglo rechargeable walkie talkies equipped with 22 channels & 99 codes, features auto channel scanning, long-range communication, voice-activated (VOX), low battery alert, SOS Alarm function. It is compatible with most walkie-talkies on the market, you could use them to keep communication with your friends, family members in outdoor adventure. *【Note】Only 1 unit in the package! If you want to use walkie talkies function, please work with other walkie-talkies.
  • ✅ NOAA Emergency Weather Alert Radio - NOAA Weather Radio can automatically scan through 7 available weather (WX) band channels and lock onto the strongest weather channel to alert you of the risk of severe weather hazards, like floods, tornados, thunderstorms, and more. Besides 24/7 real-time weather forecast, the radio has built-in FM shortwave radio for receiving news, entertainment around the world.
  • ✅ Rechargeable Flashlights - Qniglo high lumen LED flash light support 3 light modes, High / Low / Strobe. You could convert any mode according to your mind easily. With a convenient keychain clip, you may attach to the tent or other accessories to serve as a camping lantern or reading lamp, so you may have your flashlight within reach. If you are in danger, you may select the Strobe light mode and long-press the "Call" button to send SOS alarm to ask for help.
  • 【 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.
  • 【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.
  • 【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.
  • 【Upgraded 6000mAh Battery Capacity】Putting in the dilemma of blackout?Staring at a dead phone battery in the storm?This 6000mAH emergency weather radio provide power for your phone to keep in touch with outside.During a power cut, the fully weather radio provides up to 23-25hours flashlight time or 48-50hours radio time(medium volume),let you out of the dark and keep abreast of changing weather situations in time.1W bright flashlight making it a great option for finding kindling in the dark.
  • 【 Multi Function& Service Gurantee】The emergency weather radiowith 6000 mAh battery capacity, flashlight and SOS warning, comes with AUX music players, is suitable for outdoor activities.Such as camping,hiking,cambing.Good quality and there is no risk for you to purchase since we guaranteea 12-month warranty and our customer service are here for you 24/7 for anything you need please feel free to contact us.
  • 【Large 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.
  • 【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.
  • 【4 Ways to Keep Power】Hurricanes, earthquakes and storms often lead to power outages. Have one in your emergency kit, and you will be grateful to have it. USB charging is the most convenient and fast charging method to obtain electric quantity. In case of power failure, 3 AAA dry batteries can be found in every family. You can find them in the local market. This solar crank radio can be charged on sunny day. Even if in dark without electricity, charge this NOAA radio by hand crank.
  • 4 Rechargeable Ways: AAA size battery,Micro USB charging,solar powered, hand crank to wind up the internal battery.If you have any question,We will reply within 3 hours by Email.
  • Music Speaker:470g/1lb.Portable.Supported micro TF card/USB Flash Disk.35mm headphone jack.Good speakers for camping/Hiking/Family Party.
  • Weather Radio :7 NOAA/AM /FM. 24/7 coverage of weather stations.the Emergency radio has Good Reception on bad storm.Water Resistant:IPX3(Do not soak it in water or shower).Loud sound and clear. Easy tuning.
  • Bring Electronics Back to Life: Emergency radio Charger for iPhone 6 from 5% to 37% in about 15-20 minutes.3w LED flashlight+90lux reading lamp, The little radio never let the dark get you down.
  • 4000mAh GREEOUS hurricane radio extends features with Extremes in Mind:Solar/battery powered(AAA size),Hand crank(wind up radio),SOS alert and cellphone charger.Flashlight/Reading lamp.Music Player.
  • 【An Indispensable SOS Alarm&Compact Compass】This emergency weather radio packs an 80dB SOS alarm. A loud SOS alarm is more powerful and attractive than your weak cry for help. We also included a mini-sized compass mounted on the wristband to orient yourself while on an adventure. All of these increase your chances of being rescued in the event of danger. An IPX3 waterproof must-have kit for casual camping, backpacking, or wilderness survival.
  • 【8000mAh Emergency Power Bank】The emergency weather radio doesn't only upgrade to 8000mAh Rechargeable Battery, offers 72 hours of continuous use. Also, it provides 3-Way Power Sources which never worry about it will power off. Type-C charging provides the most efficient and fast way to recharge the emergency crank radio in daily use. Solar panels and hand cranks can be used in an emergency.USB output port charges your phone for calling for help in an emergency, such as an earthquake, hurricane.
  • 【2 Powerful Lighting Modes】When you are ready to start camping or hiking, you'll never regret bringing this solar powered radio. The built-in 2W flashlight on weather radio can provide dipped beam, high beam, and dipped&high beam modes, which can meet different lighting requirements. Also, the flashlight radio with 6 LED reading lamps, which can bright enough to illuminate the surroundings for reading a book or as a nightlight that doesn't disturb your family. No more worry about the darkness!
  • 【What You Will Get】The emergency radio is more powerful than other hand crank radios on the market. It features NOAA alert radio channel, 8000mAh large battery capacity, 3 modes super-bright flashlight&6LED reading lamp, 3 power sources, SOS alert. In addition, we research to add new features, such as the battery indicator, 3.5mm headphone jack. We care about you and the one you love! Also, an 18-month Warranty and 24/7 customer service, make you purchase this emergency radio without any risks.
  • 【NOAA Weather Alert Radio】The emergency radio is specially designed for emergencies. This crank radio can alert hazardous weather in your area like hurricanes, tornadoes, and severe storms earning a critical time for you to get full preparation in advance, keeping you and your family safe with this NOAA radio. Equipped with a 12.6-inch antenna, emergency radio with strong reception even in poor signal areas. Keep on in your emergency bag, you will be relieved to have this weather alert radio.
  • 【2 Weather Alert Modes with Auto Weather Alert & Manual SOS Alert】 This is a must-have radio for your 𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗿𝗴𝗲𝗻𝗰𝘆 𝗸𝗶𝘁. Once the weather radio receives a weather alert, the radio will come out a siren,and the red alert light, the Alert icon as well as the backlight on the LCD display will flash to alert you. You could also easily press the SOS button to ask for help in an emergency. The loud SOS siren and the flashing red light will make you more likely to be found by the rescue team.
  • 【3 Mode Ultra Bright Flashlight, Reading Lamp& SOS Alert Light】 The flashlight on the left side and the foldable reading light on the top all have two adjustable brightness levels for your choices. You could take it for hiking, camping, fishing or other outdoor activities. Or if there is a power failure, you could also turn it on for emergency use, necessary for areas with frequent power outages. And the red SOS alert light can be also manually turned on in an emergency to ask for help.
  • 【5 Ways Powered Emergency weather Radio with 5000 Large Capacity Built-in Battery】The rechargeable weather radio supports powered by AC/DC power, solar, hand crank, 3* AAA batteries (not included) & built-in replaceable 5000 battery(included). And there is a battery icon on the LCD display to inform you the battery level so you would never worry about a sudden power outage. The built-in 5000 battery could help you to charge your phone or other devices to in a emergency to avoid lost contact.
  • 【7 NOAA Weather Stations Available & AM/FM/Short Wave Radio】This 2021 newest upgraded 𝗡𝗢𝗔𝗔 𝘄𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝗿𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗼 captures a superior signal reception, automatically scan through 7 available NOAA weather band channels to 𝗮𝗹𝗲𝗿𝘁 you the hazard weather in your area like thunderstorm, rainstorm,hurricanes, tsunamis, etc., earns a critical time for you to get a full disaster preparation in advance. And this is also an AM/FM/short wave radio for indoors or outdoors usage like camping.
  • 【A lot of User Friendly Details】The USB phone charger makes you always in touch. The 3.5mm earphone jack won’t let you be disturbed when listening to the radio. The hook and the wrist strap make it a portable radio for 𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗱𝗼𝗼𝗿 uses. The battery indicator could inform you keeping the radio working continuously. The lock button will prevent accidental press, great for families with babies. And the adjustable volume function will always satisfy your preference.
  • All in One Music Machine: Radio ( AM/FM/NOAA Weather), MP3 Player with SD Card, Bluetooth Speaker with Phone Hand Free, Recorder ( Radio and Voice , immediate Recorder and Time Scheduled Recorder),Alarm Clock,Text Browser, Calenda
  • Bright 5 LED Reading Lamp, SOS Emergency Life Saver Light and Flash Light
  • 4 Way Powered: Dynamo Cranking, Solar, Rechargeable Battery (18650), Micro-USB Port
  • USB Port for charging cellphones and other Devices with USB connections. USB Cable Included
  • True Emergency Gadget that best for out door or situation you need a power and information, Perfect for Black out, Earthquake , Hurricane, and any situation that you need power and information,plus Music
  • 【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.
  • 【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.
  • 【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.
  • 【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.
  • Calendar, alarm clock with dual settings, sleep timer, thermometer & humidity meter
  • 4 tuning methods including manual, direct digit entry, ATS & memory tuning with 335 memories for easy access to favorite stations
  • Dynamo and Solar Powered AM/FM/LW Shortwave & NOAA weather radio with back-lit digital display, NOAA all hazards alert & RDS
  • 180-degree adjustable solar panel with 5-LED reading lamp, Flashlight
  • 5 Ways of Charging the radio,Auxiliary input jack available for external audio devices
Product Images, Product Titles, Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API

What to Look For in a best solar powered emergency radio?

Actually, when you decide to invest in best solar powered emergency radio for yourself, lots of things to consider! It's harder to choose since the product comes with many types, functions, and features from different manufacturers. That’s why you should find a reliable space to acquire knowledge related to the item. 

We’ve highlighted the essential features of the best solar powered emergency radio below. Along with checking out the list of best models in the list, you should also carefully read the buying guide here:

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

FAQs

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.

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 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.

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.

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 Do Emergency Radios Last?

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

After knowing the suitable kinds of best solar powered emergency radio and the features you wish, it’s high time for you to start your shopping. Note that you shouldn’t run out to a particular store or start scrolling through online sales just yet. With the development of technology, especially the expansion of sale sites, you can easily find your buddy. 

Remember to check out our site weekly round-up to ensure that the current sales on best solar powered emergency radio perform well in our tests. So you can catch up with them as soon as possible. Would you please give us your feedback for better service? Many thanks!


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About Harlan Ellison

Harlan Ellison

Harlan Ellison is a writer and audio equipment enthusiast. He's particularly interested in home theater HiFi audio, and he has been the editor of The Audio Insights since its inception. Harlan is known for his sharp wit and scathing critiques, but he also has a great love of music and audio gear. When he's not writing or editing, Harlan can be found listening to music or watching movies with his wife.