13 Best Solar Powered Radios Of 2021 [Buyer’s Guide]
A decade back if someone had said that sunlight can be used to power radios, you probably would’ve laughed. Well, yesterday’s dream is today’s reality as solar-powered radios are all the rage right now. So, with an increasing number of customers looking to buy these devices, we’ve picked 13 top-notch options available out there. But […] The post 13 Best Solar Powered Radios Of 2021 [Buyer’s Guide] appeared first on Homesthetics - Inspiring ideas for your home..
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A decade back if someone had said that sunlight can be used to power radios, you probably would’ve laughed.
Well, yesterday’s dream is today’s reality as solar-powered radios are all the rage right now. So, with an increasing number of customers looking to buy these devices, we’ve picked 13 top-notch options available out there.
But how exactly is a solar radio different from a regular unit, and why is it popular? These are the questions we plan to address in our guide.
A solar radio not only lets you tune into your favorite channel while relaxing, but it also comes in handy during emergencies. Storms, cyclones, hurricanes, you name it; this radio has what it takes to help you survive.
So, let’s unravel this device and inspect the essential aspects that give it an edge.
Top Solar Powered Radios
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | DETAILS | |
|---|---|---|---|
Our Top PickOur Top Pick
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FosPower Radio |
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RunningSnail MD-088s Radio |
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Kaito Radio |
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RunningSnail Md-090 Radio |
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Midland Radio |
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RegeMoudgal Radio |
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Mesqool Radio |
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Greadio Radio |
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VIEW LATEST PRICE → |
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HOLABABY Radio |
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ROCAM Radio |
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VIEW LATEST PRICE → |
When it comes to solar-powered radios, there’s no way we can skip FosPower Radio, considering its incredible features. It does most things well, and users have been impressed with its performance. So, why don’t we take a closer look to be sure whether or not it fulfills your needs?
- [2000MAH POWER BANK WILL KEEP DEVICES POWERED] The FosPower...
- [3 POWER SOURCES POWER WHEN YOU NEED IT] Use the emergency...
- [2 LIGHT SOURCES ALWAYS POWERED] The emergency crank radio...
- [NOAA EMERGENCY WEATHER BROADCAST ACCESS] The radio will...
Why Did We Like It?
To fully experience this solar radio in all its glory, all you need is sunshine. The solar panel stores the sun’s energy, which is fed into the 2,000mAh power-bank for use during multiple emergencies. So, you can charge any small tablet or phone quickly during a crisis.
Another thing to note is that the device has three power sources, which are also part of the emergency-preparedness feature. When the need arises, you can switch to more power and recharge the radio without any hassle. In fact, even in challenging conditions, functions like the S.O.S alarm and LEDs remain in working conditions, thanks to the crank lever and solar panel.
Besides, the designers have added not one but several light sources. In total, it has four LED reading lights along with a flashlight to illuminate dimly lit areas and other dark spaces.
What Could’ve Been Better?
One aspect that could’ve been looked into is the unavailability of a headphone jack, which refrains you from listening to the radio privately. Apart from that, there are no instructions available with the model, making it challenging to understand the nuances of the tool.
- Charges phones and tablets
- Lights up dark areas
- Crank lever for fast-charging
- Accurate
- Works well in emergencies
- No headphone jack
- Doesn’t include instructions
For those of you who’re unfamiliar; RunningSnail is a well-known brand whose products are as unique as the brand name itself. No surprise that the MD-088s model has turned out to be quite a favorite among customers. You’ll find there’s a lot to like about it.
![[Upgraded Version] RunningSnail Emergency Hand Crank Self...](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41oJnl7-+6L.jpg)
- New Design: 1000 mAh power bank for charging your iPhone &...
- A Must For Emergency: Keep this AM/FM & NOAA weather radio...
- More Than A Radio: Compact sized flashlight radio with 1W...
- 3 Rechargeable Ways: Micro USB charging, Solar charging,...
Why Did We Like It?
One of the first things that grabbed our attention is its modern design equipped with a 1,000mAh power-bank. The power-bank can charge an iPhone and other cell-phones, making it compatible with various devices. Moreover, there’s no need for an adapter, allowing you to connect your mobile with a micro-USB cable.
The stand out feature is that it’s extremely useful in emergencies. Whether it be an impending storm or other hazards in the vicinity, you’ll get to know beforehand, thanks to the accurate reception from its antennas. Plus, it’s handy for outdoor use, with the flashlight illuminating most areas.
Now, let’s talk about charging this device. There are three ways in which you can do so – through micro-USB charging, solar charging, or using the hand-crank. The last way is the quickest as it swiftly energizes the internal battery for a seamless experience.
What Could’ve Been Better?
There are issues with the AM reception; from time-to-time, it could be challenging for you to pick up accurate signals. Also, while the flashlight is an excellent addition, the dark spot in the middle of the beam isn’t a particularly pleasing sight. The light would’ve been more powerful and better equipped without the spot.
- Portable
- Suitable for outdoor use
- Fast hand-crank charging
- Invaluable in emergencies
- Compatible with latest cell-phones
- Tricky AM reception
- The light beam needs to be better
Kaito Radio offers the perfect balance of features to top rival products. The designers have made some excellent additions in terms of design and functions, which is why it’s on most people’s wish list. But to truly appreciate the tool, let’s inspect the components in greater depth in the following section.
- 6-way powered portable emergency radio with hand crank...
- Comprehensive coverage of AM, FM, 2-band shortwave and 7...
- Works as an emergency mobile battery charger with built-in...
- Telescopic antenna extends up to 14.5" for high sensitivity...
Why Did We Like It?
This solar radio has several fantastic attributes, but the most significant are the six available power sources. Not only is it suitable for charging multiple devices, but there are numerous ways in which the radio can be energized. It works with three A.A. batteries and consists of a 5V USB input along with a 5V AC/DC output.
Although the shortwave reception needs improvement, you can enjoy a wide range of channels, highlighting the comprehensive coverage. Additionally, there are seven pre-installed channels comprising entertainment, sports, and 24×7 weather forecast from across the globe. Plus, the Public Emergency Alert System ensures safety all-year-round.
But what are the features that will help you during an emergency? This radio comes with an emergency mobile charger, enabling your cell-phone to remain useful in challenging situations. Besides, the LED flashlight and the red beacon S.O.S light lets people locate you for help to arrive.
What Could’ve Been Better?
There are two issues we need to highlight. If you use the solar panel to charge the battery, lay down for a quick nap because it takes much longer than other methods. Secondly, shortwave radio reception is relatively low, which might give you second thoughts before purchasing it.
- Seven pre-installed channels
- Efficient charging
- LED flashlight
- 14.5-inch telescopic antenna
- Water-resistant
- Slow solar panel charging
- Poor shortwave radio reception
Next up is RunningSnail Md-090 Radio, having many similarities with other units available out there. So, why should you buy it? For one thing, it comes with the necessary upgrades, helping it to climb the charts and rank among the top units. As for the remaining reasons, read on to find out.
- A Must For Emergency: Keep your household prepared with this...
- Table Lamp & 1W LED Flashlight: It can be used in emergency...
- Hand Crank Self-charge for Outage: 2000mAh rechargeable...
- SOS Alarm With Flashing Red Light: Ask for help in case you...
Why Did We Like It?
The primary concern of any individual is to stay safe during these challenging times, and this radio proves useful in that regard. While there are no eye-catching features as such, the ability to relay news related to any emergency places this model in good stead. Whether it be a hurricane, cyclone, or tornado, it accurately transmits the information, ensuring your safety.
When the storm arrives, the table-lamp and 1W LED flashlight come into play because most often than not, there’s likely to be a power outage. You can use the lights to illuminate dark spaces and take precautions in challenging situations. Furthermore, with the S.O.S signal, which is a flashing red light, you can warn others or call for help.
In various conditions, the 2,000mAh rechargeable battery allows the LEDs to remain functional for 12 hours and the radio for six hours. Plus, when the usual ways prove ineffective, using the hand-crank allows you to self-charge the device.
What Could’ve Been Better?
Truth be told, the reception is adequate at best, and other units offer much more in terms of range. This is something RunningSnail should’ve looked to improve because users might be hesitant about purchasing it. Other than that, battery backup is another aspect where it lags behind.
- 1W LED flashlight
- Dual-band
- Flashing red LED light for emergency signals
- USB hardware interface
- Multiple ways to charge
- Poor reception
- Battery backup isn’t the best
Midland Radio is more than a handy radio-set, enabling you to use it for a long time for the best results. It has most bases covered, but we particularly love the attention to detail, making it a reliable unit. Therefore, it has received mostly positive reviews, which is well-deserved, as we’ll highlight in the next section.
- MULTIPLE POWER SOURCES - The ER310 features 3 sustainable...
- EMERGENCY FLASHLIGHT - The SOS FLASHLIGHT BEACON flashes...
- NOAA WEATHER SCAN + ALERT - NOAA Weather Scan will...
- CHARGE EXTERNAL DEVICES - Quickly charge your portable...
Why Did We Like It?
Let’s start with some of the standard attributes also seen with other solar radios to point out how this unit is different. It has three sustainable power sources – the solar panel, hand-crank, and a rechargeable battery – but what’s significant is the power it delivers. The battery is 2600mAh, which is one of the highest in the market.
For backup, you’ll need six A.A.A. batteries, but usually, users are satisfied with the 32-hour runtime, making it exceptionally convenient. The longer runtime allows the antennas to scan through seven weather channels and transmit the strongest among them. As a result, you stay updated regarding all storms and cyclones in the neighborhood.
The designers have added a USB charging cable, ensuring appliances like a cell-phone can be charged quickly. Plus, during an emergency, the S.O.S beacon flashes Morse code to call for help. Also, with the CREE LED, you can guide people to come and rescue you.
What Could’ve Been Better?
Although it has sufficient durability, the unit isn’t waterproof, so you need to be extra cautious when using it near water. Another thing is that there’s no way to turn off the Required Weekly Test, meaning you’ll get weather updates at the same time, every day. This is a bit frustrating, but nothing major.
- CREE LED producing 130 lumens
- S.O.S signal with Morse code
- Fast charging
- Seven weather stations
- Ultrasonic dog whistle
- Required Weekly Test can’t be turned off
- Not waterproof
RegeMoudgal Radio has kicked up quite a storm to grab the attention of potential buyers. So much so that even a passing glance will leave you coming back for more, and if you choose to oblige, rest assured you won’t be disappointed. It’ll be worth the money as it provides an unmatched experience.
- 【A must for emergency】 Keep your family prepared with...
- 【2000MAH power bank】 RegeMoudal emergency solar radio...
- 【4 rechargeable ways】 Hand crank,solar charging, Micro...
- 【2 light sources always powered】The emergency solar...
Why Did We Like It?
While there are several features of a solar radio, the critical component is the battery, which stores solar energy to deliver power. This product has a 2,000mAh power-bank delivering a total runtime of 12 hours while the radio works for six hours. Moreover, if you find your mobile running out of charge, plug it into the radio for fast charging.
Now, there are four ways to charge the radio – using the hand-crank for self-charging, through three A.A.A. batteries, solar panels, and a Micro USB cable. Once fully charged, the dual light sources effectively illuminate most places. There are six reading lights to reduce strain on the eyes, while the flashlight proves useful during an emergency.
Other than that, the S.O.S alarm enables you to call for help and permits rescue teams to locate you by following the flashing red light.
What Could’ve Been Better?
One of the downsides is the higher cost, which might inhibit buyer’s from making the purchase. Considering the range of functions on offer, the manufacturers felt that the price needed to be higher than other units. So, the question is, can you be flexible with the budget to buy this model?
- Multiple charging methods
- Six reading lights
- Flashing red light for emergencies
- 12-hour runtime
- Charges cell-phone and tablets
- Costly
We’re at the halfway point of our list, but there are several quality units we’re yet to review. Our next recommendation is Mesqool Radio, which has been generating substantial buzz in the market. No wonder most people have only good things to say, but it also has the relevant features to back up those claims.
- ▲7 Pre-Configured NOAA Stations/Solid Reception on...
- ▲5 Power Sources & 2500mAh
