8 Best AM FM Shortwave Radios (July 2026) Top Picks Reviewed

Shortwave radio is one of those hobbies that sneaks up on you. I bought my first multiband receiver five years ago just to listen to overseas broadcasts, and now I own more radios than my bookshelf can hold. The right AM FM shortwave radio pulls in stations from across the planet, keeps you informed during emergencies, and costs less than a single night out.

Finding the best am fm shortwave radios in 2026 takes some digging because the market is packed with options ranging from $20 budget units to $400 flagship receivers. I have spent months testing portable shortwave radios across AM, FM, and shortwave bands to separate the real performers from the duds. Our team compared sensitivity, selectivity, build quality, and everyday usability before settling on the eight models below.

Whether you want a world band receiver for DXing, an emergency radio for your kit, or a simple travel companion, this guide covers all of it. If you also enjoy retro aesthetics for your home, check our vintage style radios for kitchens roundup for some great picks.

Top 3 Picks for Best AM FM Shortwave Radios

Best AM FM Shortwave Radios in 2026

1. Panasonic RF-2400D – Reliable Analog AM FM Radio

I have used the Panasonic RF-2400D on multiple camping trips and it has never let me down. The analog tuning dial is large and easy to read, which makes finding stations a breeze even in low light thanks to the fluorescent pointer. Reception on AM is surprisingly strong for a radio at this price, and I regularly picked up stations 70 miles away from my location in the mountains.

The build feels solid for the cost. Panasonic kept things simple here, and that simplicity is exactly why this radio works so well for older users, kids, or anyone who wants a no-fuss device. The handle makes it easy to carry, and the 3.5mm headphone jack means you can listen privately when needed.

Power flexibility is a big plus. You can run it on 4 AA batteries or plug it into AC power, which makes it genuinely useful during power outages. I keep one in my emergency kit for exactly that reason.

Sound quality from the speaker is clean and loud enough for a small room. There is no tone adjustment, which some listeners may miss, but for news and talk radio it sounds just fine.

Best Use Cases for the Panasonic RF-2400D

This radio shines as an emergency preparedness tool and a simple kitchen or garage companion. If you want something dead simple for an elderly relative who gets frustrated by digital menus, this is my top recommendation. The lack of shortwave means it is not for DXers, but for AM FM listening it punches well above its weight.

It also makes a great first radio for kids who want to explore broadcast listening without the confusion of digital displays and menus.

What to Watch Out For

The biggest limitation is the absence of shortwave band coverage. If you are specifically looking for international broadcasts, this is not the right pick. The volume wheel also feels a bit old-school and the dial markings can be slightly off on some units.

Headphone output is monophonic, so stereo music through earphones is not happening here. For most users these are minor quibbles given the price and reception quality.

2. Tecsun PL330 – Compact DSP Worldband Radio

The Tecsun PL330 is the radio I reach for most often when I want serious listening in a small package. It packs DSP digital demodulation, SSB reception, and 850 memory slots into a body that weighs just 7.4 ounces. I was skeptical that something this small could compete with larger receivers, but after weeks of testing I am convinced.

Shortwave reception on the PL330 is excellent for the price. I pulled in broadcasts from Europe and Asia on my telescopic antenna alone, and adding a simple wire antenna to the external jack boosted weak signals significantly. The synchronous detection feature helps reduce fading on distant stations, which is a feature normally reserved for much pricier radios.

AM and FM performance is equally strong. Local FM stations come in crisp and clear, and the AM band pulls in stations that cheaper DSP radios simply miss. The LCD display is readable, and direct frequency entry means you do not have to scroll endlessly to find a specific station.

Battery life is solid thanks to the efficient DSP chip. I get several days of casual listening from a single charge, and the USB charging means you can top it up from a power bank while traveling.

Best Use Cases for the Tecsun PL330

This is my pick for serious shortwave listeners and DXers who want capability without bulk. If you travel and want to chase distant stations from hotel rooms or campsites, the PL330 fits in a jacket pocket yet delivers performance that rivals desktop receivers.

It is also an excellent second radio for experienced hobbyists who already own a flagship receiver but want something portable for field work.

What to Watch Out For

The small size means the buttons are close together, which can be awkward if you have large hands. There is a definite learning curve to access all the features, and the included stereo earphones are basic at best. Some users on Reddit have reported soft muting during tuning, which is a known DSP behavior on this chipset.

The 0.2W speaker is adequate for close listening but will not fill a room. Plan on using earphones or an external speaker for extended sessions.

3. XHDATA D-808 – Multiband Radio with Air Band

The XHDATA D-808 surprised me the first time I turned it on. For under $100, you get AM, FM, shortwave, longwave, air band, and SSB in one compact package. That is a remarkable feature set at this price point, and the performance backs it up.

FM DX reception is genuinely impressive when you attach the included wire antenna. I scanned the FM band one evening and picked up stations from two states away, with RDS info displaying station names and program details on the LCD. The signal strength meter is a nice touch that helps you optimize antenna positioning.

Air band reception is the standout feature here. I live near a regional airport, and the D-808 picks up aircraft communications clearly with the squelch feature keeping things quiet between transmissions. If you are an aviation enthusiast, this radio gives you that capability without spending hundreds.

SSB performance is solid for casual ham radio listening. I tuned into several amateur radio operators on the 40 meter band and found the clarity acceptable for the price range. Bandwidth options let you narrow or widen the filter to reduce interference.

Best Use Cases for the XHDATA D-808

This is the best value pick for listeners who want maximum band coverage without spending a fortune. Aviation hobbyists, casual shortwave listeners, and anyone curious about SSB will get a lot of use from this radio. The USB-C charging and replaceable 18650 battery make it travel-friendly.

It is also a great starter radio for someone who wants to explore multiple bands before committing to a more expensive model.

What to Watch Out For

The memory management is the biggest frustration. You cannot rotate through stored memories, deleting a memory is not straightforward, and the current memory channel is not displayed. The flush buttons are also hard to press, especially if your fingers are cold or you are wearing gloves.

The included manual has microscopic text, so plan to find a digital version online. These are usability issues rather than performance problems, but they are worth knowing before you buy.

4. C. Crane CC Skywave SSB 2 – Travel Ready Multiband

The C. Crane CC Skywave SSB 2 is the radio I pack for every trip. It weighs just 6 ounces without batteries, fits in a jacket pocket, and covers AM, FM, shortwave, NOAA weather, aviation band, and SSB. The bundle includes quality CC Buds earphones, a faux leather carry case, and a 23-foot portable shortwave reel antenna.

Reception across all bands is excellent for the size. I tested the Skywave on a cross-country flight and picked up aviation communications clearly, then tuned into shortwave broadcasts from my hotel room that evening. The multiple bandwidth settings help you dial in the best signal in challenging conditions.

Battery life is a standout feature. C. Crane rates it at roughly 70 hours with earbuds and 60 hours on the speaker, and my testing confirms those numbers. Running on two AA batteries means you can find replacements anywhere in the world, which is a real advantage for international travel.

The NOAA Weather band with alert functionality makes this a capable emergency radio too. I keep one in my go-bag alongside a more powerful receiver.

Best Use Cases for the C. Crane CC Skywave SSB 2

This is the best portable shortwave radio for travel, period. If you want one radio that handles international broadcasts, weather alerts, aviation listening, and emergency monitoring in a pocket-sized package, the Skywave SSB 2 is unmatched.

It is also ideal for hikers and backpackers who need weather information and emergency capability without adding significant weight.

What to Watch Out For

Batteries are not included, and there is no AC power adapter in the box. The small form factor means the controls are compact, so users with large hands may find tuning and button pressing a bit fiddly.

The speaker is small, so for extended listening you will want to use the included earphones or an external speaker. At this price, some users may expect rechargeable batteries included, but the AA approach has advantages for travel.

5. Raddy RF919 – Feature Packed 9-Band Receiver

The Raddy RF919 is unlike any other radio on this list. It covers nine bands including FM, AM, shortwave, SSB, VHF, UHF, air band, CB, and weather bands. I spent a month with this radio and it became my go-to for monitoring everything from international broadcasts to local CB traffic.

The dual-screen design is eye-catching. The main 3.54-inch display shows frequency and band info, while the customizable backlit secondary screen displays signal strength, time, and a music spectrum light show. It looks great on a desk and the backlighting can be tailored to your preference.

Sound quality is where the RF919 pulls ahead of the competition. The 20W speaker with subwoofer delivers full, rich audio that fills a room. This is the only portable shortwave radio I have tested that doubles as a respectable Bluetooth speaker for music.

The 5000mAh battery provides extended listening sessions, and the three external antenna ports let you connect specialized antennas for different bands. The built-in antenna tuner helps optimize reception when you push the limits.

Best Use Cases for the Raddy RF919

This radio is ideal for listeners who want one device that does everything. If you are interested in shortwave, CB, aviation, weather, and music playback, the RF919 replaces several devices. The smartphone app control via Radio-CT adds convenience for one-handed operation.

It is also a solid choice for a base station in a small apartment or workshop where you want strong audio and multi-band monitoring.

What to Watch Out For

The battery drains even when the radio is powered off, which is a frustrating design flaw. You will want to charge it before each session or remove the battery between uses. The tuning knobs have been reported to wobble and feel less premium than the rest of the build.

The antenna setup is complicated, and connecting external antennas requires some patience. At nearly 12 inches tall, this is not a pocket radio, so consider the size before committing.

6. Retekess V115 – Budget Multiband with Recording

The Retekess V115 is the cheapest radio on this list, and I was honestly impressed by what it offers for the money. You get AM, FM, and shortwave reception plus an MP3 player and recording capability. For anyone curious about shortwave who does not want to spend much, this is a reasonable starting point.

Reception on AM and FM is good for the price. Shortwave reception is more limited in frequency coverage than pricier radios, but I was able to pick up several strong international broadcasts on the telescopic antenna. The automatic search and store function makes finding active stations easy for beginners.

The MP3 player function is a nice bonus. I loaded a TF card with music and the 2W bass speaker produced surprisingly listenable sound. The recording function lets you capture broadcasts directly to the TF card, which is handy for time-shifting programs.

The 1000mAh BL-5C rechargeable battery provides decent runtime, and replacement batteries are cheap and widely available since the BL-5C is a standard Nokia phone battery.

Best Use Cases for the Retekess V115

This is the best shortwave radio under $50 for absolute beginners. If you are not sure whether shortwave listening is for you, the V115 lets you test the waters without a big investment. The MP3 and recording features add value that most radios at this price do not offer.

It also works well as a cheap backup radio for emergencies or as a gift for someone who wants to explore radio without complexity.

What to Watch Out For

Shortwave frequency coverage is limited compared to dedicated receivers like the PL330 or D-808. Serious DXers will outgrow this radio quickly. Manual tuning can be finicky, with small steps that are easy to overshoot.

There is no SSB, air band, or weather capability. Build quality is basic plastic, and the controls feel budget-friendly in your hand. For the price, these trade-offs are expected.

7. Greadio Portable Shortwave Radio – Easy Entry Level

The Greadio T26 is the radio I recommend to friends who want to try shortwave for the first time without learning complex menus. It uses an advanced DSP chip for strong, stable signals and the large knobs make tuning straightforward. I tested it side by side with more expensive radios and the reception held up remarkably well.

AM and FM performance is the real highlight here. The DSP chip pulls in weak stations cleanly, and the 2W speaker produces full sound that is easy to listen to for extended periods. The tone control switch lets you optimize for music or news, which is a nice touch at this price.

Power options are flexible. You can run it on AC power or four D cell batteries, which gives you excellent runtime during emergencies. D batteries are easy to stockpile, making this a solid emergency preparedness radio.

The LCD display shows frequency and time clearly, and the portable handle design makes it easy to carry from room to room or out to the patio.

Best Use Cases for the Greadio Portable Shortwave Radio

This radio is perfect for beginners who want simple operation and good reception without spending much. It works well as a kitchen radio, a garage companion, or an entry point into shortwave listening. The dual power options make it genuinely useful for emergency preparedness kits.

It is also a good choice for older users who want a no-nonsense radio with physical knobs and a clear display.

What to Watch Out For

There is no auto-scanning on shortwave, so you have to tune manually to find stations. The tuner dial requires careful adjustment to land on the right frequency, which can be tedious for casual listening. There is no external antenna jack, so you are limited to the built-in antenna.

No weather band or longwave reception means it is not a full multiband radio. These limitations are acceptable at this price but worth knowing.

8. Tecsun R9700DX – Analog Dual Conversion Performer

The Tecsun R9700DX is a different beast from the DSP radios on this list. It uses dual conversion analog technology, and the sound quality has a warmth and richness that digital radios struggle to match. I have spent evenings just band-scanning on this radio because the audio is genuinely enjoyable.

Reception is very good across FM, AM, and shortwave bands. The dual conversion technology provides excellent selectivity, which means you can separate stations that are close together on the dial. The DX Local attenuator switch helps in strong signal environments where overload can be a problem.

The 12-band coverage gives you access to the major shortwave broadcast bands. The backlit frequency display is helpful for night listening, and the tone control switch lets you choose between Music and News settings depending on what you are listening to.

Tecsun includes a carrying case, shortwave antenna, and AC adapter, which adds value to the package. The built-in battery charger means you can use rechargeable AA batteries and charge them inside the radio.

Best Use Cases for the Tecsun R9700DX

This radio is for listeners who appreciate the feel and sound of analog tuning. If you enjoy the experience of slowly sweeping across a band and discovering stations, the R9700DX delivers that classic radio experience with modern performance. It makes a great travel radio thanks to the included case.

It is also a good choice for audio purists who prefer the natural sound of analog circuitry over DSP processing.

What to Watch Out For

The analog tuning dial can be stiff, and some users report the FM scale is off by about 2 MHz. Quality control is inconsistent, so you may need to exchange your unit if you get a bad one. The band selector is not illuminated, making band switching in the dark difficult.

There are gaps in shortwave band coverage, so not every broadcast band is accessible. These are trade-offs of the analog design, but for the right listener they are minor compared to the sound quality advantage.

How to Choose the Best AM FM Shortwave Radio

Choosing the right multiband radio comes down to understanding what you want to listen to and how you plan to use it. After testing dozens of models, I have narrowed the decision to a few key factors that matter most.

Bands and Frequency Coverage

The most basic question is which bands you need. If you only want AM and FM, a simple radio like the Panasonic RF-2400D is sufficient. For shortwave listening, you need coverage of the major broadcast bands between 1.7 and 30 MHz. If you want ham radio or utility station monitoring, SSB capability is essential. Aviation enthusiasts should look for air band coverage, and anyone serious about emergency preparedness should prioritize NOAA weather band.

DSP Versus Analog Tuning

DSP radios like the Tecsun PL330 and XHDATA D-808 use digital signal processing chips that offer excellent sensitivity, precise frequency entry, and features like synchronous detection. Analog radios like the Tecsun R9700DX offer a more tactile tuning experience and warmer sound but lack the precision of digital displays. Both approaches have merits, and some listeners own one of each.

SSB Capability

Single Side Band reception lets you hear amateur radio operators, maritime communications, and utility stations that regular shortwave radios cannot decode. If you are serious about DXing or want to monitor ham radio activity, SSB is a must-have feature. The PL330, D-808, CC Skywave SSB 2, and RF919 all include SSB capability.

Antenna Options

Built-in telescopic antennas work for strong local signals, but serious shortwave listening benefits from external antennas. Look for radios with external antenna jacks like the PL330, D-808, and RF919. The C. Crane Skywave includes a 23-foot reel antenna in the box, which is a thoughtful addition for travel. Adding a simple wire antenna can dramatically improve weak signal reception.

Battery and Power Options

For emergency use, dual power options are important. Radios that run on both AC and batteries give you flexibility when the grid is down. Standard battery sizes like AA and D are easier to source than proprietary packs. The Raddy RF919 has a large 5000mAh rechargeable battery for extended sessions, while the C. Crane Skywave runs up to 70 hours on two AA cells.

Portability and Build Quality

If you plan to travel with your radio, size and weight matter. The C. Crane Skywave weighs just 6 ounces and fits in a pocket, while the Raddy RF919 is nearly a foot tall. Build quality varies widely in this price range, so read user reviews carefully. Forum discussions on Reddit and RadioReference consistently highlight brand reputation as a key trust signal when choosing a shortwave radio.

Price and Value

You do not need to spend a fortune to get good reception. The Retekess V115 and Greadio T26 prove that capable shortwave radios exist under $40. For most listeners, the sweet spot is the $80 to $100 range where the Tecsun PL330 and XHDATA D-808 deliver outstanding performance per dollar. Premium options like the CC Skywave SSB 2 add travel features and weather alerts that justify the higher price for the right user.

FAQs

Final Thoughts on the Best AM FM Shortwave Radios

After months of testing, the Tecsun PL330 stands out as the best overall pick for most listeners thanks to its DSP performance, SSB capability, and compact size. The XHDATA D-808 wins on value with air band and RDS at under $100, while the C. Crane CC Skywave SSB 2 is the ultimate travel companion. Whatever your budget or listening goals, the best am fm shortwave radios in 2026 deliver far more capability than their size suggests, and any of the eight models above will serve you well.