10 Best Hand Crank Radios in 2023 [Expert Picks]


Hand crank radios, also known as emergency radios, are portable devices that can be powered by turning a crank or by using solar power. They are an excellent tool to have during power outages or other emergencies when access to electricity is limited.

Best Overall
1
4.9
Kaito KA500

Kaito KA500

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  • 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
  • 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)
  • 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
  • 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
  • Made of strong premium impact-resistant and water-resistant ABS material, suitable for both indoors home/office use and outdoors recreational activities
Best Runner-Up
2
4.8
RunningSnail Wind Up Emergency Crank Radio

RunningSnail Wind Up Emergency Crank Radio

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  • ★【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.
  • ★【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.
  • ★【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!
  • ★【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!
  • ★【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!
Best with Solar Powered
3
4.7
Mesqool Dab Wind Up Radio

Mesqool Dab Wind Up Radio

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  • DAB+ Radio & Auto Scan: Mesqool noise-free digital DAB radio provides you with amazing stable reception to ensures a good listening experience as it automatically selects the best signal for you. This DAB+ radio support automatic scan to catch all channels and you can save up to 30 of your favourite channels for easy access and listening. There’s also DRC function on this portable DAB radio, you can set the compression rate as you like.
  • 5 Charging Methods & Emergency Radio: This wind up radio can be powered via USB cable, solar panel, 3 pcs AAA battery (not included), built-in lithium battery and hand crank, meet your needs in more situations. The 5000 capacity battery made the mini hand crank radio a power bank, allows you to charge your phone or other electronics via a USB phone charger. This solar radio with DAB will be an unexpected power source under any emergencies or in outdoor activities, bring you much convenience.
  • Ultra Bright Flashlight & Foldable Reading Light: This CR1009ProDAB Solar radio is equipped with a flashlight and a reading light, both with two brightness levels you can choose from. The bright flashlight of this portable radio is a good helper to bring you better visibility in the dark; the foldable reading light allows you to adjust and find the best angle for your night reading.
  • 105dB SOS Alarm & Waterproof IPX4: Our solar outdoor radio would be a nice choice for outdoor activities such as camping and mountaineering. Remember there is a SOS button on one side of the emergency radio, press the button if you are in danger and the crank radio flashes red and makes a loud enough noise to catch the attention of rescuers. With the IPX4 waterproof, small raindrops splashing on this wind up DAB radio will not make damage (But please do not soak in water).
  • RDS & Dual Alarm Clock: FM RDS function allows you to see the channel information of the program you are listening to on the screen clearly. The headphone jack of this clock radio let you enjoy your personal time and immerse in the wonderful show just with your headphone connect to the FM/DAB radio. With dual alarm clock settings, you can set one alarm clock for weekdays and another alarm clock for rest days, convenient for everyday life.
Best from Vondior
4
4.6
Vondior NOAA Weather Radio

Vondior NOAA Weather Radio

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  • 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 with this spectacular NOAA weather radio. Keep one in your emergency bag, you'll be happy you did.
  • BUILD TO LAST – Used by 2 AA batteries that found in every household, this radio will last for days after the storm have passed and the power will back on. So, go ahead prepper yourself for the storm by clicking the add to cart button.
  • Best reception in the market – Get weather broadcasts at a crystal-clear sound from anywhere in the US, thanks to our upgraded DSP Chip, 6-inch telescoping antenna and a high-performance built in speaker.
  • PERFECT SIZE – A hand held portable radio, it will easily fit into your pocket or any emergency bag and receipt almost any frequency range: WB:162.400-162.550MHz AM:520-1710KHz, FM:87-108MHz
  • WE CARE about you and your love ones! Vondior has helped more than 150,000 USA Civilians to live through the hurricane season and snowstorm season. We back our NOAA weather radio with 3 years Warranty! And our customer service is here for you 24/7 for anything you need!
Best Under-Budget
5
4.5
Eton American Red Cross FRX2

Eton American Red Cross FRX2

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  • Hand Crank Radio: A compact emergency radio that can easily be stored in a safety kit or tossed in your backpack, it can endure any extreme outdoor condition or emergency; Features AM/FM/NOAA weather bands.
  • Emergency Essential: Includes a crank powered handle, built-in LED flashlight, and USB smartphone charger; High-quality digital tuner provides you with news, entertainment and weather alerts and other emergency messages.
  • Stay Safe and Have Fun: As a proud partner of the American Red Cross, we are committed to your safety. For over 30 years, we've been dedicated to creating award-winning, innovative products for entertainment and emergency preparedness.
  • Keep Connected: From World Band and Weather Alert radios, to solar powered sound systems and connected home products, we'll keep you connected and in the know at home, in the office, on the road or in the great outdoors.
  • Eton's Commitment to Preparedness: We're committed to helping you be prepared for everyday fun and unexpected emergencies, whether you’re out on a 10-day backpacking trip, or just barbecuing in the backyard.
Best with Bluetooth
6
4.4
Kaito KA700

Kaito KA700

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  • 4 Way Powered: Dynamo Cranking, Solar, Rechargeable Battery (18650), Micro USB Port
  • 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
  • Bright 5 LED Reading Lamp, SOS Emergency Life Saver Light and Flash Light
  • USB Port for charging cellphones and other Devices with USB connections. USB Cable Included
  • International products have separate terms, are sold from abroad and may differ from local products, including fit, age ratings, and language of product, labeling or instructions.
Best with Clock
7
4.3
Midland ER40

Midland ER40

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  • NOAA Weather Alert Radio – The ER40 from Midland features NOAA weather information and alerts. Receive National Weather Service alerts anytime, anywhere. Radio delivers both visual and audio alerts. Early warning is your best protection against tornadoes, floods, hurricanes, fires, earthquakes, and more.
  • Multiple Sustainable Power Sources – The Midland ER40 features a solar panel that charges the internal lithium ion battery via direct sunlight. A hand crank which allows you to recharge the radio during a power outage or anytime away from a power source. Perfect for a short charge to get a call made during an emergency. Device includes a rechargeable 2600mAh battery.
  • Flashlight – ER40 radio is equipped with a flashlight that’s ideal for everyday use and can be used to signal for help in case of an emergency. Flashlight has hi/lo options with an SOS strobe for emergencies. Use the flashlight to light up your campsite at night for games and ghost stories!
  • Digital AM/FM Radio with Clock – The Midland ER40 includes a digital AM/FM radio for entertainment and live information. A large, backlit LCD display provides visibility. ER40 radio is equipped with a wrist lanyard for easy carrying.n.
  • Phone Charger – Midland’s ER40 emergency radio has the ability to charge devices through a USB connection. Charge your phone with ease.
Best Dual LCD Back-lit Displays
8
4.2
Kaito Voyager Pro KA600

Kaito Voyager Pro KA600

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  • All-purpose 6-way powered portable emergency radio: hand crank generator, solar power, 3 AA batteries (not included), 5V USB input, 6V DC wall power adapter (sold separately), and built-in NiMH rechargeable battery pack; suitable applications include everyday use around the house, outdoors recreational activities such as camping, backpacking, picnic, and emergency / disaster preparedness, roadside emergency, and etc.
  • Comprehensive coverage of AM, FM, Longwave, 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)
  • Telescopic antenna extends up to 18" for high sensitivity and selectivity reception assisted by advanced digital semiconductor circuitry design; 4 tuning methods including manual, direct keypad entry, ATS & memory tuning with 335 memories for easy access to favorite stations
  • Durable strong premium ABS construction with digital tuner and dual LCD back-lit displays featuring calendar, 12-hour clock with dual alarms, count-down sleep timer, thermometer, and humidity gauge
  • 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 safety features include a 5-LED reading lamp, an LED flashlight and a red LED S.O.S. beacon light
Best with Longer Battery
9
4.1
Outtdoor Emergency Weather Crank Radio

Outtdoor Emergency Weather Crank Radio

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  • ?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.
  • ?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.
  • ?3 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.
  • International products have separate terms, are sold from abroad and may differ from local products, including fit, age ratings, and language of product, labeling or instructions.
Cheapest Option
10
4
NNOOAADIO Wind Up Solar Radio

NNOOAADIO Wind Up Solar Radio

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  • . [ 4 Rechargeable Ways ] Hand crank dynamo radio, solar powered radio,5V Micro USB charging input, and built-in 1200mAh battery powered Wind Up Solar radio can provide 10 hours of light or 3-5 hours of radio time, also providing emergency power bank for iPhone & cellphone & iPad as a power cut survival kit.
  • . [ AM FM Portable Radio ] AM has a larger receiving range than FM shortwave radio, to get up to date with the latest weather such as earthquakes, hurricanes, tornadoes and strong storms. While FM can receive entertainment, sports, talk shows and news more clearly within tens of kilometers.
  • . [ Wind Up Radio Powerful ] Compact sized and Built-in 3 LED emergency flashlight Camping Radio, essential hiking backpacking supplies & hurricanes earthquake emergency survival kit；also a solar charging indicator, a channel signal light.
  • . [ Emergency Survival Radio] 5 telescopic antennas extends up to 30cm for high sensitivity reception assisted by advanced semiconductor circuitry design and LED signal strength indicator for pin-point tuning accuracy, and the built-in speaker delivers loud and crispy sound, It also comes with a lanyard.
  • . [ Weather Radio Warranty ] we under the CE FCC ROHS & Standardization ISO 9001. Also, provide a 12-month worry-free service. You will get NNOOAADIO Wind Up Radio, Micro USB cable, English instruction in a well-protected carton package.

She has contributed to Perseus Promos, Hazlitt, Rolling Stone, New Republic, Atlantic, GQ, Racked, VICE and The New Inquiry.

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