10 Best Battery Operated Radio 2025 in the UK

The Retekess TR604 Portable Radio is a functional choice for those seeking a straightforward, easy-to-use device, especially catering to the elderly. The simplicity of its design, featuring four large knobs for frequency, volume, and mode adjustment, and a clear, large display, make it accessible to users who prefer manual controls over digital interfaces. One of its main strengths is its portability; weighing 746 grams and equipped with a built-in handle, it is convenient to carry to various locations like gardens or parks.

In terms of sound quality, the large 3.5-inch speaker promises clear and loud audio. The inclusion of a unique high bass mode adds a touch of customization to the listening experience, which is beneficial in different environments. Additionally, it supports both AM and FM bands with a wide range of frequencies, ensuring a broad selection of available stations. The telescopic rotating antenna enhances its reception capabilities, making it reliable for picking up signals even in less-than-ideal conditions.

The radio's design is somewhat basic, lacking modern features like Bluetooth connectivity or digital tuning that some users might expect. It relies on either a power cord or three D batteries, which are not included, potentially adding to ongoing costs. While the battery life is claimed to be long, this traditional battery requirement might not suit those looking for rechargeable options. Durability seems assured, given its solid construction, making it a suitable choice for outdoor use. The radio also offers a standard 3.5mm headphone jack, which is practical for private listening. With lifetime customer support and a one-year warranty, it provides a safety net for potential buyers. This radio is ideal for those who value ease of use and basic functionality over modern features and tech advancements.

The AZATOM Desire X2 DAB/DAB+ FM Digital Radio stands out in the battery-operated radio category, offering a mix of functionality and portability. One of its major strengths is its advanced DAB+/FM capabilities, which ensure a wide selection of radio stations with clear reception. This makes it easy for users to enjoy a variety of content. Its ability to switch between mains and battery power enhances its portability, allowing for both stationary use and on-the-go listening.

The sound quality of this radio is also impressive, boasting expert sound engineering for deep and rich audio. This makes it suitable for those who value high-quality sound in a compact form. It's quite portable, given its lightweight design of 460 grams and dimensions of 16 x 5 x 9.5 cm, making it easy to carry around.

Durability is enhanced by its sturdy build, though its long-term resilience might depend on how well it's handled. Additional features like dual alarms, a sleep timer, and Bluetooth connectivity add to its versatility, appealing to users who want more than just a simple radio.

The product's oak finish might not appeal to everyone aesthetically, but it does offer a unique look. While the availability of 80 presets is generous, setting them up can be complex for some users unfamiliar with digital radios.

The AZATOM Desire X2 is ideal for those seeking a portable, feature-rich radio with excellent sound quality and the flexibility of mains and battery power, albeit with some considerations for aesthetic preference.

The Roberts SPORTS DAB5 is a portable DAB/DAB+ and FM radio, well-suited for those who enjoy listening to radio stations on the go. Its compact and lightweight design, weighing just 70 grams, makes it extremely portable and an ideal choice for sports enthusiasts or travelers. With its ability to access both DAB/DAB+ and FM frequencies, users can enjoy a wide variety of stations with clear audio quality. The radio's 10 preset stations feature allows for quick access to favorite channels, enhancing the user experience.

A standout feature is the large blue backlit LCD display, which makes navigating stations in low-light environments straightforward and user-friendly. This is particularly useful for night-time or early morning use. However, the radio requires two AA batteries, which are not included, so users should be prepared with spare batteries for continuous use.

In terms of sound quality, the SportsDAB5 promises to deliver crystal clear audio, ideal for listening to sports commentary or talk shows. The auxiliary connectivity option adds a bit of flexibility, though it doesn't enhance its radio functions directly. This product is particularly well-suited for users prioritizing portability and ease of use.