10 Best Hand Crank Radios 2025 in the UK

The Roxicosly Wind Up Radio is a versatile device designed for both everyday use and emergencies. It supports AM, FM, and SW radio bands, offering a wide range of stations for entertainment. The radio includes multiple power sources: a built-in rechargeable 12000mAh battery, Type C input, solar power, hand crank, and 3 AAA batteries. This ensures you can keep the radio running in various situations, including power outages. The 12000mAh battery also doubles as a power bank to charge your phone during emergencies, which is a valuable feature.

Portability is another strength, with the radio’s compact dimensions and lightweight design making it easy to carry. It is equipped with a backlit LCD display that clearly shows the time, battery level, and radio frequency, making it user-friendly. Durability is assured with its IPX6 waterproof and IPX4 dustproof ratings, meaning it can withstand harsh conditions. Additional features include a powerful 3W flashlight, a reading lamp with two brightness modes, an SOS alarm for emergencies, and a headphone jack for private listening.

However, the radio might be slightly bulky for some users, and the AAA batteries are not included, which could be inconvenient. The product also promises automatic power switching between the rechargeable battery and AAA batteries, but ensuring consistent performance across all power sources might require some attention. The Roxicosly Wind Up Radio is well-equipped for outdoor activities, emergency situations, or daily home use, providing reliability and multiple functionalities.

The Kaito KA500 is a versatile emergency radio designed to keep you connected during power outages or outdoor adventures. It stands out with six power options including a hand crank, solar panel, batteries, USB, and AC/DC input, so you have multiple ways to keep it running. The radio covers AM, FM, two shortwave bands, and seven NOAA weather channels, which is great for staying informed in emergencies, especially in the USA and Canada. Its telescopic antenna and signal strength indicator help get clearer reception, and the speaker is loud enough for easy listening.

Durability is solid thanks to its impact and water-resistant ABS shell, making it suitable for both indoor use and outdoor activities. The unit is fairly lightweight and compact, so it’s easy to carry or store in an emergency kit. Extra features like a bright flashlight, reading lamp, and an SOS red beacon add useful emergency functions. Plus, it can charge your phone or other USB devices, doubling as a power bank.

On the downside, it requires 3 AA batteries (not included) if you want to rely on that power source, and the wall adapter is sold separately. While the radio offers many features, some users might find the learning curve a bit steep because of the many controls and modes. Also, shortwave reception can vary depending on location and antenna positioning. This radio is an excellent choice for anyone needing a reliable, multi-powered emergency radio with extra lighting and charging capabilities. It suits campers, hikers, or households wanting peace of mind during storms or outages, but might be more than casual users need if they only want a simple radio.

The DAB+/DAB/FM Wind up Solar Radio is a versatile and practical tool for outdoor enthusiasts, such as hikers and campers. Its standout feature is the variety of power sources it offers. You can charge it using a USB cable, solar power, hand crank, or with its large 5000mAh battery or additional AAA batteries. This flexibility ensures it stays powered in diverse situations, making it reliable during power outages or while off the grid.

For radio enthusiasts, it supports both DAB+/DAB and FM bands, offering a broad range of listening options. The auto-search and program memory functions, which save up to 60 stations, simplify finding your favorite stations, even in areas with weaker signals.

The radio's durability is underscored by its rugged ABS construction and IPX4 rating, making it splash-proof and suitable for outdoor use. It is portable, with compact dimensions and a lightweight design, complemented by an adjustable strap and carabiner for easy carrying.

Additional features enhance its utility: a 3.5mm headphone jack for private listening, a reading lamp and flashlight for night-time use, and an SOS alarm for emergencies. The LCD screen conveniently displays time, date, and station information, and the radio doubles as a 5000mAh power bank to charge other devices.

While the radio is highly functional, it may not appeal to users seeking a simple, straightforward radio due to its numerous features and functionalities. The reliance on multiple power sources may also be overwhelming for some users. However, for those who value having a multi-functional tool, especially in outdoor and emergency scenarios, this radio offers significant benefits.