A Guide On Finding The Best Hand Crank Radio For Emergencies
Because we ALL should be more prepared for future emergencies, right?
Regardless of whether you think a widespread global catastrophe is in the cards or not… Because LOCAL weather emergencies happen ALL THE TIME!
That’s a fact. And a hand crank radio is one of the most:
- Reliable
- Versatile
- And powerful tools
TOPICS IN THIS GUIDE… ↓(click to jump)
- Best Hand Crank Radios Today
- Why EVERYONE Should Own One
- Best Emergency Radio Features
- Best Uses For Your Crank Radio
- Common Hand Crank Radio Myths
Best Emergency Radios On The Market Today
After years of analyzing and testing hand crank radios, there’s one I trust and recommend above all others!
The Ready Hour Hand Crank Radio is packed with essential functions for any emergency.
Compact, lightweight, and durable, this versatile tool includes an AM/FM/weather radio, LED flashlight, 4-LED room light, and a charger for your phone or other USB devices.
The best part? It doesn’t rely on batteries. You can power it with a hand crank, solar panel, USB port, or regular batteries.
It’s the perfect addition to your hiking gear, camping supplies, bug-out bag, or family emergency kit.
Okay… the truth is, you CAN find cheaper radios online…
But in my experience, these alternatives are missing critical components (such as weather bands and flashlight capabilities) and tend to use cheap (fragile) electrical components.
Instead, get a Ready Hour Hand Crank Radio - the one I trust most when I need it!
↓ Overview of The Ready Hour Hand Crank Radio
Kaito has been making quality radios since 1998.
The Kaito KA500 Voyager is an excellent choice for your hand crank emergency radio.
It has multiple charging methods, such as the hand-crank, USB port (for USB charging), and solar chargers; the KA500 can also use standard AA batteries. And the AA battery is practically a worldwide standard.
It features AM/FM, weather and shortwave frequencies, and Alert mode. It also has LED flashlight modes, which provide extra signaling options.
And the best feature is the number of unique charging options. This makes it one of the most resilient survival radio options.
That's why I consider it one of the best emergency radios ever.
Side Note: I hate dealing with aaa battery options and tend to avoid them.
↓ Kaito Voyager KA500 Emergency Radio Review
Sangean is a radio company that's been around since 1974.
The Sangean MMR-88 Emergency Alert Radio is packed with survival features.
These features make it indispensable in an emergency.
It’s a Public Alert Certified Radio, alerting you of severe weather warnings even if the radio is turned off.
This Sangean Emergency Radio features three charging modes (hand-crank, USB, and solar) for versatility.
The digital radio has AM/FM and weather bands, and 19 frequency presets for quick tuning.
You can even listen with its built-in speaker or a set of headphones.
↓ Sangean MMR-88 Emergency Portable Radio Review
The ESKY ES-CR01 is a compact emergency radio with great features.
It includes multiple charging modes. This makes it easy to keep a full battery.
And the 1000mAh rechargable battery and USB output allow you to charge your other small electronics.
The solar panels allow for passive recharging in the sun.
And the folding hand-crank stows away when not in use, allowing you to clip the radio to your belt for easy carry!
↓ Solar Crank Phone Charger Radio
In1986, Etón produced its first shortwave radio. Since then, their emergency radios have been sold worldwide.
The American Red Cross FRX3+ radio features all the best options. It also comes with the endorsement of the American Red Cross.
It includes multiple charging options, a weather alert mode, and a massive 2600mAh battery.
These features make this one of the most reliable hand-crank radios on the market today.
It also features a bright LED flashlight and a durable design.
↓ Eton Emergency Digital Weather Radio
Established in 1959, Midland Radio Corporation has been at the forefront of two-way radio and weather radio technology. AND they are based in Kansas City, Missouri!
The Midland ER310 is built for all types of emergencies.
However, the Midland ER310's Alert mode is unique.
When an alert is received, a siren sounds, and the LED flashlights strobe.
Plus, all audio alerts will be saved for an hour, giving you time to listen to the message if you miss part of it.
An excellent emergency feature, indeed.
↓ Midland ER310 Emergency Crank Radio
Finally, the Kaito Voyager V2 radio has all the usual features of an emergency radio plus some survival radio features as well!
It includes:
- Multiple charging options
- AM/FM and weather bands
- Weather alert mode
- The ability to charge other devices
But, this radio also adds shortwave radio frequencies to its list of features.
This allows you to listen to (but not transmit on) some of the HAM radio frequencies. This means more information and connectivity when you need it most!
↓ Kaito Voyager V2 AM FM Shortwave Portable Radio Review
C. Crane is located in Fortuna, a small town in the wilds of Humboldt County California. They've been making radios and audio equipment for 30+ years.
And the C. Crane Co COBS Wind Up Radio has all the best features of a basic emergency radio.
It's got multi-power source options (crank, solar, batteries, and an AC adapter). It also has a 3 LED built-in flashlight so it's 3X better than units with only a single LED.
It has 7 preset national weather channels for continuous weather updates. However, this emergnecy radio lacks automatic weather alerts.
↓ C Crane CC Solar Observer Portable Emergency Radio Review
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Nowadays, all the latest survival gadgets seem to come with special batteries.
Sure, these unique batteries are more efficient. But what happens when the power goes out?
One option is to go with a portable solar charger, but what if it’s a cloudy day? Then you’re out of luck. Instead, you need a device to access emergency information, rain or shine. A tool that can keep you informed anytime, anywhere, without relying on the power grid.
There’s only one device I know of that can do all those things: A hand crank radio!
Yes, to some, they may seem a bit old-fashioned.
My grandpa had a “wind-up radio” in his workshop when I was a kid. He’d tune into his weather alert radio, listening for information on tornados in our area. But every so often, the volume would fade. And as soon as it did, Grandpa would pull it off the shelf and furiously crank it back up.
As a kid, it always seemed like a lot of work for a static-filled weather report. But now, as an adult, I know better… Plus, emergency radios have come a long way in the past 40 years!
Today they’re even more reliable than those of the past. And today, the best ones include additional emergency features. Ones which we’ll discuss shortly…
The bottom line is: These radios can run for hours on a fully charged battery power. And the crank provides a never-ending supply of power and information.
These features make them a must-own device. One you should add to your collection of survival gear. Because when cell signals, tv broadcasts, and the internet go out, a radio will be your only means to gather crucial intel.
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The Best Emergency Radio Features
Multiple Power Sources
In emergency preparedness, backups are essential.
For example: Everyone should have a spare flashlight, emergency food, and a water stockpile. So when it comes to your emergency radio, multiple power sources are just as important.
The best ones feature both USB and solar charging options. Plus, the ability to run on lithium or alkaline batteries. And these are in addition to the hand-crank generator.
The crank adds one more level of backup. So by my count, the best radios have 4 ways to power them:
- Crank Generator
- Solar Power Panel
- USB Port
- Replaceable Batteries
Weather Bands and Alerts
Most radios include AM and FM frequencies, but that’s not good enough. You need a radio that can tune into NOAA weather band frequencies and weather alerts.
1. Weather Band Radios and Frequencies
These dedicated weather bands allow you to monitor the weather continually. And not just during occasional commercial breaks between songs.
When an emergency is at hand, you need critical intel right NOW! These frequencies broadcast a repeating forecast for your local area. So no waiting…
But you’re out of luck if your radio doesn’t include these important weather bands.
2. NOAA Weather Alerts
Weather alerts are designed to reach you even if you’re listening to the game or have the radio turned off. Alerts allow you to receive real-time severe weather and civil emergency alerts.
As we all know, time is of the essence when it comes to emergencies. You need to be able to take immediate action before the disaster arrives.
For example:
You want to be notified at night if an F4 tornado is heading your way.
A Multi-Purpose Tool
The best emergency radios do more than entertain and alert. Some come packed with extra features making them a multi-purpose survival tool.
For example:
Look for a radio with a built-in flashlight to provide extra illumination. And use the LED strobe mode to signal for help when lost.
Get one that allows you to charge other devices using a USB outlet. This also allows the hand-crank generator to top off all other electronic devices, such as a cell phone or a rechargeable flashlight.
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This little device has more uses than you might think…
1. Information Gathering
In a survival situation, information is key. Knowing what’s happening in the outside world can be the difference between making a life-saving decision and being left in the dark (literally).
With a crank radio, you can tune in to local and international news, weather forecasts, and emergency alerts. And the best part? No batteries required. Just a bit of elbow grease, and you’re informed.
2. Emergency Alerts
Most come equipped with the NOAA weather band. This means you’ll receive up-to-the-minute updates on severe weather, natural disasters, and other emergencies in your area.
When cell towers are down and the internet is out your radio becomes your only lifeline.
3. Charging Devices
Some crank radios are equipped with USB ports, allowing you to charge small devices like cell phones or flashlights. It’s not a long-term solution, but in a pinch, you can get just enough juice to make an emergency call.
4. Built-In Light
You’d be surprised how many radios have a built-in flashlight or reading light. This dual function makes it a valuable tool in power outages, helping you navigate in the dark or signaling for help.
5. Alarms & Sirens
Some models also come with built-in alarms or sirens, which can be useful for drawing attention in rescue situations or warding off unwanted visitors.
6. Durability and Portability
The best ones are built for tough situations. Many are shock-resistant, water-resistant, and designed to be compact enough to fit in your bug-out bag or emergency kit. They’re the rugged companion you need in uncertain times.
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Like many other survival gadgets, these radios are surrounded by a cloud of misconceptions.
It’s time to set the record straight. Here are the five most common myths about hand crank radios, debunked!
1. Myth: One Crank Gives You Hours of Radio Time
Reality: Wish it were that easy! Typically, a few minutes of cranking might give you anywhere from 5-30 minutes of radio time.
IT all depending on the model and the power efficiency of the radio. To get the best results, you’ll need to crank consistently AND be mindful of power consumption.
2. Myth: All Hand Crank Radios Double as Chargers
Reality: While many modern hand crank radios come with the ability to charge small devices, not all of them have this feature. Before you bank on your radio to juice up your smartphone make sure it actually has this capability.
Even if it does, the charging rate might be slower than you’re used to.
3. Myth: Hand Crank Radios are Only Good for Emergencies
Reality: Sure, they’re perfect during power outages or when you’re out in the wild, but that’s not the only time they shine.
They’re also great for camping trips, hiking adventures, or just enjoying music or news in your backyard.
4. Myth: Digital Display Means Better Reception
Reality: The quality of reception isn’t necessarily tied to whether your radio has a digital or analog display. It’s actually more about the quality of the antenna and the radio’s circuitry.
Some old-school analog hand crank radios can outperform their digital counterparts in reception quality. So don’t get swayed just by fancy displays!
5. Myth: Hand Crank Radios are Bulky and Heavy
Reality: Like any gadget, there’s a range of sizes and weights. Yes, some models can be a bit on the hefty side, especially those packed with features. However, there are many compact, lightweight models on the market tailored for the on-the-go adventurer.
Final Thoughts
A high-quality emergency radio can make a huge difference in staying informed vs. staying in the dark. And while the cheapest ones are no more than a radio with a crank, the best ones include extra features.
The bottom line is: These emergency radios have stood the test of time. They continue to be an excellent investment for you and your loved one’s safety.
If you don’t yet own one, you should. Because an emergency radio is essential to your readiness plan.
Prepare, Adapt & Overcome,
P.s. - I just found out 2 out of 3 Americans don’t feel prepared for a 3 day disaster!!!
I guess this goes to show how modern society continues to embrace ‘living a fragile life.’ What’s crazy is… it’s so easy to fix.
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