In an increasingly digital world, the timeless appeal of shortwave radio offers a unique portal to global perspectives. Whether you’re a news enthusiast, an emergency prepper, or a curious listener seeking distant voices, a quality shortwave receiver opens up the airwaves. The right model can pull in everything from international broadcasts and amateur radio operators to vital weather alerts, providing both entertainment and a critical lifeline during power outages.
The market in 2025 is filled with impressive options, from feature-packed emergency units to sophisticated portables for the dedicated DXer. Choosing the best one depends on your primary needs: emergency readiness, casual travel listening, or serious signal hunting. This roundup breaks down the top contenders to help you find the perfect shortwave radio that connects you to the world.
Our Top Picks for Shortwave Radios
- Kaito KA500 5-way Powered Emergency Radio
- C Crane CC Skywave Portable Travel Radio
- TECSUN PL-380 DSP World Band Receiver
- Tecsun PL880 Digital PLL Shortwave Radio
- Eton Elite Executive AM/FM/SSB/Shortwave Radio
- SANGEAN ATS-909X2 Multi-Band Radio
- Tecsun PL-880 Portable Digital PLL Radio
- Sangean ATS-909X2 Multi-Band Receiver
Kaito KA500 5-way Powered Emergency Radio
Built for resilience, the Kaito KA500 is a top choice for emergency preparedness. Its standout feature is the multiple power options, including a hand crank, solar panel, and a built-in rechargeable battery pack. This ensures you have access to information and light even during extended power outages. It also functions as a power bank to charge mobile devices via its USB output port, making it a true all-in-one emergency hub.
Beyond its power versatility, it offers comprehensive coverage of AM, FM, two shortwave bands, and seven NOAA weather channels with alert functionality. The integrated 5-LED reading lamp, flashlight, and red SOS beacon light add to its utility in any crisis situation. For anyone prioritizing readiness and practical features, this radio is a reliable companion.
C Crane CC Skywave Portable Travel Radio
The C Crane CC Skywave is designed for the traveler who demands performance in a compact package. Its small, lightweight form factor makes it easy to pack, yet it doesn’t compromise on band coverage, including AM, FM, shortwave, NOAA weather, and even airband for aviation enthusiasts. The user-friendly interface includes a direct entry keypad and autoscan tuning for effortless operation on the go.
With 400 memory presets, you can save all your favorite stations from home and your travels. Features like a clock, alarm, and sleep timer make it a versatile bedside companion as well. If you need a highly portable and capable radio that excels in both reception and convenience, the CC Skywave is an excellent option.
TECSUN PL-380 DSP World Band Receiver
The TECSUN PL-380 brings advanced Digital Signal Processing (DSP) technology to an accessible price point. This technology digitalizes analog signals, resulting in improved sensitivity, selectivity, and overall clearer sound on FM, MW, SW, and LW bands. Its ETM (Easy Tuning Mode) function is particularly useful, as it automatically scans and stores available stations in your current location.
This model is packed with user-friendly features, including a large LCD display, 550 memory presets, and a digital clock. Its combination of sophisticated tuning capabilities and straightforward operation makes it a fantastic value for listeners stepping up from more basic models.
Tecsun PL880 Digital PLL Shortwave Radio
The Tecsun PL880 is a serious portable receiver that offers exceptional performance for its size. It covers a full range of bands, including AM, FM, Longwave, and Shortwave, with the critical addition of Single Side Band (SSB) reception. This feature is essential for listening to amateur radio, maritime, and other utility communications that use this mode.
Audio quality is a highlight, thanks to its built-in speaker and selectable bandwidth filters on AM and SSB that help you fine-tune the sound and reduce interference. With PLL synthesized dual conversion and precise 10 Hz tuning steps on SSB, it provides the stability and control that dedicated shortwave listeners look for.
Eton Elite Executive AM/FM/SSB/Shortwave Radio
The Eton Elite Executive combines a sophisticated design with high-performance internals. It provides comprehensive coverage of AM, FM, Longwave, and Shortwave, and its inclusion of Single Side Band (SSB) opens up a wider spectrum of signals. The synchronous detection circuit is a key benefit, as it significantly reduces distortion and fading on AM and shortwave broadcasts for a cleaner listening experience.
Tuning is precise and flexible, offering digital manual, automatic, and direct keypad entry. The PLL synthesized digital dual conversion ensures stable and accurate frequency locking. For the listener who values both audio clarity and the ability to tune into a broad array of transmissions, the Elite Executive is a compelling choice.
SANGEAN ATS-909X2 Multi-Band Radio
The SANGEAN ATS-909X2 represents the pinnacle of portable multi-band receivers for the serious enthusiast. It is packed with virtually every feature a radio hobbyist could want, including a massive 1674 station memory, RDS for FM, SSB reception, and a new air band mode. The large, backlit LCD screen clearly displays a wealth of information, from signal strength to station genre.
Its tuning flexibility is unmatched, with five different methods including a satisfying rotary knob for fine control. Advanced features like adjustable bandwidth control, a squelch function, and multiple alarm timers with a Humane Wake System make it incredibly versatile. This model is for those who want the best in reception, features, and build quality.
Tecsun PL-880 Portable Digital PLL Radio
This model is a repeat listing for the Tecsun PL-880, underscoring its popularity and status as a benchmark in its class. It continues to be a favorite for its robust feature set that balances advanced capabilities with user-friendly operation. The inclusion of SSB and fine-tuning steps makes it a powerful tool for DXing, while its solid audio output ensures enjoyable listening for music and talk programs.
The build quality and thoughtful design, such as the multiple bandwidth filters and dual conversion circuitry, provide a noticeable improvement in signal clarity and stability over many other portables. It remains a top recommendation for anyone seeking a high-performance radio without stepping into the premium price tier of flagship models.
Sangean ATS-909X2 Multi-Band Receiver
This entry for the Sangean ATS-909X2 highlights its position as a category leader. As the successor to the legendary ATS-909, this updated version refines an already excellent formula with a modern DSP tuner for FM and enhanced functionality. Its ability to organize stations into different memory banks and its comprehensive world time zone support make it ideal for global listeners.
The attention to detail is evident in features like the customizable backlight, tone controls, and a powerful headphone amplifier. For the listener who refuses to compromise and wants a radio that can handle any listening task with precision and ease, the Sangean ATS-909X2 is often considered the ultimate portable.
Buying Guide: How to Pick the Best Shortwave Radio for You
Choosing the right shortwave radio can feel a bit overwhelming with all the options out there. I’ve spent a lot of time with these devices, and I can tell you that focusing on a few key features makes the decision much easier. It’s not just about finding the one with the most buttons; it’s about finding the one that fits your listening style and needs.
First, consider sensitivity and selectivity. Sensitivity is how well the radio can pick up weak signals, pulling in those distant, faint stations. Selectivity is its ability to separate two stations that are very close together on the dial. A radio with poor selectivity will have you listening to two broadcasts at once, which is just a mess. Look for models with good reviews in these areas, especially if you plan on DXing—trying to receive faraway stations.
Next, think about the tuning methods. You have two main types: analog and digital. Analog tuning with a knob feels classic and is great for sweeping through bands, but it can be less precise. Digital tuning, often with a keypad or a tuning knob that clicks, gives you exact frequency control, which is a huge help. Many modern digital sets also include Single Sideband (SSB) reception, which is essential for listening to amateur radio operators and some utility stations. If that’s your interest, don’t settle for a radio without SSB.
Another big decision is portability versus features. A compact, battery-powered radio is perfect for taking to the park or using during a power outage. However, these smaller units might lack the audio quality and extensive features of a larger tabletop model. Tabletop radios often have larger speakers for better sound, more robust antenna connections, and sometimes even a computer interface for controlling the radio with software. Ask yourself where you’ll use it most.
Don’t forget the antenna. The little whip antenna on a portable radio is okay for local strong signals, but for serious shortwave listening, you’ll want a radio with a port for an external longwire or reel antenna. This one upgrade makes a bigger difference than almost anything else. Also, check for other features that matter to you, like the ability to save many station presets, an alarm clock, or even air band reception for listening to aircraft. By weighing these factors—sensitivity, tuning, size, and antenna options—you can find one of the best shortwave radios in 2025 that will keep you connected to the world.
FAQ
What exactly can I listen to on a shortwave radio?
You can tune into a surprising variety of broadcasts. This includes international news from broadcasters like the BBC World Service or Voice of America, amateur radio (ham) operators having conversations, utility stations like weather reports for ships (fax and voice), and even number stations. It’s a direct line to unfiltered information and culture from across the globe.
Is shortwave radio still relevant with the internet?
Absolutely. While the internet is vast, it requires infrastructure that can fail during natural disasters, power outages, or in regions with censorship. Shortwave signals travel thousands of miles by bouncing off the ionosphere, making them a resilient and independent source of information. For many, it’s a vital hobby and a reliable backup communication link.
Do I need a license to listen to shortwave broadcasts?
No, you do not need any license to listen. Owning a receiver and tuning into shortwave broadcasts, including amateur radio bands, is completely legal and free for anyone. The licensing requirements are only for transmitting, which is what ham radio operators are licensed to do.
Why do some stations sound weak or fade in and out?
This is a normal part of the shortwave experience. The signals rely on the ionosphere, which changes constantly based on the time of day, solar activity, and season. A station that comes in loud and clear at night might be completely gone during the day. This fading, or “skip,” is part of what makes the hobby interesting, as conditions are always shifting.
What’s the most important feature for a beginner?
For someone just starting, I would prioritize ease of use. Look for a radio with digital tuning that allows you to type in a frequency directly, a clear display, and a simple way to save your favorite stations as presets. This removes the frustration of hunting for signals and lets you focus on the joy of listening. As you get more experience, you can look at the other advanced features when considering the 8 best shortwave radios in 2025.
Can I connect my shortwave radio to my computer?
Many modern shortwave radios offer this capability, often called PC connectivity. This usually involves a USB cable and software that lets you control the radio from your computer. This is fantastic for digitally recording broadcasts, using more advanced filtering, and logging the stations you hear. It’s a feature that really opens up the hobby.