5 Best Survival Radios for Emergencies

From solar-powered to the reliable hand crank, I have put together a list of the best survival radios on the market today good for RVers and everyone! 

Did you know that the federal government recommends having an emergency radio in your emergency kit?

That’s because they offer a way to keep in touch with what is happening around us. It can alert you to severe weather alerts, listen to air traffic, and even monitor ham radio conversations.   

An emergency radio is extremely useful since it stays running even when another electronic device does not. Whether dealing with extreme weather or another unforeseen event, your radio will keep you connected to the outside world.  

I have narrowed down several of the best emergency radios that run on batteries, solar energy, and ones charged by a hand crank.

5 Best Survival Radios for Emergencies

Here are my top five picks for the best survival radios for emergencies.

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1. Midland ER210 Emergency Compact Crank Weather AM/FM Radio

The lightweight, ergonomic Midland ER210 radio is first on my list for best survival radio. It includes a 2,200mAh battery, which offers 25 hours of continuous use. When it needs to be charged again, you can choose between using the hand crank or charging the solar panel.

Never miss out on weather alerts or emergency updates with this lightweight, ergonomic radio. The Midland ER210 receives standard AM/FM signals, along with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association (NOAA) weather bands. 

It also offers an auto-scan option that will locate the best weather signal for your specific location. This is the unit Jennifer and I have. Since we bought ours, a model 310 has come out (see #5 below) with some beefier specs. I put this as #1 because, if you can still find it, it is the best bargain. 

2. RunningSnail Solar Crank NOAA Weather Radio

Second on my list for the best survival radio is an excellent budget option that provides a lot of bang for your buck! 

This solar crank radio provides many emergency features, including alerts for severe weather, tornados, and hurricanes in your area. You will always be sure to find NOAA weather channels with this RunningSnail radio. 

When emergency weather or natural disaster hits your location, an SOS alarm with flashing red lights lets rescuers know that you need assistance. The LED flashlight can light dark areas, while a USB cable allows for the charging of digital devices. There is even a table lamp feature, brightening dark rooms when the power goes out. 

The 2,000mAh battery can be replaced by three AAA batteries, a charged solar panel, or via the hand crank. 

3. C. Crane CC Solar Observer

Often touted as the best lightweight emergency radio option, this less than one-half-pound radio is not lightweight on power. Charging the solar panel for eight hours in the sun will power the radio for 4-6 hours. Using the hand crank for 90 seconds will provide up to 30 minutes of listening time!

If the hand crank and solar power sources are not for you, the radio will run for up to 60 hours using three AAA batteries. Talk about power! 

The radio can access AM, FM, and weather bands by using a backlit analog tuner. A flashlight can light up dark spaces, while a USB port can charge digital devices.

4. Kaito Ka500 Voyager Emergency Radio

This made my list for best survival radio because of its incredible durability. When faced with an emergency situation, like extreme weather, durability is an important feature to have! 

The Kaito Ka500 Voyage offers a wide range of band reception, including AM, FM, and shortwave. You can also be sure to stay informed by accessing one of the seven pre-programmed NOAA weather stations!

You can also utilize its “alert” mode to access alerts from the NOAA weather stations.  

5. Midland ER310

My final pick for best survival radio is the Midland ER310. It offers a wide range of charging options, including solar power, hand crank, and batteries.

This is an update to the model 210 at the top of the list and has a slightly beefed up battery – 2,6000mAh battery, lasting for up to 32 hours before needing a recharge.  The 210 has a 2,200Ah battery good for 25 hours. 

This radio allows you access to AM and FM radio, as well as all seven NOAA weather bands. It also features a strobe beacon to help rescuers find you in an emergency. Finally, an on board LED flashlight can lighten dark spaces, while a USB charges other devices. 

Buying Guide for Finding the Best Survival Radio – 6 Items to check