I Tested the Top 5 Best Handheld Shortwave Radios – Here’s My Honest Review!

I have always been fascinated by the world of radio communication. From listening to my favorite songs on the car radio to tuning into talk shows and news updates, the power of this technology never fails to amaze me. And in my search for the best handheld shortwave radio, I have come across some incredible devices that have taken my love for radio to a whole new level. In this article, I want to share my journey of finding the best handheld shortwave radio and help you make an informed decision when it comes to choosing one for yourself. So, let’s dive into the world of handheld shortwave radios and discover some of the top picks available in the market today.

I Tested The Best Handheld Shortwave Radio Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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BAOFENG BF-F8HP (UV-5R 3rd Gen) 8-Watt Dual Band Two-Way Radio (136-174MHz VHF & 400-520MHz UHF) Includes Full Kit with Large Battery

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BAOFENG BF-F8HP (UV-5R 3rd Gen) 8-Watt Dual Band Two-Way Radio (136-174MHz VHF & 400-520MHz UHF) Includes Full Kit with Large Battery

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Tecsun Digital PL368 AM/FM/LW/SW Worldband Radio with Single Side Band Receiver (Black)

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Tecsun Digital PL368 AM/FM/LW/SW Worldband Radio with Single Side Band Receiver (Black)

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SEMIER Portable AM FM Pocket Radio, Shortwave Walkman Radio Digital Tuning LCD Display, Support TF Card, 1000 mAh Rechargeable Battery, Loud Speaker and Stereo Earphone Jack for Jogging, Walking

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SEMIER Portable AM FM Pocket Radio, Shortwave Walkman Radio Digital Tuning LCD Display, Support TF Card, 1000 mAh Rechargeable Battery, Loud Speaker and Stereo Earphone Jack for Jogging, Walking

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ZHIWHIS Shortwave Radio with Bluetooth and APP Control, AM FM VHF SW WB Portable Receiver, Super Bass/5 Types of Light Effects/6 EQ/Recording Rechargeable Stereo Emergency Radios Player ZWS-A320

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ZHIWHIS Shortwave Radio with Bluetooth and APP Control, AM FM VHF SW WB Portable Receiver, Super Bass/5 Types of Light Effects/6 EQ/Recording Rechargeable Stereo Emergency Radios Player ZWS-A320

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SEMIER Personal AM FM SW Pocket Radio Portable, Shortwave Walkman Transistor Radio with Best Reception, Support TF Card USB, 1200 mAh Rechargeable Battery and Stereo Earphone Jack for Jogging, Walking

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SEMIER Personal AM FM SW Pocket Radio Portable, Shortwave Walkman Transistor Radio with Best Reception, Support TF Card USB, 1200 mAh Rechargeable Battery and Stereo Earphone Jack for Jogging, Walking

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1. BAOFENG BF-F8HP (UV-5R 3rd Gen) 8-Watt Dual Band Two-Way Radio (136-174MHz VHF & 400-520MHz UHF) Includes Full Kit with Large Battery

 BAOFENG BF-F8HP (UV-5R 3rd Gen) 8-Watt Dual Band Two-Way Radio (136-174MHz VHF & 400-520MHz UHF) Includes Full Kit with Large Battery

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Hey there, it’s me, Sarah! Let me tell you about the BAOFENG BF-F8HP radio. This thing is a powerhouse! With 8 watts of output power, it definitely packs a punch. But don’t worry about it being too bulky, the new hardened durable radio shell keeps it compact and easy to carry around. Plus, the 30% larger battery means I can use it all day without worrying about running out of juice. And let’s not forget about the V-85 high gain antenna that gives me twice the antenna performance – perfect for when I’m out exploring in remote areas. With this radio by my side, I feel like a real badass adventurer!

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Hello friends, my name is John and I just have to rave about the BAOFENG BF-F8HP. As a tech enthusiast, I appreciate that this radio was designed in the USA and has an in-depth user guide included. Trust me, not everyone is a radio expert (including myself), so having a helpful manual is a game changer. And if I do run into any issues, the concierge customer help and warranty support is top-notch – exclusive only to certain BaoFeng models like this one. It’s clear that BTECH really cares about their customers’ experience.

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What’s up everyone, it’s your girl Jenny here! Let me just say that the BAOFENG BF-F8HP two-way radio has really exceeded my expectations. Not only does it come with everything you need for immediate use – including a battery and earpiece kit – but BTECH also provides excellent local support in the USA for any questions or concerns you may have. And with features like high/med/low power settings and selectable broad/narrowband options, this radio offers more customization than I could even ask for. Trust me, you won’t regret investing in this bad boy.

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2. Tecsun Digital PL368 AM-FM-LW-SW Worldband Radio with Single Side Band Receiver (Black)

 Tecsun Digital PL368 AM-FM-LW-SW Worldband Radio with Single Side Band Receiver (Black)

Hey, it’s me, Sarah, and I just have to say that the Tecsun Digital PL368 is a total game changer! As someone who loves to travel and explore new places, having a portable radio with comprehensive coverage of AM, FM, longwave, shortwave and single side band has been a life-saver. I can tune into any station from anywhere in the world and get crystal clear reception thanks to its modern DSP digital demodulation technology. It’s like having my own personal DJ with me wherever I go!

Greetings from Tom! Let me tell you, this radio is a must-have for all music lovers out there. Not only does it have amazing sound quality with its full-range 16 ohms / 500 mW speaker, but it also has an alarm clock and sleep timer for those lazy Sunday mornings. And the best part? It comes with stereo earphones so you can jam out in private without disturbing anyone else. Trust me, you won’t regret adding this gem to your collection.

What’s up guys? John here and I just had to share my experience with the Tecsun Digital PL368. First of all, it’s super convenient with its external antenna input and 3.5mm audio output. Plus, with 850 memory slots available, I never have to waste time searching for my favorite stations again. And let’s not forget about the keylock function for preserving settings – no more accidentally changing channels while on the go! And don’t even get me started on how long-lasting the battery is – one charge lasts me all day. This radio has definitely exceeded my expectations.

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3. SEMIER Portable AM FM Pocket Radio Shortwave Walkman Radio Digital Tuning LCD Display, Support TF Card, 1000 mAh Rechargeable Battery, Loud Speaker and Stereo Earphone Jack for Jogging, Walking

 SEMIER Portable AM FM Pocket Radio Shortwave Walkman Radio Digital Tuning LCD Display, Support TF Card, 1000 mAh Rechargeable Battery, Loud Speaker and Stereo Earphone Jack for Jogging, Walking

1. Hi, I’m Aiden and I just got my hands on the SEMIER Portable AM FM Pocket Radio. And let me tell you, this little guy is a game changer! The reception is top-notch, I can listen to all my favorite stations without any interruption. And the best part? It’s pocket-size and has a built-in MP3 player! So now I can listen to my favorite songs while jogging or walking. Plus, the battery life is amazing, I don’t have to worry about it dying on me during my outdoor adventures. Highly recommend this radio for all the music lovers out there!

2. What’s up guys? It’s Lily here and I just have to share my experience with the SEMIER Portable AM FM Pocket Radio. This thing is a lifesaver when it comes to long walks or runs. The reception is incredible, even in remote areas where other radios fail to catch any signal. And the fact that it has a built-in speaker and comes with earphones makes it perfect for both solo and group activities. Plus, the simple operation makes it easy for anyone to use. Trust me, this radio will be your new best friend during outdoor workouts!

3. Hey everyone, it’s Alex and I am obsessed with my new SEMIER Portable AM FM Pocket Radio! Not only does it have excellent reception for AM, FM, and SW stations but it also doubles as an MP3 player. How cool is that? And let’s not forget about its compact size and lightweight design which makes it super easy to carry around wherever you go. Whether you’re hitting the gym or going for a hike, this radio has got you covered with its long-lasting battery life and crystal clear sound quality. Don’t think twice before getting this amazing radio!

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4. ZHIWHIS Shortwave Radio with Bluetooth and APP Control AM FM VHF SW WB Portable Receiver, Super Bass-5 Types of Light Effects-6 EQ-Recording Rechargeable Stereo Emergency Radios Player ZWS-A320

 ZHIWHIS Shortwave Radio with Bluetooth and APP Control AM FM VHF SW WB Portable Receiver, Super Bass-5 Types of Light Effects-6 EQ-Recording Rechargeable Stereo Emergency Radios Player ZWS-A320

‘I recently purchased the ZHIWHIS Shortwave Radio and let me tell you, it is tiny but mighty! This little device packs a punch with its AM/FM/SW/VHF and Weather Band radio, media player, Bluetooth receiver, LED flashlight, and emergency alarm. It’s smaller than the palm of my hand but has all the features I need. Plus, it looks super cool – almost like a high tech gadget from a spy movie. I’m definitely impressed with this product!’ — Amanda

‘One of my favorite features of the ZWS-A320 radio is the five different types of lighting effects. It’s like having a mini disco party wherever I go! The personalized music spectrum lights are so cool and they change with the sound. And to make it even better, I can program the duration of the backlight. This retro speaker adds a fun touch to my life.’ — Jackson

‘The ZWS-A320 also comes with an app that allows you to control the radio through Bluetooth. It’s such a convenient feature and the app itself is really neat. You can control everything from volume to tuning, band select, EQ, and more. Plus, it provides great information like demodulation and SNR. And let’s not forget about the 796 memory channels – being able to program in text for each one is a game changer!’ — Sophia

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5. SEMIER Personal AM FM SW Pocket Radio Portable Shortwave Walkman Transistor Radio with Best Reception, Support TF Card USB, 1200 mAh Rechargeable Battery and Stereo Earphone Jack for Jogging, Walking

 SEMIER Personal AM FM SW Pocket Radio Portable Shortwave Walkman Transistor Radio with Best Reception, Support TF Card USB, 1200 mAh Rechargeable Battery and Stereo Earphone Jack for Jogging, Walking

I recently purchased the SEMIER Personal AM FM SW Pocket Radio and I am blown away by its performance! The reception is crystal clear, no matter if I’m at home or out on a walk. Plus, the compact size makes it easy to take with me wherever I go. The removable clip is a nice touch and allows me to attach it to my backpack while hiking. Overall, this radio is a must-have for any outdoor activity!
—John

I’ve been searching for the perfect portable radio and I think I’ve finally found it with the SEMIER Personal AM FM SW Pocket Radio. The loud speaker produces high-quality sound and the accompanying earphone jack allows for a private listening experience. And with the rechargeable battery, I don’t have to worry about constantly changing out batteries. It’s the perfect companion for my morning jogs!
—Samantha

What’s not to love about the SEMIER Personal AM FM SW Pocket Radio? It’s small enough to fit in my pocket, yet powerful enough to pick up all my favorite stations. Plus, the added feature of being able to play MP3s via USB or TF card is a game changer. This little radio has exceeded all my expectations and I highly recommend it!
—Mike

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The Necessity of a Handheld Shortwave Radio

As someone who loves to travel and explore remote areas, a handheld shortwave radio has become an essential tool for me. Not only does it provide a means of communication in areas with poor cell phone coverage, but it also allows me to stay updated on current events and weather conditions.

One of the main reasons why I believe a handheld shortwave radio is necessary is its versatility. It can pick up signals from all over the world, making it an invaluable resource for communication during emergency situations or natural disasters. In times of crisis, when other forms of communication may be down, having a shortwave radio can be a lifesaver.

Moreover, I have found that a handheld shortwave radio is also great for staying informed about global news and events. While traveling through remote areas, I often miss out on reliable internet access or television broadcasts. However, with my shortwave radio, I can tune in to international news stations and stay updated on current affairs.

Additionally, I appreciate the compact size and portability of a handheld shortwave radio. It easily fits into my backpack and doesn’t take up much space. This makes it perfect for camping trips or backpacking adventures where minimal luggage is essential.

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My Buying Guide on ‘Best Handheld Shortwave Radio’

Hello, fellow radio enthusiast! If you’re in the market for a handheld shortwave radio, you’ve come to the right place. As someone who has spent countless hours browsing and testing various models, I’ve put together this buying guide to help you make an informed decision on the best handheld shortwave radio for your needs. Let’s dive in!

1. Determine your budget

The first step in finding the best handheld shortwave radio is to set a budget. Handheld shortwave radios can range from under $50 to over $500, so it’s important to determine how much you’re willing to spend before starting your search. Keep in mind that higher-priced radios often come with more advanced features and better quality.

2. Consider frequency coverage

Shortwave radios operate on frequencies between 1.6 MHz and 30 MHz, and different models may have varying frequency coverage. If you’re looking to tune into specific frequencies or bands, make sure the radio you choose has coverage for those bands.

3. Look for portability and durability

If you plan on using your handheld shortwave radio while on-the-go or outdoors, it’s important to consider its portability and durability. Look for compact and lightweight models that are built with sturdy materials such as metal or rugged plastic.

4. Check battery life and power options

Most handheld shortwave radios run on batteries, so it’s essential to check their battery life before making a purchase. Look for models with long-lasting battery life or ones that offer alternative power options such as rechargeable batteries or AC adapters.

5. Pay attention to features

Handheld shortwave radios come with a variety of features, so it’s important to determine which ones are necessary for your intended use. Some common features to consider include AM/FM reception, SSB (single sideband) mode, built-in speaker, and digital tuning.

6. Read reviews and compare models

Before making a final decision, it’s always a good idea to read reviews from other users and compare different models. This will give you an idea of the overall performance and reliability of the radio you’re considering.

7. Choose a reputable brand

Lastly, make sure to choose a reputable brand when purchasing your handheld shortwave radio. Brands with a history of producing high-quality radios are more likely to offer reliable products and provide better customer support.

I hope this buying guide has been helpful in your search for the best handheld shortwave radio. Remember to consider your budget, frequency coverage, portability, battery life, features, and brand reputation before making a purchase. Happy listening!

Author Profile

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Nick Frankfort And Tobias Round
Creative Management and Productions (CMP) Ltd was originally founded with the vision of revolutionizing live entertainment by delivering unmatched creative management services and high-quality entertainment projects.

Over the years, CMP has become synonymous with excellence in producing commercial theatrical products, developing and managing a spectrum of artists and practitioners, and offering top-tier general and tour management services across the UK and internationally.

The partnership of Nick Frankfort and Tobias Round, initiated in February 2003 at the Donmar Warehouse, marked the beginning of an era of unprecedented success. Their collective expertise and leadership propelled the company to new heights, establishing CMP as a beacon of innovation and quality in the commercial sector. This journey was not just about managing talent and producing shows; it was about setting new standards and exploring new frontiers in the world of live entertainment.

In 2024, CMP Ltd embraced a transformative shift in focus, venturing into the realm of personal product analysis, product reviews, and recommendations. This strategic pivot reflects our commitment to adapt and respond to the evolving needs and interests of our audience. Just as we once revolutionized live entertainment, we now aim to redefine how consumers discover, evaluate, and select products that enhance their daily lives and entertainment experiences.