Why should I keep a portable radio at home?

Portable radios are essential for emergency preparedness since they function without internet or electricity. Unlike smartphones or modern TVs, portable radios remain dependable during power outages, severe weather events, or natural disasters, keeping you connected to news, weather, and updates when other devices may fail.

What features should I look for when choosing a portable radio?

Key features include AM/FM frequency access, durable design, adjustable antennas, and various power options like batteries, AC plugs, hand-crank, or even solar panels. Extras such as headphone connectivity, line-in for devices like MP3 players or cell phones, and bright LCD displays enhance usability and flexibility.

How do portable radios compare to streaming on modern devices?

While streaming via TVs or smartphones requires internet and power, portable radios operate independently. They deliver reliable access to music, news, and talk shows without relying on digital connectivity, making them invaluable in situations where modern technology may not work.

What are the best power options for portable radios during emergencies?

For emergencies, opt for radios with versatile power sources. Rechargeable batteries, solar panels, or hand-crank generators provide the greatest flexibility and independence, ensuring you can stay informed even during extended power outages or outdoor activities.

Who can help me choose the right portable radio?

If you need guidance selecting the best portable radio, our expert team is ready to assist! Reach out to Abt’s specialists for personalized help by visiting our Contact Us page.

800-860-3577

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Portable Radios

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Frequently Asked Questions

Portable Radios at Abt

Welcome to the modern entertainment space, where 8K TVs are becoming more and more normal and streamable content continues to replace the classic physical copy. Podcasts, shows, news, movies, games: modern media is all firmly rooted in the internet. But when the weather turns bad, the power goes out and you're having a hard time connecting to the outside world, you might want some old-world technology on your side. Enter the portable radio. These devices have been in production for decades, carrying the news, weather, music and talk shows within their wavelengths. Infallible in their dependency, portable radios require only a few batteries (and sometimes not even that). Every home should have at least one at the ready in case of emergencies. These devices are much more durable than other pieces of modern technology—there's no screen to break, and no high-tech operating system that can go haywire. Instead of depending upon your smartphones and its soon-to-be-drained battery, be prepared for your next thunderstorm with help from these devices.

What To Look For

If you're used to listening to music via apps like Spotify and Apple Music, you might be a little rusty when it comes to controlling portable radios. Whatever you're looking for, make sure it has access to both AM and FM frequencies (the two most commonly used versions). Keep in mind that FM tends to have better sound quality, while programs will be exclusive to either channel. The world gets a lot wider than these two channels, with satellite versions that can connect to services like SiriusXM and other forms of shortwave and longwave broadcasting. Make sure that your desired device can do everything you need it to (like play satellite comedy channels and classic rock uninterrupted by commercials).

Portable radios can do more than just relay audio through speakers. Look for additional features like headphone connectivity, line input (allowing you to connect to other players like MP3 devices and cell phones), bright LCD displays, adjustable antennas and different power sources.

How To Power Up

Whether disaster is about to strike or you're just about to listen in to your favorite station, it's important to make sure your portable radio is charged and ready for action. Look for a model with a power source that matches your needs. Many even offer multiple power source options, from direct AC plugs to batteries to rechargeable internal batteries to hand crank systems. If you want to be as prepared as possible for emergencies, the hand-crank power generating system is by far the best for long-term use. Some devices even come with solar panels, too, making it easy to power up when necessary.

Questions?

If you're having a hard time deciding between different models, brands and sizes of portable electronics, know that your in-house experts are here to help. Give our team of specialists a call at 800-860-3577 or come visit us in person. After all, we did start as a radio store. Hoping to upgrade to some newer technologies? Learn more about new ways to stream content via smartphones, MP3 players, TVs and computers from our team of knowledgeable employees.