Portable radios have continued to remain popular despite significant advancement in technology. Are you looking for a suitable portable radio with Bluetooth? Whether you want to keep updated to the latest news or stream music from your Smartphone, you will want a radio that provides clear audible sounds and is compatible with your device.
But why should you buy a portable radio with Bluetooth? The reason is that you can keep updated with the news, weather forecast, and stream music from your Smartphone everywhere thanks to its portability and in-built Bluetooth connectivity. Additionally, portable radios with Bluetooth are reliable when the internet platform does not work.
However, with so many choices available, choosing the best portable radio with Bluetooth can sometimes be overwhelming. As such, this write-up reviews some of the best portable radios with Bluetooth. We have also included a buyer’s guide to help you pick the one that meets your requirements.
Table of Contents
- Things to look for when buying portable radio with Bluetooth
- Quick Product Comparison Table
- List Of The Best Portable Radios with Bluetooth
- Frequently Asked Questions:
- How can I get better FM reception on my portable radio?
- Why does my radio crackle, and how do I stop my radio from crackling?
- How long do batteries last in a portable radio?
- Does Bluetooth use AM or FM?
- Does leaving Bluetooth on drain the battery?
- Conclusion:
- Related posts:
Check out also our Bluetooth speakers under $100 buying guide here: https://www.bestof.info/best-bluetooth-speaker-under-100/
Things to look for when buying portable radio with Bluetooth
Buying the right portable radio with Bluetooth is essential if you want to enjoy your listening experience. Apart from the portability, here are some necessary things that you should consider when looking for the best portable radio with Bluetooth:
- Speaker Size and Loudness
You should note that not all portable radios have the same size speaker. Besides, some Bluetooth radio features one speaker, while others have two speakers for stereo sound. If you are using your Bluetooth radio mostly outdoor, then we recommend opting for a larger speaker. However, you should also consider portability. It can be quite challenging to carry around for too substantial size.
- FM or FM/AM
You should remember that not all radios with Bluetooth provide the facility to listen to AM stations. Some Bluetooth radios come with built-in FM, while others feature both FM and AM. As such, you should pick according to your needs.
- Connectivity
One of the benefits of portable radios is that it comes with built-in Bluetooth connectivity. It allows you to turn your radio into a Bluetooth speaker. However, you should also consider whether your Bluetooth radio has other connectivity forms such as AUX and USB. It will allow you to enjoy music and charge mobile devices.
- Battery Life
Another thing to consider when picking the best portable radio with Bluetooth comes with battery life. Of course, it comes down to where you will be using your Bluetooth radio. If you are spending time outdoor, then you should consider a portable radio with excellent battery life. The battery life can range from 6 hours to 24 hours, depending on the model you choose.
- Bluetooth Version
This aspect will determine the audio transmission quality and the distance between the speaker and your phone. To enjoy an enhanced experience, we recommend opting for Bluetooth 4 and the above version. It will offer a seamless connection to your tablet or Smartphone within a considerable range.
- Antenna
Another thing to look for when picking a Bluetooth radio is the antenna. No doubt, Bluetooth radios are capable of picking up good signals. However, with an antenna, you will enable you to find a wide range of radio signals. This feature separates a Bluetooth radio from a Smartphone.
Quick Product Comparison Table
| Product | Dimensions (in Inches) | Weight (in Pounds) | Ratings |
| MUZEN OTR Wood 5W Mini Portable Wireless Vintage FM Radio | 3.7×2.2×2.83 | 1.59 | 4.6/5 |
| Kaito Emergency Radio Voyager Max KA900 | 9.5×5.5×2.5 | 1.69 | 4.2/5 |
| Eton Elite Field AM/FM/Shortwave Desktop Radio with Bluetooth | 15.6×8.3×4.5 | 5.8 | 4.2/5 |
| MUZEN OTR Metal Vintage FM Radio | 3.46×2.2×2.56 | 2.2 | 4.7/5 |
| Ocean Digital WiFi Internet Radios WR-336N | 9.2×6.4×6.2 | 2.44 | 3.9/5 |
| Crosley CT200B-SI Retro Portable Cassette Player with Bluetooth | 3.74×13.52×9.44 | 5 | 4.8/5 |
| Retro Bluetooth Speaker | 5.3×2.4×3.1 | 1 | 4.2/5 |
| Crosley CR3036D Tribute Vintage AM/FM Bluetooth Radio | 3.8×6.25×4 | 0.5 | 4.3/5 |
| Retro FM Radio Bluetooth Speaker | 4.33×2.31×3.34 | 0.8 | 4.8/5 |
| PRUNUS J-160 AM FM Retro Radio Bluetooth Speaker | 5.1×2.7×3.5 | 1.06 | 4.4/5 |
List Of The Best Portable Radios with Bluetooth
1. MUZEN Wood 5W Mini Vintage Portable Bluetooth Radion
This product features a traditional design with modern wireless technology. It is significantly, compact, lightweight, and easily portable, suitable for a bedside table or any workplace. Despite being small, it offers a powerful sound strength over 70 decibels. The best thing I like about this product is that the sound does not get distorted even at the loudest volume.
Another essential aspect of this portable radio with Bluetooth is that it comes with a radio chip of high quality and external antenna. As such, it has an outstanding receive sensitivity. Besides, it features an indicator dial and a turning knob, thereby enhancing the operating performance.
Pros:
- Features Bluetooth, FM radio, and AUX.
- Perfect choice for vintage lovers.
- It offers playtime up to eight hours.
- It comes with a carry bag.
- Rechargeable battery.
- Suitable for any outdoor use.
- Perfect gift option.
- Great value for the price.
2. Kaito Digital Solar Portable Bluetooth Emergency Radio Voyager Max KA900
This product is another best portable radio with Bluetooth, designed for everyday usage and emergency preparedness. It features a rechargeable 2000 mAh battery, 5V USB input, hand crank generator, 6V AC/DC wall power adapter, and adjustable solar power. I like the solar power feature because it allows the device to function even without installing the battery.
It offers a wide range of FM, AM, NOAA weather stations, and shortwave coverage. You can easily tune into the weather channels with the help of the tuning knob. One of the features that I like about this product comes with the “Alert” mode. Setting the radio in the “Alert” mode will automatically notify you when alert signal pops up from the weather channels.
Pros:
- It features comprehensive coverage.
- This radio supports up to 32 micro-SD memory.
- It comes with a equalize MP3 player.
- Digital audio equalizer.
- LED flashlight.
- Five LED reading lamps.
- Built-in microphone records.
Cons:
- It does not come with a USB charging cable and AD/CD power adapter.
3. Eton Elite Field AM – FM Shortwave Desktop Radio with Bluetooth
If you are looking for a portable radio that offers great functionalities, this product is for you. It features a wide range of coverage, such as FM, AM, and shortwave. Besides, you can easily scan through channels with the help of the large dial.
This product, with its hand strap on the top, is easy to carry around. It runs on two AAA batteries or can plug it in with a cord to have it running. Additionally, it has a light on the display that you can turn on and off. This feature makes it suitable for nighttime use.
However, the feature that I like about this product comes with the antenna. It has a built-in antenna, or you can hook up an external antenna on the back. As such, it provides options for getting better signals.
Pros:
- It features a large LCD.
- 50 different presets.
- Adjustment for bass, treble, shortwave radio frequency, and volume.
- It delivers excellent audio quality.
- The display indicates battery strength.
Cons:
- It does not come with the battery.
4. MUZEN OTR Portable Metal Vintage FM Radio
This product is quite similar to the first product. However, there some essential differences between them. The material used for the construction of this product is metal, which enhances durability. Besides, it weighs 2.2 pounds; as such, it is slightly heavier than the first product.
An outstanding attribute of this product is that it supports both wired and wireless connections. You can directly stream music through the Bluetooth connection or use the plug AUX to enjoy music.
Pros:
- Quality radio chip and external antenna.
- Dominant sound strength over 70 decibels.
- Outstanding receive sensitivity.
- An indicator dial and a turning knob.
- Battery life up to eight hours.
- It comes with a carry case.
- Rechargeable battery.
5. Ocean Digital WiFi Internet Portable Bluetooth Radios
This product is another best portable radio with Bluetooth available in the market. It comes with a rechargeable battery of 2000 mAh, while the Bluetooth range is 32.81 feet. Besides, you can stream music from any Bluetooth UPnP/DLNA compatible devices.
I like this product because you can categorize the music based on genre, location, and top hits. Another essential feature of this product is the search function. With this feature, you can quickly find stations. The product also features four preset buttons from where you can personalize your favorite music list.
Pros:
- Internet radio with a rechargeable battery.
- It features both WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity.
- You can operate either by dials or a convenient remote control.
- It has preset stations.
- Search stations function.
- Dual alarm clock.
Cons:
- You will have to buy the battery for remote control separately.
6. Crosley Portable AM-FM Radio with Bluetooth
If you are looking for a portable radio with Bluetooth that can turn into a cassette player, look no further. It provides a lot of functionalities, for you can not only stream music through Bluetooth and favorite radio stations but also play cassette on this device.
Another essential feature of this product is that it offers coverage to both FM and AM radio. You can also extend the external antenna for better signals. Additionally, you can personalize your mixtape at the beginning by using the built-in microphone and recording feature.
Pros:
- It comes with a headphone jack.
- Adjustable knobs for tuning the bass and treble.
- Recoding features.
- Built-in microphone.
- Adjustable antenna and functioning VU meter.
- AC adapter included.
7. Rerii Wood Vintage Small Bluetooth Radio FM AM
This product comes with a unique hand-crafted design. The material used for making this product is natural walnut wood, which gives a vintage appearance. One of the outstanding attributes of this portable radio comes with battery life. It comes with a 2200 mAh battery that can power up to 15 hours of playtime. Besides, it provides coverage for both FM and AM.
Pros:
- Exquisite craftsmanship.
- A 4.0 Bluetooth system.
- Compatible with all Bluetooth-enabled devices.
- Compact and lightweight.
- It comes with a USB cord and an aux cord.
- Sensitive Touch Switch
8. Crosley Tribute Vintage Portable AM FM Bluetooth Radio
This product is another best portable radio designed to fit various decor styles. Although it features FM/AM radio, you can also stream your digital music wirelessly. Thanks to its built-in Bluetooth receiver.
Another essential feature of this product is that it comes with a headphone jack and AUX input. It will allow you to enjoy private listening by connecting your earphone to this device.
Pros:
- It comes with a built-in full-range speaker.
- Rechargeable battery.
- Easily portable.
- AUX-in and headphone jack inputs.
- Affordable.
9. Retro FM Radio Bluetooth Speaker
This portable radio has a retro appearance, built from natural cherry wood. It features three modes for audio output and works well all Bluetooth enabled devices. You can connect this portable radio with your table, Smartphone, and laptop within 32.81 feet. Besides, you can use TF cards and AUX input on this portable radio.
Pros:
- It delivers up to 8 hours of playtime.
- It comes with a charging cord.
- 12 months warranty.
- Compact.
- Dual high-performance drivers.
- 4.2 Bluetooth version.
- NdFeB full range speaker.
10. PRUNUS J-160 AM FM Portable Retro Radio Bluetooth Speaker
This product is an upgraded version of the previous model; thus, it comes with more enhanced features. The battery mAh in this model is 1800, which was previously only 1200 mAh. Hence, you can stream music up to eight to ten hours at a lower volume. Besides, you can easily control the volume in this model.
Another outstanding feature of this product comes with its reception. The reason is that it comes with a powerful DSP chip and copper retractable antenna, which allows for more sensitivity to capture signals. Additionally, it offers a wide range of coverage of FM, AM, and shortwave.
Pros:
- Battery full charge indicator.
- Compatible to all Bluetooth enabled devices.
- It supports both the TF card and USB flash drives.
Cons:
- It does not feature a headphone jack.
Frequently Asked Questions:
How can I get better FM reception on my portable radio?
The majority of the home stereos and FM radios feature a built-in antenna wire/rod or an external antenna hook-up. You can easily stretch or move the rod around, which will provide significant reception improvement. The signals of FM radios generally travel in a wave around six feet wide. As such, stretching or extending the antenna wire or rod will enhance the FM reception on your portable radio.
Why does my radio crackle, and how do I stop my radio from crackling?
You can identify this kind of problem on your radio based on the sound effects you hear. Typically, electrical devices cause most of the cases of interference in your radio. In many cases, the sound effect problems such as crackling, rasping, buzzing, whining, or click, can point to a nearby electrical interference source. Sometimes, you can arise due to damage in the speaker wires.
One way is by turning off all nearby electronic devices as they can interfere with the speaker’s sound. You should also ensure that both the speakers are properly connected. If the problem continues, you should consider replacing the speaker wires or connecting a different set of speakers.
How long do batteries last in a portable radio?
Several factors determine how long a two-way radio battery will last. Generally, most two-way radios feature batteries that are rechargeable. It means you can recharge the battery several times before replacing it. On average, the battery of your portable radio will last between eighteen months to twenty-four months.
Does Bluetooth use AM or FM?
Bluetooth is a wireless technology that allows you to connect more than two devices over a short distance. Once you have connected the devices, you can exchange data with the help of radio frequencies. Typically, Bluetooth functions similarly to FM/AM radios. When you switch on the Bluetooth device, it will send out a signal searching for compatible devices to pair it. Remember, you can connect a group of devices to the Bluetooth device that searched. Besides, the frequency range at which Bluetooth devices operate is between 2402-2480 megahertz.
Does leaving Bluetooth on drain the battery?
The answer to this question is no. Leaving the Bluetooth switched on will not drain your battery. No doubt, it will consume a small amount of energy from your battery. But it will not drain the battery. However, we recommend turning off the Bluetooth when you are not using it for security reasons.
Conclusion:
The above-reviewed products are some of the best portable radio with Bluetooth and are by no means exhaustive. We are optimistic that this review has narrowed down your choices for selecting the best portable radio. Besides, you should remember the essential things discussed above when looking for a suitable radio. It will help you make an informed decision next time you are buying a new portable radio.
