Top Shortwave Radios
What Is a Shortwave Radio
Shortwave radios are communication devices capable of receiving signals from across the globe by capturing radio frequencies typically ranging from 1.6 MHz to 30 MHz. Unlike standard AM/FM radios, which are limited to local broadcasts, shortwave radios can access international stations, government emergency broadcasts, aviation channels, maritime signals, and even amateur (ham) radio operators — all without the need for the internet, satellites, or cell towers.
✅ Reasons They Are Beneficial to Keep Available:
In situations of emergencies or power outages when electricity, cell service, or internet connectivity is compromised, shortwave radios provide access to current news, weather alerts (such as those issued by NOAA), and vital survival information. You can tune into stations from various nations — including BBC, Radio Canada, Voice of America, and others — even when you are completely off the grid.
Top Shortwave Radios Travel & Emergency Radio Guide
C. Crane CC Skywave
The C.Crane CC Skywave SSB 2 is more than a multiband radio—it’s a compact, versatile, and feature-rich companion for travelers, outdoor adventurers, ham radio fans, and preppers. Dubbed the “Swiss Army Knife of portable radios,” this model supports AM, FM, shortwave, NOAA weather (with alerts), VHF aviation, and Single-Side Band (SSB) reception—all in a pocketable form
Extensive Frequency Coverage
AM: 520–1710 kHz (North America) / 522–1620 kHz (International)
FM: 87.5–108 MHz
Shortwave: 1.711–29.999 MHz with 10 Hz fine tuning and SSB mode
Aviation band: 118–137 MHz (10 programmable memories)
NOAA weather: 7 channels & alert mode
SSB & Shortwave Enhancements
The SSB 2 introduces a dedicated external antenna jack with wire-terminal adapter, enabling long-wire connectivity—ideal for shortwave DX or improved SSB receptionImproved Hardware Features
Includes a micro-USB charging port for NiMH AA batteries, upgraded speaker and amplifier, longer rubber feet for stability, and a stiffer carrying case, enhancing usability on the go
🎙️ Performance & Audio
SSB Tuning Made Easy
Many radios add SSB as an afterthought, but the SSB 2’s intuitive tuning puts ham voice conversations and broadcasts within reach—no external antenna needed most timesBand-by-Band Reception
AM: Excellent sensitivity and filtering for a compact device
FM: New antenna improves reception, though the audio can sound a bit too bright without EQ tweaking
NOAA Weather: With tone alerts, it’s louder and easier to hear than its predecessor
Aviation: Reliable VHF reception 5 mi from an airport, with copy-clear scanning and memory presets
Audio Caveats
There’s a noticeable “pop” when changing bands or presets via headphones—not present on built-in speakers—and some hiss at low volumes, typical of small-speaker designs
🔋 Battery Life & Build
Power Source: Two AA batteries (alkaline or NiMH); internal charges via micro‑USB
Battery Life: Around 65–70 hours with headphones, 60–65 hours via speaker
Portability & Durability: Weighs just 6 oz without batteries; compact size (4.8″ × 3″ × 1″) fits in a pocket—ideal for travel
⚙️ Features at a Glance
Rotary volume and tuning knobs with fine-tune and fast-scan options
Alarm, clock, and configurable sleep timer
Large memory bank: 400 channels + 10 aviation presets
Direct frequency entry via keypad
Adjustable VHF squelch, tri-band backlit display, and fold-out kickstand
Includes CC Buds, shortwave reel antenna, wire antenna adapter, carrying case, and starter guides
✅ Pros & Cons Summary
| ✅ Pros | ⚠️ Cons |
|---|---|
| Comprehensive band coverage including SSB & aviation | Slow FM audio with less bass |
| External SW antenna jack boosts reception performance | Headphones “pop” during band/memory changes |
| Long battery life and compact, stable chassis | Slight hiss at very low volumes |
| USB charging via AA batteries and durable accessories | No waterproofing; minor stability on kickstand |
🏁 Final Verdict
The C.Crane CC Skywave SSB 2 delivers a uniquely powerful package for its size—a travel-ready, battery-operated radio packing fullband reception, SSB, aviation monitoring, and emergency weather alerts. It’s the go-to choice for off-grid communicators, world travelers, amateur radio enthusiasts, and anyone wanting a reliable, portable Swiss-Army radio.
✅ Recommended if you want:
Portable SSB, shortwave, and weather alert capabilities
Customizable reception with advanced filtering
USA-based manufacturer with warranty and support
If you’re ready to carry unparalleled radio versatility in your pocket, the Skywave SSB 2 is an unmatched choice.
CHOYONG LC90 Multi-Band
The Choyong LC90 is a powerful, portable hybrid radio combining traditional over-the-air reception (AM/FM, longwave, mediumwave, shortwave, and SSB) with internet streaming via Wi‑Fi and optional 4G/SIM. The unit is designed for serious radio enthusiasts who want worldwide access in a single, durable device
Traditional Radio Coverage
Full band: AM, FM, LW, MW, SW, SSB
Fine-tuning & adjustable bandwidth for enhanced clarity
Automatic tuning system (ATS) finds shortwave signals comparable to premium portables
External antenna jack improves performance on longwave/MW/SW
Internet Streaming
Supports 40,000+ internet radio stations via Wi‑Fi (2.4 GHz) and optionally 4G/SIM connectivity
Features like favorites, history, and voice/channel search streamline discovery
Audio & Build
High-grade stereo speakers, including woofer + tweeter, deliver rich audio
Portable form (~200×122×40 mm, ~640g), with durable casing and tactile knobs/buttons
Internal rechargeable battery (~5000 mAh) offers long playtime (~48 hrs internet, ~60+ hrs analog)
Smart Features
TF (micro-SD) playback and firmware updates via card
Planned software upgrades include RDS support, podcast access, AI voice search, and more
Bluetooth 5.2 enables wireless audio playback
✅ Strengths & Highlights
True All‑Band Coverage: Combines AM, FM, LW, MW, SW, SSB, internet streaming, and Bluetooth in one device—a definitive “Swiss army” radio
Superior Internet Streaming: Fast station browsing with massive global reach—ideal for music, news, and talk shows.
Excellent Audio Performance: Stereo speaker system yields crisp, balanced sound for both analog and internet content
Frequent Firmware Updates: Manufacturer‑driven improvements, including new features and bug fixes
External Antenna Support: Boosts weak-signal reception for MW, LW, and SW
⚠️ Limitations & Considerations
Medium/Longwave performance is modest: internal noise in urban areas means external antennas are often recommended
Initial FM/SSB tuning quirks: soft-muting or scanning pauses exist, but firmware updates have significantly refined performance.
No RDS yet, although firmware is expected to add this soon.
Bluetooth limitations: primarily supports input, not full wireless output to other speakers.
🧠 User & Expert Insights
SWLing Post: “Most versatile radio available… performs almost on par with quality portable SW receivers.” swling.com+1swling.com+1
myGMRS Forum: Users enjoy great shortwave and internet reception; some note FM/MW quirks
Radioddity & Tech Blogs: Applaud design, usability, and continuous improvements—firmware releases v4.7 bring AI features and bug fixes
Reddit: Stereo headphone output confirmed in newer units; mixed hotspot stability reported
🔍 Final Verdict
The Choyong LC90 is a groundbreaking, true all-in-one portable hybrid radio, suitable for hobbyist DXers, world travelers, emergency preparedness, and daily listeners who want both over-the-air and internet radio in a single, feature-packed device.
It may not outshine dedicated radios in every individual band, but its integration of analog reception, Wi‑Fi/4G streaming, and smart features places it in a class of its own. Frequent firmware updates and user-driven enhancements mean its best days are ahead.
🎯 Who Should Buy the LC90?
Global listeners looking for traditional & internet radio combined
DX enthusiasts wanting shortwave and SSB in a compact form
Travelers/preppers who need connectivity and versatility
Audio lovers seeking high-fidelity playback in a portable format
If you’re drawn to a powerful, intelligent radio with room for growth through updates, the Choyong LC90 may very well be the ultimate choice.
Eton Elite Executive
The Eton Elite Executive (also known as the Elite Satellit) is a robust, feature-rich portable radio designed for hobbyists and travelers who demand full-band coverage in a compact device. Combining AM, FM (with RDS), LW, SW, SSB, and VHF aircraft reception, this radio is celebrated for its performance and thoughtful design
Key Features
Band Support: Receives AM/MW (520–1710 kHz), FM (87.5–108 MHz with RDS), Longwave, Shortwave (including 10 Hz SSB tuning), and VHF aircraft band (118–137 MHz)
SSB & Sync Tuning: Dedicated single sideband mode with ±1 kHz adjustment and synchronous detector for clearer reception
Memory & Tuning: Holds up to 700 memory presets, with manual or automatic tuning for ease of use
User Interface: Bright orange LCD with backlighting, world time clock, alarm, sleep timer, and Local/DX switch
Connectivity: 3.5 mm external antenna input and line out for recording or external speakers
Power & Portability: Operates on 4 AA batteries or included DC adapter; housed in a leather-wrapped case for protection and portability
👍 Strengths
Exceptional Shortwave Sensitivity
Users report excellent sensitivity and low noise floor on shortwave, outperforming many similar-sized unitsStellar AM & Aviation Performance
Noted for clean AM audio and reliable VHF aircraft reception, this model surpasses many portable rivalsBuilt-In Value Features
RDS support on FM, automatic sync detector, extensive memory, and line-out for recording elevate its utilitySuperior Build Quality & Aesthetics
It’s praised for solid construction and an appealing, leather-accented exterior.
👎 Weaknesses
Complex Interface
Many advanced functions require the manual; button layout and deeper menus can be overwhelming.Stability Issues
The radio tends to tip over easily and requires careful handling when used with the caseSignal Artifacts
Some users note spurious images on strong stations and a subtle brightness bias in speaker audioSmoothness of Tuning
Tuning can produce a “chuff” sound, and FM ATS is limited to FM only
🔍 Technical Specs
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Bands | AM, FM w/ RDS, LW, SW, SSB, VHF Aviation |
| Tuning | Digital PLL, SSB ±1 kHz, sync detector |
| Memory | 700 presets |
| Power | 4 AA batteries or AC via micro-USB |
| Input/Output | Line-out, external antenna jack |
| Display | Orange-backlit LCD |
| Dimensions & Weight | 6.6″ × 4.1″ × 1.2″, ~0.97 lb |
| Case | Leather with snap flap |
The Eton Elite Executive is a serious upgrade in portable radio tech, offering unmatched reception across multiple bands, quality audio, and thoughtful extras like RDS and line-out. While its learning curve and occasional quirkiness may deter newcomers, dedicated hobbyists will appreciate its performance and solid build. It’s a standout pick among high-end portables.
