9 of the best wind-up radios to tune in with

Now, this little fella of a wind-up radio is absolutely incredible – it really is the perfect gadget for emergencies or when you're away from a power outlet camping or embarking on outdoor sports. The DEGEN DE13 Cranked Radio can be powered by winding it up as well as through solar power. It features a high-quality radio system, three flashlight settings, a mobile phone charging port, an earphone jack and an external adapter. Just wow.

This popular pick has received over 1,900 reviews on Amazon, rating it 4.2 out of 5.

Customers praise the multiple functions of this device, especially the alternative ways of charging the batteries. It's designed with practicality in mind in the analogue world: the headphone jack, non-mains method of charging, flashlight and FM AM radio are just a few of the features that might become supremely useful in certain situations.

This is a very affordable, eco-friendly and best of all, pocket-sized, iGadgitz Xtra wind up radio that is certainly amongst the best. It is not short of features either: featuring analogue international AM/FM frequencies, a telescopic aerial and 3.5mm jack for earphones, and a compact size to make transporting the device around an absolute breeze. We love this one.

This is an Amazon's Choice recommended device with over 1,750 reviews, rating it 4.3 out of 5. Customers praise this portable radio for its value. Several say that they position in on their window sill so they can enjoy the radio, battery and power cable free, as it's solar-powered. Additionally, it can be run from its USB port.

Well, this wind-up radio does exactly as its title would suggest. The Kaito KA500 Wind Up Alert Radio is a six-way powered radio, it doubles as an emergency mobile battery charger with a built-in standard DC 5V USB output port for charging mobile devices. It also includes features such as a five-LED reading lamp, an LED flashlight and a red LED S.O.S. beacon light. So if you want absolute security when on your camping or hiking trip — this radio is probably your new go-to, or at least it should be!

Customers praise the battery life, reception and use in emergency situtations. Although some say they couldn't get a signal on theirs. We think it's a versatile pick because it can be powered by rechargeable battery, AA batteries, solar panel or hand crank. In turn, it can charge a variety of smart devices via a micro-USB and USB ports. These opinions may because absolute lifesavers if you're on your travels or there's a power cut.

If you're looking for a wind-up radio that won't take up much room, the petite Duronic Portable Radio is perfect. It weighs just over 200g! Although don't let its small size and weight deceive you, it's still packed with features. It can be tuned into both AM and FM bandwidths, with two easy-to-control dials for tuning and volume control.

This is an Amazon's Choice recommended product, with 5,330 reviews rating it 4.3 out of 5. Customers say the wind-up mechanism is easy to use, without taking too much effort. Also, the solar panel works well and the radio is easy to tune. Albeit, a customer comments that they had difficulty finding a station on their travels in Europe.

There are three ways to charge this radio. Pop the Night Owl 'Stars' Eco-Friendly Wind-Up Portable Radio in the sun and let the solar panels charge it, plug it into a USB socket with the cable included, or turn the crank to wind it up — which is ideal for use during any power outages. It's also got a built-in LED torch so you can easily see where you're going in the dark, whether you're night running or taking the dog for a walk.

Customers say this radio has great sound quality and it was a great comfort to have a source of light and sound during powercuts. This might just be a piece of kit to have in the house as reassurance to elderly loved ones, in case of emergencies.

If you're looking for a wind-up radio capable of tuning into DAB stations, this Portable DAB/FM Radio with Rechargeable Battery is a fab option. You can also set it to remember 30 of your favourite stations to save you from searching for the same frequencies time and time again. It's got five charging methods plus a hand strap and a carabiner to make it carry around or attach to a rucksack.

This radio has received 7,610 reviews rating it 4.3 out of 5.

It's waterproof exterior makes it a durable piece of kit when camping. Customers praise it for its battery life, the brightness of the torch and sound quality. Generally, comments are wholly positive about this model, for its compact size and value for money, however there is a comment to say that the solar panel and crank did not charge for a particular customer.

Whether you're looking for a radio to use while you're pottering around outside, heading out on a camping trip, or one you can use in case of a power outage, this Wind-Up Solar Radio should have everything you need. It's got a hand crack and a solar panel so there are two ways of charging it without needing to plug it into mains power. You can listen to your favourite shows on AM and FM radio and use the built-in three LED torch to help you see where you're going when needed. Plus, it works as a power bank for charging mobile devices.

This compact radio is an Amazon's Choice recommended radio with 1,495 reviews, rating it 4.4 out of 5. Customers say it's the ideal size for taking camping or to the beach. Whilst others say the sound quality is lacking, but it could prove to be an asset in an emergency situation.

Last, but by no means least on our list of the best wind-up radios, is this one by FosPower. The FosPower 2000mAh NOAA Radio is clearly a favourite with Amazon customers as it's got over 35,700 reviews. As well as making sure you're receiving updates and listening to music, it's got a powerful 1W flashlight and a LED reading light, both of which are powerful enough to keep you out of the dark. It also incorporates a 2000mAh power bank so you can make sure your phone or a small tablet has enough charge on it in an emergency situation.

This is a phenomenally popular product is Amazon's Choice recommended. Customers praise it as a dependable portable radio, back-up charger and flashlight. However, do note, the NOAA National Weather Service feature is for the US only.

This hand crank/wind-up radio takes on a more modern exterior, featuring a digital interface and a contemporary design. This is a game changer for wind-up radios, for they don't traditionally visually display information like this one. With this Greadio Solar Emergency Wind-Up Radio, you can charge your phone, use the flashlight and automatically quickly search AM/FM stations, and it produces a high-quality sound. It's a win, win with this radio.

Uniquely, this sturdy device has an SOS alarm, which could be a life saver in extreme camping and outdoor activities. You can also connect to the weather emergency radio. Also, there's an light to indicate that it's charging and customers say they were particularly impressed with the solar charging.

Customers praise its sound quality and that it's light enough to carry on walks.