10 Best Emergency Crank Radio 2025 in the United States

The Midland WR120B NOAA Emergency Radio is a solid choice for those seeking reliable weather alerts and emergency notifications. One of its main strengths is the NOAA Weather Scan & Alert feature, which automatically scans for weather hazards and emergencies, such as tornadoes and floods. The S.A.M.E (Specific Area Message Encoding) localized programming is another strong point, allowing users to receive alerts specific to their region without needing to look up codes manually. The radio can be programmed to receive alerts from up to 25 different counties, making it suitable for users with family or property in multiple locations.

The selectable alert tone feature, with high, medium, and low settings, ensures that notifications are noticeable without being overly intrusive. The unit is also public-alert certified and can receive alerts from seven NOAA channels, providing comprehensive coverage of potential threats. The built-in clock with alarm and snooze functions adds to its practicality. However, there are some drawbacks. The radio only supports AM tuner technology and has a single radio band, which limits its versatility. Additionally, it relies on three AA alkaline batteries for emergency power backup, which may not be as convenient as a built-in rechargeable battery.

Despite its compact and portable design, the device's durability is not extensively highlighted, which could be a concern in harsh conditions. The Midland WR120B is best suited for users who primarily need a dependable weather alert system with localized programming and multiple notification options.

The FosPower Emergency Weather Radio (Model A1) is a versatile tool designed for emergencies, featuring multiple power sources, including solar, hand crank, and AAA batteries, ensuring you have power in various situations. Its 7400mWh (2000mAh) power bank can recharge small devices like tablets and phones, which is a significant advantage during power outages or while on the go. The radio supports NOAA, AM, and FM bands, providing access to crucial weather updates and news broadcasts, making it a reliable source of information during emergencies.

It also includes lighting options with a 4 LED reading light and a 1W flashlight, which are beneficial for navigating in the dark or reading maps and instructions. Additionally, the SOS alarm feature can be a lifesaver in critical situations, allowing you to alert others to your location. This radio's compact size (6.2 x 2.9 x 2.1 inches) and lightweight (14.8 ounces) design make it portable and easy to carry. The build quality appears solid.

FosPower’s limited lifetime warranty is an added reassurance of its quality and reliability. Ideal for both indoor and outdoor use, this emergency radio is particularly useful for those living in areas prone to severe weather or for outdoor enthusiasts who need a reliable emergency tool.