10 Best Wind Up Emergency Radios 2025 in the UK

The Dab Wind Up Radio by Mesqool is packed with features that make it a reliable companion for emergencies and outdoor activities. It supports multiple power sources, including USB, solar panel, hand crank, and AAA batteries, making it highly versatile in various settings. The built-in 5000 mAh battery also doubles as a power bank, offering the convenience of charging your phone in emergencies.

The radio supports DAB+ and FM bands with excellent reception and auto-scan capability, allowing you to easily tune into your favorite channels and save up to 30 presets. Its dual alarm clock and headphone jack add to its practicality for everyday use. Additionally, the device is equipped with a bright flashlight and a foldable reading light, making it useful in low-light conditions.

The SOS alarm feature, which emits a loud noise and flashes red, can be a lifesaver in dangerous situations, and its IPX4 waterproof rating provides some protection against splashes. However, this device is not fully waterproof, so it should not be submerged in water. At 410 grams and with dimensions of 17.2 x 9.4 x 6.3 cm, it is compact and relatively portable, though there are lighter options available in the market. The modern design and sturdy build add to its appeal, though some users may find it slightly bulky for long hikes. All these features make it a great choice for campers, hikers, and anyone in need of an emergency radio at home.

The Duronic Solar Radio Apex is a compact and lightweight emergency radio offering multiple charging options: solar panels, USB cable, and a wind-up crank. This versatility ensures you can keep it powered in various situations, which is a big plus for camping, hiking, or emergency use. It covers both AM and FM bands, providing access to a wide range of radio stations for news and entertainment. The radio includes a built-in torch and alarm, adding practical features that are helpful when you’re outdoors or facing a power outage.

Its compact size and light weight (around 340g) make it highly portable and easy to carry in a backpack or bag. Controls are simple and user-friendly, suitable for all ages and tech comfort levels. On the downside, the solar charging is quite slow—taking up to 35-42 hours for a full charge—so relying solely on the sun might not be practical if you need quick power. The internal battery capacity is modest, offering 7-9 hours of radio or 4-6 hours of flashlight use on a full charge, which is adequate but not exceptional.

While it's described as dust resistant and shockproof, the build quality is typical for lightweight plastics, so it may not withstand very rough handling. Also, it requires 2 AAA batteries, which are included but represent an ongoing need. This radio is best suited for casual outdoor enthusiasts and those wanting a reliable emergency radio with multiple charging options; however, if fast solar charging or rugged durability are top priorities, there may be better alternatives.

The Greadio Portable DAB/DAB+/FM Solar Radio is well-suited for those seeking a versatile emergency radio with multiple functionalities. It offers a variety of power sources, including a rechargeable 4000mAh battery, solar power, and hand-crank charging, making it reliable in situations where electricity is unavailable. For radio enthusiasts, it supports DAB/DAB+ and FM bands, allowing access to a wide range of stations with clear reception thanks to its extra-long antenna. The radio is designed with durability in mind, featuring a military-inspired styling and robust materials, which can withstand outdoor conditions effectively.

One of its standout features is the Bluetooth 5.3 capability, allowing quick and stable connections to other devices within 26 feet. The inclusion of USB and TF/SD card slots for playing music adds to its entertainment value, accommodating up to 256GB of storage. Emergency features like a flashlight, compass, and SOS alert are particularly useful, enhancing its functionality beyond a simple radio. Its compact dimensions make it portable and easy to carry during travel or outdoor activities.

However, users should be aware of the initial battery protection mode that may require hand-cranking to activate the radio if it doesn't turn on immediately. Additionally, while the radio provides superb sound quality with a bass radiator and white noise options for relaxation, the exact impact of these features on battery life isn't clearly detailed. Delivery restrictions outside mainland UK could be a drawback for international buyers.

The Greadio radio is a comprehensive tool that effectively balances entertainment, communication, and emergency functionalities, ideal for those looking for a reliable companion in unpredictable situations.