Amateur radio
Portable AM/FM/SW Pocket Radio with Clock, Alarm & Sleep Timer
Product description
Multi‑band reception and DSP processing: This pocket-sized radio supports AM, FM and SW bands and uses a digital signal processing (DSP) chip to improve reception and stabilize weak signals. It offers both automatic scanning and manual tuning so you can quickly find stations or fine-tune frequencies.
Display, clock and alarm features: The unit has a large FSTN backlit LCD with big numerals for easy reading from different angles and offers selectable 12‑hour or 24‑hour time formats. The radio also functions as a clock radio with an alarm that can wake you with radio audio. A sleep timer is provided so the device will turn off automatically after a set interval (adjustable between 10 and 120 minutes).
Tuning, presets and controls: You can long‑press the Scan key to auto‑seek stations or turn the tuning control for precise manual adjustments. Memory can hold up to 35 presets per band, plus three quick‑access favorite buttons (CH01–CH03) per band for frequently listened stations. The unit can also remove unused presets automatically to keep memory tidy.
Power, construction and accessories: The radio comes with earphones included and is housed in a lightweight, pocket‑friendly plastic body that’s easy to carry. It runs on two AA batteries for true portability, or you can connect a DC adapter for continuous power — a recommended backup for emergencies such as storms or outages. A telescoping antenna stores into its indentation and rotates for better reception when needed.
Pros
- Strong AM/FM sensitivity with DSP
- Large backlit FSTN display and clock/alarm functions
- Digital tuning plus multiple presets and quick‑access buttons
Cons
- LCD backlight drains batteries relatively fast
- Some units exhibit a loose DC power jack
- Shortwave performance can be weak or inconsistent
VerdictA compact, feature-packed pocket radio for listeners who want strong AM/FM reception, easy digital tuning and a readable backlit clock with alarm. The unit includes DSP processing, stereo headphone output, and memory for dozens of presets per band, making it a useful travel or bedside companion. Trade-offs include modest shortwave performance on some units, a continually lit LCD that shortens batt
Reviews
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Rudy Gaytan 1/5
Stopped working quickly
Unit failed not long after purchase and it happened just after the return window. Frustrating experience — it quit working and I wouldn’t buy again based on that.
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SpyResearch 5/5
Good receiver — take care with headphone volume
Overall a good radio, but beware of a power‑on volume pop if you turn the device off at zero volume and later power it on with headphones attached; it may blast briefly even though the display shows zero. To avoid that, plug in headphones after powering on or lower volume carefully. Also, for longwave/shortwave listening, a long wire antenna helps more than the built‑in telescoping mast.
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kc in upstate ny 5/5
Nice compact radio; shortwave disappointed
I like the unit for AM and FM—digital tuning works well and audio is fine. However, shortwave reception was poor for me and didn’t pull in stations. If you only need AM/FM with good sound, this is a solid choice; don’t expect reliable SW performance.
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John Doe 2/5
Good reception but poor power handling
Picks up stations well and sounds good, but battery life is disappointing because the LCD stays lit. The DC jack feels loose and can lose connection if the unit is moved or buttons are pressed, which is annoying during use.
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Boots13 3/5
Make sure it matches your expectations
It does work, but the actual performance didn’t match how I expected it from the description. Useful for some situations, but double‑check features you need.
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sidney 5/5
Outstanding sensitivity for distant stations
This radio surprised me with how well it pulls in distant broadcasts. Sometimes a barely audible station will strengthen over a minute without touching the volume as the set locks onto it. For the price range, sensitivity rivals or beats more expensive portables. Great pick for collectors or anyone who values distant reception.
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Blog or Die! 4/5
Good feature set for a budget model
Rated it four stars for what it offers at a low cost. You get 12/24 hour time, alarm and sleep timer, an earphone jack and included earbuds, an illuminated dial, auto‑store presets, favorite station buttons, a readable digital frequency readout and a carry strap. It covers US and European MW/FM ranges and provides FM stereo with headphones. The clock remains visible when the radio is off and battery life can be long if used sparingly. The printed manual is clear and helpful.
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Kevin 5/5
Surprisingly feature-packed for the price
This little radio packs a lot into a small package. It’s light and fits in a shirt pocket, the backlit display is easy to read, and the speaker delivers surprisingly pleasant sound for casual listening. Headphones provide true stereo, and AM/FM reception is strong thanks to digital tuning. The unit supports manual tuning, band scanning and automatic preset programming (35 slots per band), plus three programmable quick‑access buttons for each band. The telescoping antenna pivots and tucks neatly away, and it also serves well as a bedside clock and alarm.
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