10 Best Am Fm Radios 2025 in the United States

The Sangean HDR-19 is a premium AM/FM radio that brings a stylish retro design and modern features, making it a notable choice for those who appreciate both aesthetics and functionality. Its HD radio capability enhances sound quality, allowing for clearer reception of AM and FM stations. With 40 station presets, including emergency alerts, users can easily access their favorite channels. The Bluetooth connectivity is a significant plus, enabling streaming from smartphones or other devices, which adds versatility for music lovers.

Portability is somewhat limited since it’s corded electric, but its compact size (10.35"L x 6.06"W x 6.5"H) does make it easy to place on a desk or shelf. The inclusion of a USB port for charging devices is a thoughtful feature, further enhancing its usability. This radio requires batteries for backup, and while they are included, it’s something to keep in mind for uninterrupted use during a power outage.

The sound quality is noteworthy, and the real-time clock with multiple alarm settings provides practical functionality for everyday use. Some might find the tuning mechanism a bit less intuitive compared to simpler radios. The display offers a wealth of information, but this could be overwhelming for those seeking a straightforward listening experience.

The Retekess TR621 is a versatile boombox that combines AM/FM radio with CD and cassette players, offering multiple ways to enjoy music. It covers standard AM and FM bands with a 360-degree rotatable antenna for stable reception, though it uses manual tuning rather than digital, so finding stations might take a little more effort. Portability is a strong point — it’s relatively lightweight, has a handy carry handle, and can run on either AC power or 6 D-size batteries, making it convenient for use around the house or outdoors without being tethered to a plug.

Sound quality is clear and pleasant thanks to its dual speakers, making listening enjoyable, though it’s not designed for high-end audiophiles. Another advantage is the ability to play various media formats including CDs (CD, CDR, CDRW, MP3, WMA), tapes, USB drives, and microSD cards, with a remote control for CD and USB playback convenience. Tape recording functionality is a nice bonus, allowing you to record from the radio, CD, or an external source onto cassette tapes. The LCD display is useful for tracking what’s playing, though it doesn't control all functions via remote.

Despite its many features, the TR621’s tuning and some controls feel a bit dated, and the remote doesn't support radio or cassette operation. This boombox is well suited for those looking for an easy-to-use, portable music system with multiple playback options, especially if they appreciate cassette tapes or want a nostalgic touch.

The Crosley Musician CR704B-PA is more than just an AM/FM radio; it’s a versatile 8-in-1 music player that combines a three-speed turntable, AM/FM radio, CD and cassette players, aux input, and Bluetooth streaming. For someone looking for a radio with additional music options, this unit offers solid value. Its AM/FM radio provides standard frequency coverage, and the analog tuning method is common for Crosley devices and easy to use.

The unit’s portability is moderate—it weighs 17 pounds and has a wooden frame, making it more of a tabletop device than something you'd carry around regularly. Sound quality is decent with dynamic full-range stereo speakers, suitable for casual listening but not for audiophiles who want crisp, high-fidelity sound. The inclusion of Bluetooth is a big plus, allowing wireless streaming from phones or tablets, which modernizes this vintage-style system. Additional features like a headphone jack and aux input add convenience.

The retro design will appeal to those who enjoy classic aesthetics combined with modern technology. Users wanting a nostalgic music center that plays records, tapes, CDs, and streams digital audio, alongside AM/FM radio, will find this product especially fitting. For those focused solely on an AM/FM radio, simpler and more compact radios might serve better.