Midland WR-300
Midland WR-300

Best weather radio overall

$65
Estimated Price

The Midland WR-300 is the overwhelming choice of experts and users. Public Alert certification means this desktop unit meets certain technical standards and has all the features that the NOAA considers important in a top-performing weather radio. That includes SAME technology, which eliminates the problem of receiving alerts for situations far removed from your location. Defeatable alerts keep false alarms to a minimum, and performance on weather channels is widely regarded as excellent. However, the WR-300 often fails to perform as well when used as an AM/FM receiver or clock radio.

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Sangean DT-400W
Sangean DT-400W

Handheld weather radio

$55
Estimated Price

The tiny Sangean DT-400W gets positive feedback from professionals and owners alike. Most users say it's highly portable and more durable than other handheld weather radios, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and travelers. Reception is said to be very good, especially on weather-band frequencies. Digital tuning is also a plus. A big downside is the lack of SAME support and an internal antenna, although an external antenna is included. While a set of earphones attached to the radio can also serve as an antenna, the earbuds that come with the DT-400W are often called uncomfortable.

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Eton FR160
Eton FR160

Best emergency crank radio

$30
Estimated Price

The Eton Microlink FR160 is one of the best crank radios available, reviewers say. Even though it isn't SAME capable or Public Alert certified, most owners don't count these shortcomings against the unit. Features aren't plentiful, but do include reception of AM/FM and weather band broadcasts, a flashlight and an emergency cell phone charger. The FR160 can't be powered by standard batteries or electricity, but most users say the crank-powered dynamo and solar cells do a good job of juicing up the internal rechargeable batteries, which provide plenty of run time. While the Microlink FR160 is a potential lifesaver in emergencies, its light weight and compact size make this weather radio a great hiking or camping companion, as well. It's also sold under the American Red Cross brand.

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Midland WR-120
Midland WR-120

Budget desktop weather radio

$35
Estimated Price

The Midland WR-120 draws positive feedback as a good performer and a great value. It's no more expensive than many portable weather radios, but offers more features. Like the WR-300, the WR-120 is Public Alert certified and SAME-enabled. Users can program it with up to 25 county codes and choose to be alerted with a siren, a beep or a flashing light. One distinct disadvantage compared to the WR-300 is that the WR-120 doesn't allow the disabling of unwanted alerts, but it costs about half the price of its well-regarded cousin.

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See a side-by-side comparison of key features, product specs, and prices.

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