Best Wind-Up Radios

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One of the most important additions to an emergency preparedness kit is a wind-up radio. These fantastically functional devices are a great resource when you need them most. They're radios first, but so much more. They're also flashlights and even power banks. Wind-up radios are supported by many power options, including cranks and solar panels. So, they are devices with limitless power potential. We've assembled the best options to keep you safe.

Staff pick

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Kaito KA500 6-way powered emergency radio, flashlight, and power bank

Sturdy must-have design with several power sources

When an emergency forces you to power down, a clutch multi-function radio can come to the rescue. This durable water-resistant model is not just a radio; it's an unexpected power source. This little machine can be charged using a hand crank, solar panel, mini USB, rechargeable battery pack, or an AC/DV wall adapter. It also includes a rechargeable battery pack and has the room for disposable AA batteries (if need be). With so many power sources, this little radio is a great resource. You'll be able to connect to AM/FM/NOAA radio and draw on the convenient flashlight or reading lamp. Most importantly, this radio and can even charge your phone or other electronics through the USB port. Choose your favorite color from the available options.

Easy and compact

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RunningSnail MD-088Ss emergency hand crank emergency radio, flashlight, and power bank

Compact multi-use device that comes to the rescue

This little device is part radio, part power bank, and part flashlight. During an emergency, it's the connection you need to AM/FM/NOAA radio. As a power resource, it charges phones and other devices through the USB port. This compact radio powers up manually with the hand crank, by absorbing light with the convenient solar panel, or through the USB port. Don't forget that this multi-powered gadget is also a flashlight with a bright LED bulb.

Convenient and portable

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RunningSnail emergency radio, flashlight, and power bank

Convenient emergency tool with a variety of power options

Having the right tools in your emergency kit is crucial when difficult weather-related or roadside situations occur. If a storm or car trouble is to blame for your misfortune, a crank-able radio is a must-have. This particular model aims to keep you connected with an AM/FM/NOAA radio and a power bank. This small machine can be powered with the hand crank, solar panel, micro USB cable, or three AAA batteries. Not only do these power options keep the radio running, but they support the flashlight/reading lamp and provide power to other devices through the USB port. It even has a convenient SOS mode for additional assistance.

Essential power source

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FosPower emergency portable radio, flashlight, and power bank

Durable multi-use radio and more

Don't let an emergency take you by surprise, be prepared with an all-in-one radio and power bank. This portable tool is powered by three sources the crank, solar panel, or AAA batteries. These sources power the AM/FM/NOAA radio, reading/flashlights, SOS alarm, and the power bank. You can also easily charge your phone through the USB port.

Glows in the dark

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Eton FRX2 hand turbine emergency radio, flashlight, and power bank

Emergency glow-in-the-dark necessity with multiple power options

The most important device in an emergency is a combination of things; it's a radio, flashlight, and power bank. This gizmo is all three and then some. To fully use this device, it must first be powered through the crank, solar panel, or USB port. Once charged, you'll have access to the AM/FM/NOAA radio, bright LED flashlight, and an ample power bank. This device also has a glow-the-dark indicator, so there's no missing it in the dark.  

Handy clip

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Eton Scorpion II multi-powered emergency radio, flashlight, and power bank

Sturdy emergency essential with extra features

Built to withstand anything, this emergency device is ready to go. It has a durable exterior and essential features to support your basic needs during a weather event or outdoor adventure, including an AM/FM/NOAA radio, LED flashlight, and power bank. (So, you'll be able to charge your phone or device!) There are even little extras like a carabiner clip for hanging and a beverage opener (just in case). To keep this emergency essential powered up, there are three charging options through the crank, solar panel, and USB port. 

Wind up with the right gadget

Wind-up radios are nifty emergency-ready tools designed to help you stay connected. A few turns of a hand crank and these devices snap into action. They link to the radio, double as a flashlight, and can even charge your phone. Our first choice is the Kaito KA500 6-way powered emergency radio, flashlight, and power bank because of its versatility. This useful model can be powered with a hand crank, solar panel, AC/DV wall adapter, mini USB, rechargeable battery pack, or traditional batteries. When powered, you can tune into the AM/FM/NOAA radio, light the way, or give devices a little boost.

If you're looking for a durable option with a couple of fun extras, choose Eton Scorpion II multi-powered emergency radio, flashlight, and power bank. It has a sturdy design and offers the same essential options like radio connectivity, light, and power. This model also has a convenient ready-to-hang carabiner clip and an in-a-pinch bottle opener. It really has everything!