Wind up radio buying guide (UK): what to look for
How to choose a wind up radio, or a wind up radio and torch combo, that will actually work in a long power cut.
How we make money: The Stay-at-Home Store is run by the team behind The Home Prep Kit. We recommend features to look for, not specific competitor products, and we label links to our own kit.
The checklist: features that matter
| Feature | Look for | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Power sources | Hand crank + solar + USB (and ideally AA backup) | Several ways to charge means it never runs flat. |
| Bands | FM essential; AM/MW useful; DAB a bonus | BBC local radio and national news are on FM. |
| Built-in torch | Yes, LED | Saves hunting for a separate torch in the dark. |
| USB output | Yes | Emergency phone top-up from the radio's battery. |
| Internal battery | 1,000–4,000mAh, built in | Bigger is better for phone charging; must be non-removable or safely enclosed. |
| Safety marks | UKCA or CE + UK importer address | Required for products sold in Great Britain. |
| Extras | SOS alarm, reading lamp, headphone jack | Nice to have, not essential. |
What to ignore
- Huge mAh claims on small radios. A palm-sized radio cannot hold 10,000mAh+.
- "Military grade" or "NOAA weather band". NOAA is a US service and does nothing in the UK.
- Tiny solar panels as the main power source. Solar on a radio is a slow trickle top-up, not a charger.
How to use a wind up radio in a power cut
- Charge it now. Fully charge by USB and test it every few months.
- Note your stations. Write down your BBC local radio FM frequency and a national station.
- Wind steadily. Around 2 turns per second; short bursts are fine.
- Use the window. Leave it in a sunny window to trickle-charge by solar during the day.
- Save power. Lower the volume and switch off when not listening.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best wind up radio for the UK?
The best wind up radio for UK homes receives FM (and ideally AM/MW and DAB) for local and national news, can be powered by hand crank, solar and USB, has a built-in torch, and has a USB output for topping up a phone. Look for UKCA or CE marking and a UK importer address.
How long does a wind up radio play per minute of winding?
Typically a minute of steady winding gives a few minutes to around half an hour of listening, depending on volume and the radio. Treat the crank as a backup: keep the internal battery topped up by USB or solar.
Do wind up radios get DAB?
Most budget wind up radios are AM/FM only. FM is fine for emergencies, since BBC local radio and national stations broadcast on FM. Write down your local frequencies in advance.
Is a wind up radio and torch combination worth it?
Yes, for most homes. A combined wind up radio and torch means one device for news and light that never needs fresh batteries, and many also charge a phone.
Updated 2026-10-28.