Wind-up or battery FM radio

A radio that still works when the television and home internet do not.

Main benefits

• Official checklists ask for an FM radio that runs on batteries or a wind-up mechanism.
• Lets you hear news updates without broadband.

Key specifications

Specifications depend on the model. Check capacity, battery requirements, suitability and manufacturer instructions before buying.

Practical use cases

• Following news during a power cut.
• Hearing weather or local updates if you have written down station frequencies.

Limitations and safety

• A radio does not replace 999, 105 or Floodline.
• Write down frequencies on paper; scrolling a memory list is harder in the dark.

Testing status

We have not personally tested a named product for this guide. Compare specifications and follow manufacturer instructions.