{
  "id": 17830938,
  "title": "These 3 hand-cranked radios are affordable and offer extra features",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/11/02/these-3-hand-cranked-radios-are-affordable-and-offer-extra-features",
  "topic": "tech",
  "section": "Tech",
  "published": "2026-11-02T17:00:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "TechRadar",
    "slug": "techradar",
    "url": "https://www.techradar.com/audio/dab-radios/3-cheap-reliable-hand-crank-radios-still-available-that-arent-just-for-preppers-hear-emergency-broadcasts-if-the-power-grid-fails"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Three hand-cranked radios offer affordability and extra features for emergency preparedness. The Philips TAR1609/00, priced at £29.99, boasts 32 hours of listening time and multiple charging options, including USB-C, solar panel, and hand crank. It functions as a power bank, has a built-in torch and SOS alarm system, and looks like a retro camcorder. The Mesqool DAB+/DAB/FM Wind Up Radio with 12,000mAh rechargeable battery, priced at $59, is a larger, chunkier option with a big hand crank, solar panel, and additional features like Bluetooth and a reading light. Lastly, the Midland ER100, priced around £50, has a reputation for reliability in survival equipment and includes a hand-crank, solar strip, and simple controls. The slightly larger and more feature-packed Midland ER310 is also available but at a higher price.",
  "summary": "The government wants you to 'Be Ready' with a radio, and these wind-up options won't make you dependent on batteries or mains power.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}