There’s a unique kind of peace that comes from working in the garden, with only the sounds of nature and the distant hum of the neighborhood. But sometimes, you want a soundtrack—a favorite podcast, the afternoon ballgame, or just some music to keep the rhythm. For years, I wrestled with this. Dragging out a bulky boombox was a hassle, and using my phone meant worrying about dirt, water, and draining its precious battery. What I needed was something small, durable, and versatile; a device that could live in my tool shed or get tossed into a backpack without a second thought. This search for the perfect, unobtrusive audio companion is what first led me to explore the world of ultra-portable digital radios, a journey that culminated in my hands-on testing of the remarkable Retekess V115 AM FM Shortwave Radio Rechargeable Battery.
- AM FM SW radio; AM mode step adjustable (9/10K); if you are a radio fan; like to listen to international radio stations; learn about news education and culture; this shortwave radio is the best choice
- Digital radio am fm; Retekess V115 supports automatic search and storage of radio stations; supports manual key input of frequency; what would really make this radio even better is to make it retain...
- MP3 music player; insert a TF card to listen to the audio you have saved; this little radio supports all repeat; single repeat; directory repeat and random play; if you have thousands of audios; you...
What to Consider Before Buying a Portable Shortwave Radio
A Portable Shortwave Radio is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for staying connected, entertained, and informed, no matter where you are. In an age of internet-dependent devices, a standalone radio offers a lifeline. It’s your source for emergency weather alerts during a power outage, your entertainment during a camping trip far from cell service, and your personal audio player for tasks around the house and yard. The primary benefit is independence—freedom from Wi-Fi, cellular data, and even wall outlets, thanks to rechargeable batteries. This category of product solves the problem of information and entertainment isolation, packing a world of broadcasts and personal media into a device that fits in your pocket.
The ideal customer for this type of product is someone who values versatility and preparedness. This includes campers, hikers, fishers, preppers, and anyone building an emergency kit. It’s also perfect for hobbyists, gardeners, and workshop tinkerers who want a simple, durable audio device without risking their expensive smartphone. On the other hand, it might not be the right fit for audiophiles seeking high-fidelity stereo sound, as the focus here is on portability and function over acoustic perfection. Likewise, serious shortwave listeners (DXers) who require advanced features like Single Side Band (SSB) for tuning into amateur radio operators will likely need a more specialized, and expensive, receiver. For those users, a high-end worldband radio would be a more suitable investment.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Dimensions & Space: True portability is defined by size and weight. A radio designed for a backpack or emergency kit should be compact and lightweight, ideally under half a pound. The Retekess V115, for instance, measures just 4.73″ x 3.15″ x 0.8″. Consider how and where you will store and carry the device. Will it live in a pocket, a glove compartment, or a go-bag? Its physical footprint is a primary feature.
- Capacity/Performance: Performance in a portable radio is multifaceted. First, evaluate its reception capabilities across all advertised bands (AM, FM, SW). Strong FM reception is common, but AM and SW performance can vary dramatically. Second, look at its digital features. Does it have an MP3 player? What are the playback controls like? Can it record? Finally, battery life is paramount. A 1000mAh battery offering 6-8 hours of playtime is a good baseline for casual use.
- Materials & Durability: Most portable radios in this price range are constructed from ABS plastic. While not as robust as the rubberized shells of jobsite radios, a well-designed plastic casing can be surprisingly durable for everyday use. Pay attention to the feel of the buttons and the sturdiness of the telescopic antenna, as these are common points of failure. The device should feel solid, not hollow or creaky.
- Ease of Use & Maintenance: Modern digital radios have moved away from simple analog knobs, often introducing a learning curve. Look for a clear display and an intuitive button layout. Some models, like the V115, require a bit of time with the manual to master all functions. Long-term maintenance is minimal, usually just involving care of the rechargeable battery and keeping the device clean and dry.
While the Retekess V115 AM FM Shortwave Radio Rechargeable Battery is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
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Unboxing the Retekess V115: A Feature-Packed Surprise in a Tiny Package
Upon opening the modest box, the first thing that struck me about the Retekess V115 AM FM Shortwave Radio Rechargeable Battery was its sheer compactness. It’s smaller than most smartphones, though a bit thicker, and weighs next to nothing at just 160 grams. The matte black plastic housing feels sturdy enough for its intended purpose, and the buttons, as one user rightly noted, have a satisfyingly positive “click,” leaving no doubt when a command has been registered. In the box, we found the radio itself, a standard BL-5C 1000mAh rechargeable battery (the same kind used in older Nokia phones, making replacements easy to find), a Type-C USB charging cable, and a handy lanyard. There are no unnecessary frills here; every component feels purposeful. The backlit LCD screen is clear and legible, displaying frequency, battery status, and mode information. The telescopic antenna extends smoothly and feels reasonably robust. My initial impression was one of disbelief—how could a device this small and affordable possibly pack in AM, FM, Shortwave, an MP3 player, and a digital recorder? It felt like holding a little black box of secrets, and I was eager to uncover them.
Key Benefits
- Incredible feature set for the price (Radio, MP3, Recorder, AUX)
- Surprisingly loud and clear audio with noticeable bass
- Excellent and sensitive FM reception
- Highly compact, lightweight, and pocket-friendly design
- Records radio broadcasts directly to a TF card
Limitations
- Shortwave and AM performance is weak for distant signals
- Button-based interface has a significant initial learning curve
A Deep Dive Into the Retekess V115’s Real-World Performance
A spec sheet can only tell you so much. To truly understand a device like this, you have to live with it. I spent weeks with the Retekess V115 as my constant companion—in the workshop, on walks, and by my bedside. I loaded it with music, scanned the airwaves at all hours, and put its recording features to the test. This little radio is a classic example of something that punches far, far above its weight class, though it’s not without its specific limitations.
Audio Performance: More Than Just a Radio Speaker
Let’s be clear: a single, small speaker in a sub-$30 device isn’t going to rival your home stereo. However, I was genuinely shocked by the audio quality of the Retekess V115. The secret lies in its so-called “bass speaker,” which is more accurately a passive radiator on the back of the unit. This small diaphragm vibrates with the output from the main driver, significantly enhancing the low-frequency response. As several users confirmed, the sound is surprisingly rich and avoids the tinny, thin quality that plagues most pocket radios. When I played some classic rock from a TF card, the bass lines were present and distinct, not just a muddy suggestion.
The volume gets impressively loud without significant distortion, easily filling a room or cutting through the noise of yard work. The V115 also includes six EQ presets (Natural, Pop, Rock, Jazz, Country, Heavy Bass). While “Natural” and “Jazz” provided the most balanced sound to my ears, the “Heavy Bass” setting gives a noticeable boost that’s fun for certain types of music. Another standout feature is the headphone jack, which delivers clean, crisp stereo sound. Plugging in a decent pair of earbuds transforms the experience, making it a fantastic personal audio player for listening to music or late-night radio shows without disturbing others. For a device this small, the audio engineering is a feature that really sets it apart from the competition.
The Triple-Threat Tuner: Evaluating AM, FM, and Shortwave Reception
The core function of any radio is its ability to pull in signals, and here, the Retekess V115 AM FM Shortwave Radio Rechargeable Battery delivers a mixed but understandable performance. I tested its reception in a suburban environment with moderate signal challenges.
FM Reception: On the FM band, the V115 is an absolute star. Using the automatic tuning system (ATS), a long press of the scan button quickly filled the presets with every local and semi-local station I expected to hear. The reception was crystal clear and stable, rivaling radios costing three times as much. For anyone primarily interested in listening to local FM music, news, or sports, this radio performs exceptionally well. It’s sensitive and locks onto stations with authority.
AM Reception: The AM performance is adequate for its purpose. It reliably pulled in strong, local news and talk radio stations during the day. However, as evening fell, its limitations became apparent. As one ham radio operator noted in his review, this is not a “DX machine.” It struggled to pick up the distant, clear-channel stations that my more advanced radios can hear nightly. For checking local traffic or listening to a nearby talk show, it’s perfectly fine. For hobbyists trying to log stations from hundreds of miles away, it will disappoint.
Shortwave (SW) Reception: This is where expectations must be managed. The V115 does receive shortwave, but it’s best for the “blowtorch” stations—the major international broadcasters like Radio Havana Cuba, the BBC, and China Radio International, or time-signal stations like WWV. I was able to hear WWV clearly on 5 and 10 MHz at night. However, the auto-scan is nearly useless on the shortwave bands; it simply flies past all but the most powerful signals. Success requires direct frequency entry using the number pad. As a user experienced with HF antennas confirmed, the radio struggles mightily with weaker signals that other receivers can easily hear. It’s a fun introduction to the world of shortwave, but it is not a tool for serious exploration of the bands. For casual listening or as an emergency information source, it’s a valuable inclusion, and you can see its full frequency range and specs online.
Beyond the Broadcast: A Swiss Army Knife of Digital Features
What truly elevates the Retekess V115 from a simple radio to an indispensable gadget is its suite of digital capabilities. The integrated MP3 player and recorder are game-changers, and their implementation is surprisingly robust.
MP3 & Audiobook Player: Pop in a Micro SD/TF card (up to 32GB, not included), and the V115 instantly becomes a powerful media player. I loaded a card with a mix of music albums and long-form audiobooks. Navigating folders is straightforward using the playback buttons. As one user searching for a good audiobook player discovered, this unit is a clear winner because it has dedicated, continuous fast-forward and rewind buttons—a feature bafflingly absent on more expensive players. You can hold down the next/previous track buttons to scrub through a file, which is essential for navigating multi-hour audio files. It also offers various repeat modes (single, folder, all) and a random shuffle mode.
Digital Recorder: This is the killer app. The V115 can record from three sources: the built-in microphone, directly from the radio broadcast, or from any device connected to the AUX-in jack. There are three quality settings to choose from, creating MP3 files at approximately 64, 96, or 128 kbps. I used it to record a favorite song off an obscure FM station, and the quality was perfectly listenable. I also used the built-in mic to leave myself a quick voice memo. This feature is incredibly useful for capturing show segments, interviews, or even just for fun. The ability to directly archive radio content is a feature rarely seen at this price point, making the Retekess V115 an incredible value proposition.
What Other Users Are Saying
Scouring user feedback, a clear consensus emerges that aligns perfectly with my own findings. The most common point of praise is the incredible value. One user aptly called it “probably the best radio I’ve found under $25,” a sentiment echoed by many. The surprisingly powerful and clear speaker is another frequent highlight, with people expressing disbelief that such a small device can produce sound with actual bass. The versatility of the MP3 player and the radio recording function are consistently lauded as standout features that elevate it beyond a simple receiver.
On the critical side, the learning curve is the most cited drawback. “A digital operation unit. Expect a learning curve. No knobs to turn,” warns one owner. The process of setting and deleting station presets, in particular, can be frustrating without the manual nearby. The other major critique, primarily from radio hobbyists, is the underwhelming shortwave performance. As one ham operator stated, after testing with external antennas, “this radio did not hear it.” This feedback is crucial: it confirms the V115 is a general-purpose device where SW is a bonus feature, not its primary strength.
How Does the Retekess V115 Compare to the Alternatives?
The Retekess V115 AM FM Shortwave Radio Rechargeable Battery carves out a unique niche, but it’s important to understand the landscape. Depending on your priorities—be it style, raw performance, or ruggedness—other options might be a better fit.
1. Crosley CR31D-WA Retro Bluetooth Speaker
- RADIO WITH BLUETOOTH SPEAKER: Connect to any Bluetooth-enabled device and stream your favorite playlist or podcast over the built-in full-range speaker
- AM FM RADIO: Tune in to your local stations using the classic analog dial An internal AM antenna and a wire FM antenna help you zero in on the clearest signal
- PRIVATE LISTENING: The included headphone jack lets you enjoy your music in private
The Crosley Companion is all about aesthetics and modern convenience in a retro package. Its primary appeal is its vintage walnut finish and its function as a Bluetooth speaker. If your main goal is to stream music wirelessly from your phone to a stylish speaker that also happens to have an AM/FM radio, the Crosley is a fantastic choice. However, it completely sacrifices portability and preparedness. It’s not rechargeable, lacks shortwave bands, has no MP3 player or recording functions, and is designed to sit on a shelf. It’s an alternative for home use where style and Bluetooth are more important than the multi-tool functionality of the Retekess V115.
2. TECSUN PL330 Worldband Radio
- A digital portable receiver with comprehensive radio frequency coverage including AM, FM, longwave, shortwave, and single side band
- Adopts modern DSP digital demodulation technology as well as synchronized detection for enhanced and unparalleled reception sensitivity, selectivity, and anti-image interference capability across the...
- A premium full-range 8 ohms / 250 mW speaker delivers loud, rich, crispy, dynamic and distortion-free sound for utmost entertainment experience, a 3.5 mm stereo earphone jack for private listening...
The TECSUN PL330 represents the next logical step up for anyone who tried the V115 and became serious about the shortwave listening hobby. This is a dedicated worldband receiver for the serious enthusiast. Its key advantage is vastly superior reception and the inclusion of Single Side Band (SSB) mode, which is essential for listening to amateur (ham) radio operators and other utility stations. It features more advanced filtering, a synchronous detector, and enhanced signal processing. The PL330 is for the user who wants to hunt for faint, distant signals, not just listen to strong broadcasters. It comes at a significantly higher price and lacks the V115’s built-in MP3 player and speaker-focused audio quality, prioritizing reception fidelity above all else.
3. Sangean U3 Ultra Rugged Water Resistant Jobsite Radio
If the Retekess V115 is a multi-tool, the Sangean U3 is a sledgehammer. This radio is built for the harshest environments like construction sites, workshops, and garages. Its ultra-rugged, water-resistant roll cage design is made to withstand drops, dust, and moisture. The Sangean’s focus is on durability and producing loud, powerful audio to be heard over machinery. It’s much larger, heavier, and less of a personal device. While it has excellent AM/FM reception, it lacks shortwave capabilities, an MP3 player, and recording functions. This is the choice for someone who needs a tough, loud radio for a demanding environment and has no need for the pocket-sized, feature-rich nature of the V115.
Our Final Verdict: Is the Retekess V115 Worth It?
After extensive testing, we can say with confidence that the Retekess V115 AM FM Shortwave Radio Rechargeable Battery is one of the most impressive pieces of tech you can buy for under thirty dollars. It is a marvel of functional convergence, blending a capable radio, a versatile MP3 player, and a handy digital recorder into a package that disappears into your pocket. Its audio quality is shockingly good for its size, and its FM reception is top-notch. While it won’t satisfy the demanding shortwave DXer or the audiophile, it wasn’t designed to. It was designed for the rest of us: the gardener, the camper, the prepper, the tinkerer, the audiobook listener.
If you’re looking for an ultra-portable, feature-packed device for everyday entertainment and emergency preparedness, the V115 is not just a good choice; it’s an outstanding one. It’s the perfect gadget to throw in a glove box, a fishing tackle box, or an emergency go-bag. For its price, the sheer utility is nearly impossible to beat. If you want a small device that does almost everything, we wholeheartedly recommend you check the latest price and add this little powerhouse to your collection.
Last update on 2025-11-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API