There’s a unique magic in turning a dial and pulling a voice out of the static-filled ether from thousands of miles away. As a lifelong radio enthusiast, I’ve spent countless hours scanning the bands, hunting for everything from distant AM broadcast stations after sunset to cryptic utility signals and conversations between amateur radio operators across continents. The problem with this hobby has always been the gear. Traditionally, accessing this world required bulky, expensive tabletop receivers tethered to elaborate outdoor antennas. The idea of having that power in a package I could toss in a backpack for a weekend camping trip seemed like science fiction. This pursuit of a truly portable, all-in-one receiver that doesn’t compromise on features is what led me to the intriguing world of modern Software-Defined Radios (SDR), and specifically, to the device at the center of today’s review.
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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 curiosity, preparedness, and connection. In an age of curated internet feeds, these devices offer an unfiltered window into the world, allowing you to listen to international news, cultural broadcasts, and private conversations from across the globe. For emergency preparedness, a capable multi-band radio is a lifeline, providing access to information when power grids and cell networks are down. It’s a tool for the hobbyist, the traveler, the camper, and the lifelong learner, offering endless discovery without a subscription fee. The core benefit is independence—the ability to receive information directly from the source, no matter where you are.
The ideal customer for this type of product is someone with an inquisitive mind, facing the desire to explore beyond their local FM stations. This includes amateur radio (HAM) operators looking for a portable monitoring station, “preppers” building a comprehensive emergency kit, frequent travelers who want to tune into local broadcasts abroad, or anyone simply fascinated by the hidden world of radio waves. However, it might not be suitable for those who just want a simple, high-fidelity device to play music in the kitchen. If your primary need is room-filling audio quality for Bluetooth streaming and local news, a dedicated tabletop radio or a smart speaker would be a more fitting choice.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Dimensions & Space: Portability is key. Consider the device’s physical footprint and weight. A radio like the GLCSYJF ATS25pro+ AIR Portable Radio, measuring roughly 4x4x2 inches, is designed for travel and outdoor use. For home use, size is less critical, but for a go-bag or camping pack, every ounce and inch matters.
- Capacity/Performance: This is the most critical aspect. Look at the supported frequency bands. Does it cover AM, FM, Shortwave (SW), and Longwave (LW)? For advanced users, features like Single Sideband (SSB) for listening to HAM radio operators and an AIR band for aviation are essential. Sensitivity (the ability to pick up weak signals) and selectivity (the ability to separate adjacent signals) are the true measures of a radio’s performance.
- Materials & Durability: A portable radio will inevitably face some bumps and scrapes. Most are made from durable ABS plastic, which offers a good balance of strength and low weight. Consider the quality of the buttons, knobs, and antenna connection point (like the BNC connector on this model), as these are frequent points of failure on cheaper units.
- Ease of Use & Maintenance: A radio with a million features is useless if you can’t figure out how to operate it. Look for an intuitive interface. Modern radios often use touchscreens and digital displays, which can simplify tuning but may have a steeper learning curve than traditional analog dials. Long-term care involves protecting the screen and ensuring the battery is properly maintained.
Exploring the world of shortwave radio is a rewarding journey, and finding the right entry point is crucial for a good experience. The feature set of modern receivers can be daunting for newcomers.
While the GLCSYJF ATS25pro+ AIR Portable Radio 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 ATS25pro+: First Impressions and Core Features
The GLCSYJF ATS25pro+ AIR Portable Radio arrived in a compact, well-protected box that immediately conveyed its travel-friendly intentions. Inside, nestled in foam, was the radio itself, a telescopic BNC antenna, a dedicated Wi-Fi antenna, a USB-C charging cable, and a small touch pen. My first impression holding the unit was of a dense, solidly built device. The 1.3-pound weight feels substantial, not cheap, and the 4x4x2 inch chassis is the perfect size to hold in one hand. The front is dominated by the large touchscreen, with a physical rotary encoder/push-button on the side for volume and tuning.
Powering it on for the first time, the screen came to life, bright and responsive. The user interface, based on the upgraded 4.2 firmware, is packed with information but reasonably well-organized. It’s a far cry from the cryptic menus of older digital radios. It feels like a modern piece of tech, and having Wi-Fi for future firmware updates is a game-changing feature at this price point. It promises that the device can evolve and improve over time, which is a significant value proposition. After exploring the menus, it’s clear this radio is built for someone who wants to dive deep into the radio spectrum, and you can see its full feature set and user reviews to get a sense of its capabilities.
Advantages
- Expansive multi-band coverage including SW, SSB, and AIR bands
- Modern touchscreen interface with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity
- Excellent portability with a compact design and large 4000mAh battery
- Advanced features like a CW decoder and LNA preamplifier
Limitations
- Onboard speaker audio quality is tinny and lacks depth
- Included telescopic antenna is flimsy and struggles to support its own weight
Deep Dive: Putting the GLCSYJF ATS25pro+ to the Test
A radio’s spec sheet only tells part of the story. The real test is how it performs out in the field, pulling faint signals from the noise. We spent weeks with the GLCSYJF ATS25pro+ AIR Portable Radio, testing it in various environments—from a noisy urban apartment to a quiet park—to see if its performance lives up to its impressive list of features.
Multi-Band Reception and SDR Performance
This is where the rubber meets the road, and the ATS25pro+ delivers an impressively versatile performance. We started with the standard AM (MW) band. In the evening, the receiver demonstrated good sensitivity, easily pulling in powerhouse stations from hundreds of miles away with minimal noise. The FM reception was crisp and clear, locking onto stations solidly. But the real excitement began when we moved to the shortwave (SW) bands. Even with the included telescopic whip antenna, we were able to tune into international broadcasters like the BBC World Service and Radio Havana Cuba. The signals weren’t always armchair-copy perfect, but they were intelligible, which is a solid achievement for a stock antenna.
One user review we saw noted exceptional performance on the CB band, pulling in “skip” from all over the country. We can confirm this. On the 11-meter band, the radio came alive with activity, and the SSB (Single Sideband) performance was surprisingly good. We were able to clearly listen in on conversations between amateur radio operators on the 20 and 40-meter bands. The tuning was stable, and the audio, while not perfect, was easily understandable. However, our results underscore a point made by several users: this radio truly shines with a better antenna. When we connected a simple long-wire antenna to the BNC port, the noise floor dropped dramatically, and signals that were previously buried in static became clear. As another user wisely pointed out, ensuring the AGC (Automatic Gain Control) is turned on is crucial for maximizing sensitivity. This radio has a potent receiver, but you need to give it a good antenna to unlock its full potential. The onboard Low Noise Amplifier (LNA) is a feature that really sets it apart, helping to boost those weak signals without introducing excessive noise.
User Interface and Modern Connectivity
The standout feature of the GLCSYJF ATS25pro+ AIR Portable Radio is undoubtedly its touchscreen interface. It completely changes the user experience compared to traditional radios with their complex button combinations. Direct frequency entry is a breeze using the on-screen numeric keypad, and browsing through the bands with the spectrum waterfall display feels intuitive and modern. You can literally “see” the signals on the band and tap to tune them in. There is, however, a learning curve. As one user mentioned, the included manual is comically small and not particularly helpful. You’ll need to spend some time exploring the menus and perhaps watch a few online tutorials to master all the settings, like bandwidth filters and AGC adjustments.
The modern connectivity options are what truly elevate this device. The ability to update the firmware over Wi-Fi is a massive advantage, ensuring bugs can be fixed and new features added down the line. But the most practical feature is Bluetooth audio out. We found, in agreement with user feedback, that the built-in speaker is the radio’s biggest weakness. It’s tinny and lacks any bass, making long listening sessions fatiguing. However, pairing it with a quality pair of Bluetooth headphones or a portable speaker completely transforms the experience. The audio is suddenly rich and clear, allowing you to fully appreciate the signals you’re receiving. This single feature effectively solves the radio’s main hardware limitation. The responsive touchscreen and connectivity make this a joy to use once you get the hang of it, and it’s worth the time to check the latest price and availability for such a feature-rich package.
Portability, Power, and On-the-Go Use
This radio was born to travel. Its compact, almost cube-like form factor makes it incredibly easy to pack. At 1.3 pounds, it has enough heft to feel durable without weighing down a bag. We took it on a day hike and found it to be an ideal companion. The built-in 4000mAh lithium battery is a beast. We were able to get a full day of intermittent listening out of it on a single charge, and the convenience of USB-C charging means we can top it up with the same power bank we use for our phones. This makes it an outstanding choice for camping, emergency kits, or simply using around the yard without being tethered to a wall outlet.
However, there’s one significant flaw in its physical design, and it’s one echoed loudly in user reviews: the included telescopic antenna. While functional, it’s flimsy and poorly balanced. When extended, it simply falls over under its own weight, which is frustrating. We had to prop it up against something to keep it vertical. This is a baffling design oversight on an otherwise well-thought-out device. While most serious hobbyists will use an external antenna anyway, it’s a letdown for casual, out-of-the-box use. Despite this, the overall portability is still a major win, but prospective buyers should plan on either propping up the antenna or investing in a better BNC-mounted whip or a simple wire dipole.
Advanced Features for the Hobbyist
Beyond basic listening, the GLCSYJF ATS25pro+ AIR Portable Radio packs in features aimed squarely at the serious radio hobbyist. The dedicated AIR band (118MHz-135.975MHz) works well; we were able to clearly listen to communications from our local municipal airport tower, which is a fascinating experience. The inclusion of HAM band shortcut channels is a nice touch, allowing quick access to popular amateur radio frequencies.
Perhaps the most unique feature is the built-in CW (Morse code) auto decoder. This function listens to Morse code transmissions and displays the decoded text on the screen in real-time. While we couldn’t find a strong, clear CW signal during our testing period to fully evaluate its accuracy, the presence of this feature is remarkable in a portable receiver. For those interested in learning Morse code or monitoring the CW portions of the bands, this is a powerful tool that typically requires a computer and special software. It solidifies the radio’s identity as a multi-faceted tool for deep exploration of the radio spectrum, offering capabilities that go far beyond a simple receiver. This is a radio that grows with you as your skills and interests expand, representing a fantastic value for the dedicated hobbyist.
What Other Users Are Saying
Our findings align closely with the experiences of the broader user community. There’s a clear consensus that the radio’s receiver is impressively capable for its size and price. One user enthusiastically reported, “Wow this baby works. I was getting CB’ers from all over the us blaring in loud and clear,” which mirrors our positive experience with its sensitivity, especially on the lower bands. Others praise it as an “excellent sdr receiver,” particularly when paired with a simple dipole wire antenna, which confirms our assessment that a better antenna unlocks its true potential.
On the other hand, the criticisms are just as consistent. The poor audio quality from the internal speaker is a common complaint, with one owner stating, “Audio quality from the speakers is pretty bad, but it sounds great in headphones.” The flimsy, self-collapsing stock antenna is another major point of frustration for many. A balanced review highlighted these mixed feelings perfectly: “I have mixed feelings about this radio… The antenna does not stand up. It falls down under its own weight.” This feedback paints a clear picture: the GLCSYJF ATS25pro+ AIR Portable Radio has a powerful, feature-rich core that is slightly let down by its included accessories.
How Does It Compare? The ATS25pro+ vs. The Competition
The GLCSYJF ATS25pro+ AIR Portable Radio occupies a unique space with its blend of SDR technology, a large touchscreen, and modern connectivity. However, it’s important to see how it stacks up against other popular options that might cater to different needs.
1. Sangean WR-16SE Wooden Cabinet Radio
- Am/ Fm Analog Radio With Built-In Bluetooth Technology Version 4.1 Class Ii Wireless Audio Streaming
- Soft And Precise Vernier Tuning With Tuning And Band Indicators
- Deep Bass Compensation For Rich Bass With A 3 Inch 10 Watts Full Range Speaker
The Sangean WR-16SE is a different class of radio entirely. It’s a beautifully crafted tabletop radio focused on delivering a superb audio experience for standard AM/FM listening and Bluetooth streaming. Its wooden cabinet isn’t just for looks; it provides warm, rich acoustics that the tiny speaker in the ATS25pro+ can’t hope to match. If your primary goal is to have a high-quality, aesthetically pleasing radio for your office, kitchen, or living room to listen to music and news, the Sangean is the superior choice. However, it lacks shortwave, SSB, AIR band, and any of the advanced hobbyist features of the GLCSYJF model. This is for the audiophile, not the DXer.
2. Emgykit R11 Portable Shortwave Radio Solar Hand Crank
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The Emgykit R11 is built for a singular purpose: survival. While it does receive AM/FM and Shortwave, its main selling points are its ruggedness and multiple power options, including a solar panel and hand crank. It also includes essential emergency tools like a flashlight, SOS alarm, and NOAA weather alerts. This is the radio you want in an emergency go-bag or for off-grid camping. The GLCSYJF ATS25pro+ has a much more sensitive and feature-rich receiver for hobbyist listening, but the Emgykit is the more practical tool for true emergencies. Choose the Emgykit for preparedness; choose the GLCSYJF for exploration and enjoyment.
3. TECSUN PL330 Worldband Radio SSB
- A digital portable receiver with comprehensive radio frequency coverage including AM, FM, longwave, shortwave, and single side band
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The TECSUN PL330 is the most direct competitor to the GLCSYJF ATS25pro+ in terms of its target audience. Tecsun is a highly respected name in the shortwave world, known for excellent performance. The PL330 is a compact, button-operated radio celebrated for its outstanding sensitivity and excellent SSB reception. For the pure radio purist who prioritizes raw reception capability and a traditional interface above all else, the PL330 is arguably a better performer. However, it lacks the large touchscreen, the intuitive spectrum display, Wi-Fi for updates, and Bluetooth audio output of the ATS25pro+. The choice here is between the proven, high-performance traditionalism of the Tecsun and the modern, feature-packed user experience of the GLCSYJF.
The Final Verdict: Is the GLCSYJF ATS25pro+ AIR Portable Radio Worth It?
After extensive testing, we can confidently say that the GLCSYJF ATS25pro+ AIR Portable Radio is a remarkably capable and fun device for the modern radio enthusiast. It successfully bridges the gap between traditional portable radios and the more complex world of computer-based SDR. Its wide band coverage, excellent battery life, and modern features like Wi-Fi updates and Bluetooth audio create a compelling package. It puts a universe of signals, from local aviation to international shortwave and amateur radio, directly into the palm of your hand in a user-friendly way.
It’s not without its flaws. The anemic onboard speaker and the frustratingly flimsy antenna are notable drawbacks. However, these are easily remedied with headphones and a simple wire antenna, respectively. This radio is perfect for the tech-savvy hobbyist who will appreciate the touchscreen and connectivity, and who is willing to experiment to get the most out of it. It may not be the best choice for a complete beginner looking for simplicity or an audiophile demanding high-fidelity sound from the unit itself. For those ready to explore everything the airwaves have to offer with a modern, powerful, and portable tool, the GLCSYJF ATS25pro+ AIR Portable Radio is an exceptional value that we wholeheartedly recommend.
Last update on 2025-11-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API