Best Overall: Midland ER210 Weather Alert Crank Radio The Midland ER 210 is what probably comes to mind when you think of emergency radios. The simple device does exactly what it's meant to do, keep you informed and safe during severe weather like flooding, wildfires, and hurricanes.

First, it's important to note that the best radio for preppers is a HAM RADIO because ham radios are the most versatile. A single ham radio combines all of the variations, features, and capabilities of the other radio services (FRS, GMRS, MURS, marine, CB, weather, shortwave, commercial broadcast).

Our favorite portable emergency radio is the Midland ER210, the smaller sibling of the Midland ER310. This version packs many of the same great features but in a more compact and portable design. It has support for USB, hand-crank, and solar recharging, and it can receive AM, FM, and NOAA weather alert broadcasts.