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A shower radio adds entertainment to your morning routine, whether that comes in the form of must-hear music or your favorite news program. One of these devices can also help you prepare for your commute by providing useful weather and traffic updates. Shower radios are typically designed with waterproof or water-resistant housing that is tightly sealed so they can be either splashed or submerged without incurring damage or causing injury.
The best shower radios have high sound quality and accurately reproduce both bass and treble without distortion. Their functionality can go beyond the bathroom, too. Water resistance means they can come in handy on beach days, camping adventures, hiking trips, and other activities that may involve exposure to the elements. Read on to learn more about the different types on the market and why the following models are considered among the best shower radios you can buy.
- BEST OVERALL: Sangean H201 Portable Weather Alert Shower Radio
- RUNNER-UP: Sangean H205TQ AM/FM Weather Alert Shower Radio
- BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: AUDIIOO Portable Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker
- UPGRADE PICK: Sony ICF-S80 Splash Proof Shower Radio with Speaker
- BEST FLOATING: BassPal Bluetooth Speakers IPX7 Waterproof FM Radio
- BEST BASS EFFECT: AGPTEK Shower Radio Speaker with Bluetooth 5.0
- BEST WITH SUBWOOFER: iporachx Bluetooth Shower Speaker with Subwoofer
- BEST MULTIFUNCTIONAL: Xeneo X21 Portable Wireless Bluetooth Speaker
What to Consider When Choosing the Best Shower Radio
The best shower radios should have access to the most important stations and be durable and water resistant while maintaining high sound quality. Several different characteristics can affect functionality, so keep the following factors and features in mind when shopping for the best shower radio.
Type
There are four main types of shower radios:
- AM/FM shower radios offer access to both AM and FM broadcasts. They do not typically have Bluetooth connectivity. The sound quality of AM radio is generally lower than FM, but AM frequencies can be transmitted farther than FM frequencies. These models are typically used for news, talk radio, and weather reports.
- FM radios often come as part of Bluetooth speakers. While these models don’t have access to AM stations, FM radio has higher bandwidth and therefore higher sound quality, making it a great choice for enjoying music.
- Weather alert radios broadcast notifications from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). These include alerts for tornadoes, severe thunderstorms, flash floods, blizzards, and more. Some weather alert radios turn on automatically when there is an emergency broadcast.
- Bluetooth speakers with radio provide wireless connectivity to a computer or mobile device in order to stream audio. Bluetooth speakers that are equipped with a microphone also allow for placing hands-free phone calls while in the shower.
Waterproof Rating
A shower radio’s waterproofing rating is an essential consideration. While every shower radio will be promoted as being water resistant, look for products that have an IP (Ingress Protection) rating or IPX number, which will indicate clearly how much water exposure the radio can actually withstand. While some models can handle being completely submerged in water, others are only resistant to being sprayed or splashed with an indirect stream.
These IP ratings offer a standardized scale at which to compare different levels of weatherproofing. Products with an IP rating have been tested for resistance to water as well as dust and other hazardous particles, whereas products with an IPX rating are rated solely for their water resistance. The higher the number in the rating, the more water resistant the product is. Look for shower radios with ratings of IP67, IPX7, or higher, since such devices can be safely submerged in water for up to 30 minutes.
Sound Quality
For listening to the latest pop hits or catching up on the issues of the day with talk radio, high sound quality is essential in a shower radio. Sound must come through clearly without any static and reproduce the crisp quality of the original recording.
When shopping for a shower radio with a hands-free calling feature, sound quality is even more important. Making calls from the shower is only useful if it’s possible to clearly hear what the other person is saying.
Volume and Bass
Anyone who’s tried listening to music or a podcast from a phone while showering knows that the sound of the water can easily drown out the audio, even at the highest volume. The best shower radios are able to operate at even higher volumes without distorting the sound quality.
A high maximum volume is of greater importance if you plan to use the radio outdoors rather than in a contained space like the bathroom. The best shower radios should be able to produce both crisp treble notes and deep bass notes accurately. Radios with a subwoofer, a type of loudspeaker designed for producing low-pitched audio frequencies, are especially adept at transmitting bass tones.
Radio Stations
Getting a Bluetooth speaker that’s able to transmit just FM radio or a portable device that can access both AM and FM stations can be an important decision. While FM radio primarily features music, AM radio carries sports broadcasts, news programs, and talk radio shows. A shower radio with Digital Audio Broadcasting (DAB) connectivity offers listeners a wider range of stations without being limited to what’s available on their local AM/FM stations.
Shower radios often come equipped with either digital or analog tuning. Digital tuning allows users to find a station easily by scanning through the channels automatically, while analog requires the user to manually turn a dial to tune in to each station.
Battery Life
Shower radios are battery operated, using either built-in or removable batteries. The battery life of each product varies greatly, however, with averages ranging from eight to 100 hours. Since it can be frustrating—and costly—to have to change the batteries frequently, be sure to look for a model that clearly states its average battery life. Generally speaking, shower radios that use size C or D batteries will have longer battery lives than those which use AA and AAAs.
Some models feature integrated rechargeable batteries. These batteries must be recharged after approximately six to 12 hours of use, depending on the model in question. In order to reduce battery usage, avoid using the radio at its highest volume and turn off Bluetooth when it’s not in use.
Additional Features
Some shower radios come equipped with extra features:
- Station presets allow you to easily switch between favorite stations with one push of a button.
- A microphone allows the user to control their smartphone using voice commands.
- Shower radios with built-in clocks let the user check the time to avoid being late for work.
- LED light effects are a fun bonus that can entertain kids in the bath or complete an in-shower dance-party experience.
- While some shower radios are simply designed to sit on a shelf or shower caddy, many come with hanging straps or suction cups that allow the device to be easily mounted in a convenient location or hang it from the shower head.
- A built-in mirror is useful for those who shave in the shower.
Our Top Picks
These selections feature shower radios in a variety of categories that take into consideration the features and qualities explored above. Read on to discover some of the best options on the market to bring a little music into your morning routine.
Best Overall
Sangean H201 Portable Weather Alert Shower Radio
This portable AM/FM shower radio features a hidden pigtail antenna that provides good reception and a powerful speaker that will carry clearly over the sound of running water. It’s certified as a public alert weather radio and will receive NOAA notifications. The auto-seek feature and station presets make it easy to find and save favorite stations.
With a waterproofing rating of IPX7, the radio can be completely submerged in up to 3 feet of water without incurring damage. It’s also designed to float, making it a great choice for fishing and canoeing trips. The LED flashlight and emergency buzzer turn it into an even more useful device for an outdoor adventure. The radio features both a handle and a mounting base, providing two options for securing it in the shower. It operates on two D-cell batteries or an AC power adapter, though the adapter is not included.
Runner-Up
Sangean H205TQ AM/FM Weather Alert Shower Radio
This compact shower radio has a built-in AM antenna as well as an FM pigtail antenna. The Sangean H205TQ receives all seven NOAA weather channels, meaning that alerts will be sounded for any major weather event or storm warning.
This model is rated on the Japan Industrial Standards (JIS) scale rather than the IP scale and has a rating of JIS-7, which is comparable to an IPX7 rating—meaning it can be safely submerged without damage. Adjustable sleep and nap timers provide additional functionality. The radio can be powered by D-cell batteries or an AC adapter, which is sold separately.
Best Bang For The Buck
AUDIIOO Portable Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker
This portable Bluetooth speaker from Audiioo provides ample functionality at a budget-friendly price. It offers the ability to connect to a computer, smartphone, or tablet using Bluetooth, and it also functions as an FM radio. Thanks to the built-in microphone, it can be used for phone calls as well. The sound quality is impressive, with deep bass and crisp treble.
The IPX7 waterproofing rating ensures that the speaker won’t be damaged even if it accidentally falls into the tub. The silicone casing makes the radio shock-proof, protecting it against falls. It’s powered by a built-in rechargeable 1,500mAh battery which takes about three hours to charge and can stay powered for eight to 12 hours.
Upgrade Pick
Sony ICF-S80 Splash Proof Shower Radio with Speaker
While this model from Sony doesn’t offer Bluetooth connectivity or a wealth of bells and whistles, it functions as a high-quality AM/FM shower radio due to its unmatched reception. A preset function lets users save five of their favorite stations and find them with the push of a button.
The 100-hour battery life and auto-off feature ensure users won’t have to swap out the AA batteries frequently. While this model is splash-proof, it’s not completely waterproof, so make sure it doesn’t fall into the tub. Luckily, the built-in handle makes it easy to hang securely from a shower head.
Best Floating
BassPal Bluetooth Speakers IPX7 Waterproof FM Radio
Whether lounging in the pool or entertaining fussy kids in the bath, a floating Bluetooth speaker can enhance the experience. This model is IPX7 waterproof, and while it’s designed to float, it also features a suction cup so it can be attached to the shower wall. It functions as both a Bluetooth speaker and a portable radio, so users can listen to their own music collection or local FM stations.
The LED lights feature seven colors and can be set for continuous light or a beat-driven light show that syncs with the music being played. The 730mAh built-in battery allows for up to eight hours of play time.
Best Bass Effect
AGPTEK Shower Radio Speaker with Bluetooth 5.0
Bass-heavy music comes through strong and clear with this shower speaker from AGPTEK. Bluetooth, FM radio, and hands-free calling are all supported, making this a multifunctional device with excellent sound quality.
The built-in 2000mah battery provides up to 12 hours of battery life before needing a recharge. An IPX5 water-resistant rating means the device can be splashed and sprayed, but not submerged. It’s equipped with both a suction cup and a detachable lanyard, allowing it to be mounted to a wall or hung from a shower head.
Best With Subwoofer
iporachx Bluetooth Shower Speaker with Subwoofer
Subwoofers do a great job recreating low-pitched bass audio frequencies, making them the best kind of speaker for music styles like pop and funk. The powerful subwoofer on this iporachx model lets listeners blast favorite tunes at maximum volume without any distortion. This shower speaker includes an FM radio signal and Bluetooth connectivity plus a built-in microphone that enables hands-free calling.
It boasts an IPX7 waterproof rating and a shock-proof silicone case. While designed to float, there’s a strong suction cup for wall mounting in the shower. The battery lasts for eight hours when fully charged and offers 360 hours of standby battery life. Multicolored LED lights operate in three modes for a fun visual effect.
Best Multifunctional
Xeneo X21 Portable Wireless Bluetooth Speaker
For a speaker that can be used in the shower or an upcoming adventure, consider this model from Xeneo. The speaker is designed to transmit sound well at high, low, and medium frequencies, and at any volume. It’s equipped with Bluetooth, a micro-SD card slot, and FM radio, giving users multiple ways to enjoy their favorite music. The AUX jack also allows for it to connect directly to a computer or mobile device. The hands-free microphone is especially useful for talking on the phone while hiking, rowing, or cycling.
With an IPX6 rating, the device is splash-proof as well as being dust-proof and shock-proof, thanks to built-in rubber bumpers. The 2,400mAh rechargeable battery provides 10 hours of listening time before it needs to be recharged.
FAQs About Shower Radios
For more info on buying and using a shower radio, check out the answers to some common questions.
Q. Are all shower radios waterproof?
While many shower radios are waterproof, some are merely water resistant. That means that while they can handle being splashed or sprayed, they cannot be fully submerged in water.
Q. Can waterproof speakers go under water?
Speakers with at least a rating or IP67 or IPX7 can be submerged in up to 3 feet of water for up to 30 minutes.
Q. Can I connect a bathroom radio to a sound system?
While the most basic shower radios have built-in speakers and are meant to be used independently, some are equipped with the necessary hookups for connecting to a sound system.