Radios

With all the new technology available today, is the AM/FM radio going the way of 8-tracks and VHS tapes? For many people, the answer to that question is a resounding "No." For one thing, today's radios can receive more than just local news and music stations. They offer access to, literally, thousands of internet radio stations — and that's just the start. The capabilities of many radios have expanded far beyond the kitchen radio your Mom and Dad listened to while waiting for their morning java from the single cup coffee maker, or the battery-powered radio that was always tuned to the ball game during afternoon chores. A good first step as you begin looking for the best radio for you is to determine how you want to use it, besides just listening to radio stations.

For example, you can choose a radio with built-in Bluetooth capability that will wirelessly stream music from your smartphone or tablet. Or you can choose a radio with access to NOAA Weather Radio frequencies, to provide continuous weather information and emergency alerts. A radio with USB can charge your devices while you sleep, and a radio with a speakerphone and mic lets you answer calls hands-free. Additionally, some radios offer internal storage for saving and playing MP3s. Want a radio that has built-in Chromecast for access to social media, satellite radio and music services and more? No problem. Plus, you may want to consider a radio with a portable speaker so you can listen to your preferred tunes or newscasts where you want. And of course, you can choose a radio with a headphone jack for private listening. Finally, you may want to get a small, portable radio that runs anywhere on high-performance alkaline batteries.

You have options for upgrading your traditional "get me out of bed in the morning" radio too, courtesy of the large selection at Best Buy. You can choose to wake up to your favorite stations, or the music you love from your preferred set list. And you can also fall asleep listening to the same. Or, maybe you're a sound sleeper who would be better served by a clock radio featuring a loud alarm, buzzer, or even a bed shaker or lamp flasher. Don't forget the snooze function, if that's something you use to catch a few extra minutes of sleep each morning. You can also select an alarm clock radio with dual independent alarms for when you and your bed mate want to get up at different times.