7 Best Jobsite Radios in 2024 | Jobsite Radio Reviews
The jobsite radio plays an important part in boosting productivity. In fact, studies show that handy workers who listen to the radio, or simply music on the job perform better than those who do not. However, there are so many radio models out there that you can quickly become confused. If you are fresh on the market for a jobsite radio, then our jobsite radio reviews should offer you some of the best models available on the market today. We also give you quick and easy tips on how to choose the best jobsite radio for your need. Keep reading!
7 Best Jobsite Radios – Reviews
Image | Product Name | Rating | Current Price |
---|---|---|---|
1. Sangean TB-100 AM/FM/AUX-In Ultra Rugged Digital Jobsite Radio | 4.1 | ||
2. Bosch PB360S 18V Lithium-Ion Power Box Jobsite Radio | 4.6 | ||
3. Sangean LB-100 Compact AM/FM Ultra Rugged Radio Receiver | 4.6 | ||
4. DeWalt DC012 7.2V-18V Heavy-Duty Worksite Radio | 4.4 | ||
5. DeWalt DCR015 12V/20V MAX Worksite Radio | 4.2 | ||
6. Sangean FB-100 Fatbox Rugged Industrial AM/FM Jobsite Radio | 4.5 | ||
7. ION Audio iPA30 Portable Heavy-Duty Bluetooth Speaker with AM/FM Radio | 3.7 |
#1. Sangean TB-100 AM/FM/AUX-In Ultra Rugged Digital Tuning Rechargeable Jobsite Radio
Editor's Rating: (4.1 / 5)
First, we have the popular Sangean TB-100. This model is one of the most affordable ones in this jobsite review. But despite its small price, it still sports fairly competitive features.
It is fully rain resistant, which means that the internal parts are protected from water. Although we do not recommend you drop this radio in water, it does a pretty good job protecting itself from the rain. Additionally, the single speaker in this unit is fairly big at 5-1/4 inches and is able to deliver a rich sound stage. Of course, due to the smaller size of this jobsite radio, it is better used in close proximity.
The user can save presets for AM and FM radio, and a nice addition to this jobsite radio is the presence of an Aux-In to connect to your MP3 player or smartphone. This jobsite radio is protected to the sides by a solid ABS plastic bar guard, that also serves as a flat and stable base.
The presence of a front LCD display is also a welcome feature, and it allows you to see your AM/FM channel, as well as music title. The only caveat is the absence of Bluetooth in this device. Other than this, it is a very affordable jobsite radio with decent quality sound.
Pros
- Very affordable price
- Front LCD panel. Easy to read and lists music titles
- Protective plastic cage protects the radio from falls
- AM/FM tuner with auxiliary cable
Cons
- Lack of Bluetooth
- Speaker too small. Not ideal for listening at a distance. The sound is very decent close by, though
- No equalizer support
Who Should Buy?
If you are looking for an affordable jobsite radio that will not break the bank, this model from Sagean is worth considering. As long as you listen to it in close proximity and don’t require Bluetooth, it is a very decent jobsite radio. This model is also one of the best outdoor jobsite radio we know of.
#2. Bosch PB360S 18V Lithium-Ion Power Box Jobsite Radio
Editor's Rating: (4.5 / 5)
The Bosch PB360S has to be one of the best-looking jobsite radio is we have seen. It is shaped like a cube and if there is one thing that this model from Bosch does not lack - is features. Indeed, it has plenty of features, enough to satisfy even the most demanding user.
The speakers are located at all four corners of this jobsite radio, with a deep bass pumping subwoofer located at the bottom. This setup allows this jobsite radio to deliver a high quality and rich 360-degree sound stage. In fact, this model is one of the best jobsite radios in terms of sound.
Additionally, this radio is protected by a rugged rubber and aluminum roll cage that gives it an excellent protection. This allows this jobsite radio to be used even in a busy workshop or construction site without worrying about damage. Indeed, the radio is protected at all times against falls and will not be damaged even if a tool like a hammer or a wrench falls over it.
Further, it has AM and FM radio, as expected from a jobsite radio of this caliber. But it does not stop there. You can preset up to 20 FM channels and 10 AM channels with this model. It also has a very decent five preset equalizers that allow you to adjust the sound to your liking.
This model from Bosch with auxiliary, line out, SD and USB capability. The USB is 5 V so it allows you to charge any smartphone. This is a very versatile featurethat we like a lot.
The only caveat is that there is no inbuilt Bluetooth in this jobsite radio. However, you can purchase a Bluetooth receiver/transmitter separately and connect it to the USB port.
Pros
- Excellent sound quality with a rich 3D surround sound stage. Can be listened far from the radio without sacrificing sound quality
- Heavy duty protection with aluminum roll cage. Durable and long-lasting jobsite radio
- Presence of SD, auxiliary, line out and USB port
Cons
- No inbuilt Bluetooth for the price. You can purchase a Bluetooth transmitter separately
- Quite expensive
Who Should Buy?
If sound quality matters to you on the job, you definitely need this model from Bosch. This model outputs one of the best sounds we have heard in a jobsite radio. The 360-degree surround sound really sets this model apart from others. It is also heavily protected with an aluminum roll bar cage that makes this unit ideal in a busy construction work environment.
#3. Sangean LB-100 Compact AM/FM Ultra Rugged Radio Receiver
Editor's Rating: (4.6 / 5)
Sangean LB-100 looks identical to the Sangean TB-100 with a few minor upgrades. This model is steel rain resistant and shock resistant but Sangean upgraded this model with a better dynamic loudness system. This new feature provides a better and richer sound stage, even for AM and FM radio. Other than this, it is identical to predecessor the Sangean TB-100 already covered above in this jobsite radio review.
Pros
- Better sound quality than the Sangean TB-100
- Rain and shock resistant
- Front LCD display
Cons
- A little bit more expensive than the Sangean TB-100 but with better sound quality
Who Should Buy?
If you are uncertain about the Sangean TB-100 because of its entry level sound, the Sangean LB-100 offers a superior sound stage but is still fairly affordable.
#4. DeWalt DC012 7.2V-18V Heavy-Duty Worksite Radio Charger
Editor's Rating: (4.4 / 5)
The DeWalt DC012 is one of the best jobsite radio in terms of this is a fully cordless model. That can be used both as a corded radio or portable cordless. The recharge time in this unit is excellent, and this model can be fully charged in one hour or less. Additionally, it is powered by standard DeWalt 7.2 – 18 V lithium ion batteries that are long-lasting even if you listen to your radio for an extended period of time. Further, DeWalt uses a 3-stage charging system that helps boost the life of the battery. This is a very interesting feature that we wished more jobsite manufacturers would implement.
This model has auxiliary ports to connect to your MP3 player or smartphone, but bear in mind that it does not ship with any cables. Do not worry, those cables are very inexpensive and easily available almost anywhere.
You can quickly and easily save up to 15 AM and FM presets with this jobsite radio. But possibly one of the most interesting features of this jobsite radio is the presence of a very powerful and yet discreet antenna. The antenna in this model does a great job getting accelerate reception even if you are in a remote location. In fact, we find that the antenna in this model is one of the best in this jobsite radio review. So, if you listen to AM and FM a lot, this is the model to get.
Pros
- Powerful antenna with strong AM and FM reception
- Decent sound quality with dual speakers. Rich soundstage and deep bass
- Protective plastic roll bar cage
Cons
- Does not have inbuilt Bluetooth. You will need an auxiliary cable to connect your smartphone or MP3 player. Does not come with auxiliary cable
Who Should Buy?
If you listen mostly to AM and FM radio, this is one of the best jobsite radio on the market. It has a very strong reception and the sound quality is excellent. It does not have Bluetooth, but you can still connect your smartphone or MP3 player via an auxiliary cable. All in all, this is a performing jobsite radio with an excellent sound quality.
#5. DeWalt DCR015 12V/20V MAX Worksite Radio
Editor's Rating: (4.2 / 5)
As its name suggests, this model is an upgrade from the DeWalt DC012 reviewed above. It has a 2 Amp charge that quickly charges the provided 12 V and 20 V battery packs. Dewalt gives you the option to switch battery capacity depending on your usage. This is very convenient.
One added feature is that this unit has USB ports for you to charge your smartphone, or connect a pen drive containing your MP3 music. The sound quality is very decent and on par with its little brother DeWalt DC012. We find that this model has better protection and more compact than its counterpart. It also has a green colored LCD panel for better visibility in the dark.
The antenna is the same heavy duty antenna we found in the previous model. Which means to say that you will get a solid and strong AM and FM reception with this model. All in all, we like the upgrades in this particular model and it is just a little bit more expensive than the DeWalt DC012. By far, this model is the better purchase as it brings more value to the table.
Pros
- Excellent build quality. Durable and long-lasting. Can be used in a busy workshop or construction site
- Excellent value for money with upgraded features compared to the DeWalt DC012
- Green LCD panel for better visibility in the dark
- Heavy duty and long-lasting 12 V and 20 V battery pack. Can be charged quickly and easily with the provided 2 Amps charger
Cons
- Still does not contain Bluetooth. You will need a Bluetooth adapter and connected to the USB port for Bluetooth capability
Who Should Buy?
The DeWalt DCR015 is a nice upgrade to the DeWalt DCR012 for almost the same price. If you liked the DeWalt DCR012, you will love this model. It has the same sound quality but with many welcoming features like USB port, and a better LCD panel. This is very handy especially if you work in a dimly lit room.
#6. Sangean FB-100 Fatbox Rugged Industrial AM/FM Radio
Editor's Rating: (4.5 / 5)
The Sangean FB-100 is an upgraded and more heavy duty model compared to rather Sangean radios using this review. It is a rugged and industrial grade AM/FM radio that is heavily protected with rubber corners and an aluminum cage that can protect it from a 6 ft fall.
It has a distinct red color and even the LCD panel matches the color tone of this radio. It does give it a retro look that looks amazing. The antenna is equally heavy-duty and gets a strong reception even in remote areas. You can save your preset channels in this radio.
What we like the most about this unit is that it can quickly and easily become a portable radio. It works with standard and universal D-size Ni-MH batteries. Additionally, the speakers are also much better when compared to previous Sangean models since it sports dual 6.5 inches speakers that deliver a rich sound stage with deep bass. Lastly, this model is one of the few we know of that has 2 Aux-In. This allows you to connect 2 devices to this jobsite radio for more versatility.
Pros
- Heavy protection from falls. Can fall from 6 ft without a scratch
- Excellent sound quality with deep bass thanks to the dual 6.5” speakers
- Powerful antenna can get a reception even in remote areas
- Dual Aux-In
Cons
- Expensive
Who Should Buy?
If you work in a busy construction site where tools can fall easily on your radio, this model from Sangean is the jobsite radio to get. It has an excellent build construction with superb sound quality.
#7. ION Audio iPA30 Audio Job Rocker | Portable Heavy-Duty Bluetooth Speaker with AM/FM Radio
Editor's Rating: (4.2 / 5)
Lastly, we have the little-known ION Audio iPA30. This is a small mini jobsite radio that is lightweight and highly portable. It also has a large and stable base, making it an ideal jobsite radio for those who work on rough or slanted surfaces. It is protected with an aluminum cage, which does a great job protecting this unit from a fall. The top carry handle has a rubber handle which is also anti-slip. The speakers are located at the front, hidden from view with a meshed cover. Moreover, the sound is decent with a very rich sound stage and deep bass.
But what we like the most about this unit is its Bluetooth capability. This model is definitely the best jobsite Bluetooth speaker in this review. It can catch a Bluetooth signal from 100 ft away and play it with excellent fidelity. Additionally, it is fully portable and allows up to 50 hours of playback time thanks to its heavy-duty batteries. It can also be recharged quickly and easily.
Further, ION went with large and rubberized buttons in this model. We absolutely love this since those buttons can be easily operated, even if you have wet hands or gloves on. All in all, this a very decent and quality portable jobsite radio that plays AM/FM with Bluetooth connectivity.
Pros
- Excellent build quality. Heavily protected with a solid roll cage
- Bluetooth connectivity of up to 100 ft. away
- Decent sound quality
Cons
- Lack of USB ports and Aux-In
Who Should Buy?
If you are looking for a portable jobsite radio with Bluetooth capability, this model from ION is the best jobsite radio for the money. It is not the best sounding model in this review, but very close to it.
What is Jobsite Radio Used For?
There are many reasons people use a jobsite radio. Each will depend on the person's need. However, there are some common factors that are shared across the board. Here are a few of them.
#1. Relieve Stress
There are many studies and research that have been done where shows conclusively that employees, especially those who work with their hands are less stressed when listening to music. Anyone can perform this test, and you will see by yourself that by simply having a jobsite radio you tend to enjoy your work more than without one.
#2. Productivity Boost
This research equally shows that people who are less stressed are also more productive on the job. This is especially true when they are listening to their favorite tunes rather than any type of music. The great thing about a jobsite radio is that it allows you to listen to any type of music, whether you are to listen to AM and FM radio or your own music set.
#3. Versatility
As pointed out already, you can listen to any type of music with a jobsite radio as it is very versatile and allows you to listen to any type of music, whether it is MP3 by Bluetooth, radio or a CD. You can quickly and easily stream from your smartphone or any other gadget to your jobsite radio as well. The best jobsite radio definitely offers this feature at no extra cost.
#4. Heavy-Duty
You do not want to bring a fragile piece of material to a construction site, for example. The good thing about it jobsite radio is that they are heavily constructed from quality and durable material. Therefore, they can withstand falling or objects like power tools falling on them. They are quite durable and long lasting, indeed.
What to Look for When Buying a Jobsite Radio?
Before going ahead and purchasing a jobsite radio, there are a few important aspects to take into consideration. Here are a few of the most important ones.
#1. Design and Aesthetics
The aesthetic of a jobsite radio is important. If you are planning to use your jobsite radio on the long term, it stands to reason that you want a model that is aesthetically pleasing to you. Additionally, the design is equally important. Some models have compartments that allows you to store your tools and accessories. Some of the best jobsite radios can easily store your screws, screwdrivers, spanner and other small accessories.
#2. Build-Quality
The build quality is what separates a jobsite radio from a regular radio. It is built from quality materials and is durable and long-lasting. A jobsite radio can withstand the bumps and falls without damage. This cannot be said for the regular radio which will most likely shatter in pieces.
#3. Carry Handle
Most jobsite radios have a convenient carry handle that makes it easy to carry them to the job. They are strategically placed at the top of the device for better portability. If portability is important to you, you need to choose a model with a carry handle.
#4. Weight
You can walk a long distance with a jobsite radio without fatigue since they are usually lightweight despite their heavy construction quality. If you plan to walk a lot with your jobsite radio, then ensure that you get a model that is also lightweight. However, do not sacrifice features for weight. Jobsite radios are usually not very heavy devices.
#5. Radio Tuner
Of course, the least that you can expect from a jobsite radio is that it can tune into AM and FM frequencies. Most, if not all jobsite radios have this feature. However, it is important to check before your purchase.
#6. Extra Features
Look for modern features Bluetooth and SD card slots for more versatility. Sooner or later, you will want to connect your smartphone to your jobsite radio. Or, use an SD memory card with your favorite tunes on. The more extra features the jobsite radio has, the more versatile it will be.
#7. Auxiliary inputs
An auxiliary input at even more versatility to your jobsite radio as it allows you to quickly and easily connect your radio to other compatible devices by means of a cable.
#8. Battery Life
For more convenience and better portability, you want your jobsite radio to be battery-powered. This will allow you to listen to your favorite tunes without the need of looking for an electric socket. This can be very practical, especially if you are working in a remote area with no electricity. Moreover, check the battery capacity on your jobsite radio. The bigger the battery, the longer you will be able to use the radio without the need of a recharge.
Jobsite Radio Brands
We only recommend reputable jobsite radio brands here on this website. The reason is quite simple. Over the years, those brands built a solid reputation by making quality equipment. So, they earned their keep and we are confident that their jobsite radios will serve you well. Here is a list of our most favorite and recommended jobsite radio brands.
#1. DeWalt Jobsite Radio
DeWalt is one of the most popular and recognizable power tool brands in the world. They make excellent jobsite radios that are feature-packed and durable. We like their DeWalt DC012 and DeWalt DC015 jobsite radios for their excellent build quality, great looks, and durability. All in all, this is a brand you can trust and rely on.
#2. Bosch Jobsite Radio
Another heavy-weight in the power tool industry. But Bosch also makes excellent jobsite radios. The Bosch PB360S Power Box is one of the best jobsite radios in the industry. Bosch jobsite radios are known for their ease of use and versatility. It is also a creative company that loves to innovate and implement features before others.
#3. Sangean Jobsite Radio
Sangean is a Taiwanese manufacturer founded in 1974. Compared to those already mentioned, it is a small company but equally deserving of merit. They make high-quality electronic devices that are durable and long-lasting. Their Sangean FB-100 is not the best-looking jobsite radio in the industry, but it is one of the most durable and reliable. If you are looking for dependability and reliability, this is a company you can trust.
#4. ION Jobsite Radio
ION is one of our favorite accessory and electronics manufacturers. It is a fairly new company that over the years has built a solid reputation in making quality devices. The ION Audio iPA30 radio is heavy-duty and one of the best jobsite Bluetooth speaker money can buy.
#5. Makita Jobsite Radio
Who does not know about Makita? This brand is one of the top 5 in the power tools industry. Makita is known for their quality jobsite radios as well. They make durable, versatile, and heavy-duty jobsite radios that will last you years.
Conclusion
We come to an end all this jobsite radio review. We hope that it helped you find the best jobsite radio for your need. As we have seen, there are different models available on the Internet that not only have their own advantages and disadvantages but also come at different price points for different budgets. Stress will be a thing of the past with your own jobsite radio. You absolutely need one! In case you have still not found the best indoor best outside radio, we recommend that you go through this review one more time.
We have listed models from many trustworthy brands and you cannot go wrong with anyone of them. After all, those models are used by top professionals in the industry to help boost their productivity and spend an enjoyable moment while working.
Last Updated on January 19, 2019 by