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Radios have a way of sticking around no matter how many streaming apps pop up. They’re low-friction, often battery-powered, and can pick up local stations, emergency broadcasts, and those happy surprises you don’t get from algorithm-driven playlists. Whether you’re after a retro tabletop radio, a compact DAB portable, or a smart radio with voice control, the UK market has options for every taste and budget. Let’s take a relaxed walk through the top retailers and what they offer so you can find the radio that actually sounds like music to your ears.
If you love a bit of personality with your tech, Menkind is a solid stop. They’ve made a name selling novelty and specialty electronics that lean fun without skimping on function. Think retro-styled radios with modern guts, Bluetooth-enabled retro portables, and novelty pieces that make great conversation starters. Menkind’s range is ideal if you want a radio that’s as much décor as an audio device.
Menkind’s radios tend to focus on style—vintage aesthetics, compact form factors, and playful features like LED displays or novelty finishes. If you want something that looks like it belongs on a mantelpiece but plays DAB stations or pairs with your phone, Menkind is worth a browse. Prices usually sit in the mid-range, making them great for gifting or upgrading a kitchen radio without breaking the bank.
Steepletone is a brand that specialises in blending classic styling with up-to-date features. A standout model is the Steepletone Old Style Radio with Amazon Alexa, which marries that warm, analogue look with smart assistant convenience. If you’re after the cosy visual of a wooden cabinet radio but want voice control and streaming, Steepletone nails that sweet spot.
The appeal is simple: the radio looks like it could have been in your grandparent’s sitting room, yet it has Alexa built in. You get hands-free control, access to internet radio and music services, plus DAB/FM functionality. For a mix of nostalgia and convenience, this model is a neat compromise, especially if you like your tech to have personality as well as performance.
Currys is a go-to if you want a wide selection and the ability to compare specs in one place. From basic portables to high-end audiophile tabletop radios, Currys stocks popular brands and offers frequent sales. Their in-store demos and staff advice can help if you prefer trying before buying, and you’ll often find reliable warranty and bundle deals.
Currys is great for variety and aftercare. Look here if you want brand variety—everything from Panasonic and Roberts to Sony and Pure—across price points. If you’re picky about sound quality, Currys’ larger stores let you listen and compare, which is a real plus when choosing the sonic character that suits your space.
Argos is the convenience champ when you want a radio fast or need something simple and affordable. Their catalog approach makes it easy to filter by features like DAB, battery operation, or Bluetooth. Click-and-collect options mean you can pick up in under an hour, which is handy if you suddenly decide you need a kitchen radio before guests arrive.
Argos is perfect for straightforward buys—think compact portables, kitchen radios, and budget-friendly DAB units. They’re reliable for predictable stock and quick pickup, and you can often find well-priced models from Sony, Bush, and Pure. If you want practicality and speed, Argos keeps it simple.
John Lewis is where you go when the look, feel, and service matters. Their audio selection leans towards higher-quality finishes and reputable brands. You’ll likely pay a bit more, but you also get a refined shopping experience and helpful staff advice. John Lewis can make the buying process feel a little more luxurious, with solid delivery or collection options.
John Lewis tends to stock radios that double as stylish home pieces. If you want an elegant tabletop or shelf radio with superior build quality—think wooden cabinets or metal finishes—this is a good bet. The customer service and extended warranties are bonuses if you want peace of mind with your purchase.
Richer Sounds is the place for audio lovers who demand better sound and expert guidance. Their stores are staffed by audio enthusiasts, and their product range includes hi-fi radios, internet radios, and compact systems known for superior sound. If you’re chasing audio fidelity rather than gimmicks, Richer Sounds will take you seriously.
Expect demo rooms, thoughtful comparisons, and staff who can explain technical differences in plain language. Richer Sounds is best for those who want a radio that performs as well as it looks, and who might be willing to invest a bit more for clarity, warmth, and build quality.
Amazon remains a dominant option for radios thanks to massive choice, user reviews, and frequent deals. You can find everything from tiny pocket radios to smart speakers with built-in DAB and Alexa. User reviews are especially useful to gauge how a radio performs in real-world homes, and quick delivery makes Amazon tempting for last-minute purchases.
Filter by features you care about—DAB, FM, Bluetooth, Wi‑Fi, and battery operation. Read verified purchaser reviews to check sound quality and durability, and watch for brand storefronts that provide full specs. If you prefer to compare several models quickly, Amazon’s long product pages make side-by-side browsing easy.
On a tight budget? Stores like Wilko, Poundland (for very basic portables), and supermarkets occasionally stock good-value portables and emergency radios. For slightly better cheap options, Argos and Currys often have entry-level DAB radios at very reasonable prices. Keep expectations realistic: cheap often means simpler sound and lighter build materials, but you can still find great bargains.
Look for DAB compatibility even in budget models—digital radio often sounds clearer and gives more stations. Check battery life, especially if you plan to use the radio outdoors. An extra 2–4 hours of battery life can make the difference between fun and frustration when you’re out and about.
Portable radios are perfect for picnics, workshops, and beach days. When buying portable units, look at grip-friendly design, battery or rechargeable power, and water resistance. Brands like Pure and Roberts often offer robust portables that balance sound with portability. Don’t overlook weight: lighter radios are easier to carry, and that’s measured in pounds and ounces—so a radio weighing around 1.5 lb can be considered very portable.
Important features include long battery life (8–20 hours depending on use), Bluetooth streaming for playing your own playlists, and durable casing. Some models include auxiliary inputs or headphone jacks if you want private listening. If you’ll take it on days out, a model with some water resistance is a smart choice.
Smart radios bring together DAB/FM, Wi‑Fi streaming, and voice assistants like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant. The Steepletone Old Style Radio with Amazon Alexa is a good example: classic looks, modern voice control. Smart radios are fantastic if you want hands-free music control, access to internet radio stations from across the globe, and integration with other smart home gear.
Choose smart radios if you stream music often, want voice control, or plan to connect the radio to other smart devices. They’re also handy if you love internet radio stations beyond local DAB offerings. Bear in mind that smart features usually need Wi‑Fi and occasionally a companion app to unlock advanced settings.
Retro radios are all about vibe. If your aesthetic leans mid-century or rustic, many brands recreate classic silhouettes while packing modern tech inside. Steepletone, Roberts, and some offerings from John Lewis and Menkind fall into this camp. The trick is to balance the visual appeal with real audio performance—don’t be swayed by looks alone.
Check speaker size (bigger drivers generally give fuller sound), power output if specified, and whether there’s a passive radiator for improved bass. Also consider connectivity: does it offer Bluetooth or auxiliary input for your phone? A radio that looks great and connects easily is a win-win.
When choosing a radio, think through how you’ll use it. Indoor or outdoor? Do you need DAB for digital stations, FM for local radio, or Wi‑Fi for internet streaming? Battery life, weight, speaker quality, and connectivity (Bluetooth, Wi‑Fi, AUX) are all practical details that will shape your satisfaction. Always read real customer feedback and, where possible, listen to a demo in store.
Ask yourself: Do I need portability? How important is sound quality? Do I want voice control? How long does the battery last? What’s my budget in pounds? Answering these helps narrow choices quickly and prevents buyer’s remorse.
Sales seasons like January clearance, Black Friday, and holiday promotions are great times to bag a high-quality radio at a cut price. Currys and John Lewis often match competitor discounts, Argos has quick-turn deals, and Amazon’s lightning sales can be surprisingly generous. Subscribing to newsletters from your favourite retailers can alert you to flash sales and exclusive coupons.
Compare prices across stores, and don’t forget to check product review pages for long-term reliability. Buying from a specialist like Richer Sounds may cost more but could save you money in the long run with better performance and service. For budget-friendly immediate needs, Argos and Currys usually have dependable options.
There’s a radio for everyone: the nostalgic collector, the outdoor adventurer, the hi‑fi fanatic, and the person who just wants the kettle to whistle to their favourite station. Menkind and Steepletone cover the quirky and retro ends of the spectrum, while retailers like Currys, Argos, John Lewis, Richer Sounds, and Amazon offer everything from budget portables to premium smart systems. Think about where and how you’ll use the radio, prioritise the features that matter most, and buy from a retailer that suits your style—speed, service, or specialist advice.
Now that you’ve got a clearer map of the UK radio landscape, you’re ready to pick the radio that fits your life like a favourite song. Happy listening!
Conclusion: With so many options across UK retailers—from Menkind’s characterful designs to Steepletone’s retro-smart hybrids and the wide ranges at Currys, Argos, John Lewis, Richer Sounds, and Amazon—you’re spoiled for choice. Focus on features you’ll actually use, compare sound in person where possible, and shop around for seasonal deals to get the best value. The right radio can brighten a kitchen, power a picnic, or become the centrepiece of a cosy listening nook.
| Radios | Price | |
|---|---|---|
| Eight Build Your Own Retro Radio | £ 25,- | |
| Red5 Retro Radio | £ 35,- |
