Buying guide for best internet radios
Internet radios are the perfect marriage of new tech and old-school convenience. While most of us can stream music from the web directly to our smartphones, nothing beats the convenience of a standalone music streamer that can keep music playing without interruption. Whether you’re seeking a casual stereo you can leave on to broadcast your favorite tunes in your home or a web-connected streaming device to connect to your existing stereo, an internet radio is your ideal option.
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Internet radio interfaces
On paper, most internet radios sport the same basic feature set: they stream music from the web either in the format of an online radio station or a streaming music service like Spotify. But that’s pretty much where the similarities end because each internet radio brings its own interface to the table. As you’re shopping for an internet radio, spend time thinking about how you want to interact with your device, because your decision defines the experience you’ll have.
There are three main types of internet radio interfaces.
Remote control
Nearly all internet radios include remote controls, but some of them can only be controlled through their remote. Using a remote as the primary means of interacting with your internet radio can certainly take longer, but it’s perfect for anyone who misses the old days of using a remote to play tunes through a hi-fi system.
Digital assistant
A few cutting-edge internet radios support cloud-based digital assistant services like Google Home or Amazon’s Echo service. While models with built-in digital assistants are the most expensive, many find that the luxury of simply asking for what they want to hear is worth the price tag.
"Some internet radios are compatible with universal remotes. Check your universal remote manual to learn more about which internet radio models you can control with it."
STAFF
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Touchscreen
Many internet radios have built-in touchscreens with interfaces similar to a smartphone. (In fact, some interfaces are built on Google’s Android operating system.)
Touchscreen controls have the smallest learning curve, but much like smartphones, the experience can be marred by bad apps. Touchscreens are ideal for those who prize simplicity.
LCD screen
Many of the less-flashy internet radio models feature a small LCD screen that can be operated with buttons and knobs. While LCD screens can be a little more clunky to work with, internet radios that use them are much more affordable than their touchscreen cousins.
Internet radios with LCD screens are ideal for people who like to leave on a certain station, but they can frustrate people who like to change the station frequently.
When researching internet radios, we take note of the various ways these devices can connect to audio sources.
Most internet radios come with a remote control, but some have no additional interface. We take note of this in our research and consider how it may affect the listening experience.
Some internet radios have a touchscreen interface just like a smartphone. We consider the functionality of these devices.
We look at all types of internet radios, from affordable Bluetooth speakers to high-end audio systems that support smart home assistants.
Many internet radios come with LCD screens. We consider the pros and cons of these devices.
In our search for the best internet radios, we look at details like the interface, available audio formats, and connectivity.
We look for versatile radios that can play music from a variety of sources, from streaming services to compact discs.
Some internet radios can be used with a digital assistant. Others are controlled with simple buttons and knobs. In our research, we examine all types of internet radios.
In addition to WiFi, some high-end internet radios can connect to Bluetooth devices. When considering these products, we prioritize convenience and functionality.
The audio quality of compact discs is actually superior to streaming, so we consider internet radios with built-in CD players.
Internet radios and music formats
Internet radios are more versatile than their name lets on – most, but not all, models can play audio in several different formats. As you’re shopping for an internet radio, consider your different music sources and which you’ll want to access. Consider both common and rare music formats, including the following.
Radio streams
While it may seem obvious, it’s important to make sure that any internet radio you buy can easily access free online radio stations. (Some satellite radio devices have WiFi and can be easily confused with internet radios, so read product labels carefully.)
"If you plan on using your internet radio to listen to audiobooks, check reviews to see which models sound best. Low-quality speakers can often make spoken words and public radio difficult to understand."
STAFF
BestReviews
Music streaming services
If you also plan on streaming music from Spotify, Pandora, Google Play, or TIDAL directly to your internet radio, check ahead of time to ensure they’re supported.
Compact discs
Believe it or not, some internet radios include compact disc players. And truth be told, CD-quality audio is far superior to streaming audio, so if you’re a budding audiophile, you may want to grab one that can play your discs.
Any Bluetooth source
Many internet radios support Bluetooth, so you can connect your smartphone and play any audio through the radio’s speakers.
Did you know?
Some internet radios have built-in file storage, so you can load your music and play it without streaming. Built-in storage is perfect for taking your music with you or having backup tunes if you ever lose internet connectivity.
STAFF
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Connectivity options
One of the most important things to think about before you buy an internet radio is how you plan on getting music to it and playing music that’s on it. As you’re shopping, consider how you’ll need to connect your internet radio to your WiFi network or other devices. The most common connectivity options on internet radios are the following.
WiFi
As you’d expect, most internet radios connect to your existing WiFi network to access online stations from across the globe.
Bluetooth
Many internet radios also feature Bluetooth connectivity, so you can stream music directly from your phone.
"If you buy an internet radio that supports FM radio, you can upgrade the antenna with a third-party antenna. With a more powerful antenna, you can often receive more stations and broadcasts."
STAFF
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3.5mm cable
Despite reports of their imminent death, headphone jacks and the 3.5mm cables used to connect them are still very much a standard feature for internet radios.
USB
Similar to a 3.5mm cable, some internet radios have USB ports for connecting directly to audio sources with USB output, like an iPod.
Ethernet
While it’s typically found on high-end units, some internet radios have Ethernet ports for establishing hard-wired connections to your network instead of wireless ones. Wired connections are more stable, reduce buffering, and create a faster, more stable experience overall.
Did you know?
Some internet radios are made for use in specific situations. For example, some internet radios are designed to be mounted under kitchen cabinets, while others are waterproof and designed for use in the shower.
STAFF
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Internet radio prices
As you’re shopping for internet radios, keep these primary price points in mind.
Budget-friendly
In the $50 to $99 range, you’ll find internet radio models that are either dedicated to one setting (like one for the shower) or models that only have the bare minimum of features. If you just want a simple, cheap option and don’t need your audio to sound better than an FM radio, stay in this price range.
"If you’re buying a portable internet radio, check to see what type of batteries it uses before you buy. Make sure you buy a model that uses affordable, readily available battery types like AA or 9-volt."
STAFF
BestReviews
Mid-range
In the $100 to $399 range, expect to see a wide variety of options that range from good to great. If you need a long list of additional features (like an FM tuner, support for high-resolution audio formats, or a built-in CD player), expect to be on the high end of the range.
High-end
In the $400 to $500 range, a handful of manufacturers make premium devices that deliver audiophile-quality sound, every feature under the sun, and luxury product designs. If you want every feature there is, expect to pay top dollar.
Did you know?
Some internet radios include built-in alarm clocks, so you can opt to wake up to your favorite music.
STAFF
BestReviews
Tips
Before you buy an internet radio, consider these tips.
If you’re new to internet radio, try it out on your smartphone first. There’s never a bad time to explore the vast, near-endless number of radio stations out there, and you can start picking your favorites today with your smartphone. By picking out your favorites ahead of time, you’ll have a much better idea of which stations and apps you’ll need your internet radio to access, and you can rule out any models that don’t meet your needs.
Don’t just compare models; compare remotes. A poorly designed remote control can sour your experience with an internet radio, so pay special attention to what comes with each internet radio. Look for remotes that aren’t easily lost and those that offer one-touch access to a specific audio source. The remote control may be the primary way you access your internet radio, so don’t be afraid to rule out options with remotes that don’t feel right to you.
Pick your music subscription services before you buy. Not every internet radio supports every streaming audio service, so it’s important to know which ones you like before you shell out any money. Keep a list of your requirements of both the services (like Pandora, Spotify, or Google Music) and the individual stations (like your favorite IHeartRadio channel), and limit your search to radios that meet those needs.
FAQ
Q. Can I use my satellite radio subscription with an internet radio?
A. Sort of. Most internet radios don’t include the necessary hardware for receiving satellite radio broadcasts, but they do include connectivity options to use additional third-party hardware. If you already own a portable satellite radio receiver, look for an internet radio with an auxiliary 3.5mm jack – then use a 3.5mm cable to connect it to your satellite radio receiver.
Q. Can I get my local FM radio stations with an internet radio?
A. More than likely, yes. While some internet radios include built-in FM radio antennas, most terrestrial broadcast stations also broadcast their signal online. If you’re worried about being able to hear your favorite local radio station online, visit their website to learn about their digital broadcasts.
Q. Can I connect an internet radio to my existing stereo?
A. Most internet radios can be connected to, or accessed by, an existing stereo. You can connect them together with a 3.5mm auxiliary cable.
