Tune in to your favourite stations with the best DAB radio

Discover the best DAB radio for a valued companion to your daily life. A DAB (Digital Audio Broadcast) uses digital technology when you need to tune into your favourite show. Due to the ongoing digitisation of the beloved radio, stations are joining the movement, shifting to DAB radios for that crystal-clear audio we all desire. So, if your favourite station has gone digital or you’re looking to join the millions who tune into digital stations daily, a DAB radio may be for you.

Since the 1920s, Britain has tuned into radio shows, nationwide, rapidly becoming a leading source for many when it came to public information. Since then, radio has evolved with the times. From weather reports to music to comedy, radio shows are a constant in our lives. As for a DAB, these radios offer more stations than ever, with reliable signal and sound: no feedback. It’s easy to see why they're becoming popular in the world of audio. Perhaps, you’re wondering: are DAB radios any good? We like to think so. Some even have smart tech capabilities and headphone jacks.

Best DAB radio at a glance:

• Best overall DAB radio: Roberts Revival Uno BT in Union Jack– view at Roberts Radio
• Best DAB radio under £50: Roberts Play 10 – view at Roberts Radio
• Best DAB radio with Bluetooth: Pure Evoke H3 in Oak – view at John Lewis
• Best DAB radio with a CD player: Pure Evoke C-D4 with CD Player – view on Argos

If you’re considering a DAB radio, you likely want to access your favourite stations and shows. Many of you may be thinking: how many stations can you get on a DAB radio? There are 54 stations broadcasting on national DAB radio, says Digital Radio UK. Some old favourites such as Absolute Radio and Magic are accessible nationwide. Plus, there are plenty of brand-spanking new stations to bend your ear - which are only available digitally. We recommend seeing what’s available in your area with a Postcode Checker, as stations can vary regionally.

Whether you’re looking for a wind-up radio for trips in the wilderness or something retro-looking and nostalgic, we’ve found some of the best DAB radios for a digital listening experience. More and more radio stations are becoming digitised. Why not check out what digital radio has to offer? Of our picks, we've included large options for at-home listening, smaller options for bedside tables and some high-tech radios with versatility features for smart listening. Experiencing some radio silence? Editor Stephanie Antony has written a guide on how to choose a radio.

Best DAB radio

VERDICT: Which is the best DAB radio?

How could we not choose the Roberts Revival Uno BT in Union Jack as our top pick? Compact, this Revival-style radio is retro heaven, featuring Bluetooth, DAB, DAB+ and FM for extreme versatility. It's iconic and comes with great reviews.

However, if you're looking for a professional all-in-one with a CD player and auxiliary capabilities, we recommend our second-place pick: Pure Evoke C-D4 with CD Player. Perfect to pop on a shelf, it looks stylish and is a treat.

FAQs

What is the difference between DAB and FM radio?

Thanks to audio tech brand JBL, here are the differences between these two types:

As mentioned previously, DAB is a digitally transmitted sound. However, you’re likely used to FM sound, which is transmitted via radio waves and adjustable to suit your location. Even so, the range of the DAB is “much wider, and because it is digitally transmitted, the quality is also better,” says JBL. As there are no radio waves to contend with, there is none of that crackling radio noise. JBL claims that you’ll have this crystal-clear sound “even in the remotest corner of the country.” Fancy that.

A great way to look at is to see a DAB similar to how a TV works. A receiver for channels, this radio type allows you to switch between stations “instead of having to scan for the exact wavelength (FM) that matches your location.” This prominent feature of the DAB prevents any hassle of tweaking to find the right station for your area. Many DAB models work as alarm clocks, Bluetooth speakers and more.

Is DAB radio better than FM?

Potentially, yes, provided your chosen DAB radio has FM capabilities, also. A DAB station will likely be able to grab more stations for you, has a reliable signal and is a step towards the future of radio.

What are the disadvantages of DAB radio?

According to Best Radios, there are a few drawbacks of DAB to tune into…

DAB stations can be unreliable when it comes to signal quality. In the same vein, DAB interference “is usually more irritating and disruptive than the interference you get with FM,” says Best Radios. As most DAB systems come as portable, the batteries may drain a little quicker than AM/FM radios. However, the main issue is the “squelching or gurgling sound when the reception isn’t strong enough.” A common issue amongst listeners, many are finding ways to improve the DAB signal.

Does a DAB radio need Wi-Fi?

No – traditional DAB radios do not require Wi-Fi for digital listening.

However, with the popularisation of online services such as BBC Sounds and Spotify, some DAB radios may be connectable to the internet. This way, you can listen to shows and podcasts at your leisure.

Is Greatest Hits Radio on DAB?

You can listen to live online radio from Greatest Hits Radio UK for free: via the web, DAB radio or the app.

Yes – you should be able to find Greatest Hits Radio on your DAB. If you live in Edinburgh, Glasgow, Kent, Northern Ireland, Northamptonshire, Oxfordshire and Tayside, you have access to Greatest Hits Radio UK. Elsewhere, you very likely have access to a regional variation on your DAB radio.

If you’re still having trouble finding Greatest Hits Radio, you can try retuning your DAB radio.

Piper Huxley is a Homes, Garden and Wellness Product Writer for Yours, an all-rounder who will write on anything from décor to wellness. When not scouring the net for the best home bargains, Piper is listening to a musical soundtrack and tending to her houseplants.