Unlike conventional radio, the shower radio stands out, particularly for its water resistance. It is also most often small in order to avoid cluttering the bathroom.
Most of these radios are also Bluetooth-compatible, allowing you to listen to your choice of music. Other shower radios even come with speakers that allow you to connect and answer calls from your phone, even if it’s in the next room, as long as you stay within range.
To choose one with the right features, do not hesitate to go around the technical characteristics presented in this review and buying guide.
Best Shower Radio Comparison Chart 2022
Product | Batteries | Dimensions | ||
Sony ICF S80 Shower Radio | 2 AA Battery | 6.5 x 5.5 x 3.3 inches | ||
SoundBot® SB510 HD Shower speaker | 1 Lithium Battery | 12 x 8 x 6 inches | ||
Taotronics SK03 Shower Speaker | 1 Lithium Battery | 4.02 x 3.18 x 4.02 inches | ||
BassPal Portable Bluetooth Speaker | 1 Lithium Battery | 3.23 x 3.23 x 2.56 inches | ||
Sangean H202 Shower Radio | 2 D-cell Battery | 2.2 x 9.3 x 5.6 inches | ||
Sony ICF S79W Shower Radio | 3 C Battery | 2.64 x 5.65 x 5.47 inches | ||
Yigou Shower Radio | 1 Lithium Battery | 3.7 x 3.6 x 3.8 inches | ||
Agptek Shower Speaker Radio | 1 Lithium Battery | 3.14 x 3.14 x 2.16 inches | ||
Hydro-Beat Portable Waterproof Radio | 1 Lithium Battery | 3.54 x 3.54 x 2.56 inches | ||
ASIYUN Shower Radios | 1 Lithium Battery | 4.3 x 3.9 x 2.3 inches |
The Best Shower Radio Reviews of 2022
1. Sony ICF S80 Splash Proof Shower Radio
Sony has been a trusted brand for decades, Sony ICF S80, an easy-to-use model, is our top pick in this review of the best shower radio. It works with a battery that has a life of 100 hours. It is fitted with an analog tuner, which allows you to scroll through the channels quickly and easily. This model is also equipped with a timer to save its battery. This function will allow you to adjust the device according to the desired duration of use. So even if you forget to turn it off, it will stop automatically.
The five direct access keys allow you to access the station you want to listen to quickly. This model also has an FM antenna which you can set up in the event of poor reception.
This Sony brand radio has a white design. Thanks to its dimensions (length: 16 cm, width: 14 cm and height: 8 cm), it will easily find its place while adding no clutter. You can place it on a piece of bathroom furniture or hang it on a wall using its carrying handle.
This model weighs only 575 grams. So it can be considered a portable device as it is not bulky. Hence, you can take it with you anywhere outdoors.
This Sony product is made of strong and resistant materials, and it complies with the IPX4 standard. This indication confirms its high resistance to humidity and water.
Its main drawback is that it is necessary to reconfigure the channel presets each time the batteries are changed, which is not very practical.
However, this model is perfectly waterproof, available in white to blend into the decor of your bathroom and is a Bluetooth speaker radio. These make it the best shower radio to buy at the moment.
2. SoundBot® SB510 HD Water Resistant Shower speaker
SoundBot® is not new when it comes to Bluetooth radios, shower radios or portable speakers. This radio boasts high definition sound quality.
We like how small this radio is. But it is strong enough in the shower and is water-resistant. If you want to fix it in your shower, you can do it with the suction cup on the back. You can tune in to FM radio or use it as a Bluetooth speaker when you want to listen and whistle to music in the shower.
Pairing it with phones is a breeze, and you could listen to your favorite tunes in no time. This little gem also doubles as a speaker! No more running out with soap lather to answer your phone when you’re in the shower.
One drawback you have to be aware of is that the speaker may start making high-pitched noise after a few months of use.
This is still one of the best options for bathroom radio speakers. It’s quite loud in the bathroom and pairing with the phone is easy.
3. Sangean H202 Waterproof Shower Radio
Among the shower radios on this list, this one has one of the most functions. It has a backlit LCD screen that will show you the station, time, volume and power indicators. You can also use it as a timer and alarm. Besides, you can use the LED flashlight for emergencies, which is a good addition to its function. It looks sleek and stylish, and it has a good grip.
You would be able to explore the functions of the radio even without using the user manual, which is also very easy to understand. It’s waterproof and can be used in the shower. However, we don’t recommend submerging it in water.
It connects seamlessly with phones via Bluetooth. You would be able to use it successfully in the shower without any problems, with your phone in the other room.
The main downside is that it doesn’t have a speakerphone function for the call, which would be much appreciated. Also, it needs some improvement in radio reception, as it can sometimes be agitated.
Nonetheless, its other functions contribute to its utility as a shower radio.
4. Sony ICF S79W Shower Radio
Sony has been a trusted brand for decades, and they are known for producing high-quality electronic devices and components. They have a few shower radios, but this one is of high-quality and one of the cheapest they have launched so far. It is also one of the most durable and waterproof radios around. We discover that the shower radio is so durable that it can withstand several years of use! It has very good reception for FM/AM/Weather.
It has a high resistance to humidity for use in the bathroom. It has splash resistance, but don’t try to submerge it underwater. Otherwise, it will be damaged.
It has a good grip and the large speakers are an advantage. You can see the battery life, FM/AM channel and time on the LCD screen. It uses 3 C batteries which can work for up to 80 hours.
Despite the features above, its notable drawbacks are the lack of Bluetooth connectivity and the absence of speakers for calls.
However, it is a well-built and highly-resistant shower radio that comes at a considerably cheap price. We have high hopes for this model since it comes from Sony.
5. Hydro-Beat Portable Waterproof Radio
If you want to buy an ultra-practical bathroom radio, take a look at this Hydro-Beat model. Fully equipped to take in splashing water, it has no fear of humidity, dust, and shocks. You can take it with you to your worksite, in the shower, by the sea or in the pool without any problem.
For those who wish to listen to their radio in the shower, this model is perfect for them. It has a suction cup that allows it to be fixed on any smooth surface. Compared to other waterproof radios, this one is even more resistant, because it can be immersed in water without any problem.
With a single charge of its 650mAh Li-ion battery, it can play up to 8 hours of music. Thanks to its 4Ω and 5W output, it can offer a powerful and pleasant sound. It also allows you to listen to different FM radio stations to follow your favorite talk shows all the time.
You can safely pair your portable devices to it via Bluetooth V4.0. in addition, it has a transmission range of up to 10 meters. This radio is very practical with its built-in microphone and its interface that features 5 quick access control buttons.
Although the model emits quality sounds, it’s not a perfect radio. The speaker may start making cracking noise after a few months of use.
However, all in all, its practical features and avant-garde design make it the ideal bathroom radio for those who want a modern device.
6. Taotronics SK03 Shower Speaker
This device combines the role of a bathroom radio and a telephone. An audible signal announces incoming calls. For this purpose, you just have to press the button to answer the call. Its IPX4 seal protects its circuit when you touch it with wet fingers or splash water on it.
This model works via Bluetooth 3.0 version. You can connect it to an Android device, Windows Phone, iPhone or even a tablet to listen to music without having to touch the device.
Operating it is easy, and its dimensions are compact. You can stick it on a flat surface at the height of your choice. In addition, you can adjust the features like volume, pause or even next thanks to its buttons.
Despite the special functions the shower radio possesses, one of its major drawbacks is its relatively short battery life (4 hours maximum). We understand this may be due to its small and compact design.
However, its compatibility, water tightness, and very low price make it one of the best cheap but high-quality shower radios.
7. BassPal Portable Bluetooth Radio & Speaker
Check out this model if you are looking for a practical speaker radio. Its resistance to humidity allows you to enjoy pleasant moments with friends or family at the pool. It’s also one of the best bathroom radios with Bluetooth. Thanks to IP67 technology, it can be used in places subject to humidity and water splashes.
This radio is equipped with technology allowing it to be affixed to a wall or a mirror and also to float on water. You can also place it on a smooth surface for better stability.
This radio is equipped with a powerful speaker that sends out fair-enough sounds with deep bass. It is designed to have a USB output to connect it to a cable for charging the battery. Connecting to a device is quick and easy. You can also program it to listen to FM frequencies. The microphone is intended for receiving calls.
Despite its strong selling points, the sound is not of the expected quality. It’s advertised as a portable outdoor radio by the manufacturer, but we can’t even recommend this for a small poolside party.
However, remember you’re looking for a shower radio, not audio equipment for a disco club. So, for bathroom uses, the BassPal model pitches its tent among the best in the marketplace.
BassPal Bluetooth Speaker F013 Manual
8. ASIYUN Shower Radios
The Asiyun Shower Radio capitalizes on the shortcoming of the BassPal model. This is designed to produce very loud HD sounds. For this, it has a solid built-in speaker that ensures excellent audio quality over the long term. It is an inexpensive bathroom radio, but it offers essential features in everyday life.
This model has a waterproof design, which allows you to use it in the shower or any other place exposed to splashing water. With its strap, you can hang it on the showerhead or anything suitable for hanging.
It is distinguished by its non-slip, round, and compact design. This ensures easy handling and portability. It is very practical and multifunctional. In addition to its FM radio, it has an in-built mic and a standard rechargeable Li-ion battery.
The device is IPX-7 waterproof. The speaker has a suction cup, and it can be used indoors in the bathroom. Outdoor, it’s great for use by the pool, beach, or boat cruising.
The major disadvantage with the device is that, despite the type of battery it has, it cannot exceed 4 hours of music or radio playtime.
However, this doesn’t take away its all-round quality. Therefore, it is one of the best Bluetooth shower radios.
9. Yigou Shower Radio
Do you want a radio that you can listen to in the shower, pool and beachside, on a cruise aboard a boat and even in the rain? This is a waterproof model with an IP67 rating. The device also has a system that facilitates automatic scan presets.
This radio also supports many Bluetooth devices, to name just the Mac, iPad, iPhone, iPod, MacBook, and tablets. It also works with a laptop or desktop computer as well as Android devices. The device is offered with Bluetooth technology. It gives you the opportunity to listen to digital FM radio and music at your leisure anytime.
In addition, thanks to its silicone cases, you can take it with you when practicing your favorite outdoor activities. Robustly built, your radio will indeed resist all external factors, such as shocks. Small and waterproof, the tool can easily be taken anywhere. In terms of sound quality, the device even lets you listen to HD bass.
Although the radio doesn’t slack in performance and design, you will have to spend extra money if you have to go for it.
The price factor shouldn’t be a problem as the Yigou shower radio is one of the best models with good value for money.
10. Agptek Shower Speaker Radio
This wireless radio working with Bluetooth 4.1 has a more than satisfactory range of ten meters. It only takes a few seconds to connect all your devices. The speaker works with a good number of devices, including iPad, iPod, iPhone, Smartphones, Mac, MacBook, Tablet, Android, laptop, desktop computer, MP3 player and many others.
The device is distinguished by its waterproof characteristic of the IPX4 level. This small loudspeaker can, therefore, be used in the bathroom, at the beach or around the swimming pool. Its 3 Watts power is more than enough to enjoy dynamic bass and very powerful at the same time.
The device also distinguishes itself from its peers with its digital LED screen. This allows you to view the time, the radio, the volume, and the MIC. As for the installation, you can place it on the walls, windows, glasses as well as on the sides of the bathtub. It has a 600 mA lithium battery that offers 3 to 4 hours of usage if it is fully charged.
Considering we have seen models whose batteries allow 80-100 hours, the 4 hours this model offers is really low. But this is the major disadvantage we’ve been able to come across.
Not least in terms of production quality, the Agptek radio still manages to beat the competition out there to be one of the best shower radios of the moment.
What to Consider When Buying a Shower Radio?
The shower radio is waterproof, very compact and generally of excellent quality. You’ve seen the best options that are currently in stock in the market. However, for more purchase tips, advice, and recommendations, we suggest that you pay particular attention to the following features before adding them to your cart.
Wave options
For a good value for money, choose models that receive traditional FM radio, digital terrestrial radio and Internet radio. With a shared connection from your 4G box, you will have access to all the web radio stations, including thematic foreign stations. These radios can also act as an MP3 player thanks to the USB port.
Protection against water
Protection against water is defined by the IPXX nomenclature. Here, the first X refers to dust and the second X to water. For example, IPX4 means that it has no protection against dust but has protection against water, regardless of the direction. The higher the number, the more protection it has. Shower speakers usually have protection that ranges from IPX4 to IPX7.
- IPX4 protection means that it supports splashing water.
- The IPX5 protection supports pressurized water jets.
- The IPX6 protection supports high-pressure water jets.
- IPX7 protection supports submersion of up to 1 meter deep for 30 minutes.
You have to take into account that if you have an IPX4 radio and it falls off while you are taking a bath, it may stop working because it is not prepared to withstand water submersion. Meanwhile, with the same impact from the fall, speakers with IPX7 protection will not get damaged.
Product | Waterproof |
IPX4 | |
IPX4 | |
IPX7 | |
IPX4 | |
IPX7 | |
IPX7 | |
IPX7 | |
IPX7 | |
IPX7 | |
IPX4 |
Speaker power
The power of a portable speaker is usually important. However, in a speaker radio for the shower, it loses a little importance, especially if you are only going to use it at home. You do not need too much power because you are going to use it indoors and also you will only have to use it for a couple of minutes, most especially during bath time. So 3 watts of power may be enough to listen to music or radio at a good volume.
Suction cup
A suction cup radio set can be very practical if you are only going to use it in the shower. However, it can be annoying if you want to take it to other places. You also have to take into account the layout of the bathroom and where you plan to place it. Depending on each shower, you may have a perfect place to place your speaker. Therefore, you may not have to stick it with the suction cup.
To stick the suction cup well, keep in mind:
- Wet the suction cup before sticking it.
- Paste on a surface as smooth as possible such as tiles, a shower screen if it is smooth or a mirror.
Remember to take water protection into account if you want to have it in the shower.
Battery duration
Battery life is always important in any device that needs autonomous power sources. The longer your radio lasts, the better it is for you. It also improves the user experience.
In shower speakers, the more battery life they have, the better, as you wouldn’t need to charge it more often. If you wish to choose a model with a rechargeable battery, ensure it is lithium-ion and that it has at least 400 mAh. For disposable batteries, prioritize those that can take 3 AA batteries.
Product | Battery Power |
2 AAA batteries | |
400mAh built in in l-ion battery | |
2 D batteries | |
3 C batteries | |
650 mAh built in l-ion battery | |
950 mAh built in l-ion battery | |
650 mAh built in l-ion battery | |
400mAh mAh built in l-ion battery | |
650 mAh built in l-ion battery | |
600 mAh built in l-ion battery |
Extra features
Some radios have built-in extra features such as:
- Speakers for listening and humming to deep-bass music
- Hands-free calling with buttons to answer the call from the loudspeaker.
- Memory card slot to listen to your favorite music without connecting it to the phone.
- LCD screen, clock and alarm to view the time and not be late.
Conclusion
Choosing the best shower radio would depend on you and your needs. Does your shower radio need to have the speaker and Bluetooth functions? Or are you just looking for a simple shower radio for your bathroom? Our verdict on which is the best shower radio to buy is decided in terms of features.
For this, we recommend our Top Pick, the Sony ICF S80 Shower Radio. It offers everything you need in a modern-day shower radio and more. If its design does not attract you, you’ll definitely find your preferred model in the rest of the list of the 10 reviewed radios.