You don't have to be an audiophile to appreciate a good quality jobsite radio. It can be a handy tool for workers or DIYers alike. You can use it to charge your same-brand power-tool batteries.
Plus, you can use it as a storage space for your electronic devices or gadgets like your smartphones. The best jobsite radio should play music from different sources, including MP3s, labels, Bluetooth-enabled devices, and your smartphones. Moreover, good radios for construction sites should also allow users to access digital stations in addition to the traditional AM/FM radio.
Best Jobsite Radios of 2024:There are so many different kinds of construction site radios available, and choosing the best one can be challenging. This guide will help you buy the best worksite radio that will be your trusty partner and a total workhorse.
Let's have a look at the best radios for the construction site below!
| The Best Jobsite Radios in 2024 | ||
|---|---|---|
Best Overall | DEWALT DWST08810
| Read My Review |
Best Cordless | DEWALT DCR028B
| Read My Review |
Great Sound | BOSCH PB360C
| Read My Review |
Heavy Duty | DEWALT DWST17510
| Read My Review |
Compact | Sangean TB-100
| Read My Review |
Durable | Milwaukee M18 2890-20
| Read My Review |
Great Value | Makita XRM09B
| Read My Review |
Under $100 | Porter-Cable PCCR701B
| Read My Review |
Under $50 | Makita RM02
| Read My Review |
Best Worksite Radio Review of 2024
1 - DEWALT DWST08810 ToughSystem Radio and Battery Charger
Heavy-duty construction
Exceptional sound quality
Bluetooth connectivity with 100 feet range
IP54 dust and water resistivity
The box-shaped plug is too big for outlets with covers
Its storage compartment is too small
This is the best jobsite radio on the market at present. This Dewalt Bluetooth radio charger comes with a 100 feet range for its connectivity, and you can link your phone with it and keep streaming music.
It is comfortably the loudest jobsite radio at the moment as it features four full-range tweeters along with a subwoofer and a bass resonator. In terms of sound quality, this radio is second to none.
But it's just not about sound quality because this radio also comes with a charging capability for 20V Max and 12V Max power tools by Dewalt. The radio is rated IP54 for dust and water resistivity, and if you want, you can plug it into a wall outlet to charge it.
This radio also features a 3.5mm jack, an auxiliary port, and a 5V USB charger. But there are a couple of flaws in this radio as well. The storage compartment present in it is too small, and you can't even place the radio's battery in it.
The plug of this radio is box type, and it's too big for most outdoor outlets with covers on them.
Cautions
Make sure you take care of that handle because it tends to break or shatter. Don't put too much pressure on it.
| AM/FM Presets | None |
Bluetooth | Yes |
| Auxiliary Port | Yes |
Backlit LCD Display | No |
Power Type | Corded and Cordless |
Voltage | 12V Max or 20V Max |
Net Weight | 17.1 pounds |
Warranty | 3-year warranty |
DEWALT DWST08810 is the most reliable jobsite radio with not many flaws and so much to offer. Highly recommended for busy construction sites.
2 - DEWALT DCR028B Bluetooth Cordless Jobsite Radio
Roll-cage design for better protection against falls
Excellent sound quality with the subwoofer and tweeters
Bluetooth connectivity range of 100 feet
There's no phone compartment on this radio
The Bluetooth system doesn't work in hot weather conditions
If you are looking for the best cordless jobsite radio, your search is over. Dewalt brings you its DCR028B cordless radio that features a unique roll-cage design. With the help of this roll-cage, your radio becomes indestructible. Any fall or impact will be contained by this cage design.
But that is not all!
This radio can also produce good quality sound and is the right choice if you work in noisy conditions. This radio's innovative handle design keeps the antenna well protected and stores it when you are not using it.
You can comfortably stream music with Bluetooth from your phone that can be 10 feet away. There are 6 AM/FM also presets there on this radio, and you can go the traditional way if you want.
This radio also features a detachable power cord of 12V Max or 20V Max. There are 3.5-inch woofers and 1-inch tweeters. You won't have to worry about the sound quality with this Dewalt cordless radio.
But you will have to deal with a few issues when using this radio. One is that the Bluetooth mode tends to malfunction when the conditions get pretty hot. Plus, you won't find a phone compartment in it, and you cannot charge power tool batteries with this model.
Caution
You need to keep in mind that this model doesn't charge your Dewalt power tools' batteries.
| AM/FM Presets | 6 AM/6 FM |
Bluetooth | Yes |
| Auxiliary Port | Yes |
Backlit LCD Display | Yes |
Power Type | Corded and Cordless |
Voltage | 12V Max or 20V Max |
Net Weight | 9.52 pounds |
Warranty | 3-year warranty |
DEWALT DCR028B is a portable cordless radio that can handle tough conditions well and does produce good sound quality, yet it comes at an affordable price. Best bang for the buck!
3 - BOSCH Power Box PB360C Jobsite AM/FM Radio/Charger
Aluminum and rubber roll-cage design 150 feet Bluetooth range 360-degree surround sound quality Sound quality fades as you move away from the speaker It doesn't support USB flash drives
If you are looking for a worksite radio that produces great sound and handles the sound just like that sound system at your home, then the PB360C Power Box by Bosch is the right choice for you.
This radio will allow you to enjoy some of your favorite tracks with loads of base. Who says the workplace is no place for fun! The Bosch PB360C features tweeters and subwoofers that can produce a very close to a full-fledged sound system.
Subwoofers are critical to the overall sound quality because they can handle those low frequencies pretty well. With these subwoofers, you can feel full and rich sound, and with your favorite beats on, you will improve your overall productivity. It hands down the best sounding jobsite radio.
With Bluetooth connectivity that ranges up to 150 feet, you can easily connect your phone and stream directly. Of course, with the subwoofer, you can enjoy the 360-degree surround sound as well.
But wait, there's more! The Bosch jobsite radio is encaged in rubber and aluminum age, and the overall design keeps it safe from dust and water.
However, this radio doesn't read flash drives, and the USB port is only for charging purposes. Additionally, the sound's loudness and quality are only useful when you stand right next to it. It deteriorates significantly if you move away further.
Caution
You have to keep in mind that this unit doesn't support USB flash drives, and the port is only for the charging cable.
| AM/FM Presets | 10 AM/20 FM |
Bluetooth | Yes |
| Auxiliary Port | Yes |
Backlit LCD Display | Yes |
Power Type | Corded and Cordless |
Voltage | 18 Volts |
Net Weight | 24 pounds |
Warranty | 1-year warranty |
Well-known for its excellent sound quality and durability, Bosch PB360C is among the top choice for home workshop and jobsites
4 - DEWALT DWST17510 TSTAK Portable Bluetooth Radio with Charger
This radio works well as a charger can charge numerous power tools
It features a decent sound system
Bluetooth connectivity and IP54 certified for water and dust resistivity
The battery cover loses its latching system with time
Its radio gets interfered with by the charger
The TSTAK jobsite radio DWST17510 is the best in terms of heavy-duty use. It also comes with a convenient radio charger that can charge a range of different power tools in no time.
If your worksite is far from a national grid and you don't have any power supply nearby, you need to go with this heavy-duty worksite radio. And that's not all it can do!
It can also produce a brilliant sound and can handle those low-pitched sounds. This DeWalt jobsite radio with a subwoofer can handle different tunes and remain audible even if there is machine noise.
It also comes with Bluetooth connectivity, and you can stream music using your phone. And of course, this radio's design and construction make it dust and waterproof with the IP54 rating.
However, this radio is not that tough against high falls. So, you will have to be slightly careful while handling it. Also, some users notice that the battery cover loses its latching mechanism over time. The radio also gets interference from the charger.
Caution
You need to be a lot more careful with the latching system of the battery cover and the volume knob as they are quite flimsy.
| AM/FM Presets | None |
Bluetooth | Yes |
| Auxiliary Port | Yes |
Backlit LCD Display | Yes |
Power Type | Corded and Cordless |
Voltage | 18 Volts |
Net Weight | 17.2 pounds |
Warranty | 1-year warranty |
Looking for a heavy-duty jobsite radio and charger, DEWALT DWST17510 is the right one for you as it can charge a variety of power tools and still produce a decent sound.
5 - Sangean TB-100 TOUGHBOX Rechargeable Radio
Very compact design
The loudspeaker is suitable for noisy environments
It features an aux input
The antenna is almost useless
The radio tuner is of low quality
The ToughBox TB-100 by Sangean is a compact jobsite radio that has a very lightweight construction. And for this, you can conveniently carry this radio around without a problem.
The portable jobsite radio also supports five present channels for AM and FM and comes with a rain-resistant rating of JIS4. It is shock and dust resistant as well. There is a charging LED indicator on it too, and you can utilize the auxiliary input to connect any external devices with it.
Another excellent feature of this radio is that it comes equipped with radio frequency wireless communication technology. There are rugged controls that can stand the test of time and a large LCD visible.
This radio also boasts a high output speaker, which is 5-inch in size and is fully water-resistant. It can produce good quality sound even in noisy conditions.
Sangean has used high-quality and durable plastic in the construction of this radio. And has also equipped it with a roll-cage to ensure maximum shock resistance. It's a stable radio with rugged construction.
However, the antenna of this radio does almost nothing to alter the signal strength. Another issue with this radio is that its tuner is cheaply built.
Caution
You will have to connect an external antenna for better signal reception, and an antenna with the exact screw type is hard to find.
| AM/FM Presets | 5 AM/5 FM |
Bluetooth | Yes |
| Auxiliary Port | Yes |
Backlit LCD Display | Yes |
Power Type | Corded and Cordless |
Voltage | 12 Volts |
Net Weight | 6.9 pounds |
Warranty | 1-year warranty |
Sangean TB-100 is a pretty compact design, and if you do not have much space at your workplace, this is the right option for you.
6 - Milwaukee 2890-20 18V Dual Chemistry M18 Jobsite Radio
Shock-absorbing padded edges
Ten presets for AM/FM bands
Stable construction
There is no Bluetooth
Slightly flimsy in the speaker department
Milwaukee jobsite radio M18 comes with shock-absorbing caps on the edges, so it can handle impact quite well. This outdoor jobsite radio allows you to charge your power tools and other devices.
This radio features a 3.5mm aux jack that allows you to connect any external device with it. It also comes with a large display, and it supports two radio bands. You can conveniently place your phone inside the compartment at the back of this radio.
It is a long-lasting radio due to the rubberized pads on the edges. Any accidents that might occur at the jobsite will be well accounted for with these pads. There are ten presets available for the AM/FM bands, and you can store different stations to enjoy them with your crew.
Of course, this radio's stackable design makes it very easy to place it stacked on top. This radio charger is fully compatible with all 18V battery-powered tools.
However, the Milwaukee 2890-20 doesn't come with Bluetooth connectivity features. The speakers tend to go static sometimes, and you might end up whacking the radio once or twice, and it will get back on track.
Caution
There are times when you need to give your Milwaukee jobsite radio a few whacks because it tends to be static for a while. But it only happens occasionally.
| AM/FM Presets | 5 AM/5 FM |
Bluetooth | No |
| Auxiliary Port | Yes |
Backlit LCD Display | No |
Power Type | Corded and Cordless |
Voltage | 18 Volts |
Net Weight | 11.7 pounds |
Warranty | 1 to 3-year warranty |
If durability is your first preference, then this Milwaukee jobsite radio will not disappoint you. You will be left begging for more when it comes to the overall sound quality.
7 - Makita XRM09B Cordless Bluetooth Job Site Radio
Aluminum frame guards with elastomer bumpers prevent any damages caused by falls
It can charge a range of power tools by Makita
Seven different modes for different music genres
The battery doesn't last very long when Bluetooth is running
The subwoofer is low-quality and doesn't do much to the overall quality of the sound
The Makita radio XRM09B offers the best value for the money. This 18V jobsite radio comes with Bluetooth capabilities and can connect wirelessly with your phone. You can also use FM and AM bands on it, and it allows you to alter the clock settings and set the alarm as well.
The Makita cordless Bluetooth radio can run up to 18 hours with a 5Amp 18V battery, and it is compatible with 14.4V CXT 12V max and LXT 18V batteries. Therefore, it can comfortably charge the tools that are powered by these batteries.
Additionally, the Makita 18V radio features aluminum guards with elastomer bumpers to break the fall and prevent any damages. Moreover, you can select from seven different sound modes to choose between different genres of music.
However, playtime running on Bluetooth can only last for about five hours or so. So, battery life is not that great at all. Additionally, the overall quality of this construction site radio is pretty lovely, excluding the subwoofer, which is absolutely nothing to the overall sound quality of this speaker.
Caution
You have to keep in mind that this jobsite radio doesn't last for long when you are running Bluetooth. So it's better not to turn it on until you need it.
| AM/FM Presets | No presents |
Bluetooth | Yes |
| Auxiliary Port | Yes |
Backlit LCD Display | Yes |
Power Type | Corded and Cordless |
Voltage | 18 Volts |
Net Weight | 12 pounds |
Warranty | 3-year warranty |
This high-quality jobsite radio from Makita gets the job done relatively well. But if you turn on the wireless mode, the battery starts draining fast, so you need to be careful there.
8 - Porter Cable PCCR701B Jobsite Radio
Versatile music plays with aux port and AM/FM Two power options, including cordless and corded Roll cage construction for better onsite protection Low-quality antenna There is no Bluetooth in it
This Porter-Cable jobsite radio is a good cheap jobsite radio under $100. It can charge all 20V Max batteries pretty comfortably, and the unit comes with AM/FM radio band support as well. It also comes with an aux port if you are looking for a versatile option for your music play.
You can conveniently use it either corded or cordless, and the radio comes with a roll-cage design to prevent any impacts caused by falls. This radio also comes with a modern style and looks sharp in terms of aesthetics.
The Aux port works well, and it also means that you won't have to worry about this system's battery drainage. It has one of the best battery performances on this list as well.
But the downside is that it doesn't feature Bluetooth, so you are a bit short in terms of connectivity features. Another problem with this radio is that it has a pretty low-quality antenna, and it won't work unless you have exceptional coverage in your area.
Caution
Keep in mind that you will need good signal reception in your area for the AM/FM to work.
5 AM/5 FM Bluetooth No Yes Backlit LCD Display Yes Power Type Voltage 18 Volts Net Weight 20 pounds WarrantyAM/FM Presets Auxiliary Port Corded and Cordless 3-year warranty
The Porter Cable PCCR701B is a small but powerful radio under $100. It is really handy for occasional uses at home or construction sites.
9 - Makita RM02 Compact Job Site Radio
It does deliver a good quality sound
Can run continuously for 30 hours
Compact construction
Turning up the volume reduces the sound quality
The battery is not included in your purchase
The RM02 by Makita is the best jobsite radio under $50. This small jobsite radio, despite being a budget-friendly option, comes with pretty useful features. You can conveniently hold this radio in your hand and carry it around from one place to another.
It can conveniently handle CXT 12V Max batteries. Moreover, it also comes with a rich stereo sound to make your workplace a more enjoyable place. The front-facing speakers present on this device make sure that you are fully exposed to the sound that it can produce.
Furthermore, this unit can continuously operate for 30 hours if you run on a BL1041B 4Amp battery. It comes with ten different presets for AM/FM, and there is an aux port for you to connect an external device as well. The earphone jack is also there if you are looking to use it for private listening.
However, the problem is that you will have to separately purchase the battery for it, which can be annoying. Another issue is, you don't need to turn up the volume to full on this unit, or there will be a significant reduction in the overall sound quality.
Caution
Ensure that you don't turn the volume to full if you want to listen to better sound quality. It better works as a portable unit more than anything else.
| AM/FM Presets | 5 AM/5 FM |
Bluetooth | Yes |
| Auxiliary Port | Yes |
Backlit LCD Display | No |
Power Type | Corded and Cordless |
Voltage | CXT 12V Max |
Net Weight | 1 pounds |
Warranty | 3-year warranty |
If you are looking to carry your jobsite radio with you all the time, Makita RM02 is the right choice thanks to its compact size and nice sound quality.
Factors to Consider When Buying a Jobsite Radio
You must keep your demands and requirements in mind while you are looking for the best worksite radio for yourself. Here are some essential features you must consider when making a decision.
Workplace environment
The first point you need to keep in mind is where you will use your jobsite radio. Keep those environmental factors taken care of when looking for your worksite radio's sound quality and brand.
The sound quality needs to be top-notch if it's going to be in a noisy environment. The workplace will make your radio more vulnerable to falls; you need to go for a roll-cage.
Maybe you are looking for those traditional AM/FM presets in your best worksite radio, or perhaps you are looking for a Bluetooth jobsite radio to connect it wirelessly with your phone and listen to your favorite tunes.
You also need to think about whether you want to go with a cordless radio or a corded one. A corded jobsite radio will limit your mobility, but your radio won't run out of juice. And then there is dust, water, and other environmental factors.
Waterproofing and dust resistivity needs to be one of the primary and must-have features for jobsite radios because you have to deal with rain and other factors and don't want your radio to get out of order when you need it the most.
Corded vs. Cordless
If you work somewhere where you have complete access to electricity, then a corded unit will work better because you will not run out of power. But if the jobsite is far from the national grid, you might need to go with a cordless version. But the battery system of the radio needs to be of the best quality.
Sound and Performance
Sound will be your top priority if you work in a noisy environment where there are many types of machinery and manufacturing tools. If there is not much noise at your workplace, this feature might not be a priority for you.
You need to closely examine the power and quality of the output along with an efficient equalizer, sound control, and mixing system.
Portability
Suppose, there is not much space available at your workplace to place a bigger radio unit. In that case, you can go for a portable one and lightweight that you can fit easily into small compartments or place even under the table. Such portable designs also come with handles for you to hang them or carry them from one place to another.
Aux hooks
If you can find any spots to charge your other devices like your smartphone, your jobsite radio will do that job for you as well. These radios come with different aux hooks and connection points that can charge your devices with ease.
Some of these radios also allow you to charge other power tool batteries as well. This feature is handy if you are not near any power source and don't have access to any plug points.
Jobsite Radio FAQs
Are worksite radios waterproof and dustproof?
Yes, good quality worksite radios are waterproof and dustproof. They are also resistant to shock. Dewalt has most of its jobsite radios certified with an IP54 rating, making them dust and waterproof. If you are looking at the best jobsite radios, you need these features.
These radios are designed to handle harsh conditions at the workplace, and you can use them anywhere pretty comfortably. Some of them don't come with these features, and you need to go with them only if you are not going to face these conditions at your workplace.
What's the loudest jobsite radio?
The loudest jobsite radio of them all is the DEWALT DWST08810. It has a high-quality sound system with four different tweeters and a subwoofer. Therefore, if you are looking for good quality sound with proper high and lows, then this is the right option for you to consider.
But this unit is not just about sound quality because it can charge different Dewalt power tool batteries and comes with IP54 dust and water resistivity. That is why they have the waterproof jobsite radio on the list.
What is the best jobsite radio for bass?
When it comes to bass, you need to go for BOSCH PB360C. There are not many worksite radios that you can find on the market that outperforms the bass output of this jobsite radio by Bosch.
The subwoofer present in this unit can handle lows pretty well, and the company itself can charge different devices with ease. There is an aluminum die-cast frame with bumpers that can break the fall and prevent any damage. It is a robust unit that continues to perform for a long time.
Which radio brand can I use for worksites?
There are different jobsite radios from other brands that you can use at your worksite. You can either go for Dewalt, Bosch, Milwaukee, Makita, or Sangean. All these brands are top players in the market. And we have reviewed some of their best jobsite radios in our reviews lists above.
If you ask for the best construction radio, then Dewalt is the best because there are more than three entries on this list. They are very versatile in their offerings, and their radios come in different designs, styles and are suitable for various requirements.
The primary factor for choosing a specific brand is that it will charge the power tools you have. So you need to have the same brand of jobsite radio as that of your power tools. Dewalt has the best construction site radio overall and the best jobsite radio with Bluetooth. Makita has the best compact jobsite radio, while Milwaukee work radio is pretty robust.
Where to buy a jobsite radio?
Jobsite radios are available in your local hardware stores, and some big box outlets also have them, but you can again buy them online with convenience. You can easily order right from the comfort of your home, and of course, you get to know about the product you are looking for after going through as many reviews as possible.
These reviews allow you to make a well-informed decision. Most good brands also offer money-back guarantees and warranties, so returns or exchanges are also available at your disposal. Shopping online for your jobsite radio will provide you with more options because you can access different stores' websites.
How will you use a worksite radio?
Using a worksite radio is not that difficult. You can always use it to listen to your favorite tunes while you work on your project. Some units allow you to connect external devices like your smartphones or MP3 players via the auxiliary port.
Some also feature USB ports and Bluetooth capabilities as well. Plus, you can use it to charge your power tools if the radio and the tools are the same brands. Some are large units, while others are small and portable. But all of them come with a robust design to handle the harsh conditions of worksites.
Can job site radios charge other devices?
You can conveniently charge your power tools of the same brand with the help of your jobsite radio. These units can also charge your smartphones and MP3 players, but not all of them can do that.
Some of these units come with an extra storage compartment to place your devices and gadgets and even your additional batteries. You can listen to your favorite music, charge your tools, and instruments and continue to focus on your project.
Difference between a jobsite radio vs. a jobsite speaker?
The primary difference between a jobsite radio vs. a jobsite speaker is that you can conveniently charge your power tools and devices or gadgets with your radio. This feature is not available in a jobsite speaker. A jobsite speaker is just a speaker that can allow you to listen to your favorite music or make/answer calls aloud.
You can do all of it on a jobsite radio pretty conveniently. Maybe you can go for a jobsite speaker if you have electricity available all the time at the worksite. But in a remote area where electricity is not available, you will need a jobsite radio to charge your devices and tools as well.
Conclusion
So, which is the best jobsite radio to buy? Here are our top 3 picks:
Best Overall: DEWALT DWST08810
The DeWalt DWST08810 comes with an exceptional sound system, and it can charge your power tools quite fast. And, of course, it comes with IP54 certification too.
Best Cordless Jobsite Radio: DEWALT DCR028B
It comes with IP54 certification as well, and with a roll cage design, it becomes super durable. Plus, it does a fine job charging your tools along the way.
Best Sound Quality: BOSCH PB360C
This Bosch radio comes with a top-quality subwoofer and tweeters to go with. It can surge your power tools as well, but that is more of a secondary feature here because it can undoubtedly outshine any unit out there in terms of handling high and lows and producing a substantial sound quality.
