Don’t think radios are for grandparents. Millions of people (young or old) across the world use radios as a medium of entertainment every day. If you are one of those enthusiasts, this list of best AM/FM radio headphones will make your day. Feel free to try out one or two, and you will wonder how old-school entertainment can mix and coexist with modern technology.
The best AM FM headphone is 3M WorkTunes 90541-80025T. It is super sturdy, Comfortable to wear, can withstand rough usage, and gives you 140 hours of playback time for one set of AA batteries. All these features make 3M WorkTunes 90541-80025T the number one FM/AM radio headphone.
If you want to explore some other options, then we have also picked 10 other great Radio headphones.
Top 11 AM/FM Radio Headphones
- #1. 3M WorkTunes – Super Sturdy and Energy Efficient.
- #2. Howard Leight by Honeywell – It’s Green!
- #3. RadioShack AM/FM Stereo Headset Radio – Old is Gold
- #4. Zohan EM042 AM/FM Radio Headphone – Loud and Clear
- #5. Elvex Earmuff Radio Headphone – Old-school Analog
- #6. PRO HEAR 033 Bluetooth Radio Headphone – It Is Techy
- #7. EARMUFF Ear Defender – The German Engineering Magic
- #8. 3M 67086 PELTOR WorkTunes Pro – It Has Built-in Antenna
- #9. Honeywell Sync Digital – Good Noise Reduction
- #10. 3M WorkTunes Connect+ – Crude Design with Bluetooth
- #11. Walker’s Radio Muff – Pretty Cheap
If you are buying the radio headphones for the first time, here’s our detailed guide to pick the right Radio headphones for you.
#1. 3M WorkTunes – Super Sturdy and Energy Efficient.
3M WorkTunes Technical Specifications
| Brand | 3M |
|---|---|
| Model | WorkTunes 90541-80025T |
| AM/FM | Yes |
| Noise Reduction Rating | 23 dB |
| Material | Plastic and metal |
| Weight | 1.05 pounds |
| Warranty | 1-year limited warranty |
The 3M WorkTune has another name – TEKK WorkTunes. Its super-sturdy build quality, combined with an excellent set of features, has made some buzz among radio enthusiasts.
The first sight of 3M WorkTunes will immediately tell you that it is built for rough handling. Yes, it can withstand harsh environments with ease. You can power it up using a pair of AA batteries that will give you up to 140 hours of runtime, making it one of the most energy-efficient radio headphones on the market.
A cushioned adjustable headband and a pair of cushioned ear pads ensure ultimate comfort even for long usage. The adjustable headband ensures that it fits all head sizes. To be honest, it is a thing that you should use for industrial use. Aesthetically, it is not very pleasing, but if you are okay with that, you can carry it just about anywhere you want.
The thing I like the most about the TEKK WorkTunes or 3M WorkTunes is its 3-level bass adjustment that allows for an immersive listening experience. It also entirely cuts off the external sound, giving clear sound. It comes with Audio Assist Technology for providing operational and set-up guidance, and you don’t even have to take off the headphones.
After testing many AM FM Radio headphones, TEKK WorkTunes really impressed me the most. All features work perfectly and well priced. This is our top radio headphone pick for everyone to buy.
John, Radio Enthusiast.
#2. Howard Leight by Honeywell – It’s Green!
Howard Leight Technical Specifications
| Brand | Honeywell |
|---|---|
| Model | Howard Leight Hi-Vis |
| AM/FM | Digital FM/AM Tuning |
| Antenna | Digital |
| Noise Reduction Rating | 25 dB |
| Material | Plastic and metal |
| Weight | 14.4 ounces |
| Warranty | 1-year limited warranty |
The Howard Leight is super energy efficient! The Howard Leight AM/FM radio headphone may look funny, but its green color serves a purpose. Combined with a reflective headband, the Hi-Viz bright green earcups enhance visibility in dark or low-light conditions or bad weather conditions.
Honeywell has crammed in some of the most desired features that one would expect in a radio headphone. For starters, there are 10 preset channel memories that you can use for saving your 10 favorite channels.
Honeywell ships the Howard Leight with its patented airflow control technology that reduces noise for all frequencies without compromising the unit’s weight or the earcups’ size. Among other features are auto-search, LCD display, digital stereo radio reception. They also included volume memory so that you don’t need to adjust the volume every single time!
The ear cushions come with a snap-in feature that allows for easy replacement and maintenance. You can also hook up your Howard Leight headphones with the MP3 player or your smartphone and listen to your favorite music playlist. The connection happens through the popular 3.5 mm AUX jack.
Unfortunately, you will not find Bluetooth connectivity, and the sound quality is not as great at 3M WorkTunes, but it is not ugly. It has a decent audio quality that holds up nice when you crank up the volume.
Regarding energy efficiency, you can enjoy 140 hours of entertainment using two AA batteries.
#3. RadioShack AM/FM Stereo Headset Radio – Old is Gold
RadioShack AM/FM Stereo Headset Technical Specifications
| Brand | RadioShack |
|---|---|
| Model | 931 |
| AM/FM | 20 Presets |
| Playback Time | 42 hours per 1 AAA Pair |
| Material | Plastic and metal |
| Weight | 1.05 pounds |
| Warranty | 90-day limited warranty |
Nearly a decade old, the RadioShack AM/FM Stereo Headset Radio is gold! It uses a mellowed-down dual color tone that will not embarrass you when you go out. The popular black and silver color theme works great in just about any environment.
The generic name and the time of its first appearance shouldn’t fool you! It churns out an excellent sound quality that you can further enhance using its proprietary E-Bass function.
The headset comes with both AM and FM support, and it will allow you to set 20 preset channels of your choice (10 each for AM and FM). The headset packs in an auto-seek tuner – a digital one for quickly finding the stations. Oh, they also added a small LCD screen (big enough to read clearly) so that you can see which channel you are listening to.
This radio headphone is equipped with a 1/8” (3.5 mm) audio jack that will allow you to connect your phone or MP3 player so that you can take a break from your radio and listen to your favorite music playlist.
Yet another neat feature that I really loved is the button lock feature that prevents accidental station change. It requires a pair of AAA batteries to come to life, but unfortunately, the device is not so energy efficient as I would like it to be. The batteries offer up to 42 hours of operation.
#4. Zohan EM042 AM/FM Radio Headphone – Loud and Clear
Zohan EM042 Technical Specifications
| Brand | Zohan |
|---|---|
| Model | EM042 |
| Material | Plastic and metal |
| Weight | 1.05 pounds |
| Warranty | 1-year limited warranty |
Some say Zohan EM042 is better than 3M WorkTunes, while others disagree. The problem is none are wrong! This radio headphone from Zohan beats 3M WorkTunes in both audio quality and radio reception. When it comes to rugged build, 3M WorkTunes is way better.
The Zohan EM042 comes with 20 preset channel options (10 each for AM and FM). It has an auto-scanning feature and sports an LCD display to know which channel you are listening to.
It comes with an integrated Aux jack and allows for easy connectivity with your MP3 player and your phone. Zohan is nice enough to include the Aux cable. The audio quality is excellent, and the headphone is pretty loud. The radio reception is magnificent, too!
What I like most about this radio headphone are its foam earpads with a snap-in design that allows for easy maintenance. They have a snug-fit design that helps in isolation of external noise to enhance the overall listening experience.
The headphone’s metal frame is designed to be extendable, making it perfect for any head size. The frame is cushioned for comfortable use over an extended time. It requires two AA alkaline batteries to operate. Unfortunately, the batteries are not included in the package, and you need to buy them separately.
#5. Elvex Earmuff Radio Headphone – Old-school Analog
Elvex Earmuff Technical Specifications
| Brand | Elvex |
|---|---|
| Model | COM-660 |
| Material | Plastic and metal |
| Weight | 1.05 pounds |
| Warranty | 180-day limited warranty |
Sometimes, the old-school way is fun. The Elvex Earmuff radio headphone ditches the digital world and takes the analog path. I must say it looks cute in its burgundy hue. The adjustable headband comes with a cushion, and the foam-cushioned earcups are ultra-comfortable.
There is no Bluetooth, no digital tuning, no LCD screen – it is a plain old analog radio stuffed inside a headphone. However, Elvex Earmuff does come with an Aux jack that will allow you to connect your compatible MP3 player or smartphone.
The audio quality is pretty decent, I will say. Yes, it could have been better, but you shouldn’t believe that its audio quality is poor. I wouldn’t add it to my list if that was the case. All I want to say that it could have done a better job.
As far as the clarity is concerned, it holds good with the highest volume level. They could have allowed for some room to add a little more base. That’s all! Also, the radio reception is pretty good. In fact, its reception quality surprised me big time!
#6. PROHEAR 033 Bluetooth Radio Headphone – It Is Techy
PROHEAR 033 Technical Specifications
| Brand | PROHEAR |
|---|---|
| Model | 033 (Upgraded) |
| Material | Plastic and metal |
| Weight | 13.4 ounces |
| Warranty | 1-year limited warranty |
If you have an inclination for techy things, the PROHEAR 033 Bluetooth radio headphone should be a good option for you. Bluetooth-enabled, this radio headphone can give you up to 30 hours of non-stop entertainment over the Bluetooth on a single charge.
Yes, it comes with a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that you can charge using the included 5V adapter, or you can use your computer’s USB port! It allows saving 10 AM and 10 FM channels of your choice. The large LCD display, big control buttons, and the rugged build-quality make it a must-have gadget for those who love radios.
In addition to Bluetooth that allows wireless music streaming from a compatible MP3 player or other devices like smartphones, the radio headphone also comes with an Aux jack (cable included). Depending on how you are using the headphone, the rechargeable battery can give up to 120 hours of entertainment on a single charge.
The ear cushions are anti-sweat and ensure greater comfort. They have a snap-in design that allows for easy replacement and maintenance. The headband is padded too, and it can be adjusted to fit different head sizes.
#7. EARMUFF Ear Defender – The German Engineering Magic
EARMUFF Ear Defender Technical Specifications
| Brand | EARMUFF |
|---|---|
| Model | 31000 |
| Material | Plastic and metal |
| Weight | 13.3 ounces |
| Warranty | 2-year full warranty |
You and I both can agree on the quality of German engineering. EARMUFF carries on the legacy with this amazing radio headphone that gives over 200 hours of entertainment, depending on usage.
Complete with 8 preset radio stations, seek and scan function, foam cushions, and great sound quality, the EARMUFF Ear Defender is a must-have radio headphone. Its sound quality is just great, but I would love a little more control over the base. Nonetheless, it is all personal preference. You may disagree with me.
The integrated antenna gives great reception, and the control buttons are big enough for easy operation. What’s best is that it comes with a 2-year full warranty – something that you don’t see regularly.
The manufacturer has also included the MP3 cord and batteries in the package, making it a great bargain.
#8. 3M 67086 PELTOR WorkTunes Pro – It Has Built-in Antenna
3M 67086 PELTOR WorkTunes Pro Technical Specifications
| Brand | 3M |
|---|---|
| Model | 67086 PELTOR WorkTunes Pro |
| Material | Plastic and metal |
| Weight | 1.06 pounds |
| Warranty | 1-year limited warranty |
This 3M radio headphone gets rid of the protruding antenna and puts it right inside the unit. The padded earcups are great for long term usage, and it comes complete with 5 station memory, adjustable headband, 4-hour auto power off, 3.5 mm Aux jack, and big buttons for easy usage.
The noise cancellation feature of the model works perfectly. The only complaint that I have is that it accepts only stereo input. Some people complain that it lacks Bluetooth, but I can live without that technology, and trust me, it is not really necessary if you want to use it majorly for radio.
#9. Honeywell Sync Digital – Good Noise Reduction
Honeywell Sync Digital Technical Specifications
| Brand | Honeywell |
|---|---|
| Model | Sync Digital |
| Material | Plastic and metal |
| Weight | 1.05 pounds |
| Warranty | 1-year limited warranty |
One of the finest radio headphones, the Honeywell Sync Digital, has a very satisfactory build quality. The audio quality is pretty good, with clear sound and no static. When you switch from FM to AM, the sound will become slightly quieter, which is a little disappointing.
You need to understand that Honeywell Sync Digital is primarily a hearing protection earmuff, so you shouldn’t expect extremely good sound quality. You will find the usual features are cushioned earcups, 4-hour auto-off, large buttons, LCD display, volume dial, cushioned, and adjustable headbands. Also, there are 10 memory presets.
The noise reduction feature works really well, and the headphone comes equipped with an Aux jack that you can use to connect your MP3 player or smartphone.
It has a long battery life, and you can enjoy up to 111 hours of entertainment from a couple of AA batteries depending upon your use.
#10. 3M WorkTunes Connect+ – Crude Design with Bluetooth
3M WorkTunes Connect+ Technical Specifications
| Brand | 3M |
|---|---|
| Model | WorkTunes Connect+ |
| Material | Plastic and metal |
| Weight | 13.6 ounces |
| Warranty | 1-year limited warranty |
It has a skeletal design. The headband has no cushion, but it comes with big ventilation holes. The earcups have padding (luckily). In case you are thinking that this design is going to be less comfortable, you are wrong! Despite its crude design, the unit is extremely comfortable and perfectly suitable for long use.
As with every other 3M radio headphones, the sound quality is superb. In particular, this unit comes equipped with Bluetooth for wireless streaming from your MP3 player or your smartphone or any other compatible device.
The control buttons and knobs are very intuitive. What’s interesting is that this thing is an analog model. So, you have to tune to the right channel manually. But that’s fine! It comes with high-fidelity speakers that provide clear and loud sound. There is an option for boosting the bass!
The voice-guided set-up process is really cool. 3M calls this technology as Audio Assist Technology. What’s unique is that the radio headphone comes with an integrated mic that allows you to answer your phone calls! The noise reduction feature works like a charm!
#11. Walker’s Radio Muff – Pretty Cheap
Walker’s Radio Muff Technical Specifications
| Brand | Walker’s Game Ear |
|---|---|
| Model | GWP-RDOM |
| Material | Plastic and metal |
| Weight | 11.72 Ounces |
| Warranty | 1-year limited warranty |
It has almost all the standard features that you can get in any radio headphone. The big problem is the build quality. It didn’t feel like it will last for any more than a year. But if that is okay for you, the unit will give you an adjustable and cushioned headband, digital channel scanner, manual scan option, a large LCD display, Aux jack, etc. There’s nothing new.
The LCD display will tell you a few things like battery status, frequency, and mode. The Aux jack will allow you to connect your MP3 player or smartphone with the headphone. It requires a pair of AA batteries to operate. In AM/FM or wireless mode, the batteries will give up to 30 hours of playtime.
The radio reception is good, but not really amazing. Same with the sound quality. In MP3 mode, the sound quality is better. The sound gets a bit muffled in the AM/FM mode.
- Best Police Radio Scanners
- Best Baofeng Radio 2021
- Best HAM Radio 2021
- Best Shortwave Radios 2021
- Best Emergency Radio 2021
- Best CB Linear Amplifiers 2021
- Best Portable AM FM Radios
- Best Jobsite Radios in 2021
Topics Covered - Index
- Top 11 AM/FM Radio Headphones
- #1. 3M WorkTunes – Super Sturdy and Energy Efficient.
- #2. Howard Leight by Honeywell – It’s Green!
- #3. RadioShack AM/FM Stereo Headset Radio – Old is Gold
- #4. Zohan EM042 AM/FM Radio Headphone – Loud and Clear
- #5. Elvex Earmuff Radio Headphone – Old-school Analog
- How to Buy the best AM/FM Radio Headphones?
How to Buy the best AM/FM Radio Headphones?
When you are looking for an AM/FM radio headphone, you should select carefully. There are several factors that you need to keep in mind. Here is what you should do:
Build Quality of the Headphone
You are most likely going to use the radio headphone at your worksite. So, it is a must that the unit that you are buying has a solid build quality. Of course, when you are in the middle of your work, you will definitely not handle the unit with great care. Rough handling is quite natural. So, the unit needs to be durable.
Sound Quality
Sound quality is an important factor. The rule of thumb is that the sound quality improves when you use the MP3 mode (that is, you use the Aux cable). However, the wireless mode (AM/FM) should also give you decent sound quality. If that is bad, the whole idea of getting an AM/FM radio headphone is defeated.
Comfort
While working, the last thing you should be worried about is the radio headphones causing discomfort. So, you should opt for the unit that gives cushioned earcups, cushioned and adjustable headbands, and preferably anti-sweat earcup cushions.
Connectivity
The more, the better. Usually, the good brands will give you an MP3 connection with an Aux port and AM/FM reception. Some high-end models will throw in a Bluetooth connection. There are a few that will add the option of SD card.
Battery Life
No one wants a radio headphone that has poor battery life. Ideally, the unit you select should give up to 30 hours of playback time for a single charge or a pair of AA batteries. The more, the better. Some units give up to 200 hours of playback time.
Ease of Use
Are the control buttons big enough? If the unit is digital, does it come with an auto-scan feature? How easy is it to operate the unit? You should consider all these factors before purchasing one.
Reception Quality
There is nothing to explain! If a radio headphone gives poor AM/FM reception, you should not buy it! The purpose will be defeated!
Price
What is your budget? Your budget will define what you get and what you don’t. The usual price range for these radio headphones is $20 to $100. Good ones usually have a price range of $50 to $70.
For more information about the best Radio Headphones visit the following webpages.
- Headphones
- Radios
- FM broadcasting
- Get a Ham Radio License
- Improve Radio Signal Strength
- AM Broadcasting
- Radio Signals
- How Do Bluetooth Radios work?
