How To Choose The Best Under Cabinet Radio: Buyer’s Guide
Features | It’s crucial to know how you plan to use one of these devices before you buy it. You don’t want to spend time with an under-cabinet radio that excludes the functionality you like, or one that is so sophisticated that you get frustrated and perplexed. When it comes to selecting an under-cabinet radio with the color and style that you like, because there are so many choices to pick from, it shouldn’t be a concern. |
Price | There’s an explanation why under-cabinet radios come in such a wide range of prices. For instance, existing manufacturers can charge higher prices for their devices, while newcomers can charge even lower prices. Many under-cabinet radios include enticing extra features such as preset AM and FM channels, an LCD monitor, a clock and alarm, Bluetooth, a USB port, a built-in CD player, or even a connected television. For less than $70, you can get a good under-cabinet radio. The mid-level models will run you anywhere between $71 to $150 if you want to go a little further. If you’re looking for high-end items, though, you should plan to pay more than $150. You will pay up to $500 in some cases. |
Construction/Design | It’s important to calculate how much room you have underneath your cabinet for your radio. You’ll have to quantify the measurements of various radios and prevent having to make any changes this way. Under-cabinet radios, on the other hand, come in a number of sizes, with the most common being fourteen inches long, twelve inches wide, and four inches high. The majority of under-cabinet radios can receive both AM and FM stations, but others can only play FM. Many devices also have built-in CD players, which expand your listening opportunities and enable you to play your favorite tracks. The availability of television and radio combinations is also worth noting. |
Performance and Functionality | Bluetooth and Wi-Fi provide a wireless functionality in an under-cabinet radio. You’ll be able to view the content on your iPod, MP3 player, tablet, laptop, or other compatible gadget if you buy a radio with these functions. We recommend that you check the Bluetooth range of a radio to see how well the link can be maintained. |
Antenna | The bulk of these units come with a 120 AC/DC power cord that also acts as an antenna. When using a wire antenna, the general rule is to maintain it as straight as possible. You’ll get much better reception this way than you would if the wire was clumped behind the counters or refrigerator. |
Power | Some under-cabinet radios use AAA or Lithium-ion batteries, which are usually rechargeable. The radio and its features will continue to function in the event of a power loss, and the clock will not need to be reset until the power is restored. Many under-cabinet radios have a remote control, and some are also magnetic, allowing you to stack them on your refrigerator door. |
How to install a radio under the cabinet?
The construction process is an important aspect that everybody can bear in mind, and there will be no technological difficulties. If versatile mounting options are available, you can quickly and freely mount and dismount the under cabinet radio.
Mark 4 position holes and use the mounting screws | With the aid of the given template, mark the location of four holes; you can also use a drill to create the holes. You may also adjust the height of the shelf or unit. First, look for the L location on the dot, which is the lowest position. You can also adjust the stature in just four steps by turning the spacer clockwise, and then connect the device using the given mounting screws. |
Attach the AC power cord directly to the wall outlet | Since the unit is so heavy, use caution when mounting it, and do not put any cooking or heating equipment underneath it to minimize the chance of a fire. You must attach the AC power cord directly to the wall outlet when mounting the unit, rather than using an extension cord or converter. If operating the unit, make sure the AC power cord is not slack and that it is mounted well away from a source of the noise. |
Caution | Install the unit away from some water, such as a kitchen sink, a washbowl, a bathtub, a swimming pool, or a damp cellar. Installing the device near heat sources such as stoves, heat registers, radiators, or other appliances is not a smart idea. The ventilation for the device would be provided by holes and slots in the cabinet that are positioned at the bottom or back. |
Video Review: How to Install an Under Cabinet Radio
Comparison Table & Main Features
Last update on 2024-06-16 / Affiliate links
1. SYLVANIA SKCR2713 Under Counter CD Player with Radio – Editor’s Choice
- Under Cabinet CD, Radio with Bluetooth. Powered by AC Adaptor with Battery Back Up
- Built in Speakers to Play your favorite music via Bluetooth or any FM station with built in FM Tuner
- LED Display for easy read-out of the time or your set radio station
Last update on 2024-06-16 / Affiliate links
SYLVANIA SKCR2713 Specifications
Item Weight | 0.035 ounces |
Product Dimensions | 14 x 4 x 12.5 inches |
Power Source | Electric cord; battery |
Batteries | 1 CR123A batteries required |
Color | Silver |
Hardware Interface | Bluetooth |
Connectivity Technology | Bluetooth |
Display Type | LCD |
Includes | Built in Speakers to Play your favorite music via Bluetooth or any FM station with built in FM Tuner, Mounting Kit and full function remote control, Power 2 x 1.2 W |
With one touch, you can attach this to your iPhone, iPad, or any Bluetooth system with its latest Bluetooth V 3.0 and start streaming your music to the under counterplay. Conveniently install this under your kitchen counter cabinet and play all your beloved CDs or listen to any FM radio station.
User Friendly
AC Adaptor with Battery Back-Up
Pros | Cons |
LED display | No AM feature available |
Mounting kit available | |
With built-in FM station tuner |
Overall
Video: Sylvania Under Cabinet Bluetooth System Antenna Hack/Fix
2. iLive iKBC384S Bluetooth Under the Cabinet Radio with CD Player – Amazon’s Choice
- Slim under cabinet radio and cd player with Bluetooth wireless streaming. The item does not retrieve AM stations (only...
- Supports Bluetooth v2.0 with a 33 foot range
- Listen to your favorite CDs or FM radio stations; Includes 20 FM station presets
Last update on 2024-12-10 / Affiliate links
iLive iKBC384S Specifications
Item Weight | 3.75 Pounds |
Product Dimensions | 13.5 x 3.8 x 12.5 inches |
Power Source | AC/DC power adapter with battery backup |
Batteries | 1 Lithium ion batteries required, included |
Color | Blue |
FM radio stations | Includes 20 FM station presets |
Connectivity Technology | Wireless, Bluetooth v2.0 with a 33 foot range |
Display Type | LCD |
Includes | Kitchen timer, Digital clock, and Remote, Simple mounting kit, Supports automatic device pairing |
The iLive Bluetooth Under Cabinet Radio with CD Player (official website) allows you to listen to your music from your smartphone or tablet with full control of your listening experience. It helps you to listen to music, news, weather, and traffic on the FM radio while preparing for the day, all while making the most of every inch of room in your kitchen.
Bluetooth Connectivity with Wireless FM Radio
Remote Controlled and Sleek Design
Pros | Cons |
The alarm and radio sounds excellent | Not good reception |
Simple to use | |
Easy to install |
Overall
Video: TESTED iLive Under-Cabinet Kitchen BLUETOOTH CD Radio Music System IKBC384S
3. Sony ICFCDK50 Under Cabinet Kitchen CD Clock Radio – Best Multipurpose
- Bass reflex sound system for rich, deep bass tones
- Built-in audio cable for digital music players
- CD player that accepts burned CD-R/RWs
Last update on 2024-12-10 / Affiliate links
Sony ICFCDK50 Specifications
Item Weight | 6.4 pounds |
Product Dimensions | 13.7 x 12.2 x 3.4 inches |
Frequency Range | FM: 87.5-108MHz; AM: 530-1710kHz |
Batteries | 2 AA batteries required |
Color | Silver |
Display | Green LCD Backlit Color |
Audio In | Stereo mini |
Antenna System | Ferrite |
CD Play Mode(s) | Shuffle, Repeat 1/All |
Station Preset(s) | 15 (FM:10; AM:5) |
Tuner Type | Digital |
Remote Control | Magnetic Remote Control Included |
This under cabinet CD clock radio is the ultimate addition to any kitchen, as it maximizes counter space and blends in with nearly any décor. This device, with its deep bass and impressive sound quality, helps you to listen to your favorite music while cooking, cleaning, or just relaxing with a cup of coffee. You can also attach your digital music player to the built-in audio cable.
Good Sound Quality
Wide Available Connectivity
Pros | Cons |
Occupies small space | The static destroys sound quality |
Amazing audio quality | |
Excellent coverage |
Overall
Video Review: Sony ICFCDK50 Under Cabinet Kitchen CD Clock Radio
4. JENSEN SMPS-628 Under Cabinet Universal Bluetooth Music System – Best Compact Design
- Supports A2DP, NFC for Easy Pairing, FM Stereo Receiver with Presets and PLL Digital Tuning
- Auxiliary Input Jack for Connecting Your iPod, MP3 or other Digital Audio Players
- Hands-free Speakerphone with Built-in Microphone for your Bluetooth Enabled Phone
Last update on 2024-12-10 / Affiliate links
JENSEN SMPS-628 Specifications
Item Weight | 3.04 ounces |
Product Dimensions | 3.4 x 12.3 x 8.2 inches |
Power Source | AC |
Speakerphone | Hands-free with built-in microphone for your Bluetooth Enabled Phone |
Supports | A2DP, NFC for Easy Pairing, FM Stereo Receiver with Presets and PLL Digital Tuning |
Auxiliary Input Jack | For Connecting Your iPod, MP3 or other Digital Audio Players |
Power | 120V AC Adaptor (included), Battery Back-up: 2 x “AAA” Batteries (not included) |
Display | Multi-function LCD |
Volume Control | Digital |
Includs | Clock with Timer Space-Saving Under Cabinet Design, Mounting Hardware, Built-in 4x LED Work Area Light |
The JENSEN SMPS-628 is a Bluetooth Music System with an under-cabinet interface that saves space and can be installed anywhere with the provided under cabinet frame. The Bluetooth-enabled phone’s hands-free speakerphone with a built-in microphone is also perfect for multitasking at any time of the day.
Automatic Volume Control and LED Display
Multifunctional Sound Quality
Pros | Cons |
Easy to install | The low sound quality of NPR |
Sleek and minimalist design | |
Durable construction |
Overall
5. RCA (SPS3688B) Under Cabinet Wireless Speaker with Bluetooth and FM Radio – Best Sound Quality
- EASILY MOUNTED: Slim design and all hardware included to secure under kitchen cabinets.
- BLUETOOTH CONNECTION: Wireless technology streamed from smartphones, tablets, and other Bluetooth sources.
- BUILT IN: Stereo speakers to enjoy music while you cook or multi-task.Large LED clock display.
Last update on 2024-12-10 / Affiliate links
RCA (SPS3688B) Specifications
Item Weight | 2.2 Pounds |
Product Dimensions | 7.7 x 12.6 x 1.9 inches |
Output Wattage | 4 Watts |
Connectivity Technology | Wireless, Bluetooth |
FM radio | With 20 presets, external FM antenna for optimal signal reception |
Display Type | Large built-in LED clock display, includes 90 minute timer countdown and alarm |
Controller Type | Corded Electric |
Stereo speakers | Built-in |
The RCA SPS3688B Under Cabinet Wireless Speaker brings high-quality stereo audio into your kitchen. It has Bluetooth capability as well as an FM radio with 20 preset stations. In addition to this, your media and favorite songs can sound better due to the built-in stereo speakers.
LED User-Friendly Display
Built-in Speaker
Pros | Cons |
Bluetooth connectivity | The clock is difficult to set |
High contrast LED display | |
Slim design and affordable price |
Overall
6. Venturer KLV3915 15.4-Inch Undercabinet Kitchen LCD TV/DVD Combo – Best 2-in-1 Speaker and LCD Radio
- 15.4-inch undercabinet LCD TV/DVD combo (No AV No HDMI Input)
- Flip-up screen flips around and up to save space and protect the screen
- DVD player - compatible with DVDs, CDs and JPGs; Digital/analog ATSC/NTSC TV tuner
Last update on 2024-12-10 / Affiliate links
Venturer KLV3915 Specifications
Item Weight | 9.1 pounds |
Product Dimensions | 16.75 x 5.75 x 14.5 inches |
Item Display Height | 145 centimeters |
DVD player | Compatible with DVDs, CDs and JPGs; Digital/analog ATSC/NTSC TV tuner |
AM/FM radio | With digital tuning and station presets |
Clock and Timer Functions | To bake a cake or roast a turkey |
Includes | Magnetic remote control and under-cabinet mounting hardware |
Flip-up Screen | Flips around and up to save space and protect the screen |
Display Technology | LCD |
Connectivity Technology | HDMI |
So far, we’ve just launched standalone radios capable of exclusively transmitting audio content. This brand-new alternative will provide you with both auditory and visual entertainment. It has a wide 15.4-inch screen that can be seen in complete glory by merely flipping it down. In its colorful display, this LCD screen can stream famous TV channels.
Space Saving and Entertaining
TV and Radio
Pros | Cons |
Available in two screen size | Comes with an expensive price point |
Magnetic remote control | |
Compact flip screen |
Overall
Video: Venturer KLV3915 TV station auto programming sequence