Best Under Cabinet Radio: Reviews, Buying Guide and FAQs 2023

Music lovers who spend a lot of time in the kitchen often consider installing under cabinet radios. Unlike the other models, the uniquely designed radio is usually fixed under the cabinets. The units have simple styles and occupies small space making it light. With this installed, you can operate while also carrying out tasks. This review looks at five best under cabinet radios that are practical and good-looking.

So you can better understand the features of the models currently available in the market. Read ahead and have a hassle-free purchasing and entertainment experience.

Contents

  1. Editors' Picks: Top Under Cabinet Radios 2023
  2. Buying Guide for the Best Under The Cabinet Radio
    1. Design
    2. Connectivity
    3. Installation
    4. Maintenance
    5. Sound quality
  3. Top 5 Best Under Cabinet Kitchen Radio Reviews 2023
    1. Sony ICFCDK50 Under Cabinet Kitchen CD Clock Radio
    2. iLive iKBC384S Bluetooth Under the Cabinet Radio with CD Player
    3. JENSEN SMPS-628 Under Cabinet Universal Bluetooth Music System
    4. Sangean WR-11 Wood Cabinet AM/FM Table Top Analog Radio
    5. AUNA KR-140 Kitchen Radio with LED Work Surface Lighting
  4. Types of Under Cabinet Radios
    1. Under Cabinet Radio Am Fm Antenna-Free (No AM/FM)
    2. Under Cabinet CD Player Radio (No AM/FM)
    3. Under Cabinet CD Player Radio with AM FM
    4. Under Cabinets Radio With Bluetooth Receiver (No AM/FM)
    5. Under Cabinet CD Player Radio with AM FM Bluetooth Receiver Speaker
    6. Under Cabinet Radio With CD Player, Antenna & MP3 Connectivity
    7. Under Cabinet Radio With CD Player & Bluetooth Receiver Speaker
    8. Under Cabinet Radio With CD Player, MP3 Connectivity & USB Port Speaker
    9. Under Cabinet CD Player Radio with AM FM Bluetooth Receiver Speaker USB Port & Antenna
  5. How to Install an Under Cabinet Radio
  6. How to choose the right under cabinet radio ?
    1. Display
    2. Power Supply
    3. Customizable equalizer
    4. Subwoofers
    5. Memory Backup
    6. Remote control
    7. Number of Inputs
    8. Other features
    9. Extra features
    10. Warranty
  7. FAQs about Under Cabinet Radios
    1. Which under cabinet radio with an excellent reception do you recommend?
    2. Can you recommend any under cabinet radio having an external antenna?
    3. How do I install and mount this device?
  8. Conclusion for Under Cabinet Radio Buyers

Buying Guide for the Best Under The Cabinet Radio

Best Under The Cabinet Radio Buying Guide
Best Under The Cabinet Radio Buying Guide

Technology has made mobile users become dependent so manufacturers adapt it to remain relevant. So since the inception of the first under cabinet radios, things have changed. Unlike other radios, under cabinet, kitchen radio models are made to add convenience while cooking. Owning such is not difficult but getting the right is daunting. So when shopping ensure you consider factors as:

Design

For you to get the best out of a radio, consider its style, color, and ergonomics. Aesthetics determines functionality and if it fits perfectly in the allocated space. The design should complement the existing cabinets and appliances. So always think about your kitchen's layout, and pick something to be installed near the sink, stove. However, if this is not practical go for what could be comfy.

Connectivity

There are designs that have been updated by manufacturers to current versions that can connect easily. Should your favorite type not have received this then it is worth to search for close by wired connections. In case, your under cabinet radio needs a kitchen makeover to install cover the required cables in the base. Running wires is quite expensive in such a project.

Installation

Once you identify the nearby cable connection and is ready for mounting, then understand the company's user instructions. Check the recommended mount holes and drill as required by the manufacturer. The process should not be demanding but quite easy. Since the key marketing feature of any under cabinet radio is the ability to save space. The model should have its mounting hardware provided. Indeed, your countertop has no shelf for placing your radio so expect to find these.

Maintenance

Many consumers are often vocal about convenience that a product offers. But where you put your item is either a make or a breakpoint to it. So you must mount it away from extremely hot places because this leads to damages. Ensure the countertop is secure enough and without any form of splash or spills. The radios like other equipment are sensitive so remain confident as you use them.

Sound quality

Never sacrifice this aspect because you are working in the kitchen. Current under cabinet radio models provide sufficient decibel range that is heard over mixers and blenders. The audio system should also be robust enough for high-quality sound.

Top 5 Best Under Cabinet Kitchen Radio Reviews 2023

1. Sony ICFCDK50 Under Cabinet Kitchen CD Clock Radio

Sony ICFCDK50 Under Cabinet Kitchen CD Clock Radio
Sony ICFCDK50 Under Cabinet Kitchen CD Clock Radio

The Sony ICF-CDK50 has existed in the market for a long time. If you ask anyone about the best under cabinet radio, then many will suggest it. One thing people love about it is because it produces some powerful performance. When installed you enjoy its bass reflex and deep bass sound. This also comes out clearly than what other models disperses. Therefore, you can hear your music well from various angles.

The radio looks very basic with well-placed front buttons. Operating it is known to be very user-friendly unlike the other options. Another key feature is that it is digital thus can deliver perfect sound. Its digital music players are supported with the included audio cable. Installation process is easy and takes a short time. Drilling holes is not necessary or even buying an extra support system.

The radio has AM/FM and also can store around 15 stations. Furthermore, it has a one-touch timer that helps you do your cooking in good timing. The accessory can play CD and also CD-R/RW. It simple design moreover makes it to blend well with other home decors.

Pros
  • Occupies small space

  • Easy to operate

  • Amazing audio quality

  • Excellent coverage

  • Simple installing process

Cons
  • Backlight design reduces visibility

  • Static destroys sound quality


2. iLive iKBC384S Bluetooth Under the Cabinet Radio with CD Player

iLive iKBC384S Bluetooth Under the Cabinet Radio with CD Player
iLive iKBC384S Bluetooth Under the Cabinet Radio with CD Player

Finding the best under cabinet radio is usually a hard task. Fortunately, iLive iKBC384S units are here to bring your search to an end. The model is very common and has existed for a longer time. The features evidently confirm why it is worth considering for purchase. It has some fine color and stylish design which makes it to match well with other home settings. Besides, its slim outline makes mounting very easy and not noticeable.

If you are looking for a model with strong Bluetooth technology and light, then this is the best radio for your kitchen. The connectivity allows you to stream music from your device and get matchless listening experience and control. This also enables you to tune on for news, favorite music, traffic and weather updates. Its 20 preset station options enable you to save and select your ideal stations.

The featured LCD screen has a digitized sound control and bright backlight. With this, you can set an adequate noise amount as you desire. The controls are user-friendly to facilitate simple operation. Its big screen also gives clear viewing since it is well-lit. Kitchen timers aids all the cooking operations.

Pros
  • Easy to install

  • Looks excellent

  • Alarm and radio sounds are good

  • Simple to use

Cons
  • Sometimes louder and need adjustment

  • Not good reception is not great


3. JENSEN SMPS-628 Under Cabinet Universal Bluetooth Music System

JENSEN SMPS-628 Under Cabinet Universal Bluetooth Music System
JENSEN SMPS-628 Under Cabinet Universal Bluetooth Music System

The JENSEN SMPS-628 under cabinet radio is designed to provide some amazing music experience while cooking. Many users choose this model because it has a classic design that blends well with traditional and recent decors. If conveniently set up, you can listen to music from different sources. This model also saves up your kitchen space used.

It comes with a LED screen to allow for quick time reading. Perhaps this is a bonus feature since the device can light up your kitchen's working area up to four times. In addition, it has an electronic volume control to produce a clear high-grade sound. The music reaches your ears less affected or distorted by other nearby frequencies.

Mounting the unit needs only basic tools, skills and insignificant time. That means you have no need to look for an expert to help during the installation. It comes with all the needed hardware, four screws, and four spacers and simple instructions.

The FM stereo receiver contains presets and a PLL control. That means you certainly have no worry in case the remote is misplaced. It is powered by an AC adaptor generating 120V and has a battery backup included.

Pros
  • Easy to install

  • Nice design

  • Durable construction

  • Decent sound quality and reception

Cons
  • Low sound quality for NPR.

  • The axillary input provided is not perfect


4. Sangean WR-11 Wood Cabinet AM/FM Table Top Analog Radio

Sangean WR-11 Wood Cabinet AM/FM Table Top Analog Radio Wooden
Sangean WR-11 Wood Cabinet AM/FM Table Top Analog Radio Wooden

Sangean WR-11 radio is a compact and full-featured kitchen counter compliment. Since the design of this unit does not allow it to be moved often, the weight is an advantage. The wooden radio is made from strong MDF making it have a useful appearance. This also improves its sound quality. Overall, the looks and feel are impressive as the radio is worth showing to friends.

The same is easy to operate all you need is to plug it and choose either AM/FM using the tuning knob. This model features an auxiliary inbuilt jack that allows its users to enjoy a personal audio source. Choose either from the inside FM antenna, or connect this external antenna. Its AM-band reception is surprisingly effective and makes it easy to listen to desired AM stations that other indoor radios cannot receive.

The radio has only one speaker that powers its sound experience. But it is all that is needed. It measures 3-inches and produces 65 watts and features a large magnet. This is responsible for the deep bass which is surprisingly powerful and well balanced for all music types. Many people prefer this radio because of its simpler approach and old school appealing features.

Pros
  • Mid-priced

  • Matchless quality

  • Beautiful feeling

Cons
  • Not any battery type is accepted

  • Hard to save the favorite stations


5. AUNA KR-140 Kitchen Radio with LED Work Surface Lighting

auna Surface Lighting • Silver
auna Surface Lighting • Silver


The auna KR-140 is another good addition to the kitchen accessories. This entertainment device not only have good looks but also has practical functionality. Many music lovers appreciate its simple design that contributes to its easy installation. The package comes with mounting hardware and manufacturer's instructions to aid in the mounting process.

One thing that majority of users agree on is that the radio stays safe after installation. Due to this aspect, it is not prone to interference and alteration. This in addition to the worthy in-built speakers makes it to produce powerful sound quality.

The 40 Station Preprogrammed feature makes it to be listed among the most multipurpose in this range. This usefulness makes selection of the preferred station to be easy and also convenient.

Even more, it comes with a well-lit LED screen for choosing the functions and give an awareness about its current operations. The lightning illuminated the cooking area very well. It is moreover easy to operate and clean later on. This radio boasts of a simple 4.1 Bluetooth interface. The feature provides easy connectivity to other gadgets and a hands-free use ability. Radio lovers choose this model as they remain in touch even when cooking.

Pros
  • Powerful sound quality

  • Occupies small space

  • Mounting is simple

  • Extended service

Cons
  • Screen light sometimes need adjustment




Types of Under Cabinet Radios

But what some of us may not know is that there are different types of under cabinet radios. And this knowledge can make a huge difference when it comes to choosing the proper model.

1. Under Cabinet Radio Am Fm Antenna-Free (No AM/FM)

(not all models come with batteries; check before buying)

This type of speakers is usually powered by direct current (DC) which is taken from batteries or an exterior power source. This eliminates the need for antenna because they are entirely operated wirelessly.

For that reason, it's one of the best solutions in places where FM signal can't be received by other antennas. It works even in remote areas and outdoor patios.

Under cabinet radio type without an antenna has another advantage - it doesn't use batteries so you can place them anywhere. No need to limit yourself by the length of the power cord. Just hide extra cables under your cabinets and keep everything clean and tidy.

2. Under Cabinet CD Player Radio (No AM/FM)

This one is similar to the previous model, except that it plays back CDs instead of receiving signals wirelessly. You need to install these speakers near your CD collection because they take up quite a lot of space (usually two CDs). But this also makes them convenient because there's no need for direct current or batteries, which means more freedom in choosing locations where you'll place them (just make sure there are power outlets nearby).

3. Under Cabinet CD Player Radio with AM FM

This variant is similar to the previous one, but it also has a built-in receiver for receiving radio signals from the antenna. That makes it perfect for places where there aren't any power outlets or direct current sources. Just place them under your cabinets and attach external antennas to a desired location, usually a window sill or a wall in front of a window.

4. Under Cabinets Radio With Bluetooth Receiver (No AM/FM)

There are no cables involved in this type of speakers, making installation super easy. You just have to plug in the source of audio - smartphone, media player, tablet etc. Then enjoy flawless sound quality thanks to Bluetooth 4.0 technology which is integrated into some models. Bluetooth speaker transmits signals wirelessly at a frequency range of 2.4 GHz up to 30 feet (10 meters).

5. Under Cabinet CD Player Radio with AM FM Bluetooth Receiver Speaker

This type of speakers has all the same functions as the previous one, but it also comes with an antenna for receiving radio signals and receivers for transmitting them via Bluetooth signal. That's why it offers even more freedom compared to the previous model, allowing you to play back any audio source without having to worry about cables or batteries.

6. Under Cabinet Radio With CD Player, Antenna & MP3 Connectivity

This variant is similar in its construction to under cabinet radio cd player am fm, but it has an additional connector for playing MP3 music. Most models are equipped with auxiliary input, RCA jacks or USB port, which enables you to play audio from your smartphone, tablet or any other device that uses the same type of connection.

7. Under Cabinet Radio With CD Player & Bluetooth Receiver Speaker

This model is similar to #5 in terms of features except for two important things: it has a built-in amplifier and speakers so you don't have to connect separate audio components, and it's capable of receiving signals wirelessly via Bluetooth protocol. This makes the installation easy while providing more freedom in choosing locations where these speakers can be placed because there are no cables involved (except for power cord). 8. Under Cabinet iPod Boombox Antenna (No AM/FM)

This type of under cabinet radio with cd player am fm is usually equipped with built-in speakers and a dock for iPod or iPhone. They have mostly analog controls but some models come with an LCD display which makes them easy to use. The only thing you need to keep in mind is that there's no transmitter installed so you can't play music from your smartphone unless it has a headphone jack.

9. Under Cabinet Radio With CD Player, MP3 Connectivity & USB Port Speaker

This type of under cabinet radio cd player am fm comes pre-installed with a FM antenna and a transmitter for playing back audio files from storage devices such as USB sticks, memory cards and other types of flash media. That makes it perfect for kitchens, workshops or garages where there's no direct current supply or any power outlets nearby.

10. Under Cabinet CD Player Radio with AM FM Bluetooth Receiver Speaker USB Port & Antenna

As the name suggests, this variant comes equipped with just about everything you might need in a kitchen radio - AM/FM receiver, built-in speakers, antenna for receiving radio signals and transmitter for sending them wirelessly via Bluetooth protocol. So if you have an iPod dock on your countertop, you can enjoy less clutter because these types of under cabinet cd player am fm are complete audio systems.

How to Install an Under Cabinet Radio

The downside to under cabinet radios is the lack of bass and often excessively tinny sound. So here's a step-by-step guide for adding quality, tight sounding bass with an amplifier upgrade:

  • Purchase a 4 or 5 channel car audio amplifier. Make sure it's got RCA inputs and outputs, and that you select the proper wattage for the speakers you're going to use. You can get a small, high-powered amplifier that's about the size of a deck of cards for less than $50.
  • Cut two holes in the bottom of the cabinet so the wiring from your new under cabinet radio will have somewhere to go when it leaves the storage area underneath the cabinet.
  • Wire the amplifier to your new under cabinet radio with RCA cables, making sure to connect the positive (+) and negative (-) properly. Attach a power wire from your battery or fuse box to the amplifier. 4) Mount the amplifier in an out-of-the way location underneath your cabinets, near where you'll be placing your subwoofer.
  • Attach an RCA to speaker wire adapter (two male ends, one female end) to the amplifier. Run this wire through the same hole you ran the wiring from your under cabinet radio through. Plug this into the "Aux" on your subwoofer; all sound will now play both through your new under cabinet radio and your subwoofer.
  • Locate a spot for the subwoofer just below or above the location of your amplifier, and drill two holes in the bottom of the cabinet so that you can run wires from the amplifier to the speaker. 7) Attach these wires to your new subwoofer and plug the wire into the "Remote" out jack on your amplifier (you'll also need to attach two speaker wires from the subwoofer to your under cabinet radio).
  • Plug in all of your components and you're ready to jam!

How to choose the right under cabinet radio ?

Here are some other features you should keep in mind when choosing under cabinet radio with cd player am fm :

1. Display

This is especially important if you plan on using your kitchen radio as an alarm clock because there aren't other appliances nearby which could be used instead. LCD displays allow for more precise control of the receiver and make them easier to use thanks to visual feedbacks, whereas many people prefer analog dials because they seem more trustworthy.

2. Power Supply

In most cases, household current supply is all you need to operate these types of kitchen radios, but even they can work without a backup battery. So, if you have a power outage in your area from time to time, it's better to choose the one with rechargeable batteries. But before you buy anything, just make sure that this type of battery is included in the package because some models come without them.

3. Customizable equalizer

Today's under cabinet radio comes with customizable equalizers and pre-set buttons which allow users to adjust everything according to their preferences. Some of these features may use only several sliders (bass, midrange and treble), while others may include more than 10 different frequency bands for each slider. But there are also many options which come without such controls at all - do your homework and check out what they offer before making a final decision.

4. Subwoofers

Some of the under cabinet radio reviews (and audio books too) indicate that when it comes to quality sound, you should look for speakers with built-in subwoofers. If you want your kitchen radio to produce rich bass sounds, then this feature is something you really need to consider. And if you don't know exactly how much power each speaker offers in watts, check out our manual on choosing the right power output for your under cabinet radio with cd player am fm.

5. Memory Backup

If you've found a good model which includes everything but has no memory backup system or USB ports, consider looking at other options because they can be incredibly annoying without these features installed. Nowadays electronic devices can offer a wide range of advanced features, but the most important ones are those which allow you to keep your favorite songs, stations and settings even when power goes down.

6. Remote control

Of course, not all kitchen radios come with remote controls so it's a must-have feature if you want greater comfort during usage. Without visiting the device every time you want to change something on it, you'll be able to do whatever you like from wherever you sit or stand in your kitchen - that's what makes these devices special and unique compared to other types of speakers. 

7. Number of Inputs

Another thing worth mentioning is number of input options available on the receiver (and USB ports as well). If there aren't any additional jacks, you won't be able to play music from anything but a CD player - so if you want to have more pleasure during your daily cooking routine, look for a kitchen radio with auxiliary input. 

8. Other features

Most of the time these appliances come with remote controls, battery backup systems and adjustable equalizers because they can significantly increase overall sound quality.

9. Extra features

If you want something special from your under cabinet radio then don't be afraid to ask for it because most manufacturers are open to custom deals and deals! So go ahead and place an order only after checking out all the available options listed above - that's how you'll make sure that this appliance does everything you might need from it. 

10. Warranty

Under cabinet radios aren't as popular as some other types of speakers on the market, so most appliance manufacturers don't offer generous warranty packages. But if you want to keep your money safe and secure, look for models with at least 1 year of manufacturer's warranty and then enjoy using them until something goes wrong or stops working properly.

FAQs about Under Cabinet Radios

Which under cabinet radio with an excellent reception do you recommend?

Although the above models are the most recommended by us because of good reception, we make this point clear. One main reason that made most of the radio stations to switch to FM during the 1970s was to enable the listeners not to feel the frustrating static. There are radio shows and niche stations that still use AM. This means they are prone to being static if used around power lines. So ensure the select model is not mounted somewhere close to any AC source.

Can you recommend any under cabinet radio having an external antenna?

For practicality and safety purposes, we cannot recommend a particular model having an external antenna. Keeping in mind that extended radio antennas are a safety threat within the kitchen, it is not worth considering. Never forget the truth that some models having internal antennas have issues. But they can in turn be the best fit even in places having poor reception.

How do I install and mount this device?

From the name, under cabinet radio with external antenna, usually they are installed under a cupboard or a cabinet. The best and common place is the kitchen to help save the available counter space. During purchase it comes with its mounting hardware like the fasteners and brackets. Ensure you check the installation guidelines to you put everything in place. Always the removal is more of the reverse of its installation. The aim of buying such radios over the traditional ones is to have convenience. So enjoy this by buying what you can set up without the need for calling for technical assistance.

Buy now at eBay, Walmart, Etsy (subject to availability)

Venturer KLV3915 15.4-Inch Undercabinet Kitchen LCD TV/DVD Combo (No HDMI / No AV input) - Walmart, Etsy, eBay

iLive Wireless Under Cabinet Bluetooth FM Radio, 9.09 X 7.32 X 2.44 Inches, Includes - Walmart, Etsy, eBay

SYLVANIA SKCR2713 Under Counter CD Player with Clock Radio and Bluetooth, Silver - Walmart, Etsy, eBay

Sony ICFCDK50 Under Cabinet Kitchen CD Clock Radio - Walmart, Etsy, eBay

iLive Bluetooth Under The Cabinet Kitchen Clock Radio with CD Player, Bluetooth Wireless - Walmart, Etsy, eBay

RCA (SPS3688B) Under Cabinet Wireless Speaker with Bluetooth and FM Radio (White) - Walmart, Etsy, Ebay

iLive Wireless Under Cabinet System with 10" LCD TV/DVD/CD/FM Radio (IKTD1016S) - Walmart, Etsy, eBay

JENSEN SMPS-628 Under Cabinet Universal Bluetooth Music System - Walmart, Etsy, Ebay

Conclusion for Under Cabinet Radio Buyers

Finally, this review is intended to show the best under cabinet radios. Getting an ideal pick has never been a walk into the park. While purchasing, focusing on aspects including audio quality, ease of operating, materials of design, reliability, among others is vital. The features will make your work in the kitchen space more fun and not unexciting.

Generally, the designs of these nits fit well even in little space inside the counter cabinets. You can listen to favorite shows or even play favorite music conveniently. With the above recommendations, you get to enjoy working here. The listed options above mean you have no need to keep searching anymore. Pick any one model and you will find it is evidently worth buying.

Also check out: Trending Mobile Ham Radios In The Market

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