Sangean MMR-88 Emergency Radio Review: An in-depth look

By: Jeremy Neisser

I recently had the opportunity to test out the Sangean MMR-88 Emergency Radio and was impressed with its performance. This radio is not just your ordinary radio, it is the best emergency alert solar weather radio that contains a hand crank and a LED weather alert indicator. The Sangean MMR-88 is a compact rectangle-shaped speaker that contains many different, surprisingly good features.

The Sangean MMR-88 Emergency Radio is a versatile device that can be used in a variety of situations. Whether you are camping, hiking, or just need a reliable radio in case of an emergency, this radio has got you covered. It is equipped with AM/FM radio, weather alerts, and a flashlight, making it an essential tool for any outdoor adventure or emergency situation. The radio also has a built-in clock, adjustable LED flashlight, and a hand-held size that makes it easy to carry around.

Sangean MMR-88 Emergency Radio Key Takeaways

• The Sangean MMR-88 Emergency Radio is a versatile device that can be used in a variety of situations.

• This radio is equipped with AM/FM radio, weather alerts, and a flashlight, making it an essential tool for any outdoor adventure or emergency situation.

• The Sangean MMR-88 Emergency Radio is durable, easy to use, and provides excellent value for its price.

Product Overview

The Sangean MMR-88 Emergency Radio is a compact and rugged device that is designed to provide reliable communication during emergencies. It features a wide range of functions that make it an essential tool for outdoor enthusiasts, emergency responders, and anyone who needs to stay connected during a crisis.

Key Features

The Sangean MMR-88 Emergency Radio is packed with features that make it an indispensable tool during emergencies. Here are some of the key features of this device:

• Multiple Power Options: The Sangean MMR-88 Emergency Radio can be powered using a variety of sources, including solar power, hand-crank power, and USB charging. This means that you can always keep the device charged and ready to use, even when you are off the grid.

• Weather Alert Function: The Sangean MMR-88 Emergency Radio is equipped with a weather alert function that can automatically notify you when there is severe weather in your area. This feature can help you stay safe and avoid dangerous situations.

• LED Flashlight: The Sangean MMR-88 Emergency Radio also features a built-in LED flashlight that can be used to illuminate your surroundings during power outages or other emergencies.

• Public Alert Certified: The Sangean MMR-88 Emergency Radio is certified by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) as a Public Alert Radio. This means that it can receive emergency alerts and warnings from the NOAA, keeping you informed and safe during emergencies.

Technical Specifications

Here are the technical specifications of the Sangean MMR-88 Emergency Radio:

Overall, the Sangean MMR-88 Emergency Radio is a versatile and reliable device that can help you stay connected and informed during emergencies. With its multiple power options, weather alert function, and built-in LED flashlight, this device is a must-have for anyone who wants to be prepared for the unexpected.

Performance Evaluation

I tested the Sangean MMR-88 Emergency Radio in various situations to evaluate its performance. Here's what I found:

Audio Quality

The audio quality of the Sangean MMR-88 is quite impressive. It performed very well in my audio quality tests, producing clear and crisp sound. The volume range is also adequate, and the radio can get quite loud if needed.

Radio Reception

The Sangean MMR-88 has excellent radio reception. It can pick up a wide range of stations, including FM, AM, and weather bands. The reception is clear and strong, even in areas with weak signals. The radio also has a built-in antenna that can be extended for better reception.

Battery Life

The internal battery of the Sangean MMR-88 has a decent battery life. It can last up to 12 hours on a single charge, which is sufficient for most emergency situations. However, the radio does not support disposable batteries as a backup, which may be a drawback for some users.

Emergency Features

The Sangean MMR-88 has several emergency features, including a built-in LED flashlight, an emergency buzzer, and a public alert system. The LED flashlight is bright and can be used for signaling or illuminating dark areas. The emergency buzzer is loud and can be heard from a distance. The public alert system can receive emergency alerts from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and other agencies.

Overall, the Sangean MMR-88 Emergency Radio is a reliable and versatile device for emergency situations. Its audio quality, radio reception, and emergency features make it a great choice for outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, campers, and anyone who needs a reliable radio for emergencies.

Ease of Use

In terms of ease of use, the Sangean MMR-88 Emergency Radio is a great choice for those who want a reliable and simple-to-use device. The radio has a compact design, making it easy to carry around and store, and the buttons are clearly labeled and easy to access.

One of the standout features of the Sangean MMR-88 is the built-in flashlight, which is located at the top of the device. The flashlight is bright and can be turned on and off easily with a dedicated button. This is a great feature for those who need to use the radio in low light conditions or during power outages.

The radio also has a built-in alarm clock, which can be set to wake you up to your favorite radio station. The clock is easy to set and the alarm can be turned on and off with a simple button press.

The Sangean MMR-88 has a large, easy-to-read display that shows the time, date, and radio station information. The display also shows the battery level, so you can easily see when it's time to recharge the device.

In terms of charging, the Sangean MMR-88 can be charged using the included USB cable or by using the hand crank. The hand crank is easy to use and provides a reliable source of power in emergency situations. The device can also be powered using three AAA batteries, which are not included.

Overall, the Sangean MMR-88 Emergency Radio is a reliable and easy-to-use device that is perfect for those who want a simple and effective way to stay informed during emergencies.

Durability Assessment

In terms of durability, the Sangean MMR-88 Emergency Radio is a highly reliable device. It is built to withstand harsh weather conditions and is moisture-resistant. The radio's rubberized finish provides a secure grip, making it less likely to slip out of your hands.

The Sangean MMR-88 is also drop-resistant, which means it can withstand accidental drops and knocks. This feature makes it an ideal radio for outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, and fishing.

The radio's compact size and lightweight design make it highly portable, and it can easily fit into your backpack or emergency kit. The Sangean MMR-88 also comes with a handy lanyard, which you can use to hang it around your neck or wrist.

Another impressive feature of the Sangean MMR-88 is its long battery life. The radio can operate for up to 27 hours on a single charge, making it ideal for extended outdoor trips or power outages.

Overall, the Sangean MMR-88 Emergency Radio is a highly durable device that can withstand harsh weather conditions and accidental drops. Its compact size, lightweight design, and long battery life make it an ideal radio for outdoor activities and emergencies.

Battery Life and Charging Options

The Sangean MMR-88 Emergency Radio comes with a rechargeable 850mAh Lithium-Ion battery that can last for a few days. This battery can be charged using either a USB input jack or a hand crank. The USB input jack can be charged from a computer or plug-in USB charger. The hand crank can be used for charging the radio if its batteries run out.

One of the best features of the Sangean MMR-88 Emergency Radio is its charging options. In addition to the USB input jack and hand crank, this radio can also be charged using solar power or an external power source. This makes it an excellent choice for outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, campers, and anyone who wants to be prepared for emergencies.

The Sangean MMR-88 Emergency Radio also has a 90-minute standby timer to preserve battery life. This feature is particularly useful during emergencies when you may not have access to a power source for an extended period of time.

Overall, the Sangean MMR-88 Emergency Radio is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a reliable emergency radio with a long battery life and multiple charging options. Its rechargeable battery, USB input jack, hand crank, and solar power options make it a versatile and convenient tool for any emergency situation.

Additional Features

In addition to its primary functions as an AM/FM radio and weather alert receiver, the Sangean MMR-88 Emergency Radio comes equipped with several additional features that make it a versatile and reliable tool for emergency situations.

One of the most useful features of this radio is its built-in LED flashlight. With three different brightness settings and a blinking SOS mode, the flashlight can be used to signal for help or to navigate in low-light conditions. The flashlight is also adjustable, allowing you to direct the light where you need it most.

Another useful feature of the Sangean MMR-88 is its emergency buzzer. When activated, the buzzer emits a loud, attention-grabbing sound that can be heard from a distance. This feature can be especially useful in situations where visibility is limited or you need to attract the attention of rescuers.

The radio also includes a built-in clock, which can be helpful for keeping track of time during an emergency. The clock can be set manually or automatically using the radio's built-in atomic clock receiver.

Other features of the Sangean MMR-88 Emergency Radio include:

• A 3.5mm stereo headphone jack output for private listening

• Defeatable 90-minute auto shut off to preserve battery life

• Built-in speaker for listening without headphones

• Hand-held size for easy portability

• Water-resistant casing to protect against the elements

• DC Out (5V / 0.3A) USB A Type Socket for charging mobile phones or MP3 players

• DC In (5V / 0.5A) Micro USB B Type Socket for charging the radio's battery

Overall, the Sangean MMR-88 Emergency Radio is a reliable and versatile tool for emergency situations. Its additional features make it a valuable asset to have on hand in case of an emergency.

Price and Value

When it comes to emergency radios, the Sangean MMR-88 is an excellent choice for those who want a reliable and durable device at a reasonable price. The radio is priced at around $70, which may seem a bit steep compared to other emergency radios on the market. However, when you consider the features and quality of the MMR-88, it becomes clear that this radio is worth the investment.

One of the standout features of the MMR-88 is its durability. The radio is built like a tank, with shock-resistant rubber on all four corners. This means that the radio can withstand a lot of wear and tear, making it an excellent choice for outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, and campers.

In addition to its durability, the MMR-88 also offers a range of features that make it a great value for the price. The radio has three charging modes, including a hand crank, USB, and solar power. This means that you can charge the radio in a variety of ways, making it a reliable source of power in emergency situations.

Another great feature of the MMR-88 is its ability to receive all seven NOAA weather channel reports, as well as 19 preset AM/FM stations. This means that you can stay up-to-date on the latest weather and news reports, even in remote areas.

Overall, the Sangean MMR-88 is an excellent value for the price. While it may be a bit more expensive than other emergency radios on the market, its durability and range of features make it a worthwhile investment for anyone who wants a reliable and long-lasting emergency radio.

Comparison with Similar Products

When it comes to emergency radios, there are several options available in the market. In this section, I will compare the Sangean MMR-88 with some of its similar products.

Midland ER210 Emergency Radio

The Midland ER210 is another popular emergency radio that is often compared to the Sangean MMR-88. Both radios have similar features such as hand crank charging, solar panel charging, and USB charging. However, the Midland ER210 has a longer battery life of up to 25 hours compared to the Sangean MMR-88's 12-13 hours. Additionally, the Midland ER210 has a flashlight that is brighter than the Sangean MMR-88's flashlight.

Eton Emergency NOAA Weather Radio

The Eton Emergency NOAA Weather Radio is a unique-looking emergency radio that is designed to be compact and portable. It has a built-in solar panel and hand crank charging, as well as a USB port for charging other devices. The radio can receive AM/FM and NOAA weather alerts, and it has a flashlight and an emergency beacon. However, the Eton Emergency NOAA Weather Radio is not as durable as the Sangean MMR-88, and it is not water-resistant.

Kaito KA500 Emergency Radio

The Kaito KA500 is a multifunctional emergency radio that can receive AM/FM and NOAA weather alerts. It has multiple charging options such as hand crank charging, solar panel charging, and USB charging. The radio also has a flashlight, an emergency beacon, and a reading lamp. However, the Kaito KA500 is bulkier than the Sangean MMR-88, and it is not as durable.

In conclusion, the Sangean MMR-88 is a reliable and durable emergency radio that offers multiple charging options and can receive all 7 NOAA weather channels and reports. While other emergency radios may have longer battery life or more features, the Sangean MMR-88 is a great choice for those who prioritize durability and reliability in their emergency radio.

Final Verdict

Overall, the Sangean MMR-88 Emergency Radio is a reliable and feature-packed device that can come in handy during emergencies. Here are my final thoughts on the product:

• Design and Build Quality: The MMR-88 is a compact and durable device that can withstand rough handling and exposure to water. The buttons and knobs are easy to use, and the overall design is functional and ergonomic.

• Radio Performance: The MMR-88 offers excellent reception for both FM and AM radio stations. The NOAA weather alerts are a great feature that can help keep you informed during severe weather conditions.

• Power Options: The MMR-88 can be powered by a variety of sources, including the built-in rechargeable battery, solar power, and hand-cranked generator. The device can also charge other devices via USB.

• Additional Features: The MMR-88 comes with a built-in flashlight, an LED reading light, and a headphone jack. The device also has a clock and a timer function.

While the MMR-88 may not be the most advanced emergency radio on the market, it offers a great balance of features and performance at an affordable price point. If you're looking for a reliable emergency radio that won't break the bank, the Sangean MMR-88 is definitely worth considering.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Sangean MMR-88 Emergency Radio a good choice for emergencies?

Yes, the Sangean MMR-88 Emergency Radio is a great choice for emergencies. It is designed to provide you with reliable information during power outages, natural disasters, and other emergencies. It has a built-in weather alert system that can keep you informed about severe weather conditions, and it also has a built-in flashlight that can help you navigate in the dark.

How does the Sangean MMR-88 compare to other emergency radios like the FosPower and Midland ER310?

The Sangean MMR-88 Emergency Radio is a top-rated choice for emergency radios. It is known for its durability, long battery life, and reliable performance. It is also compact and easy to carry, making it a great choice for camping and outdoor activities. While the FosPower and Midland ER310 are also popular emergency radios, the Sangean MMR-88 stands out for its superior performance and features.

Can the Sangean MMR-88 be charged with solar power?

No, the Sangean MMR-88 cannot be charged with solar power. It can be charged using a USB cable or a hand crank. However, it does have a built-in solar panel that can help extend the battery life in emergency situations.

What is the battery life of the Sangean MMR-88 Emergency Radio?

The Sangean MMR-88 Emergency Radio has a long battery life of up to 27 hours on a single charge. It also has a built-in rechargeable battery that can be charged using a USB cable or a hand crank.

Does the Sangean MMR-88 have a built-in flashlight?

Yes, the Sangean MMR-88 has a built-in flashlight that can be used in emergency situations. It has adjustable settings for high, low, blinking, and SOS Morse code.

What are the weather alert features of the Sangean MMR-88 Emergency Radio?

The Sangean MMR-88 has a built-in weather alert system that can keep you informed about severe weather conditions. It can receive all 7 NOAA weather channels and has a loud alert tone to ensure you don't miss any important weather updates.