Some radios use dedicated rechargeable batteries which will recharge when the radio is plugged into the mains, even while you’re listening to it. For many, a Bluetooth radio is therefore a better choice, as you have a far wider choice of radios, and you save money as well. Using conventional batteries, such as AAs. Choose one of our best rechargeable batteries to save money and help the environment. Most portable Roberts radios are powered this way. The Pure Elan E3 (pictured above) is an anomaly in the Pure portable radio family since it takes conventional batteries. Ability to listen to podcasts, audiobooks and music-streaming services such as Spotify (may require subscriptions) without a connected smartphone or tablet. The Retro Mini sounds fantastic with the premium single ultra-wide full range 5W speaker delivering a rich and room-filling audio experience. You can also tailor the acoustics with a range of six available presets for different music genres.

You do also get a greater number of radio stations with DAB+, but they tend to be niche offerings. However, DAB+ is widely used in other countries across Europe, so the main benefit is if you go on holiday: DAB+ support means you’ll be able to continue using your radio when travelling abroad. People often find that it’s easier to access these internet features via your smartphone’s touchscreen anyway, as it can be fiddly to navigate them using the buttons on a radio. Some internet radios have an accompanying app to solve this issue.Although you will get a little distortion at higher volume levels, it was nowhere near as bad as we expected. This mini radio looks great, sounds good, and even comes with a few extra features, like USB charging and Bluetooth connectivity thrown in. Additionally, there are some complaints online about many of these models being delivered faulty – which is a huge issue. The “Pop” option is great for listening to a lot of top 40 radio stations. However, you might need to fiddle for a while longer if you’re looking for something that’s suitable for talk radio. VQ Retro Mini radio: Verdict

The best will allow you to get out of bed in the nicest possible way: the alarm will gradually rise in volume rather than waking you up with a start, you’ll be able to select which days to set the alarm for (so you can have a lie-in at the weekend), and you’ll be able to choose how the alarm will sound – be it a buzzer or a radio station. Miss some features of internet radios, such as internet-only radio stations, podcasts, audiobooks, and music-streaming services including Spotify and Apple Music (may require subscriptions). However, if you get a DAB radio with Bluetooth, you can stream all these features to your radio from your smartphone or tablet. They’re also particularly useful for radios with lots of functionality, such as internet radios, where performing a long series of button presses can get clunky.

Most non-budget DAB radios are also compatible with DAB Plus, although the UK is well behind the continent in taking up this technology. For radio stations that support it, DAB+ offers improved sound quality. What’s more, the Retro Mini can achieve volumes that are a lot higher than we expected when we started testing out this device. However, if you can get a Retro Mini that works properly, we think that you should be delighted by the majority of the features and functionality. If you and your partner need to get up at different times, look for a model with dual independent alarms, an increasingly common feature. Snooze button Make sure you're not influenced by cost, style or brand alone when deciding on a radio, as you could easily end up with one you'll regret buying. Some budget, fashion or nostalgia-focused radios in particular may look great, but can have tinny sound and awkward menus and buttons that are a frustrating pain to use. We’ve also found a surprising number of disappointing radios from the biggest brands. Best DAB radio features to look for

Do consider carefully which features you actually need – you’ll save money by avoiding those you’re unlikely to use. Which brand: Roberts or Pure?Roberts and Pure are the two best-known British radio brands. However, our testing shows that their radios are not always the best, and that they even make some real duds. There are also a few modern features thrown in for good measure, like a USB charging port, so you can keep your phone powered while you’re jamming to your favourite tunes. VQ Retro Mini radio: Features Because the VQ Retro is a mini radio, you can’t expect it to compete with a huge boombox or Hi-Fi setup. Ultimately, this radio is more about convenience and portability than volume.

This way, you can easily buy yourself 10 more minutes in bed when needed. No one wants the frustration of groggily battling with a poorly designed radio when they’ve just woken up. Battery power No matter which colour you choose, the VQ retro mini is bound to live up to its name. The eighties-inspired theme resonates all the way from the leatherette-feel handle, to the wooden casing. The 1960s-inspired radio is classic in design and has a smooth rubber finish, with a matte cream-style facia. Perfect for someone looking for a retro radio with modern features and a vintage style. Retro Mini is born in Britain with expert design & engineering at our studios in the Hampshire countryside.The buttons feel a little cheap and plastic, but they are responsive – which is really what’s important. The LCD screen works well too – and it’s easy to read from a range of angles.