Music can be a great addition to your workshop, garage, or jobsite. In fact, according to scientific studies, people work better when they’re listening to music. Even if you’re not listening to music, jobsite radios can also play radio shows or podcasts to help pass the time while working.
While many people are quick to bring any radio or Bluetooth speaker to a jobsite, that’s not always a wise move. Jobsites can be hazardous environments, and traditional radios can break from moisture, dust, and debris. Luckily, there are plenty of durable jobsite radios for you to choose from. In this article, we’ll take you through the ten best sounding jobsite radios and offer some shopping tips along the way.
- What to Consider When Shopping for Jobsite Radios
- Top 10 Best Jobsite Radios 2023
- 1. Best Overall Jobsite Radio: DEWALT Toughsystem Radio
- 2. Best Budget Jobsite Radio: Sangean LB-100 Ultra Rugged Compact Radio
- 3. Best Premium Jobsite Radio: Bosch Bluetooth Power Box Jobsite Stereo
- 4. DEWALT 20V Jobsite Radio
- 5. Milwaukee 2890-20 M18 Jobsite Radio
- 6. Porter-Cable Bluetooth Speaker and Radio
- 7. Best Lightweight Jobsite Radio DEWALT 20V MAX Bluetooth Speaker for Jobsite
- 8. Milwaukee 2981-20 Bluetooth Wireless Speaker
- 9. Makita XRM06B Cordless Bluetooth Jobsite Radio
- 10. Ryobi P746 One+
- Everything You Need to Know About Jobsite Radios
- Jobsite Radio FAQ
- Wrapping Up
What to Consider When Shopping for Jobsite Radios
Jobsite radios are relatively straightforward products. Still, there are a handful of factors you should consider before you choose one. If you’re not careful, you can end up with the wrong radio.
Type
First and foremost, it’s crucial to determine which type of jobsite radio you want. Some products are just radios that can only broadcast AM/FM signals, while other products offer auxiliary inputs and Bluetooth connections. If you want the best of both worlds, there are a few products that combine both features.
Jobsite Radios
Jobsite radios are simple and affordable products. They’re made with durable materials, sturdy antennas, and offer AM/FM broadcasts. Jobsite radios are typically the least expensive options you’ll find. If you’re just looking for background music or the news, jobsite radios are all you need.
Jobsite Speakers
Jobsite speakers are a little different than jobsite radios, but they share many of the same features. For example, the sound quality and durable materials are similar. What makes a jobsite speaker different is its lack of radio stations and the use of Bluetooth. To use one of these speakers, you’ll need a smartphone or MP3 player that can connect to it. You’ll also need your music library.
Jobsite Radio/Speaker
Jobsite radios/speakers are a combination of Bluetooth speakers and radios. These products come with radio stations, Bluetooth capabilities, and auxiliary inputs. These are typically the best jobsite radios because they offer the most features.
Sound Quality
It doesn’t matter how great the rest of the specifications are, if the system doesn’t sound great it’s not going to be worth the investment. The type and construction of the speakers, the ize, and the audio source connection type all play their role in providing the best sounding job site radio.
Power Source
Jobsite radios are powered in several ways. Some radios are powered by batteries, and others rely on A/C adapters that plug into power outlets.
The tricky thing about jobsite radios is that most of them use the same batteries you use for power tools. For example, to use a DeWalt jobsite radio, you’ll need a DeWalt battery. Due to how tool manufacturers create design their tools, this applies to most jobsite radios you’ll come across.
Also, for most jobsite radios, you’ll need an extension cord. Most jobsite radios come with an extension cord plug but not with the cord itself.
Weight
The weight of a jobsite radio is another factor to consider. Many jobsite radios are portable, but their weight and size determine their level of portability. For example, a heavy speaker is going to be a hassle to move around a jobsite. Bulky speakers can also be challenging to work with because they take up a lot of space.
However, the weight of a jobsite radio can also determine the quality of sound. In most cases, heavy speakers offer better sound quality and louder volumes. At the end of the day, it comes down to your personal preferences.
Price
Jobsite radios are available at a wide variety of pricepoints. Some radios are expensive but you’ll be surprised by how affordable high-quality entry-level products can be. With that said, the cost of a jobsite radio is a good indicator of its quality.
Still, it depends on your preferences and what you’re looking to get out of a jobsite radio. After reviewing the products, we’ve grouped them into three different price categories:
$: Entry-level products, the cheapest in a company’s lineup.
$$: Mid-range products suitable for commercial jobsites.
$$$: High-end, ultra-durable products commonly purchased by independent contractors and construction companies.
Finding the best jobsite radio is not difficult, but it’s important to consider your options carefully. We’re going to take you through the ten best jobsite radios you can find.
Top 10 Best Jobsite Radios 2023
1. Best Overall Jobsite Radio: DEWALT Toughsystem Radio
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts
- Price: $$$
- Type: Radio/speaker
- Weight: 17 pounds
- Power Source: A/C adapter or 12v and 20v DEWALT batteries
The DEWALT Toughsystem Radio is a jobsite radio that comes with multiple features and uses. While it can be used for its primary purpose as an AM/FM radio, it functions as a Bluetooth speaker and battery charger for DEWALT batteries. The radio can also run on DEWALT batteries, making it portable and convenient at any jobsite.
The DEWALT Toughsystem Radio also comes with a sharp sound. There are four full-range tweeters, one subwoofer, and an assisted base resonator. The sound projects across any jobsite, and when used as a Bluetooth speaker, it remains connected up to 100 feet away. This product is also IP54 rated for dust and water resistance.
What Sets It Apart
The DEWALT Toughsystem Radio is unique because it comes with a lot of premium features. Many radios jobsite radios sacrifice sound quality to load up on secondary jobsite features, but you get the best of both worlds with this speaker. The sound is better than most Bluetooth speakers and radios on the market, even compared to non-jobsite radios.
Things to Consider
The DEWALT Toughsystem Radio is a great product, but it’s relatively expensive and bulky. While it’s lightweight, you’ll find that it takes up a lot of space. It’s also a hassle to lug around because of its shape. The DEWALT Toughsystem Radio is also more expensive than most jobsite radios. While the price is fair, it’s a significant investment.
If you need a jobsite radio with similar sound quality for a more affordable price, the Milwaukee 2981-20 Wireless Jobsite Speaker with Bluetooth is an excellent alternative. It’s smaller, more affordable, and it sounds great.
Who It’s For
The DEWALT Toughsystem Radio is an excellent product for people working on a big jobsite. With Bluetooth capabilities up to 100 feet and a great sound system, no jobsite is too big for this radio. If you’re someone who already has a lot of DEWALT tools, this product is also a great fit as it uses and charges DEWALT batteries.
Pros
- Bluetooth range of 100 feet
- Powerful and strong sound
- IP54 rated water and dust resistance
- Auxiliary inputs
- USB charging capabilities
Cons
- Requires DeWalt batteries
- High price
2. Best Budget Jobsite Radio: Sangean LB-100 Ultra Rugged Compact Radio
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts
- Price: $
- Type: Radio
- Weight: 6 pounds
- Power source: A/C adapter or four C batteries
The Sangean LB-100 Ultra Rugged Compact AM/FM Radio is a compact jobsite radio that’s made with high-quality materials. The radio comes with ABS plastic that can take a beating, and it’s resistant to dust and water. Furthermore, it comes with shock-blocks that prevent it from getting damaged if dropped.
While the Sangean LB-100 Ultra Rugged Compact AM/FM Radio is only the size of your average lunchbox, it has excellent sound quality. It’s not as loud as larger radios, but the sound it produces is clear and concise. The Sangean LB-100 Ultra Rugged Compact AM/FM Radio is either powered by a 9-foot cable or four C batteries, whichever you prefer.
What Sets It Apart
The Sangean LB-100 Ultra Rugged Compact AM/FM Radio is unique because of its compact size. It’s the size of a lunchbox, making it smaller than most jobsite radios you can find. What’s impressive about this radio is that it’s as durable as larger jobsite radios and the sound quality isn’t bad.
Things to Consider
The Sangean LB-100 Ultra Rugged Compact AM/FM Radio is a great product, but the sound isn’t impressive. Due to its small size, it doesn’t have many features. There is no Bluetooth or auxiliary input, so you only get AM/FM. While that’s fine for a radio, most speakers include Bluetooth.
If you like the size of this radio but need louder volumes, the Porter-Cable Bluetooth Speaker and Radio is a great alternative. It’s slightly larger but offers more features and listening options.
Who It’s For
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly jobsite radio, the Sangean LB-100 Ultra Rugged Compact AM/FM Radio is a great choice. You don’t need brand-specific batteries to use it, and it’s one of the least expensive jobsite radios you can find. The quality won’t blow you away, but it’s an affordable jobsite radio that can take some punishment.
Pros
- Small size
- Lightweight
- Durable design
Cons
- Not as loud as larger jobsite radios
- No Bluetooth or auxiliary capabilities
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts
- Price: $$$
- Type: Radio/Speaker
- Weight: 24 pounds
- Power source: A/C adapter or Bosch batteries
The Bosch Bluetooth Power Box Jobsite Digital Media Stereo is a well-rounded jobsite radio that does more than tune to AM/FM broadcasts. The radio can stream online music, store music, and it’s Bluetooth enabled up to 150 feet. While it does a lot, it also offers excellent sound quality. It comes with four speakers that project sound in all directions as well as a subwoofer for bass. The audio settings can be customized with separate controls for treble and bass.
The Bosch Bluetooth Power Box Jobsite Digital Media Stereo is also compact and durable. It features an aluminum and rubber roll cage that shields it from debris, water, and impact. For portability, it comes with multiple handles allowing you to grab it from different angles. There are also a handful of USB ports to charge your devices.
What Sets It Apart
The Bosch Bluetooth Power Box Jobsite Digital Media Stereo is unique because it comes with a lot of charging ports. While many jobsite radios can charge tool batteries, this product can charge up to four USB devices. There are a handful of jobsite radios that can do the same, but the fact that this includes four USB ports is impressive.
Things to Consider
The Bosch Bluetooth Power Box Jobsite Digital Media Stereo is a reliable jobsite radio, but it’s heavy. Most jobsite radios weigh less than 15 pounds, but this radio weighs in at 24 pounds. When you move this radio or load it onto a vehicle, it feels heavy. This isn’t a deal-breaker, but it harms the portability of the product.
If you like the compact cube-like design but need a lighter radio, the Makita XRM06B 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Bluetooth Jobsite Radio is a great alternative. However, it doesn’t offer a 360 degree sound.
Who It’s For
The Bosch Bluetooth Power Box Jobsite Digital Media Stereo is for people that need a reliable jobsite radio that serves as an alternate power source. If you have a lot of devices to charge, there are plenty of ports to keep your electronics charged throughout the day. It’s also an excellent product for Bosch fans because it runs on standard Bosch batteries.
Pros
- 4 USB ports to charge your devices
- Long battery life
- Comes with Bluetooth and auxiliary inputs
Cons
- High price
- No 360 degree sound
4. DEWALT 20V Jobsite Radio
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts
- Price: $$
- Type: Radio/Speaker
- Weight: 7 pounds
- Power source: A/C adapter and DeWalt 18V or 20V batteries
The DeWalt 20V Jobsite Radio is a simple jobsite radio that performs as advertised. It runs on DeWalt batteries or an A/C adapter, making it a versatile product. The sound quality is above-average, and a roll cage and steel grille protect the speakers. The grille and roll cage protect against debris, water, dust, and other jobsite hazards.
The DeWalt 20V Jobsite Radio also lets you charge your smartphone and other electronics via the USB port. You can also play your music if you have a device that has a 3.5mm auxiliary jack. Unfortunately, there is no Bluetooth.
What Sets It Apart
The DeWalt 20V Jobsite Radio comes with a unique storage compartment to shield your electronics. Many jobsite radios and speakers come with phone holders, but it’s nice to see a product that protects your mobile device from debris, water, and dust. It’s a simple feature that adds a lot of value.
Things to Consider
The DeWalt 20V Jobsite Radio is excellent, but it’s not a great speaker. Most new smartphones don’t come with 3.5mm inputs, so you won’t be able to use them with this radio unless you have an adapter. The lack of Bluetooth brings the value down, especially if you’re looking for a speaker to play your music.
If you like the design of this jobsite radio, and DeWalt, the DEWALT Toughsystem Radio is a great alternative. It offers better sound quality, Bluetooth, and more charging capabilities.
Who It’s For
The DeWalt 20V Jobsite Radio is for shoppers that already have DeWalt products and need a simple radio. If you have DeWalt batteries, you’ll have everything you need right out of the box. While it doesn’t offer advanced features, it’s a budget-friendly jobsite radio that will last you years.
Pros
- Clear and concise sound
- Storage space for your electronics
- Resistant to dust, debris, and water
- Lightweight
Cons
- No Bluetooth connectivity
5. Milwaukee 2890-20 M18 Jobsite Radio
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts
- Price: $$
- Type: Radio/speaker
- Weight: 12 pounds
- Power source: A/C adapter M18 Milwaukee batteries
The Milwaukee 2890-20 18V Dual Chemistry M18 Jobsite Radio is a well-rounded radio that comes with unique features to make work easier. It comes with AM/FM frequencies and a robust antenna to give you excellent reception, even if you’re working underground. This jobsite radio also lets you charge your smartphone; you can also directly play music from your phone with a 3.5mm auxiliary jack.
The Milwaukee 2890-20 18V Dual Chemistry M18 Jobsite Radio is also durable. It has shock-absorbent side caps and a roll cage to keep it safe if dropped. While the sound quality isn’t adjustable, the speakers are loud enough to fill most spaces.
What Sets It Apart
The Milwaukee 2890-20 18V Dual Chemistry M18 Jobsite Radio is unique because it comes with a sturdy antenna and long battery life. The antenna is large, but it can be folded to reduce the chances of it breaking. The battery life is also longer than most jobsite radios because it doesn’t use Bluetooth. While Bluetooth is a convenient feature, it can drain batteries quickly.
Things to Consider
The Milwaukee 2890-20 18V Dual Chemistry M18 Jobsite Radio is a great radio but not a great speaker. While the lack of Bluetooth helps the battery last longer, it’s an inconvenience. If you have a new smartphone that doesn’t have a 3.5mm input, you won’t be able to connect your phone to it.
If you prefer a jobsite radio that has Bluetooth, the Milwaukee 2981-20 Wireless Jobsite Speaker with Bluetooth is a great alternative. It’s made by the same company and combines wireless connection technology with excellent sound quality.
Who It’s For
The Milwaukee 2890-20 18V Dual Chemistry M18 Jobsite Radio is an excellent choice for people that don’t need fancy features. If you’re just looking for a high-quality jobsite radio, this is a great product. It has a long battery life and a sturdy antenna to give you reception when you need it.
Pros
- Affordable price
- Long battery life
- Sturdy and foldable antenna that works underground
Cons
- No Bluetooth connectivity
- No carrying handle
6. Porter-Cable Bluetooth Speaker and Radio
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts
- Price: $$
- Type: Radio/speaker
- Weight: 10 pounds
- Power source: A/C adapter or Porter-Cable batteries
The Porter-Cable Bluetooth Speaker and Radio is a small and powerful jobsite radio. It projects high-quality sound through two speakers, and you can customize the bass and treble to your preference. The speakers are protected by a shock-absorbent plastic roll cage that shields it from water, dust, and debris.
The Porter-Cable Bluetooth Speaker and Radio also has Bluetooth and auxiliary capabilities. Users can connect their smart devices and play their favorite songs, using it as a speaker instead of an AM/FM radio. You can also create up to twelve AM/FM presets to save your favorite radio stations.
What Sets It Apart
The Porter-Cable Bluetooth Speaker and Radio is unique because it gives you the ability to save your favorite radio stations. This makes it easy to tune into your favorite station without any effort. Simply turn it on, select your preset, and enjoy. While other jobsite radios offer this feature, it’s rare to see twelve preset options.
Things to Consider
The Porter-Cable Bluetooth Speaker and Radio is an excellent jobsite radio, but it’s not a superior product. There are no USB ports to charge your devices, and it can’t charge Porter-Cable tools. It works well as a jobsite radio but with no Bluetooth or auxiliary port, radio is all you get.
If you’re looking for a product that can charge your devices that’s in a similar price range, the Makita XRM06B 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Bluetooth Jobsite Radio is a great alternative. It allows you to charge your tools and other electronics.
Who It’s For
The Porter-Cable Bluetooth Speaker and Radio is a good fit for people looking for a simple radio. It’s simple to use, small, and lightweight. Compared to other jobsite radios, it can save more stations, and the controls are simple to operate. Plus, if you have Porter-Cable tools, you already have the batteries you need.
Pros
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Small and compact design
- Durable construction
- Simple controls with 12 presets
Cons
- No auxiliary input
- No USB ports
7. Best Lightweight Jobsite Radio DEWALT 20V MAX Bluetooth Speaker for Jobsite
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts
- Price: $
- Type: Bluetooth speaker
- Weight: 3 pounds
- Power source: A/C adapter or DeWalt Batteries
The DEWALT 20V MAX Bluetooth Speaker for Jobsite is a small and simple Bluetooth speaker that offers excellent sound and durability. There are two speakers housed behind the metal casing to project great sound without exposing the speakers to debris, water, or dust. The speakers are also protected by impact-resistant housing for additional protection.
The DEWALT 20V MAX Bluetooth Speaker for Jobsite is also lightweight and easy to use. You can control everything from the speaker, and it only weighs three pounds. Its weight and handle make it easy to carry around the jobsite, but in most cases, you won’t need to thanks to its Bluetooth range of 100 feet.
What Sets It Apart
The DEWALT 20V MAX Bluetooth Speaker for Jobsite is unique because it comes with a phone holder. The phone holder is nothing special, but it gives you a place to keep your phone when you’re working. You can also control your music from the speaker, so you can set your phone down and forget about it. The DEWALT 20V MAX Bluetooth Speaker for Jobsite is also lighter than most products, weighing only three pounds.
Things to Consider
The DeWalt 20V MAX Bluetooth Speaker for Jobsite is great, but it doesn’t offer radio stations. While you can play the radio on your smart device, you might not have access to your phone when working. Most people prefer Bluetooth speakers to radios, but it’s nice to have an AM/FM option if your phone dies or has no service.
If you like the size of the DeWalt 20V MAX Bluetooth Speaker for Jobsite but need radio stations, the Porter-Cable Bluetooth Speaker and Radio is an excellent option. It’s similar in size, price, and sound quality.
Who It’s For
The DeWalt 20V MAX Bluetooth Speaker for Jobsite is a great speaker for people that don’t need radio stations. If you’ll be using a jobsite radio for the Bluetooth or auxiliary capabilities, this is an affordable product that offers above-average sound.
Pros
- Phone holder on the handle to protect your phone
- Easy to use
- Affordable price
- Long battery life
- Lightweight
Cons
- No AM/FM stations
- Not as loud as other jobsite radios
8. Milwaukee 2981-20 Bluetooth Wireless Speaker
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts
- Price: $$
- Type: Speaker
- Weight: 6 pounds
- Power source: M18/M12 Milwaukee batteries
The Milwaukee 2981-20 Wireless Jobsite Speaker with Bluetooth is a compact and portable jobsite speaker without radio capability. What it lacks in radio stations it makes up for in sound quality. While the speaker is small and lightweight, it uses two high-definition mid-woofers and two high-range tweeters to project a clear sound at high volumes. To keep the sound quality stable through all ranges and emphasize bass, the speaker also comes with two passive radiators.
The Milwaukee 2981-20 Wireless Jobsite Speaker with Bluetooth does more than produce high-quality sound. It can charge your electronics with a USB input and has a Bluetooth range of 100 feet. For protection, the speaker comes with a steel grille, roll cage, and reinforced side caps. These reinforcements keep the speaker safe from water, debris, and jobsite dust.
What Sets It Apart
The Milwaukee 2981-20 Wireless Jobsite Speaker with Bluetooth is unique because it’s one of the most durable speakers you can find. While it looks like your average Bluetooth speaker, the hexagon shape lets it roll without taking too much damage and protects the speakers on all sides. It doesn’t look like it has a lot of safety features, due to its compact design, but looks can be deceiving.
Things to Consider
There are two things we dislike about the Milwaukee 2981-20 Wireless Jobsite Speaker with Bluetooth. First and foremost, it doesn’t include FM/AM radio. Secondly, it doesn’t have a handle. This makes the speaker awkward to carry.
If you like the size of the speaker, but want AM/FM stations, the Ryobi P746 One+ is a great choice. It doesn’t sound as good as this speaker, but it’s more versatile.
Who It’s For
If you’re looking for a premium jobsite speaker that produces a great sound, the Milwaukee 2981-20 Wireless Jobsite Speaker with Bluetooth is an excellent product for you. In fact, it’s even better if you have Milwaukee tools because you won’t need to purchase additional batteries. While the speaker is expensive, for the sound it produces, it’s well worth it.
Pros
- Durable roll cage and impact-resistant grill
- Lightweight
- Compact
- High-quality sound from multiple speakers and tweeters
Cons
- No AM/FM stations
9. Makita XRM06B Cordless Bluetooth Jobsite Radio
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts
- Price: $$
- Type: Radio/speaker
- Weight: 24 pounds
- Power source: A/C adapter and 17.2V, 14.4V, and 18V LXT lithium-ion batteries
Makita XRM06B 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Bluetooth Jobsite Radio is a convenient and safe jobsite radio. It’s lightweight and has a handle on the top for enhanced portability. The radio is also dust and water-resistant, making it useful at any jobsite. To increase safety, Makita uses bumpers around the speaker to ensure it doesn’t get damaged if dropped.
The sound projects from two 3.5″ speakers on both sides of the speaker. You can choose between AM/FM radio or use your own devices. There is an input for an auxiliary cable, or you can use Bluetooth to operate the speaker from a distance. While the radio comes with large speakers, it’s compact. The design resembles a cube, so it doesn’t take up a lot of space.
What Sets It Apart
The Makita XRM06B 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Bluetooth Jobsite Radio is unique because of its shape. Most jobsite radios are rectangular and long, which can make them awkward for some jobsites. The cube-like design conserves space and gives you more room to work without having to worry about stepping on it.
The Makita XRM06B 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Bluetooth Jobsite Radio is unique because it can run on different types of batteries. It can be powered by any of the multiple varieties of Makita batteries.
Things to Consider
The Makita XRM06B 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Bluetooth Jobsite Radio is a great product, but it’s bulky and clumsy to carry. While the handle makes it easy to grab, it’s quite heavy. This can make it challenging to get a good grip on the speaker if you’re in a tight space.
If you like the style and cube-like design, but need a speaker that’s easier to move, the Bosch Bluetooth Power Box Jobsite Digital Media Stereo is a great alternative.
Who It’s For
The Makita XRM06B 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Bluetooth Jobsite Radio is an excellent product for people that already have Makita products. All of Makita’s batteries are interchangeable. For example, if you have a Makita drill, you can use that battery to power the radio.
Pros
- Cube-like design helps it fit in tight spaces
- The large handle makes it easy to carry
- Bluetooth and auxiliary connections
- Runs on most Makita batteries and it's compatible with some other brands batteries
Cons
- Heavy weight
- Large handle makes it feel clumsy in some spaces
10. Ryobi P746 One+
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts
- Price: $
- Type: Radio/speaker
- Weight: 7 pounds
- Power source: A/C adapter or Ryobi batteries
The Ryobi P746 One+ is a compact jobsite radio that lets you customize your listening experience. You can adjust the sound quality with an equalizer, for bass and treble, and choose between AM/FM frequencies. While the radio stations work well, you can also use Bluetooth and listen to your music. The sound is also balanced between two speakers that produce a clear and loud sound.
The Ryobi P746 One+ is an excellent jobsite radio, but it does more than just play music. There is a USB port to charge your devices and tools and a small handle to help you carry it. For protection, the Ryobi P746 One+ uses a durable metal cage to prevent water, dust, and debris from damaging the speakers.
What Sets It Apart
The Ryobi P746 One+ is unique because you can connect it to other speakers. While it sounds great on its own, if you want more, you can bring another speaker to the jobsite for more sound. This is an excellent feature for people that already have a portable speaker and allows you to take this radio to the next level.
Things to Consider
The Ryobi P746 One+ is a great radio, but the sound quality is only average. While it’s loud for its size, the DEWALT 20V MAX Bluetooth Speaker for Jobsite is smaller, louder, and lighter.
Who It’s For
The Ryobi P746 One+ is an excellent product for frequent Ryobi shoppers. If you have a few Ryobi tools, you don’t need to worry about paying for extra batteries if you want to use this radio without the wire. It’s also an excellent fit for shoppers that want to use a jobsite radio alongside another portable speaker.
Pros
- Can connect to other speakers
- Lightweight
- Compact size
- Lets you charge your devices
Cons
- Not as loud as other jobsite radios
Everything You Need to Know About Jobsite Radios
Jobsite radios come with a wide range of features, which makes it challenging to settle on a product. While it’s easier to find one with the best jobsite radios in front of you, you still need to choose carefully. We’re going to take you through everything you need to know about jobsite radios so that you can narrow down your options.
Types of Jobsite Radios
First and foremost, you should take some time to consider which type of jobsite radio fits your needs. There are three types to choose from, and each one has benefits and drawbacks.
Jobsite Radios
We’ll start with traditional jobsite radios. Jobsite radios are simple products that let you choose between AM and FM frequencies. Some radios allow you to save presets, and some radios will enable you to charge your electronics. Traditional jobsite radios are typically inexpensive and have longer battery lives because they don’t require Bluetooth connections.
If you’re just looking for background noise at your jobsite or the daily news, a jobsite radio is a great choice. We recommend the Sangean LB-100 Ultra Rugged Compact AM/FM Radio because it’s inexpensive, compact, and lightweight.
Jobsite Speakers
Jobsite speakers don’t have FM or AM radio stations. Instead, these products rely on a smartphone or MP3 player to play music. If you have a favorite playlist or a vast music library to choose from, jobsite speakers are a great choice. Plus, you can always tune into radio stations on your phone. Still, they’re not for everyone, especially if you don’t bring your phone with you to work.
If you like the idea of a jobsite speaker without radio, we recommend the Milwaukee 2981-20 Wireless Jobsite Speaker with Bluetooth. While it’s small, it produces a high-quality sound and boasts impressive durability.
Combination Jobsite Radio/Speakers
Jobsite radios and speakers are a combination of radios and speakers. They offer AM and FM radio stations and also allow you to connect your phone to play your music. The price of these products varies, but on average, they’re more expensive than jobsite radios and jobsite speakers.
Our favorite jobsite radio/speaker combination is the DEWALT Toughsystem Radio. It offers excellent sound quality, charges your tools and phone, and comes with Bluetooth and auxiliary capabilities.
Popular Jobsite Radio Brands
What makes shopping for jobsite radios complicated is their reliance on brand-specific batteries. Most products don’t come with batteries, so if you choose a DeWalt jobsite radio, you’ll need to shop for batteries separately.
While this can be a hassle, if you already have power tools from a brand like DeWalt, you’ll be able to use the same batteries you already own. This way, you don’t need to worry about shopping for additional batteries.
DeWalt
If you use DeWalt tools, you have a few options, although things are complicated by the fact that DeWalt has two different battery options. For example, a DeWalt 18V battery won’t work in a product that requires 20V DeWalt batteries.
If you’re a fan of DeWalt tools, we recommend the DEWALT Toughsystem Radio. It can run on both 18V and 20V DeWalt batteries.
If you’re looking for a more affordable DeWalt jobsite radio, the DEWALT 20V Jobsite Radio is inexpensive and compact. It runs on DeWalt 20V batteries and produces a high-fidelity sound.
Milwaukee
Milwaukee is an excellent brand that manufactures a lot of different tools. Unfortunately, a lot of Milwaukee tools use different batteries. Some Milwaukee tools use M18 batteries, and others use M12 batteries. This can make choosing the right Milwaukee jobsite radio difficult.
Luckily, the Milwaukee 2981-20 Wireless Jobsite Speaker with Bluetooth can run on both. If you already have a few Milwaukee tools, this product is a great choice.
Porter-Cable
Porter-Cable tools are common because of their low price and durability. Unfortunately, there aren’t too many models of Porter-Cable jobsite radios. Still, the Porter-Cable Bluetooth Speaker and Radio is a great product. It comes with AM/FM stations and Bluetooth connectivity.
Bosch
Bosch is another common tool company that a lot of people are familiar with. The brand produces high-quality tools for woodwork, plumbing, carpentry, and masonry.
While there are a few Bosch products to choose from, the Bosch Bluetooth Power Box Jobsite Digital Media Stereo is our favorite. It comes with a lot of USB charging ports, 360° sound, and a durable cube-like design that doesn’t take up too much space.
Makita
Makita is a brand a lot of shoppers are familiar with. Their tools are inexpensive and reliable, making it easy to get your hands on a handful of tools. If you have a few Makita power tools, we recommend the Makita XRM06B 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Bluetooth Jobsite Radio. It runs on a lot of different Makita batteries, and some batteries from other brands are also compatible.
Ryobi
If you’re a fan of Ryobi tools, we have the perfect jobsite radio for you. The Ryobi P746 One+ is an excellent jobsite radio/speaker combo. It offers an auxiliary input to connect your phone, and you can add additional speakers for better sound quality.
No Specific Brand
If you use different tools from different brands, finding a jobsite radio becomes challenging. Luckily, some radios don’t rely on brand-specific batteries.
Options are limited, but the Sangean LB-100 Ultra Rugged Compact AM/FM Radio is a great choice. While the sound quality isn’t up to par with other products, it’s affordable and runs on four C batteries.
Jobsite Radio FAQ
Do I Need a Jobsite Radio?
If you work in a garage, workshop, or work in a trade like carpentry, you should consider a jobsite radio. They have durable designs and won’t break due to water, debris, or dust. Plus, the sound of music or the news is scientifically proven to help you focus and give your ears a break from jobsite noise.
What’s the Difference Between Jobsite Radios and Traditional Radios/Speakers?
You might be tempted to bring your regular Bluetooth speaker or radio to the jobsite, but we advise against that. A jobsite can be a hazardous location for normal speakers due to high levels of dust, debris, and moisture.
Jobsite radios are unique because they’re shielded from harm. They include roll cages, durable plastics, padded side caps, metal grills, and other features that keep them safe.
Should I Choose a Jobsite Radio Based on Brands I Already Use?
If possible, you should choose a jobsite radio based on brands you already use for work. Jobsite radios rely on A/C adapters or brand-specific batteries. This means that you’ll need to shop for batteries unless you already have batteries that are compatible with the radio.
Wrapping Up
Jobsite radios are meant to make work a little more entertaining. While it’s possible to use traditional radios and speakers, jobsite radios offer more charging options, sturdier designs, and better portability. They’re designed to handle the dust, debris, and moisture that can damage conventional speakers.
While jobsite radios are relatively straightforward products, it’s essential to choose wisely. One speaker might work well for some but end up being useless for others. Before purchasing a speaker, carefully consider its features and compatibility with your existing tools.