Jobsite radios provide the soundtrack to many projects. Tool manufacturers realized this several years ago after observing that tradesmen used boom boxes to help raise spirits and maintain productivity on job sites. Figuring they could provide a better, more versatile alternative, tool companies developed rugged, weatherproof jobsite radios with features that workers would appreciate.

The first models were “full size” and best suited for construction sites where decibels and durability were the most desirable attributes. But today’s jobsite radios vary in size, price and features — you can find one that’s ideal for everyplace from the workshop to the campsite. The HANDY editors took a look at (and listened to) most of the currently available models; our impressions appear in the highlighted boxes.

Which one is best?
The real question is, “Which one is best for me?” To find the answer, narrow your choices based on the features you want (there’s no point in paying for features you won’t use) and your budget. If you’ve already invested in a particular company’s battery system, that could be the deciding factor. However, another brand may offer features that you like enough to invest in a new battery. Here’s a quick overview of factors to consider when making your decision.

Power
To qualify as jobsite radios, these units all operate on batteries, but except for the Craftsman and Ryobi models, they also run on AC power. Some, such as the DeWalt and Milwaukee, can use almost any battery made for the company’s cordless power tools. Only two radios, the Bosch and DeWalt, are able to charge a battery. Note that the other radios don’t include a charger, and none of the radios include a battery. The full-size units all have an AC cord wrap on the bottom, back or side.

Sound Quality
All of the full-size radios in this group can produce ear-splitting volume, but don’t expect audiophile quality — that’s not the point; it’s about being able to hear over the noise of tools while you’re working. Even so, all of the radios do offer good, clear sound. Each model has its own sound characteristics, some of which are noted in the individual write-ups. The editors judged the radios in a blind listening test and found the differences between models to be fairly subtle.

Controls
Convenience and ease-of-use of the controls will affect your attitude toward a radio. For example, almost all of the editors agreed that a traditional dial volume control was preferable to push buttons. (If you’re wearing gloves — or just in a hurry — a dial works best.) We also agreed that the information display should be easy to read in any light and that programming and using the station presets, clock and other display functions should be intuitive. (On a busy workday, who wants to take time to look up instructions in a manual?)

Input/Output
All of the radios can use an MP3 player as a media source, but a few, such as the Bosch and Ridgid, provide more or specialized options. The Ridgid includes a dedicated iPod cradle, and the Bosch includes a USB port and an SD memory-card slot. All of the radios employ a standard coaxial miniplug to connect to an auxiliary media source. Some of the radios have weather sealed MP3 compartments; others leave the players exposed. Digital tuning is standard on all models.

Other considerations
Each unit has special features that add to its value and usefulness, depending on your needs. Of course, the degree of weatherproofing (including the speakers) and shock resistance varies, as does size and weight. Some units have external power outlets that are live when they’re plugged in (but obviously not when they’re being powered by a battery).

Reading the write-ups for the radios pictured will better acquaint you with what each model offers. But the bottom line is that you really can’t go wrong — any of these radios can provide an uplifting soundtrack for whatever your day entails.