Sony ICFP26 Built-In Speaker Portable AM Radio

Last updated: January 18, 2023


Since this AM radio is small enough to fit in your pocket, it's a good choice when traveling. It has a long telescoping antenna, so you won't have to worry about getting a good reception. It also has an indicator light to let you know when you're batteries are running low.

Sony ICFP26 Built-In Speaker Portable AM Radio

We looked at the top AM Radios and dug through the reviews from some of the most popular review sites. Through this analysis, we've determined the best AM Radio you should buy.

Product Details

Key Takeaway: This AM radio has two indicator lights to let you know when the battery is running low and whether you're successfully tuned into the station.

In our analysis of 93 expert reviews, the Sony Built-In Speaker Portable AM Radio placed 4th when we looked at the top 12 products in the category. For the full ranking, see below.

From The Manufacturer

This compact, vertical AM/FM radio is the perfect fit for rooms where space is at a premium. It features a new LED battery status indicator and runs on two AA batteries — so whether you’re listening through the built-in speaker or via the dedicated headphone socket, you’ll always be able to enjoy great sound.

Expert Reviews


What reviewers liked

One of the most notable features in this radio revolves around the integrated headphone and speaker jack. This gives you a choice of either broadcasting your radio through the entire room or listen to it alone. It also features an LED tuning indicator that enables you to easily find your favorite radio channels at night or in low light conditions. Besides, it features an LED charge indicator that lets you know the remaining amount of battery power in advance.
The pocket radio features a new LED battery indicator, and two AA batteries power it. Therefore, you will always enjoy fantastic sound whether you are listening through a headphone or the main speaker. Furthermore, this portable radio is easy to operate; you can consider getting one for your parent or grandparents. They won’t have any issue when running the radio.
- CMUSE
One useful feature that this radio has is a carrying strap which will be able to give you added convenience when you are on the move. With portable radios AM FM function should be very simple and this device is very easy to use. It is powered by two AA batteries that will last for a long time. The radio also features two LED lights with one showing when the radio is tuned in and the other letting you know when it is running low on battery.
Sony’s ICFP26 portable AM/FM radio is as solid a choice as ever if all you’re looking for something is small, dependable and affordable.
The battery compartment cover happens to be hinged to avoid cases of it getting lost. You will always be warned when the battery gets lower thanks to the dimming of the battery indicator light. As a bonus you will get a carrying strap and a perfectly working telescoping antenna. The portable radio also has an LED tuning indicator.
The Sony ICFP26 is the successor to, arguably, the most beloved device in the history of this product type. Unlike many other handheld models, it has an antenna for better signal strength, and a handy LED indicator lets you know how much battery life is left.
The Sony Pocket AM/FM Radio will fit easily into your shirt or jacket pocket for convenience and easy portability. The AM/FM Tuner lets you choose from the wide range of radio talk shows and music programming, the Built-in Speaker enables convenient listening anywhere, and the Earphone Jack permits private listening enjoyment and improved sound clarity in noisy environments. Additional features include an LED Tuning Indicator, a Telescopic Antenna, and a Carry Strap.
The model runs on 2AA batteries and has an innovative LED battery indicator that helps you know when your cells require replacements surprises. With this radio, you can enjoy your entertainments even in public by taking advantage of the dedicated headphones socket. Its compact size makes it a great pick for your outdoor use. Though it’s inbuilt hand strap, you can easily move around with your radio. Its vertical design makes it a great pick for people who have limited space.
With the carry strap, this simplifies the portability of this radio and to add up on this; the radio is small, compact and easily fits in your pocket or even handbags and you can travel with them all through.
This is a pretty great little radio. It plays mono sound through both ear buds instead of just one like most similar radios. The sound quality is pretty great even though it’s not stereo. Moreover, the signal comes in great condition and the dial is big enough. Overall, this portable radio is highly recommended for those who like listening to radio which is great features and the price is unbeatable.
This compact vertical AM/FM radio is the perfect device where space is a factor. It features a new LED battery status indicator and uses two AA batteries. You will get a headphone socket for personal listening.
It has a more stable and flatter base, easy to use and has long battery life, and can take rechargeable batteries.
This Sony pocket radio is powered by 2 AA batteries, sold differently. The batteries are readily available in any store near you. Additionally, an LED indicator for the battery status is fitted onto the radio. There is also an LED tuning indicator.
This little fella is very competitively priced and one of the lightest portable radios I’ve ever seen. Still, don’t let this scare you off, as it sounds pretty mighty, considering its size and weight.
It is designed for easy and efficient operation, so you won’t have to deal with unnecessary added frills when using it. The Sony ICFP26 has a simple on and off slide switch doubling as the AM/FM station selector, thumb wheel for volume control and another thumb wheel for tuning control. Another one of its useful features is the LED light which indicates tuning and battery status.
The professional and sleek looking design give it an edge over other boxy looking pocket radios. The device weighs just 167 grams, which makes it pocket-friendly. It has a loud built-in speaker and has a headphone jack as well. It has LED tuning indicators and LED Battery indicators. This gadget is battery powered and runs off two AA batteries.

What reviewers didn't like

Unfortunately, the radio does not give you the option of using rechargeable batteries.
If you’re looking for a bit bigger sound in a somewhat less portable package, however, the ICF-506 ($36) may be a better fit.
It doesn’t offer DAB radio and made from plastic and therefore feels quite cheap. The built-in speaker doesn’t sound very exciting.
It looks cheaply built and does not pick some stations in certain instances.
Unfortunately, this radio runs exclusively on batteries. Flimsy build quality.
One downside though is that it’s a bit too big to fit in pant or shirt pockets.
View our AM Radio buying guide for in-depth advice and recommendations.

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