David Bridges
Essential points
- Technology: DAB stands for digital audio broadcasting, delivering superior audio quality.
- Stations: There are over 50 national DAB stations available, including major names like BBC Radio 1 and Capital.
- FM Compatibility: Most DAB radios also support FM, but it’s important to verify this feature before purchasing.
- Sound Quality: DAB radios generally offer better sound quality and more information about the content being played.
Tune out the naysayers because radio is alive and well. The likes of Amazon Music and Spotify were supposed to bring about a revolution in how we listen to music, but radio refuses to go quietly. Millions of people still tuning in to their favourite shows and stations, despite all of the podcasts and streaming platforms now available.
This is partly because of the growing popularity of DAB (digital audio broadcasting) radio, which is an upgrade itself on the very concept of radio. It promises less interference, a bigger choice of stations, and a stronger signal. Sounds good, right?
In other words, you need a DAB radio. After all, most DAB radios double up as a Bluetooth speaker, so you’re getting a 2-in-1 device. Before you part with your hard-earned cash, it’s worth knowing more about DAB radios and what they can do. Here’s some useful information and a round-up of the best DAB radios right now.
What is DAB radio?
DAB stands for digital audio broadcasting — a nifty term for digital technology that transmits radio stations in excellent audio quality. DAB technology combines numerous stations into a group called a multiplex.
What is a DAB radio multiplex?
There are several national multiplexes in the UK. What this means is that multiple stations are broadcast together using a single frequency, as opposed to FM radio, where each station needs its own specific frequency. Your DAB radio receives the multiplex and picks out each individual station.
Do DAB radios pick up FM too?
Most DAB radios also have the option for FM, but make sure before purchasing — especially if having FM as well as DAB is a deal breaker.
What stations are available on DAB?
There are currently more than 50 national stations broadcasting in DAB. These include all the big hitters — BBC Radio 1, Capital, Classic FM, Heart, LBC, Magic, Radio X, talkRADIO, TalkSport, Virgin, and lots more. That’s not counting all the local and regional DAB stations too, which total 500-plus. These can also be listened to via compatible smart speakers, or over the internet via a desktop or smart device.
Do DAB radios have good sound quality?
Digital signals are generally more reliable than analogue signals, and DAB reception now stretches across almost all of the UK. This means that digital radios should be able to pick up a better quality of sound. More information can also be sent through digital signals, meaning stations can provide details like the name of the song or the artist.
Can you get DAB radio in your area?
Unlike regular radio, you won’t get an annoying hiss if you’re in a weak area. You either get DAB radio, or you don’t. For UK listeners, there’s a postcode checker. Unless you’re way out in the sticks, you should be fine. Experts recommend re-tuning your DAB every now and then to make sure you’re getting all available stations.
What is DAB+?
DAB+ is an upgraded version of DAB. It allows even more stations to be broadcast and has the capacity for even higher audio quality. Not all DAB radios have DAB+ so be sure to check. You’ll generally find that premium DAB radios are equipped with DAB+. Some DAB-only models are upgradeable to DAB+ with a firmware download.
What is internet radio?
This differs slightly from DAB radio. It’s radio broadcast online, which means you’ll need a radio with WiFi capability to listen to it. Some of the radios listed below have WiFi, though not all of them — so be sure you check the specifications before making a purchase. The benefit of internet radio is that you can listen to stations from all around the globe, meaning you have lots more choice. All you need is WiFi.
What is the best DAB radio?
It’s no surprise that some of the most popular audio brands have released digital radios, and we’ve tracked down a selection of the very best options. All you need to do is pick a favourite and tune in. There’s something here for every listener.
These are the best digital radios for 2025.
Brandon Fletcher
