How long does the battery last?

The 12,000mAh cell is sized for multi-day outages, far larger than the few-thousand-mAh batteries on most crank radios. Actual runtime depends on volume and how much you use the flashlight and USB charging.

How long do I have to crank it?

Hand cranking on radios like this produces a small trickle of power, so expect long cranking sessions for a modest charge. Treat the crank as a backup for the solar panel and the battery, not a fast charger.

Can it charge my phone?

Yes. It has two USB outputs, so you can charge two devices at once, such as a phone and a power bank. The large battery gives you more phone charges than a typical emergency radio.

Does it receive NOAA weather alerts?

It tunes the NOAA weather band, so you can hear forecasts and emergency broadcasts where NOAA coverage reaches you. It is a receiver, so it does not send alerts or call for help.

What is the SOS alarm for?

The SOS alarm is a loud signal to draw attention in an emergency, useful if you are stranded or need to be found. It is not a two-way radio or a distress beacon.

Is it good for camping and hiking?

It works for car camping and base camps, where the size and weight matter less. For backpacking, a lighter radio with a smaller battery is easier to carry.