Best Under Cabinet Radios – Top 11 Picks of 2023

We are always looking for space-saving ideas, and this has to be one of the most innovative ideas for the kitchen. If you like music and spend a lot of time in the kitchen, then you need to be looking for the best under cabinet radio. 

What Do They Do?

As I mentioned, they give you the chance to listen to music in the kitchen. This can be via CD or an AM/FM radio. But they do more than just give you music. Some have a built-in digital clock, a DVD, and remote control. Some have Bluetooth connections and a USB port to charge your phone or tablet. And some, as we shall see, even have a TV.

They are designed to fit in small spaces, often under a cabinet or under a work surface. Functional and practical, they are a great way to provide entertainment without taking up too much space. 

So, let’s have a look at the best options currently on the market and find the perfect one for you.

Top 11 Best Under Cabinet Radios in 2023

 1 Bose Wave Music System IV – Best Sounding Under Cabinet Radio

If you’re looking for an all-in-one music solution for your home but don’t want an elaborate setup with a bunch of speakers and cables, then the Wave Music IV might be for you. It weighs just under ten pounds and will set you back about $400. 

What’s in the box?

It’s not cheap, but good stuff seldom is these days. The Bose Wave IV comes in Black and Platinum Silver. Inside the Box, you get the speaker, a remote, and the power chord. 

Bose is known for being the kind of company that doesn’t mind sacrificing aesthetics in order to make the sound that much better. The most prominent example of this are their somewhat awkwardly shaped but fantastic-sounding wireless earbuds. The Bose Wave, though, is a very stylish and sleek-looking thing that Batman would have no problem mounting on his desk. 

Part of the system…

To turn on the Wave IV, you simply tap the touch control on the top of the speaker. You can connect your source device via a 3.5mm aux cable or wirelessly via Bluetooth or WiFi. Speaking of WiFi, the Wave IV is part of the Bose Sound Touch family. 

This means if you have other Bose speakers with the same capability, you can link them up via your Home’s WiFi network and play music through them simultaneously as if they were one system. There is also a dedicated headphones jack.

Furthermore, the Wave IV has a built-in Radio that tunes perfectly without the need for an antenna. There’s also a CD player for the Retrowave fans and an efficient and handy dual alarms system. 

Logical, intelligent design…

The slim remote works well enough for the basic functions, and the preset system works great. You can press, for example, 1, and it starts playing a specific song with a specific sound setting; there are twelve slots to program presets for.

When it comes to sound, the Waveguide technology performs brilliantly, and you can hear where all those years of development went. When placed in a corner, the speaker creates a fantastic soundstage and really gives the impression of it being a much larger system. 

As for the sound itself, there is nothing but good news. Like most Bose products, there is a definite boost in the low, but it can be countered by using the built-in EQ. Overall the sound is rich and clear, and even when you push the volume, there is little distortion. This easily makes it one of the best all-in-one wireless sound solutions on the market. 

2 Jensen – SMPS628K – Best Basic Under Cabinet Radio

In this modern age of super powerful and multifunctional gadgets, it can be hard to find seething that will just do the basics and do them well. If this is your sentiment, then look no further than the SMPS628K. For around $50, this thing will solve all your problems. 

Basic but functional…

The Jensen has a classic undercabinet design that makes it ideal for fitting into a workspace. The unit may be mostly plastic, but you’re only paying $50, so you cant expect brushed steel and hundreds of lights. Not that the Jesen feels flimsy, mind you, the mounting hardware is solid, and the unit feels well put together. It’s never going to look fancy, but it’s not likely to break anytime soon, either. 

The Jensen comes with an AC power chord, but you can buy AAA batteries to power it as well. It’s got a built-in speakerphone for receiving and making calls. There’s a 3.5mm jack, a clock, FM radio, and you can connect your source device via Bluetooth as well. Finally, the Jensen adds to practicality with a built-in workspace LED light. 

Versatile and usable…

The two speakers in the Jensen do a decent job of filling up a medium-sized space. The sound signature is rather neutral, with no real boosts or cuts in any of the frequency ranges. This does make the Jensen versatile and able to sound good on pretty much anything. However, there is definitely some harshness in the high end and some distortion which can become annoyingly loud at higher volumes.  

Voice quality for making calls isn’t going to win prizes for accuracy, but the mid-boosted sound does mean that voices are distinct and clear, so you won’t have trouble understanding someone on the other line. Likewise, the built-in speakerphone isn’t going to make your voice sound like you’re in the room, but it does the job well enough.

3 Tyler – TKS2-WH – Best Budget Under Cabinet Radio

The Tyler TKS2-WH has a very peculiar attribute that makes it look more expensive than it is. The rounded design with the one big knob is reminiscent of something from a steampunk movie but is also stylish enough to look good anywhere. It sets you back around $50, and that price it’s one of the best value for money under cabinet radios on the market.

The TKS2-WH has an FM radio and a memory of up to twenty slots for saving stations. You can also connect your Bluetooth devices and use them effectively at a distance of up to ten meters. 

Take control…

The Tyler features simple but elegant controls for tuning skipping, mode, etc., on the front. The radio also includes a clock with dual alarms, a snooze, and a sleep function. These are touch controls so cleaning the surface of the radio is a breeze.

There’s a built-in microphone for taking and making calls without having to touch your phone and a workspace light for illuminating the surfaces below where the radio is mounted. 

Great sound for the price…

Tyler’s sound is surprisingly punchy and even warm sounding. There’s an audible boost in the lower mids and lows, but this is just enough to add some body to whatever you’re listening to. All and all, the sound signature is far from unpleasant or plain. There might be some distortion when pushed to the limits, but this would never be necessary since the radio is plenty loud enough. 

Voice quality during calls is excellent, and there is no harshness or unwanted noise in the treble end of the speaker’s voice. The calls are clear, and the built-in mic does a good job of picking up the voice, even if you’re a step or two away. 

4 iLive Wireless Under Cabinet Bluetooth FM Radio – Best Lightweight Under Cabinet Radio

If you like to cook and spend time in the kitchen, this is going to be an ideal companion. The iLive FM IKB318S is a radio that is not going to take up space on your worksurfaces.

The Build

It measures just 9.09 by 7.32 by 2.44 inches and weighs only 2 pounds, so it is going to fit even the smallest of spaces. It has an LCD with a white LED backlight and also has a dimmer control.

There is a digital clock and an alarm feature which is a big plus when working in the kitchen. It will need two AA batteries as a backup for the clock but runs off mains power. A power supply is provided. It is fitted with some basic stereo speakers which deliver a reasonable sound.

Bluetooth

It is Bluetooth compatible with other devices and has a range of up to 60 feet. The pairing button is located conveniently on the front.

The FM radio has twenty memory presets. The reception is quite good across all of the channels. However, changing preset channels can be a bit of a problem. All the controls are placed at the front and are well-labeled and easy to use.

Fitting

It comes with all the mounting hardware you will need, including screws and spacers, so it is easy to install. It’s one of the best basic under cabinet radios around but is still a nice unit at a very competitive price.

5 SYLVANIA SKCR2713 Under Counter CD Player with Clock Radio and Bluetooth – Best Cheap Under Cabinet Radio

This under-counter model is a newer version of a previous item. The original only had a CD player with a radio and a clock. The SKCR2713 model has had an upgrade and is now Bluetooth compatible.

It still has a CD player and a radio but also now features one of the latest versions of Bluetooth 3.0. The button for quick pairing is placed on the front of the unit and is therefore easy to connect up to your devices. Making this one of the most affordable Bluetooth under cabinet radios out there.

Other Features

There is a large LCD screen which makes it very easy to read. It displays the current time or the FM radio channel you are currently connected to. The built-in FM tuner can be used to scan the frequencies to find your preferred stations.

A further nice addition is the inclusion of a remote control unit. This will operate all the major functions of the unit. It is powered by an AC adapter and has a battery backup. The twin built-in speakers offer 1.2 watts of output and provide a reasonable quality.

Mounting Kit

You are provided with a full kit for easy mounting. When you are deciding where to place the unit, there are two things you need to consider:

• Firstly, place the unit where the screen is easily visible; at some angles, it isn’t very clear.
• Secondly, establish a good reception position for the built-in antenna.

You should be aware that this unit does not offer an AM facility. This is very much a best budget under cabinet radio. If all you only need are some basic features, then it will do a good job.

6 Sony ICFCDK50 Under Cabinet Kitchen CD Clock Radio – Best Value for the Money Under Cabinet Radio

Here is a name that needs no little introduction. Where there is sound and music, you will usually find Sony manufacturing a very good option. And that applies with this under cabinet kitchen unit.

The Build

This is a unit designed by Sony to take up as little space as possible while still providing a quality unit. It has a very slim profile and measures 13.7 by 3.4 by 12.2 inches, and weighs six pounds. As a result, it’s one of the best compact under cabinet radios you can buy.

There are several good features of this unit. It is a CD clock radio, but it has a cooking timer built-in. Exactly what you need when cooking. The time has been preset by Sony and, even in the event of a loss of power, maintains the right time. 

Magnetic Remote Control

One excellent design feature is the magnetic remote control. Perfect for attaching to the fridge, so you know where it is all the time. It also has an integrated audio cable for connecting up to your devices.

There is an LCD screen, and all the controls are on the front. This includes a well-placed volume control dial on one end. The body is made of plastic. The battery compartment door is a little flimsy and needs care in handling.

The Radio and CD

The radio plays both AM and FM stations and has 15 presets for your favorite channels. It has a digital tuning function. The CD player has some special features. Most built-in CD players will only play factory-pressed discs. This player will also accept the CDs you have burned yourself. In my opinion a good feature.

The Sound

This is Sony, so you can expect a good sound, and you get it. The bass especially is prominent and at a superior level to most other units of this kind. It has a button on the front to add more bass if you require it. Therefore, it’s one of the best sounding under cabinet radios on the market.

It is easy to fit and set at a great price point.

7 JENSEN SMPS-628 Under Cabinet Universal Bluetooth Music System – Best Large LCD Screen Under Cabinet Radio

The SMPS-628 is another under cabinet radio that has plenty of features at an attractive price point. This is a great under cabinet radio for the kitchen and other rooms, possibly the bedroom.

It is a CD player with a radio and a built-in clock, and it is Bluetooth compatible supporting A2DP and NFC. There is an aux input that allows you to connect to an external device. The radio has presets that allow you to store your favorite FM radio stations. It has a PLL digital tuner for channel selection that is easy to use and located on the front.

The Controls

The front of the unit is where the controls are all located. This includes the pairing to Bluetooth devices. There is a large LCD screen that has a very efficient dimmer feature. That will save your eyes from being affected by any glare at night. 

It displays either the time or the frequency of the FM station you are currently tuned to. The display of the time is large enough to mean you would not need a separate clock in the kitchen or wherever it is located.

The Build

For a budget range unit, the build quality is quite good. It measures 3.4 by 12.3 by 8.2 inches and weighs just three pounds, so it won’t take up too much room. 

It has a hands-free speakerphone that has a built-in microphone if you’re using a Bluetooth-enabled smartphone. The 120V AC power adapter is supplied. It will require battery backup, using two AAA batteries. These are not supplied.

I wouldn’t say this unit has the best reception you will hear. And there is no external antenna option. But for a basic unit that is very cost-effective, it will do the job.

8 RCA (SPS3688B) Under Cabinet Wireless Speaker with Bluetooth and FM Radio – Best Easy to Fit Under Cabinet Radio

If you are looking for a stylish system in white that is easy to fit and takes up little room, this could be the one. Add on to that very cost-effective price, and you might have one of the best under cabinet radios there is.

Easy To Fit

This radio is easily fitted and comes with all the hardware you will need. It has a great slimline design and looks impressive. And measuring ‎ just 7.7 by 12.6 by 1.9 inches and weighing only 2.2 pounds, it is compact and space-conscious.

Just a Radio

This unit does not have a CD, just an FM radio that has twenty presets for your favorite channels. But, it does have an external antenna for FM to ensure you get a good clear signal.

The Bluetooth connection allows you to hook up to your smartphone, tablet, or other devices. You can therefore play your playlists which some people prefer.

The Build

As I have already said, compact in size, it features a large, very visible LED with a clock and a useful ninety-minute countdown timer. There are stereo speakers built-in that provide a decent sound.

If you don’t mind not having a built-in CD, then this is a good little radio. The Bluetooth connection offers online connections to the music of your choice. Therefore, I don’t see the lack of the CD as important unless you prefer to play albums.

9 GPX KC232S Under Cabinet CD Player with AM/FM Radio – Best Analog Tuner Under Cabinet Radio

This under cabinet radio from GPX has a few surprises in-store. It is an AM/FM radio with a CD player built in. But as I said, this has something a little extra. I will come back to that.

The Build

It is nicely laid out with an attractive silver plastic finish. It measures 11.42 by 11.81 by 7.28 inches and weighs 3.74 pounds, so by comparison with some, it is quite a large unit. Nevertheless, as it fits under a work surface or cabinet, it is out of the way.

It has a negative LCD screen which will make seeing what is displayed easier at night. The contents of the screen are displayed against the black negative background. And it has a remote control, the battery for which is supplied. Power is supplied via the built-in AC cable.

The Radio

This radio has an analog tuner rather than a digital one. Some will prefer that as it can give you better control over the channel finding and selection. It is Bluetooth compatible, and so your playlists can be played via your devices. 

The radio is fitted with a 3.5 input jack which also allows you to connect up devices with a similar connection. The controls are located on the front panel and are easy to identify.

A Little Extra

One of those devices you can connect up is an MP3 player. And this unit has a special flip-down holder to carry either the player or your phone. A nice idea and gives you just that little bit extra.

Easy To Fit

All the hardware for mounting the radio under a cabinet or work surface is provided. Just the four screws and spacers make it an easy job. A little more expensive than some, it is a reasonable little unit.

10 Venturer KLV3915 15.4-Inch Undercabinet Kitchen LCD TV/DVD Combo – Best Premium Under Cabinet Radio

And here is something a little different from Venturer. This has been designed for those people that want a variety of accessories all in one place and easily accessible. It comes with all the necessary mounting hardware.

The Not So Standard Features

It is one of the best multi-function under cabinet radios you can buy. You will find it has an AM/FM radio and CD player, which are quite standard items. But this unit goes a stage further by adding a TV/DVD. Because of that, it is a little larger than other such products measuring ‎16.75 by 5.75 by 14.5 inches and weighing 9 pounds.

It has a well-designed and convenient flip-up screen. The screen also flips around and can be placed in a convenient position. Being able to move it around means you can store it away for safety when not in use. However, you might find that you need to angle the screen towards you to get a good picture. That said, it’s one of the most versatile under cabinet radios you will find.

TV or DVD

Activating the ATSC/NTSC function will offer a range of TV shows. Or if you prefer you can use the DVD feature to play your movies. The DVD can play most types of discs. As well as DVDs, it will play CDs. Although, please note that this unit does not have HDMI or AV inputs, nor is it Bluetooth compatible.

Two Antennae

The AM/FM radio has a digital tuner. There are presets where you can save your favorite radio stations from either frequency. There is also an antenna for FM and a detachable antenna for AM. All of the actions for this system can be controlled and adjusted using the magnetic remote control.

It is quite expensive as you might imagine and the build of the unit doesn’t feel the strongest. However, with care, it will give a decent performance.

11 iLive iKB333S Under Cabinet Radio with Bluetooth Speakers – Best Wall Mounting Under Cabinet Radio

Let’s finish our look at the best under cabinet radio by returning to iLive. This is a radio with some useful features. It can be used fitted under a cabinet or work surface, or there is an attachment to fit it to a wall.

FM Radio

You can use the radio to check on weather reports, news, or traffic. Or you can select and save up to twenty of your favorite radio stations using the presets. It supports Bluetooth 3.0, and using the pairing button; you can hook up to any of your Bluetooth-enabled devices.

Some Useful Features

It is fitted with some added features that make it a good unit for the kitchen. There is a kitchen light built-in and a timer, so you don’t forget what’s cooking.

Fitting

As it only has three screws and three spacers, it is quick and easy to fit. And as I said earlier, it can be fixed to a wall if you prefer. All the mounting necessities are included.

The Controls

It has a large LCD screen with a negative display. Many prefer this as it highlights the white backlit lettering making it easier to read. It shows either the time or the station you may be tuned to. The controls, including the pairing button and volume control, are all placed conveniently on the front. Plus, it has built-in stereo speakers.

It measures 9.1 by 7.4 by 2.5 inches and weighs under 2 pounds, so it can fit into most spaces. It comes complete with its power adapter.

Best Under Cabinet Radio Buying Guide

What you look for in an under cabinet radio will depend to a large extent on what you need it for. And, of course, how long you actually spend in a kitchen working.

If you do spend hours preparing gourmet meals, then the more entertainment options included, the better. You may even want to look for units that include a TV.

A good Bluetooth connection is important

It ensures that you get the best use from connecting your devices. And a very clear screen comes high up the list. Other useful features might include a timer.

Fitting is important

But most are very easy and come with all the mounting equipment you will need. Most of the units are compact, but it is worth deciding where you want to place the unit before purchase. This is to ensure there is enough space all around it for any access required.

Looking for Great Audio Equipment?

We can help with that. Check out our in-depth reviews of the Best Smart Speakers, the Best Sonos Speakers, the Best All In One Stereo System With Turntable, the Best Solar Powered Bluetooth Speakers, the Best Tailgate Speakers, the Best Bluetooth Speakers With Radio, and the Best Wireless Outdoor Speakers you can buy in 2023.

Also, have a look at our detailed reviews of the Best Alexa Speakers, the Best Apple AirPlay Speakers, the Best Bluetooth Speakers with Alarm Clocks, the Best Cheap Soundbars, the Loudest Portable Bluetooth Speakers, and the Best Boomboxes currently on the market.

So, which of these Best Under Cabinet Radios Should you Buy?

When it comes to an all-in-one sound solution for your home that has built-in expansion capability and will last you a long time, the…

Bose Wave IV 

….is the best buy you can get.

It might not be cheap when compared to the many other options available, but it does offer much more in the way of sound capabilities and longevity. The speaker can be linked up with current and future Bose products via the App, and that means it won’t become redundant any time soon. Plus, did I mention it’s got a CD player if you’re feeling retro? This is an investment more than a purchase, and you’ll be earning dividends for years to come.

Happy listening! 

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