Ocean Digital WR-18 Handheld Portable Internet Radio, FM, Bluetooth Speaker, Micro SD, Rechargeable, 5 Preset Buttons, Dimmer, Auto-Off Timer, Color Display

The Ocean Digital WR-18 Handheld Portable Internet Radio is an intriguing little device that offers a blend of functionality and portability, making it a compelling option for anyone who loves tuning into radio stations from around the world. As possibly the world’s smallest internet radio, it delivers a lot in a small package, but it's not without its limitations.Pros:Portability and Design: The WR-18’s compact size and lightweight design (weighing just 232g) make it incredibly easy to carry around. It’s perfect for those who are always on the move, whether you’re traveling, walking, or simply moving around the house. The built-in rechargeable battery enhances this portability, allowing for use without the need to be tethered to a power outlet.Wide Selection of Stations: With the ability to access a vast array of internet radio stations, from local to global, the WR-18 is ideal for those who enjoy exploring different genres and cultures through radio. The Skytunes Search feature simplifies the process of discovering new stations, and the option to save up to 150 presets means you can quickly access your favorites.Multi-Functionality: The WR-18 is more than just an internet radio. It doubles as a Bluetooth speaker, allowing you to stream music from your smartphone or other devices. Additionally, the Micro-SD card slot lets you play your personal music collection. This versatility makes it a great all-in-one device for music lovers.User-Friendly Features: The inclusion of preset buttons, a sleep timer, and an adjustable LCD backlight dimmer are thoughtful touches that enhance the user experience. These features make the radio easy to use in various settings, whether you’re winding down at night or need a timer in the kitchen.Cons:Limited Audio Output: With only a 1-watt audio output, the WR-18 may not satisfy those looking for powerful sound. While it’s sufficient for personal use in quiet environments, it might struggle to deliver in noisier settings or larger spaces.Battery Life and Capacity: The 1800 mAh battery is adequate for short-term use but may require frequent recharging for those who use the radio extensively throughout the day. Additionally, the battery warning indicator is a useful feature, but some users might find the overall battery life limiting.Bluetooth Range: The Bluetooth range of 32 feet is decent, but it could be a drawback for users who plan to connect the radio to devices at greater distances, especially in larger homes or outdoor settings.Basic FM Radio: While the WR-18 includes FM radio functionality, it’s fairly basic. Users who primarily listen to local stations might find that it doesn’t offer anything beyond what a standard FM radio would provide.Best Suited For:The Ocean Digital WR-18 is best suited for casual radio listeners who value portability and a wide selection of internet stations. It’s an excellent choice for travelers, commuters, or anyone who enjoys having their favorite stations and personal music available on the go. However, audiophiles or those who prioritize high-quality sound and extended battery life might find the WR-18 lacking in those areas.Conclusion:Overall, the Ocean Digital WR-18 Handheld Portable Internet Radio is a versatile and portable device that excels in offering a broad array of internet radio stations and additional features like Bluetooth and Micro-SD playback. While it’s not without its shortcomings, such as limited audio output and battery capacity, it remains a strong contender for those seeking a compact and functional internet radio.

I have a few including he older version of this which is bigger. I got this for its compactness. No instructions needed to program this as I have the older version and programs the same way. Sound quality excellent for size. A big plus is it has 5 favorites selects. Of course it saves many more if you scroll through the menu. Fm is excellent and scans and saves all the local stations. I wish it had am radio also. The bad thing about these ocean digital radios is you cannot replace the battery so you have to throw the radio away when the battery goes dead. The sd card only reads mp3 and not flac like others.

Works good and was easy to set up. Like that it has preset buttons. I’m using it for internet radio and the Skytune had all the stations I listen to. It replaced a old internet radio that I had small extra speakers to use with it. This radio drives my extra speakers just fine through the headphone Jack. The internal speaker is bit tinny by itself otherwise it’s fine. I ran it on batter overnight the first time and the indicator was battery indicated nearly was used up in that time; say, 8 hours. That would be fine for portable use. Most of the time I’m powering it via the USB C and I bought a longer cable to do that. As for Value fo Money I rate it an excellent value. I does what I want it for!

I was a bit skeptical to purchase this radio but let me tell you, DON'T BE! For the money, this is truly a winner! I had it up and running in just a few minutes. Note, the navigation wheel actually turns. You need to push on it enough to make it actually turn. I thought at first you just slid your finger on it. Wrong! This wheel makes entering your search SO much easier! You can also go to Skytune's website and do this even easier on your computer or phone. Be sure to follow the manuals instructions though! The radios usage is actually very easy. Sound quality is very good for this size and you have a great EQ. It's Really good on headphones! Control of playing a TF card is great too! You can pick folders and songs by name. That wheel makes it so easy and fast, much like an iPod. It charges fast and they actually give you a decent cable. You will find this is a great little gem. The only con I could find is that the FM is not super sensitive but then I didn't get it to use FM and it's more likely due to a short whip antenna. Anything on FM you can get via internet radio! If your jogging, use your phone's mobile hotspot. Most people have unlimited data. As I said, the sound out of this little radio is quite surprising. I was expecting a tinny sound but it actually has some bass to it. You have a lot of choices. Internet radio, TF card, Bluetooth from your phone/tablet and media center (UPnP/DLNA standards). All these work flawlessly. I'm listening to BBC-3 now and it's wonderful! No noise whatsoever, great sound, & best of all, I didn't have to travel to England to hear it! This radio definitely holds your WiFi and Bluetooth signals very well and at a good distance too. I have found several nice things that were not in the manual or not well explained in the manual:1- The < key usage. In every mode and every place, other than in modes it will take you Back a step. So if you're doing an internet search, the < key takes you back to where you were at not back to the top of the list! If you're playing a song from a card, the 1 tap of the < takes you back to the song list at the song your playing. 2 taps takes you back to the folder list! Pretty cool! Practically anyplace you are at the < key will get you back to your play screen if you accidentally tapped a button unless it was a shortcut button. 2- Using the <> during TF card play. The manual states that tapping the Enter key will pause the play. But, a long press on either the < or the > keys will take you back or forward a track! (Hopefully they include this in future manuals) Again, this is one Versatile and Amazing radio! I've had it a several weeks now and played it almost constantly. It very rarely drops out and that is only to automatically switch to either my phones hotspot and back to our WiFi or a public WiFi or if the stream itself has an interruption which happens on occasion. I've actually never had an Internet radio that worked this well. I've had several costing considerably more and larger. Funny how even with remotes they were harder to use and search for stations! The website usage is very simple too. The IP address is shown on the top line alternately when you play any station. Just key in that IP in the URL area and you will be taken to your favorites page. You can add, delete, or move the order of your favorites. Moving them is a little tedious, but hey, the world is not perfect. Overall, I am super happy with this radio! I use it in the car, at home connected to my stereo, in the garage, or just with headphones with good classical music. The sound quality is amazing. The speaker is amazing for the small size of this radio.