We tried three torch-radio combos. Two of them had both solar- and dynamo-charging options, so the dynamo could provide a back-up if the solar ran low.
The third (and most expensive) model was dynamo only (a Digitech brand from Jaycar Electronics). It took a few minutes of winding to get the radio going … only to have it peter out soon after. The instruction manual said you could charge the device by plugging it into the mains (although an adaptor wasn’t included). A full charge by this method took 12 hours!
By comparison, the two solar/dynamo models gave us solar-powered sound with no effort. We got reasonable reception (and torch light) from both. The Eton Microlink ($64.95) gave us superior sound compared with the other unbranded solar/dynamo model ($39.95). The sound quality of the Eton Microlink was similar to a battery-powered transistor.
Of the two, the Eton Microlink was the most compact. You could hold it easily in the palm of your hand and it would tuck away nicely in a picnic basket or backpack. It’s designed to provide up to three hours of radio play when fully charged.
The unbranded solar/dynamo model was bigger and could also use AA batteries.
Products compared
Digitech
- Retailer: Jaycar Electronics
- Price: $71.90
- Description: dynamo radio and torch (3 LEDs)
- Extra features: clock, emergency alarm, reading light, mobile-phone charger, mains input, AA battery option
- Dimensions L x H x D (mm): 200 x 130 x 75
Eton Microlink
- Retailer: NZ Nature
- Price: $64.95
- Description: solar/dynamo radio and torch (3 LEDs)
- Extra features: mobile-phone charger, USB port
- Dimensions L x H x D (mm): 126 x 60 x 46
Unbranded
- Retailer: NZ Nature
- Price: $39.95
- Description: solar/dynamo radio and torch (1 standard bulb)
- Extra features: mains input, AA battery option
- Dimensions L x H x D (mm): 203 x 114 x 76
Guide to the product listings
Products were selected from retail stores and online. Other brands/models are available.
- Price is what we paid in September 2009.
- Description shows the details of the product taken from the packaging.
- Dimensions show approximate size.
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