As already mentioned, crank radios are very practical because they are independent of the power supply. The batteries can be charged with a hand crank. In addition, almost every device on the market offers at least one other way to operate it: batteries, a built-in solar panel or a mains plug. Crank radios are also considered to be very durable, and the memory effect (loss of capacity) is almost non-existent. In addition, there is almost no self-discharge.
A disadvantage of crank radios is that the performance of most models decreases noticeably at very low temperatures (below five degrees) or heat (over 35 degrees Celsius). In addition, the majority of the devices “only” receive FM/AM radio, with which you can receive all common radio stations, but not worldwide ones. There are also crank radios with world receivers or DAB+, but they are rather rare. On some models, this can be installed at an additional cost.