FRX3 or FRX4? Combined radio / emergency USB charger dedicated to hiking

This comment concerns FRX3 FRX4 models, which have a lot of differences Despite Similar features. The main difference is the size: the FRX4 ultra compact model is better suited to transport.
There is also a version resistant to water, Lithium battery, normal size (FRX5) and two basic versions, analog FRX1 / FRX2.
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Radios operating with a dynamo not new. They were a little out of fashion ... With these models, the manufacturer offers a rebate to date of this principle: Rechargeable battery radio, digital tuner, backlit display and a USB charging function. But no automatic adjustment or RDS. Operate FM / LW / MW.

In addition to the dynamo, coupled with the NiMH battery (FRX3) or Li-ion (FRX4) provided, it is possible to recharge the radio via the integrated solar cell device and even via the USB input: one cable is provided, simply connect the radio to a USB charger or a computer. On this point, the FRX4, probably of more recent design, is more interesting because it is a micro USB socket (the same as most modern phones) while the FRX3 offers a mini USB become less common. Finally, there is a conventional battery, which one will seldom need a priori. The two models offer an alarm clock.

Orders are few, ease of use would however have been improved on the FRX3 (FRX4 is the most successful!) But I would have appreciated an automatic search for stations with storage of FM radios, and shortcut keys therefor.

Warning, these radios are not compatible DAB / DAB + (that is certainly neither widespread nor very useful at the moment.)

In addition to an auxiliary input and headphone output, two additional functions are available, a built-in flashlight on one of the sides (more powerful and dimmable on FRX4; there is also a flashing red signal distress.) Above all, a USB socket to recharge his laptop. A great idea that allows to use a phone flat when necessary, without any other power source that the dynamo of the battery.

A word about the sound quality: it is mediocre, but the sound is clear, especially for the speaking voice; Of course, these devices do not have anything of a hifi system. The volume is sufficient contrast in most cases.

These radios, if not perfect, respond well to a fairly specific use, especially hiking kind "old". In less demanding conditions, we can make do with a smartphone otherwise coupled to a USB enclosure for example, although the possibility to charge a (small) USB device is unusual and very interesting - but do not expect to recharge a tablet.

What to choose between the models and FRX3 FRX4? The first is a bit cheaper, its crank a little larger and convenient, but its design is visibly older. The FRX4 is much more compact and better finished, better battery is rechargeable with a standard phone charger, the lamp is more powerful ... It is actually the best and the price difference is largely justified.