Pros:

A huge choice of stations

Perhaps the biggest advantage of DAB radio is the sheer amount of choice it gives listeners. Instead of just a handful of FM stations, DAB opens you up to a world of choice. In fact, some of the UK’s most popular radio stations, such as BBC 6 Music, are digital-only. If you’re yet to take the plunge into digital radio, then you really don’t know what you’re missing!

Automatically tunes to stations

Tweaking the tuner and remembering frequency numbers is a thing of the past with DAB radio. Flipping through stations is as easy as changing the channel on your TV. Not only does the screen tell you which station you’re tuned to, but it will even show you what’s currently playing. How handy is that!

A whole host of extra features

Many DAB radios include additional features that will give you even more use out of them. For instance, some come with Bluetooth connectivity, so you can take control of the music. Others can hook up to your WiFi, to give you access to over 30,000 internet radio stations. Plus, you can also tune in to all your favourite podcasts, too. With so much to choose from, you'll never find yourself stuck for something to listen to!

FM is on the way out

In 2018, digital radio listenership pulled ahead of FM and AM for the first time. It seems certain that at some point in the near future, FM will be ditched entirely. So, if you love radio, don’t get left behind. Instead, get on board with the digital revolution today!

Cons:

Interference can be annoying

DAB radio was originally invented to try and cut out the problem of interference. Unfortunately, that didn’t work out quite as well as planned. DAB interference can actually be more irritating than on FM. Instead of crackling and hissing, DAB interference causes a gurgling noise. At worst, the sound may cut out completely- which can be very frustrating when it happens in the middle of your favourite song.

Battery drains faster than a regular radio

The extra strength and features of DAB radios comes at the cost of higher power consumption. While this shouldn’t be a problem if you like to keep your radio in one place, it can be a pain if you like to take your music on the go. However, this is entirely dependent on the power source you use. DAB radios can drain rechargeable lithium batteries fairly fast. However, some models are designed to be portable. While smaller than most units, they still provide excellent sound quality. Not only does their size help cut down on power consumption, but it also makes it easier for you to pop the radio into your backpack and listen on the go. Some larger models also have optional battery packs, to give you a decent amount of listening time before it’s time to recharge.