Porter Cable’s New Jobsite Radio Runs Both Ways

Porter Cable’s first cordless jobsite radio is scheduled to join their 18V cordless tool lineup sometime next month. The radio is said to be very durable and user-friendly, and can be powered through a 120V power outlet, or cordlessly using a Porter Cable 18 volt NiCad or Li-ion battery.

Porter Cable built the radio with weather resistant and clear-sounding premium speakers that are designed to withstand outdoor conditions. It features a backlit clock and digital tuner with 10 FM and 10AM presets, and a 3.5mm aux input that works with MP3 players and devices with a standard headphone or line-out jack.

When plugged into a 120V outlet, the radio’s two front power outlets are activated, allowing users to plug in chargers and other tools into it.

Porter Cable threw in a few more jobsite-friendly features such as a flexible antenna, protective roll cage, and large spaced-out buttons that I imagine are easy to mash with gloved hands.

This radio doesn’t look anywhere as robust as the Bosch Power Box 360 we recently reviewed, nor does it offer the same breadth of media connectivity options. But then again it’s half the price at about $100, and looks to be half its size as well.

Porter Cable PC18JR 18V Jobsite Radio via Porter Cable (should be added to the list soon)