Roberts Play 11 evaluation: a battery radio for UK power cuts
The Play 11 is worth considering if you want everyday radio listening plus replaceable-battery operation. MainBuyer has not tested its reception, sound or runtime.
By MainBuyer Editorial Team · Published 2026-10-24 · Reviewed 2026-10-24
This guide's editorial research uses UK models and sources. Retailer links follow your selected country; local model features and availability may differ. Some buying advice is specific to the UK.
Our recommendation in brief
The Play 11 is worth considering if you want everyday radio listening plus replaceable-battery operation. MainBuyer has not tested its reception, sound or runtime.
What the documentation establishes
Roberts lists DAB, DAB+ and FM reception, with 20 presets divided between digital and FM. The user guide specifies four AA batteries as the alternative to USB power. A USB-A to USB-C cable is included; the USB power supply is not.
MainBuyer assessment
Replaceable batteries give this model a straightforward outage plan: keep compatible spares and learn the controls in advance. Its everyday listening role may also make it easier to notice problems before you need it. This is our assessment of the design, not a measured reliability result.
It is a battery/USB radio, not our wind-up recommendation. Buyers specifically wanting hand-crank backup should compare the Midland evaluation. Do not read USB-C power as proof that the radio charges AA cells.
What to check before buying
Confirm the exact Play 11 model, accessories and seller terms. Try your local FM station at home while a return remains possible. We have not established a battery-runtime figure for your usage or a comparative reception advantage.
Shop the list on Amazon UK
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Check the exact item, seller, delivered price and availability on Amazon. Search links may show multiple brands and variants. Consumables are shopping suggestions, not reviews. This UK list uses Amazon UK even if you selected another country.
Roberts Play 11
Amazon search: confirm Play 11, rather than Play 10 or another variant.
Ad · Search Amazon UKWhat to consider before buying
- Budget for the correct batteries.
- Test local FM reception.
- Confirm USB supply requirements in the manual.
How this guide was prepared
This guide uses official specifications, manufacturer guidance, retailer model information and MainBuyer editorial judgement. It explains trade-offs rather than claiming one product is right for everyone, and it does not describe research-based assessments as hands-on tests.
See how we review, our editorial policy and corrections policy.
Last editorial review: 2026-10-24