REVIEW: Freeplay Companion

In every Bug out Bags guide and even in the Checklist from the Federal Office for Civil Protection, it is written: An emergency radio is a must! The company Freeplay offers various devices in this category. Martin has tested the Freeplay Companion for you.

The Companion is the cheapest and also the most compact device from Freeplay. It weighs only 220 grams and measures 13cm(L) x 6.3cm (H) x 4.5 cm (W). However, the device is not just an AM/FM radio; it also serves as an emergency charger and flashlight.

The Companion is powered by a NiMH battery that can be charged via USB, integrated solar panel, or the integrated crank. The radio runs for about 20-30 minutes when cranked for 30 seconds. The solar panel provides 1 hour of sunlight = 1 hour of radio. When the battery is fully charged, you get 12 hours of playtime. The battery can be replaced when it stops working. Simply loosen a screw on the underside and remove the battery.

The flashlight can run for 16 hours on a full battery; cranking for 30 seconds gives you 15 minutes of light. The flashlight is turned on by a button on the top. It has 3 LEDs, and the brightness is not specified. The light is sufficient for performing normal tasks in close range.

The Companion is NOT waterproof, but it offers protection against splashing water; all inputs and outputs are covered. Here you will find a headphone jack, USB port DC in, and the mobile phone connection. If you want to charge a mobile phone, you can only do so by cranking – nothing will charge without cranking. However, since it is only intended for emergencies to charge the phone for a call, this is acceptable.

The radio has a frequency range of 88-108 MHz for FM and 520-1700 kHz and can be operated entirely from the front. Here you will find a knob to turn on and adjust the volume, and a knob for the channels. AM/FM is switched via a toggle switch. The channels are displayed in the upper area. For FM operation, extend the telescopic antenna; for AM, there is a built-in ferrite antenna. The reception and sound of the radio are good and clear.

CONCLUSION: Freeplay offers a good and simple device with all the essential functions needed in an emergency. It can be recharged via muscle power or sunlight, making it perfect as there is no battery dependency. Unfortunately, it is not waterproof, but with the device's dimensions, it is not an issue to store it in a waterproof bag.

The price of the Freeplay Companion varies greatly, so it is worth comparing – prices range from 29-60 euros. It is available, for example, for 29.94€ at Voelkner.

Here is a presentation video of the Companion on Youtube: