Wind up radio

Danpad

Santa came a bit early with this: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Duronic-Digital-Display-Charging-Function/dp/B002XNGTOI

Although it was a bit smaller than expected (15cm long - 8cm high - 6cm wide) it felt durable to hold. The casing is that rubbery/plastic stuff, it doesn't have a 'lightweight' feel to it. Out of the box, I cranked it for less than a minute. Keep in mind, even if the seller had charged it fully before despatch, it was in a sealed package whilst in transit for 2-3 days. The radio is crystal clear and has a good volume range. The torch is bright enough to light up my garden sufficiently to make out detail. I started it up with both the radio and torch on and moved it into a dark area and covered it with a tea-towel to prevent it being charged via the solar panel. 4 hours later it was still going strong. I turned it off until the next morning to find the charge had held. 4 more hours later it is still going. The only snag is that the phone charger cable is the older type and isn't compatible with my phone. I'm happy with this.

Tabnabs

Santa is bringing me his cheaper little brother

http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B002D9FKDS/ref=oh_details_o01_s00_i00

Danpad

I've since read that it's advisable to keep it charged as the batteries may deteriorate. Regardless of whether this is the case or not, mine has pride of place on the kitchen window sill letting the solar panel absorb any trace of light from the greyness outside!