WebSDR: weird website review & sites like it

WebSDR lets you listen to shortwave radio through software-defined receivers all over the world. You tune them from your browser, covering amateur radio bands and more. You can eavesdrop on Morse code, chatter and static. When you arrive, you find a list of receivers and click one to open a tuner with a waterfall display of the radio spectrum. Click a signal and hear it. It is a retro-futuristic rabbit hole. The site serves over http rather than https, so your browser may show a warning, which is expected. It is best on a desktop, and you will want headphones. A little radio knowledge helps, but you can learn by clicking around. Remember that these are public amateur radio bands, and what you hear is real traffic. If you want to explore a strange corner of radio, Priyom on our list is a good companion.

Tips for getting the most out of it

Use headphones and a desktop.
The site runs on http, so expect a browser warning.
Click on the waterfall to tune.

Questions about WebSDR

What is WebSDR?

WebSDR is a network of software-defined radio receivers you can tune from your browser, covering shortwave and amateur radio bands. In short: Listen to shortwave radio through receivers all over the world.

Is WebSDR safe?

It serves over http rather than https, so your browser may warn you. You are only listening, but avoid entering personal details on any page that is not encrypted. For reference, WebSDR is listed as not working well on mobile, so use a desktop, takes a deep rabbit hole to enjoy, and we check its link daily.