Roberts Play 11 cream

The Roberts Play 11 marks a turning point in the Play range with its sophisticated textile covering and features designed for everyday use. This DAB/DAB+/FM radio combines Roberts’ British heritage with a contemporary design approach, offering 20 preset stations and USB-C connectivity in an ultra-compact format weighing just 357 grams.

A textile design that redefines the entry level

The Play 11 breaks away from the traditional codes of budget portable radios. Its premium fabric covering, available in black or white (with a light grey front), turns a simple electronic device into a decorative object. This textile finish is not just aesthetic: it provides a pleasant feel in the hand and gives the radio a distinct personality that blends seamlessly with modern interiors.

The blue backlit LCD screen simultaneously displays two lines of text with 16 characters each – a rare feature at this price point. This dual-line display lets you see both the station name and additional information such as the current track or RDS data, without having to toggle between different display modes.

The controls have been redesigned for intuitive use. Two separate rotary dials control volume and station selection, eliminating the frustration of repetitive up/down buttons. Between these dials, three buttons provide access to the essential functions: mode (DAB/FM), info/menu, and favourites. This clean layout on the top of the unit makes it easy to use even in the dark.

Technical features tailored to modern use

The Play 11 incorporates a dual tuner compatible with DAB, DAB+ and FM with RDS. This versatility ensures access to all stations, whether digital or analogue. The RDS system on FM automatically displays station names and transmitted text information.

Flexible power is a major asset. The USB-C port is a welcome replacement for proprietary connectors, allowing you to use any modern smartphone charger. For on-the-go use, four standard AA batteries are enough – a practical choice that avoids expensive proprietary batteries. Roberts recommends a mains adapter specially designed to reduce radio interference, sold separately for £14.99.

The memory of 20 preset stations (10 DAB and 10 FM) is a significant improvement over the 6 presets on the Play 10. Saving a station is as simple as holding down the favourites button (marked with a heart) for two seconds, then selecting the slot with the navigation dial.

The built-in clock synchronises automatically via the DAB signal, eliminating tedious manual settings. This function only requires you to leave the radio on a DAB station for a few moments after switching it on. For those who prefer manual setting, the option remains available in the system menu.

The 3.5 mm headphone output on the right side allows for private listening. Although the sound remains essentially mono even through headphones, the audio quality is perfectly adequate for talk programmes and occasional music listening.

Ergonomics designed for everyday life

Daily use reveals particular attention to practical details. On first power-up, the radio automatically starts scanning for available DAB stations. The telescopic antenna, housed at the rear, extends and retracts easily to optimise reception depending on the environment.

The system menu, accessible by pressing and holding the info/menu button, offers advanced settings without excessive complexity. The backlight provides three brightness levels when running on mains power, dimming automatically on batteries to preserve runtime. The sleep function lets you program automatic switch-off after 15, 30, 45, 60 or 90 minutes.

Navigation through the available information is done by successive presses of the info button: scrolling text (DLS on DAB or RadioText on FM), signal strength, programme type, ensemble/multiplex, frequency, error rate, audio bitrate, power source, time and date. The display automatically returns to scrolling text after 10 seconds, except for the signal indicator which remains on screen to make it easier to position the radio optimally.

Key lock is not available on this model, unlike the Play 20. This absence may be a drawback when carrying it in a bag, but simplifies home use.

Clear evolution compared with the Play 10

A comparison with the Play 10 highlights the scale of the improvements. The basic plastic design of its predecessor gives way to a modern textile aesthetic. The screen goes from one to two lines, doubling the visible information. The limited 6 presets (3 DAB + 3 FM) are replaced by 20 memory slots.

Ergonomics are significantly improved with the adoption of two separate dials for volume and tuning, replacing the Play 10’s buttons. This analogue-style approach in a digital world paradoxically makes it easier to navigate the many available DAB stations.

The move to a USB-C port modernises connectivity, even if the absence of a mains adapter in the box may be surprising. This decision, increasingly common in the industry, addresses environmental concerns and assumes that most households already have USB chargers.

Technical Specifications

Audio Reception

• Digital and FM radios: DAB, DAB+, and FM reception for a wide selection of stations
• 20 preset stations: direct access to your favorite radio stations
• Headphone jack: for discreet listening, wherever you are

Dimensions and Weight

• Dimensions: 174 x 60 x 110 mm (W x D x H)
• Weight: 357 g
• Refined design: high-quality fabric covering for an elegant finish
• Ultra-portable: compact and lightweight format to take it anywhere

Power Supply and Connectivity

• Flexible power supply: operates on battery (not included) or via USB-C port
• Headphone jack: yes

Box Contents

• Roberts Play 11 radio
• USB-A to USB-C cable
• Quick start guide
• Safety and warranty leaflet