Radios without a digital display are often lacking in other features
such as dual conversion to reduce images, good selectivity and tuning
stability to prevent drifting.


No doubt about it! AND, you will miss the analog display for about 2
seconds.
The cheapest portable I would consider for any type of use is the Sony
ICF-SW35.
Analog dials are dead! In this day and age, why rely on tooth floss to turn
a dial?