10 Best Handheld Aviation Radios 2025 in the United States

The Cobra MR HH350 FLT Handheld Floating VHF Radio is a solid choice for those venturing out on the water. Its standout feature is the noise-cancelling microphone, which ensures clear conversations even in windy conditions, making it user-friendly for both casual and serious boaters. This radio operates at 6 watts, allowing users to switch between power levels (1, 3, and 6 watts) for short and long-range communication, which is particularly useful when you are further from shore.

The Sporty's PJ2+ COM Aviation Handheld Radio stands out in the handheld aviation radio category with its user-friendly design and solid functionality. One of its notable strengths is the easy-to-read oversized screen, which makes navigation and operation simple, especially for those who may not be as tech-savvy. The inclusion of a large keypad enhances usability, while the automatic noise limiter helps improve communication clarity, which is crucial in aviation. Additionally, with a 6-watt transmit power, it offers a respectable talking range of up to 10 miles, making it suitable for general aviation use. The radio also features 20 memory channels and quick access to NOAA weather channels, which can be particularly beneficial for pilots needing rapid weather updates during flights.

The Uniden Atlantis 275 is a strong choice if you need a handheld marine radio that’s reliable and easy to use. It covers a broad frequency range (156-174 MHz), including all USA, Canadian, and international marine channels, plus NOAA weather alerts, which is great for staying informed on the water. Its 6-watt transmit power helps you stay connected over long distances (up to 36 miles), and you can adjust power levels to save battery. Speaking of battery, it has a built-in rechargeable lithium-ion pack with included charging accessories, so you won’t have to worry about constantly replacing batteries.