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10 Best Handheld Radios 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

9.8 score

6 Pack of Motorola RMU2080D Two Way Radio Walkie Talkies

The Motorola RMU2080D Two Way Radio Walkie Talkies are a solid choice for businesses needing reliable communication tools. These radios are built to last, with a durable, water-resistant design that's perfect for heavy use. They offer a frequency range of UHF, which is ideal for indoor and urban settings. The 36-mile maximum talking range ensures you can stay connected over large areas, although this range might be shorter in buildings or areas with obstacles.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,323
Battery Life
Durability

Most important from
14 reviews

Battery Life
You will need to charge it every day if you use it all day.
Durability
Dependable and durable, especially useful in construction settings.
#2
9.6 score

Motorola Solutions, Portable FRS, T802, Talkabout, Two-Way Radios Walkie Talkie Emergency Preparedness, Rechargable, 22 Channel, 35 Mile, Black W/Blue, 2 Pack

The Motorola Solutions T802 Talkabout Two-Way Radios stand out as a solid choice for those looking for reliable handheld radios, especially for outdoor activities or emergency preparedness. With a frequency range that offers 22 channels and 121 privacy codes, users can enjoy a wide variety of communication options, enhancing their ability to connect without interference. The impressive 35-mile range is particularly beneficial for outdoor adventures, making it suitable for hiking, camping, and other activities where cell service may be lacking. Plus, the weather-proof IP54 rating adds durability, ensuring these radios can withstand challenging conditions.

Rating
9.6
Range
Battery Life
Durability

Most important from
2855 reviews

Range
These radios performed better than Rocky Talkies in a deep mountain valley, proving their reliability in challenging conditions.
Battery Life
The dual power option with rechargeable lithium batteries and AA batteries adds a lot of convenience, especially with a portable solar panel recharger.
Durability
The device feels great in the hand, with sturdy construction and a comfortable design, making it intuitive to use.
Size and Weight
The ease of use is impressive, with almost no learning curve, fitting easily in your pocket like a cell phone.
#3
9.3 score

Cobra PX650 BCH6 - Professional/Business Walkie Talkies - Rechargeable, 300,000 sq. ft/25 Floor Range, Dust Protected and Splashproof (IP54 rating), Two-Way Radio Set (6-Pack)

The Cobra PX650 BCH6 is a robust set of professional walkie talkies designed for business and professional use. With a range of up to 300,000 sq. ft or 25 floors, these radios are ideal for environments like hotels, schools, construction sites, and concerts. They feature 22 channels and 121 privacy codes, ensuring secure communication and minimizing interference from other users. The voice-activated transmission (VOX) allows for hands-free operation, which is particularly useful in busy or hands-on settings. Battery life is impressive, offering up to 18 hours of usage on a single charge, making them reliable for a full workday.

Rating
9.3
Range

Most important from
357 reviews

Range
Impressive reception distance, even through steel bulkheads, making it suitable for demanding environments.

Top 10 Best Handheld Radios 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

9.8 score

6 Pack of Motorola RMU2080D Two Way Radio Walkie Talkies

Frequency Range: UHF
Range: 36 Mile
Battery Life: 15-hour
Durability: Water-resistant
Channels: 8
Size and Weight: 7.38 x 1.5 x 2.25 in; 0.54 lb

Chosen by 1323 this week

Icom IC-A16B (Bluetooth) VHF Air Band Handheld Transceiver Radio

Frequency Range: 108 MHz - 137 MHz
Durability: Waterproof
Channels: 100
Size and Weight: 9.72 x 8.54 x 3.39 inches

Icom IC-A16 VHF COM Aviation Handheld

Frequency Range: TX: 118.000–136.99166 MHz RX: 108.000–136.99166 MHz, 161.650–163.275 MHz
Range: 20 Kilometer
Durability: Waterproof
Channels: 200
Size and Weight: 9.65 x 8.58 x 3.31 inches
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Buying Guide for the Best Handheld Radios

Choosing the right handheld radio can be a bit overwhelming, but with the right approach, you can find the perfect model for your needs. Handheld radios, also known as walkie-talkies, are essential for communication in various scenarios such as outdoor adventures, professional use, or emergency situations. To make an informed decision, you need to understand the key specifications and how they align with your specific requirements.
Frequency RangeThe frequency range of a handheld radio determines the type of communication it can handle. There are mainly two types: Very High Frequency (VHF) and Ultra High Frequency (UHF). VHF radios are ideal for outdoor use with fewer obstructions, such as in open fields or on the water, because they have a longer range in these conditions. UHF radios, on the other hand, are better suited for indoor use or urban environments where there are many obstacles, as they can penetrate walls and buildings more effectively. Choose VHF if you plan to use the radio in open areas and UHF for more built-up environments.
RangeThe range of a handheld radio indicates how far the signal can travel. This is crucial depending on how far apart users will be. Short-range radios (up to 2 miles) are suitable for small areas like a campsite or a building. Medium-range radios (2-5 miles) are good for larger outdoor areas or between buildings. Long-range radios (5 miles and above) are necessary for extensive outdoor use or in areas with minimal obstructions. Consider where and how you will be using the radio to determine the appropriate range.
Battery LifeBattery life is a critical factor, especially if you will be using the radio for extended periods without access to charging. Handheld radios can come with different types of batteries, such as rechargeable lithium-ion, NiMH, or disposable AA/AAA batteries. Longer battery life is essential for activities like hiking or emergency preparedness, where recharging might not be possible. For occasional use, shorter battery life might be acceptable. Assess how long you need the radio to last on a single charge and choose accordingly.
DurabilityDurability refers to how well the radio can withstand harsh conditions, such as drops, water, and dust. Radios with higher durability are often rated with an IP (Ingress Protection) rating. For example, an IP67 rating means the radio is dust-tight and can be submerged in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes. If you plan to use the radio in rugged environments, such as construction sites or outdoor adventures, look for models with higher durability ratings. For casual use, standard durability might suffice.
ChannelsThe number of channels a handheld radio has determines how many separate communication lines you can use. More channels allow for more groups to communicate without interference. Basic models may have 1-8 channels, which are sufficient for small groups or simple communication needs. More advanced models can have 16 or more channels, which are useful for larger groups or more complex communication setups. Consider how many different groups or conversations you need to manage simultaneously when choosing the number of channels.
Privacy CodesPrivacy codes, also known as CTCSS (Continuous Tone-Coded Squelch System) or DCS (Digital-Coded Squelch), help reduce interference from other users on the same channel. These codes allow you to filter out unwanted transmissions and ensure clearer communication. If you are using the radio in a crowded area where many people might be on the same frequency, having privacy codes can be very beneficial. For less crowded areas, this feature might be less critical.
Size and WeightThe size and weight of a handheld radio can affect its portability and ease of use. Smaller and lighter radios are easier to carry around, making them ideal for activities like hiking or traveling. However, they might have fewer features or shorter battery life. Larger radios might offer more features and longer battery life but can be bulkier to carry. Consider how portable you need the radio to be and balance it with the features you require.

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