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10 Best Handheld Vhf Radios 2025 in the United States
#1
Winner
Cobra MR HH350 FLT Handheld Floating VHF Radio - 6 Watt, Submersible, Noise Cancelling Mic, Backlit LCD Display, NOAA Weather, and Memory Scan, White
The Cobra MR HH350 FLT is a solid choice for a dependable handheld VHF radio designed for marine use. It offers a strong 6-watt power output with the flexibility to switch between 1, 3, and 6 watts, helping balance battery conservation with reaching farther distances when needed. Its rechargeable lithium polymer battery tends to hold a good charge, and its waterproof, submersible design allows the radio to handle being dropped in water, making it very practical for boating. The radio also floats and comes in bright white with an orange backlit display, which improves visibility in low-light or rough conditions and helps you spot it if it falls overboard.
Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,336
Power Output
Battery Life
Waterproof Rating
Most important from
3080 reviews
#2
Cobra MR HH600FLTBTGPS Handheld Floating VHF Radio – 6 Watt, GPS, Bluetooth, Submersible, Noise Cancelling Mic, Backlit LCD Display, Memory Scan, Grey
The Cobra MR HH600FLTBTGPS is a solid choice for those needing a reliable handheld VHF radio, especially for marine environments. Its standout feature is the built-in GPS, allowing users to see their coordinates on screen and send location information during DSC calls, which is crucial for safety at sea. The Bluetooth capability also lets you make calls directly from the radio, keeping your phone safe and dry. With a maximum power output of 6 watts, it provides good coverage, enabling communication over distances of up to 15 miles, and access to emergency channels adds peace of mind.
Rating
9.8
Battery Life
Waterproof Rating
Channel Selection
Most important from
186 reviews
#3
Uniden Atlantis 275 Handheld Two-Way VHF Marine Radio, Floating IPX8 Submersible Waterproof, Large Dual-Color Screen, 6-Watt, All USA/International/Canadian Marine Channels, NOAA Weather Alerts
The Uniden Atlantis 275 is a powerful and versatile handheld VHF marine radio that offers 6 watts of power, ensuring strong and reliable communication over long distances. Its standout feature is its excellent waterproof rating (IPX8), which means it can be fully submerged and still function properly, making it ideal for marine environments. The radio also floats and includes an emergency strobe light and built-in flashlight, adding to its utility in emergency situations.
Rating
9.6
Power Output
Battery Life
Waterproof Rating
Most important from
420 reviews
Top 10 Best Handheld Vhf Radios 2025 in the United States
#1
Winner
9.9 score
Cobra MR HH350 FLT Handheld Floating VHF Radio - 6 Watt, Submersible, Noise Cancelling Mic, Backlit LCD Display, NOAA Weather, and Memory Scan, White
Cobra MR HH350 FLT Handheld Floating VHF Radio - 6 Watt, Submersible, Noise Cancelling Mic, Backlit LCD Display, NOAA Weather, and Memory Scan, White
Power Output: 6 Watts, selectable 1, 3, 6 W
Waterproof Rating: Waterproof, Submersible
Channel Selection: USA, Canada, international, 3 channels
Size and Weight: 10.3x8.2x3.1 in, 9.9 oz
Display and Interface: Orange backlit, Wireless
Additional Features: Noise reduction, NOAA alerts, Floats
Chosen by 1336 this week
Cobra MR HH600FLTBTGPS Handheld Floating VHF Radio – 6 Watt, GPS, Bluetooth, Submersible, Noise Cancelling Mic, Backlit LCD Display, Memory Scan, Grey
Cobra MR HH600FLTBTGPS Handheld Floating VHF Radio – 6 Watt, GPS, Bluetooth, Submersible, Noise Cancelling Mic, Backlit LCD Display, Memory Scan, Grey
Power Output: 6 watts
Waterproof Rating: Waterproof
Channel Selection: 40
Size and Weight: 5.71 x 2.83 x 1.87 inches
Display and Interface: Built-in GPS, Bluetooth
Additional Features: Rewind-say-again, burp, chargers, belt clip
Uniden Atlantis 275 Handheld Two-Way VHF Marine Radio, Floating IPX8 Submersible Waterproof, Large Dual-Color Screen, 6-Watt, All USA/International/Canadian Marine Channels, NOAA Weather Alerts
Uniden Atlantis 275 Handheld Two-Way VHF Marine Radio, Floating IPX8 Submersible Waterproof, Large Dual-Color Screen, 6-Watt, All USA/International/Canadian Marine Channels, NOAA Weather Alerts
Power Output: 6 watts
Waterproof Rating: IPX8
Channel Selection: USA, Canada, international marine VHF
Size and Weight: 9.6 x 6.6 x 2.9 inches
Display and Interface: Large dual-color LCD screen
Additional Features: Floats, emergency strobe light, flashlight
Icom M94d Vhf Marine Radio W/dsc & Ais
Icom M94d Vhf Marine Radio W/dsc & Ais
Power Output: 6 watts
Battery Life: 10 hours
Waterproof Rating: Waterproof
Channel Selection: 4
Size and Weight: 2.2 pounds, 2.4 x 5.7 x 1.7 inches
Display and Interface: Back-lit display
Additional Features: AIS Receiver, DSC, AquaQuake, Noise Cancellation
Standard Horizon HX210 HX210 6W Compact Floating Marine Handheld Vhf
Standard Horizon HX210 HX210 6W Compact Floating Marine Handheld Vhf
Power Output: 6W, 2.5W, 1W
Battery Life: 1850 mAh Li-Ion battery
Waterproof Rating: IPX7
Channel Selection: USA, International, Canadian channels
Size and Weight: 1.57 x 2.36 x 5.2 in; 1.63 lbs
Display and Interface: Oversized dot matrix display, easy menu
Additional Features: Floating, emergency strobe, FM receiver, weather channels
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Standard Horizon HX890 Black Handheld VHF - Floating 6 Watt Class H DSC Two Way Radio
Standard Horizon HX890 Black Handheld VHF - Floating 6 Watt Class H DSC Two Way Radio
Power Output: 6 watts
Waterproof Rating: Waterproof
Channel Selection: 66
Size and Weight: 9.96 x 7.44 x 4.02 in; 2.16 lbs
Display and Interface: user-friendly
Additional Features: DSC (Digital Selective Calling)
Cobra Marine Radio - MR HH150 FLT - 3 Watt, Floating, Long Range, Handheld, VHF Radio, NOAA, International, Waterproof, Submersible, Weather Alerts, LCD Screen, Belt Clip
Cobra Marine Radio - MR HH150 FLT - 3 Watt, Floating, Long Range, Handheld, VHF Radio, NOAA, International, Waterproof, Submersible, Weather Alerts, LCD Screen, Belt Clip
Power Output: 3-Watt
Waterproof Rating: Submersible up to 1 meter
Channel Selection: 3
Size and Weight: 1.5 x 2.7 x 4.5 in, 8 oz
Display and Interface: LCD screen
Additional Features: Floating, NOAA alerts, International use
Retevis RM01 Handheld Marine Radio, Floating IP67 Waterproof, Portable Marine Two-Way Radios, NOAA Weather, International Channels, Vibration Drainage, Backlit, Boat Radio for Kayak Fishing(1 Pack)
Retevis RM01 Handheld Marine Radio, Floating IP67 Waterproof, Portable Marine Two-Way Radios, NOAA Weather, International Channels, Vibration Drainage, Backlit, Boat Radio for Kayak Fishing(1 Pack)
Battery Life: 5 rechargeable AAA Ni-MH batteries
Waterproof Rating: IP67
Channel Selection: 88 channels, 16 emergency, international
Size and Weight: 8.62x7.76x2.8 inches; 1.15 pounds
Display and Interface: LCD screen, backlit
Additional Features: NOAA alert, floating, dual/triple watch
Uniden Atlantis 155 Handheld Two-Way VHF Marine Radio, Floating IPX8 Submersible Waterproof, Dual-Color Screen, All USA/International/Canadian Marine Channels, NOAA Weather Alert, 10 Hour Battery
Uniden Atlantis 155 Handheld Two-Way VHF Marine Radio, Floating IPX8 Submersible Waterproof, Dual-Color Screen, All USA/International/Canadian Marine Channels, NOAA Weather Alert, 10 Hour Battery
Power Output: 3 Watt, user-selectable to 1 Watt
Battery Life: 10 hours
Waterproof Rating: IPX8
Channel Selection: All USA, Canada, international VHF channels
Size and Weight: 1.44"D x 2.5"W x 5.38"H, 1.06 lbs
Display and Interface: Dual-color screen, white/red backlight
Additional Features: Floats, three-year warranty
#10
7.9 score
Standard Horizon HX210 6W Floating Handheld Marine VHF Transceiver [HX210]
Standard Horizon HX210 6W Floating Handheld Marine VHF Transceiver [HX210]
Power Output: 6W, 2.5W, 1W
Battery Life: 1850 mAh
Waterproof Rating: IPX7
Channel Selection: All USA, International, Canadian, 200 channels
Size and Weight: 1.57 x 2.36 x 5.2 in, 1 lb
Display and Interface: Large dot matrix LCD, easy menu
Additional Features: Floats, emergency strobe, FM receiver, programmable keys
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Buying Guide for the Best Handheld Vhf Radios
When choosing a handheld VHF radio, it's important to consider your specific needs and how you plan to use the device. Handheld VHF radios are essential for communication, especially in marine environments, and can be a critical safety tool. Understanding the key specifications will help you select the best model for your requirements.Power OutputPower output, measured in watts, determines the range of your VHF radio. Higher power output means a longer communication range. Handheld VHF radios typically offer 1 to 6 watts of power. For short-range communication, 1-3 watts is sufficient. For longer distances, especially in open water, 5-6 watts is preferable. Consider your typical usage scenarios to decide the appropriate power level.
Battery LifeBattery life indicates how long the radio can operate before needing a recharge. This is crucial for ensuring your radio is reliable during extended use. Battery life can range from a few hours to over 20 hours. If you plan to use the radio for long trips or in emergencies, opt for a model with longer battery life. For occasional use, shorter battery life may be acceptable.
Waterproof RatingThe waterproof rating shows how well the radio can withstand exposure to water. Ratings like IPX7 mean the radio can be submerged in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes, while IPX8 offers even greater protection. If you will be using the radio in wet or marine environments, a higher waterproof rating is essential to ensure durability and functionality.
Channel SelectionChannel selection refers to the number of channels the radio can access. More channels provide greater flexibility for communication. Standard VHF radios typically have access to all US, Canadian, and international marine channels. Ensure the radio covers the channels you need for your specific activities, such as emergency channels, weather channels, and local communication channels.
Size and WeightSize and weight affect the portability and ease of use of the radio. Lighter and more compact models are easier to carry and handle, especially for extended periods. However, smaller radios may have fewer features or shorter battery life. Consider how you will carry and use the radio to find a balance between portability and functionality.
Display and InterfaceThe display and interface determine how easy it is to operate the radio. A clear, backlit display is important for visibility in various lighting conditions. Intuitive controls and a user-friendly interface make it easier to navigate channels and settings. If you need to use the radio in low light or while wearing gloves, look for models with large buttons and a bright display.
Additional FeaturesAdditional features can enhance the functionality of your VHF radio. Features like GPS, DSC (Digital Selective Calling), and weather alerts can be very useful. GPS allows for location tracking, DSC enables distress signaling, and weather alerts keep you informed of changing conditions. Consider which additional features are important for your specific needs and activities.