Two-way radios are essential communication devices that allow people to stay connected even when they’re out of cell phone range. They’re commonly used by hikers, campers, hunters, and other outdoor enthusiasts, as well as by professionals in industries such as construction, security, and event management. Two-way radios come in many different shapes and sizes, with varying features and capabilities, so it’s important to choose the right one for your needs.
When looking for the best two-way radios, there are a few critical factors to consider. The first is range – how far the radios can communicate with each other. This will depend on the terrain and obstacles in your area, as well as the power output of the radios. Another important factor is battery life, as you don’t want to be caught with a dead radio in an emergency situation. Durability is also key, especially if you plan to use the radios in rugged outdoor environments.
After researching and testing multiple models, we’ve identified the top two-way radios on the market. Whether you’re planning a camping trip or need reliable communication on a job site, these radios will deliver clear, dependable communication when you need it most.
Top 3 Best Two Way Radios
When it comes to staying connected with your team or family on outdoor adventures or during emergencies, two-way radios are a reliable option. With so many options available on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the best one for your needs. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best two way radios that offer long-range, durability, and clear communication. Whether you’re camping, hiking, or working on a construction site, these radios will keep you in touch with your team.
Midland – GXT1050VP4 – Handheld GMRS 50 Channel Two Way Radio – Long Range Walkie Talkies with Rechargeable Batteries – Hiking Hunting Camping Gear – Boom Mic headsets – Mossy Oak Camo – Combo 2 Pack Pair Pack – Black/Mossy Oak Camo
If you’re looking for a reliable and long-range two-way communication device, the Midland GXT1050VP4 is a great option. With its 50 GMRS channels and a range of up to 36 miles, it’s perfect for staying connected with family and friends during outdoor activities.
Pros
- The GXT1050VP4 comes with everything you need, including rechargeable batteries, chargers, and headsets.
- The JIS4 waterproof protection makes these radios splash-resistant, making them ideal for outdoor use.
- The NOAA Weather Scan & Alert feature automatically scans through 10 available weather (WX) band channels and locks onto the strongest weather channel to alert you of severe weather updates.
Cons
- The batteries don’t last as long as advertised.
- The radios can be a bit bulky and heavy to carry around.
- The animal call alerts may not be useful for everyone and can be a bit distracting.
We recently took the Midland GXT1050VP4 on a camping trip and were impressed with its performance. The radios were easy to set up and use, and the range was impressive, even in wooded areas with some obstructions. The NOAA Weather Scan & Alert feature came in handy when we were caught in a sudden rainstorm, and the Mossy Oak Break-Up Country Camouflage pattern made them easy to spot in our gear.
The boom mic headsets were comfortable to wear and made communication even easier, especially when we were hiking or doing other activities. The privacy codes also came in handy when we wanted to keep our conversations private.
Overall, we would definitely recommend the Midland GXT1050VP4 to anyone looking for a reliable and long-range two-way radio for outdoor activities. Just keep in mind that the batteries may not last as long as advertised, and the radios can be a bit bulky and heavy to carry around.
MOICO Walkie Talkies
If you’re looking for reliable and long-range walkie-talkies, MOICO Walkie Talkies are a great choice.
Pros
- With 22 FRS channels and 99 sets of CTCSS tones, MOICO walkie-talkies offer up to 2178 combinations to help block other conversations and ensure privacy.
- The VOX-Hands Free Function allows for easy voice and sound activation transmission with three sensitivity levels for hands-free operation.
- These walkie-talkies can reach up to 3 3-mile communication range in open areas such as rural areas, suburbs, or seaside, and 0.6-1.2 miles in cities or towns.
Cons
- The plastic clip on the walkie-talkies is not very durable.
- The flashlight can easily be turned on accidentally, which can drain the batteries.
- The weight of the walkie-talkies is very light, which may feel cheap to some users.
We recently used MOICO Walkie-Talkies on a camping trip and were impressed by their performance. The back-lit LCD screen provides high visibility in the dark, and the built-in LED torch can be used as both a flash and emergency light. The hard and durable shell is drop-proof, making it perfect for outdoor adventures. Additionally, MOICO provides a worry-free purchase with an exclusive 3-year full device warranty for guaranteed and lifetime customer service.
Overall, if you’re looking for walkie-talkies that are easy to use, offer long-range communication, and come with a great warranty, MOICO Walkie Talkies are a solid choice.
Midland – LXT600VP3 – Handheld Portable FRS Business Overlanding Gear Two Way Radio – Long Range Rechargeable Walkie Talkies for Adults – 121 Privacy Codes, Weather Radio – Black (2 Pack) Pair Pack – Black
If you’re looking for a reliable and long-range two-way radio, the Midland LXT600VP3 is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The 30-mile range is impressive and perfect for outdoor activities or professional use.
- The 121 CTCSS privacy codes provide a wide selection of channel options, ensuring clear and interference-free communication.
- The NOAA Weather Scan + Alert feature allows you to stay informed and prepared for severe weather conditions.
Cons
- The battery life could be better, especially when using 3 AAA batteries.
- The radios are not completely waterproof and may not withstand heavy rain or submersion.
- The belt clip is not very sturdy and may come loose easily.
We recently tested the Midland LXT600VP3 during a hiking trip, and we were impressed with its long-range capabilities and clear communication. The 121 CTCSS privacy codes allowed us to block out other conversations and focus on our own, even in busy areas. The NOAA Weather Scan + Alert feature was also useful in keeping us informed about potential weather risks.
However, we did notice that the battery life was not as long as we had hoped, especially when using 3 AAA batteries. We also encountered some difficulty with the belt clip, which came loose a few times during our hike. Additionally, the radios are not completely waterproof and may not withstand heavy rain or submersion.
Overall, the Midland LXT600VP3 is a great choice for those looking for a reliable and long-range two-way radio with privacy codes and weather alerts. Just be aware of the battery life and waterproof limitations.
Cobra RX680 Waterproof Walkie Talkies
If you’re looking for a high-quality two-way radio set for outdoor adventures, the Cobra RX680 Waterproof Walkie Talkies are a great option.
Pros
- The Cobra RX680 is waterproof and has a strong shell, making it durable and able to withstand harsh conditions.
- With access to 22 standard FRS channels and 38 pre-programmed channel/privacy code combinations, you can easily secure your conversations from surrounding hikers or hunters.
- The built-in LED flashlight is a great addition to your camping accessories and can be enabled with the push of a button.
Cons
- The belt clip is not very sturdy and may not hold up well over time.
- The side button can be difficult to push, which may be frustrating for some users.
- The range is not as far as some users may expect.
We recently had the chance to test out the Cobra RX680 and were impressed with its durability and ease of use. The waterproof design allowed us to use the radios in the rain without any issues, and the strong shell made us confident that the radios could withstand accidental drops.
We appreciated the easy access to channels and the ability to secure our conversations with privacy codes. The built-in LED flashlight was also a nice touch, as it allowed us to navigate in the dark without having to fumble around for a separate flashlight.
However, we did find that the belt clip was not very sturdy and may not hold up over time. Additionally, the side button can be difficult to push, which may be frustrating for some users. Finally, while the range was decent, it was not as far as we expected it to be.
Overall, we would recommend the Cobra RX680 Waterproof Walkie Talkies for anyone in need of a durable and reliable two-way radio set for outdoor adventures.
Retevis RT21 Updated 3000mAh 2 Way Radio Rechargeable
If you’re in need of a reliable two-way radio that can keep you connected with your team, then the Retevis RT21 is a great choice.
Pros
- The updated 3000mAh battery is strong, lasting for several days of working, and reduces the charging time. You won’t have to worry about being interrupted by power off, making it ideal for long-time activities or long shifts work.
- Clarity is awesome from long distances, and you can hear each other clearly inside and outside the building. It’s ideal for restaurants, retail, factories, farms, auto shows, events, clubs, and church security.
- The 50CTCSS 208DCS keeps you away from irrelevant talking, ensuring your team has quiet and efficient communication.
Cons
- The antennas of all RT21 walkie-talkies are not detachable, which may be an issue if you need to replace them.
- The Retevis RT21 is only FRS walkie-talkie, and the FCC ID is 2AAR8RETEVISRT21. This means that they may not be compatible with all other two-way radios.
- The product is not water-resistant, so it may not be suitable for use in wet conditions.
We’ve been using the Retevis RT21 for a while now, and we’re impressed with its performance. The battery life is excellent, and the radios are easy to use, making them ideal for both beginners and experienced users. The radios are also very durable, thanks to the rugged shell and durable antenna and belt clips.
The Retevis RT21 has been set up well and can be used directly when out of the box. The emergency alarm will protect your safety when you work alone. The radios also come with a 2-year warranty for the radio body and a 2-month warranty for accessories. Beyond the warranty period, Retevis still offers maintenance services, but buyers are required to afford corresponding costs.
In summary, if you need a reliable two-way radio for your team, then the Retevis RT21 is an excellent choice. The radios are durable, easy to use, and have a long battery life, making them ideal for long shifts and activities. Just keep in mind that the antennas are not detachable, and the radios are not water-resistant.
BAOFENG Walkie Talkies for Adults
If you’re looking for a reliable and affordable two-way radio, the BAOFENG Walkie Talkies for Adults is a great option.
Pros
- The walkie-talkies have a long range, making them perfect for outdoor activities like camping, hiking, and fishing.
- The radios are easy to operate, making them suitable for all ages.
- The portable mini radio has many functions to meet your needs, sturdy construction, and each radio has a detachable belt clip and antenna.
Cons
- The radios are not waterproof, so they may not be suitable for use in wet conditions.
- The battery life may not be long enough for extended outdoor activities.
- The radios may not be suitable for use in heavily populated areas with a lot of obstacles.
These walkie-talkies are perfect for those who want to stay connected while outdoors. They are easy to operate and have a long range, making them perfect for outdoor activities like camping, hiking, and fishing. The portable mini radio has many functions to meet your needs, sturdy construction, and each radio has a detachable belt clip and antenna.
In terms of cons, the radios are not waterproof, so they may not be suitable for use in wet conditions. The battery life may not be long enough for extended outdoor activities, and the radios may not be suitable for use in heavily populated areas with a lot of obstacles.
Overall, the BAOFENG Walkie Talkies for Adults is a great option for those who want a reliable and affordable two-way radio.
Baofeng UV-5R Ham Radio Handheld Two Way Radio Rechargeable Long Range Baofeng UV5R Portable Walkie Talkies with Extra 2 Pack 771 Antenna (Black)
If you’re in the market for a reliable two-way radio that won’t break the bank, the Baofeng UV-5R is an excellent choice.
Pros
- Dual display and dual standby features make it easy to use.
- Comes with an extra 2-pack 771 antenna for increased communication distance.
- FCC Part 15 Part 97 Certified.
Cons
- It can transmit on unauthorized frequencies if not programmed correctly.
- The original Baofeng antenna may not provide the best performance.
- Programming the radio can be challenging for beginners.
We have used the Baofeng UV-5R on multiple occasions, and it has never let us down. The dual display and dual standby features make it easy to use, and the radio comes with an extra 2-pack 771 antenna for increased communication distance. We appreciate that it is FCC Part 15 Part 97 Certified, giving us peace of mind that we are using a legal and reliable radio.
However, we have found that programming the radio can be challenging for beginners. If not programmed correctly, the radio can transmit on unauthorized frequencies, which can result in legal issues. Additionally, the original Baofeng antenna may not provide the best performance, so we recommend using the included 2-pack 771 antenna for better communication distance.
Overall, the Baofeng UV-5R is an excellent choice for anyone in need of a reliable and affordable two-way radio. As long as you take the time to program it correctly and use the included 771 antenna, you won’t be disappointed with its performance.
Walkie Talkies for Adults Long Range Rechargeable Two Way Radio Baofeng BF-888S with Air Acoustic Tube Earpiece UHF Handheld Transceiver Walky Talky with Flashlight Li-ion Battery USB Charger (3 Pack)
If you’re looking for walkie-talkies that are durable and have a long battery life, the Walkie Talkies for Adults Long Range Rechargeable Two Way Radio Baofeng BF-888S with Air Acoustic Tube Earpiece UHF Handheld Transceiver Walky Talky with Flashlight Li-ion Battery USB Charger (3 Pack) is a good option.
Pros
- The BF-888S has 16 channels and can be programmed with 50 CTCSS audio and 105 CDCSS audio on each programming channel.
- The walkie-talkies have a long range and can reach up to 3 miles in open areas.
- The BF-888S has a durable battery that can last up to 96 hours when fully charged.
Cons
- The range of the walkie-talkies is limited when there are block buildings or trees.
- The effective distance of the BF-888S depends on the current environment.
- The BF-888S can only be used for 8-12 hours at most when continuously used.
These walkie-talkies are perfect for a variety of scenarios, including commercial organizations, cruises, ships, hunting, hiking, school, retail, church, business education, emergency alarm, manufacturing, healthcare, government, Boy Scouts, villas, camping, restaurants, and other business use, safety maintenance personnel.
The package includes three walkie-talkies, battery packs, chargers, belt clips, hand straps, headsets, and a user manual. These walkie-talkies are easy to operate, suitable for novices, and provide technical guidance. All-day customer service replies ensure your purchase enjoyment.
The BF-888S has a hard and durable shell, making it suitable for various outdoor activities. The walkie-talkies also have a VOX voice control, flashlight function, and low battery alarm. The FCC ID of the BF-888S is 2AJGM-BF888S.
In conclusion, if you’re looking for a durable and long-lasting walkie-talkie, the Walkie Talkies for Adults Long Range Rechargeable Two Way Radio Baofeng BF-888S with Air Acoustic Tube Earpiece UHF Handheld Transceiver Walky Talky with Flashlight Li-ion Battery USB Charger (3 Pack) is a great option.
Buying Guide
When choosing a two-way radio, there are several factors to consider to ensure you get the best product for your needs. Here are some key features to look for:
Range
The range of a two-way radio is an essential factor to consider. It determines how far the signal can travel between two radios. When choosing a radio, consider the range you need for your specific use case. If you’re using the radio for outdoor activities, you may need a longer range than if you’re using it indoors.
Battery Life
Battery life is another important factor to consider when selecting a two-way radio. Look for a radio with a long battery life, especially if you plan on using it for extended periods. Some radios come with rechargeable batteries, while others use disposable batteries.
Durability
Durability is essential for a two-way radio, especially if you plan on using it outdoors or in harsh environments. Look for a radio that is built to withstand drops, water, and dust.
Channels
Two-way radios come with different numbers of channels, which allow you to communicate with multiple groups or individuals. Consider how many channels you need and whether you need a radio with a channel scan feature.
Features
Two-way radios come with a variety of features, including weather alerts, emergency channels, and hands-free operation. Consider which features are important to you and your use case.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best two-way radio for your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum distance for a 2-way radio?
The maximum distance for a 2-way radio depends on various factors such as the terrain, weather, and obstructions. Generally, a 2-way radio can communicate up to a few miles in open areas, but the range can be significantly reduced in urban areas or places with dense foliage.
Which 2-way radio has longest range?
The range of a 2-way radio depends on various factors, and there is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. However, some of the 2-way radios with longer ranges include the Motorola T600 H2O Talkabout Radio, Midland GXT1000VP4, and Uniden SX507-2CKHS.
Is a two-way radio better than a walkie-talkie?
A two-way radio and a walkie-talkie are essentially the same thing. The terms are often used interchangeably. However, some people may use the term “two-way radio” to refer to more professional-grade radios, while “walkie-talkie” may refer to more consumer-grade radios.
What is the best 2-way radio for hunting?
The best 2-way radio for hunting should have a long range, be durable, and be easy to use. Some of the best options include the Motorola T600 H2O Talkabout Radio, Midland GXT1000VP4, and Cobra ACXT645 Walkie Talkie.
What are the best two-way radios for loud environments?
The best two-way radios for loud environments should have strong audio quality and noise-canceling features. Some of the best options include the Motorola T600 H2O Talkabout Radio, Midland GXT1000VP4, and Uniden SX507-2CKHS.
What are the best professional walkie-talkies?
The best professional walkie-talkies should have a long range, be durable, and offer advanced features such as GPS tracking and encryption. Some of the best options include the Motorola XPR7550e, Kenwood TK-3402U16P, and Icom IC-F4001.
