The Best Handheld Walkie Talkie For 2024

Tim Powers By, Tim Powers
Updated
Midland 50 Channel Waterproof GMRS Radio - Long Range Walkie Talkie
Image credit: Amazon.com

The Rundown

1. Best Of The Best: Midland 50 Channel Waterproof GMRS Radio - Long Range Walkie Talkie

This is a professional grade 50 channel GMRS walkie talkie that is designed for long range. It has a Xtreme Range of up to 6 miles and comes with privacy codes so you can speak without others hearing your conversations. This dual-band radio is cross-compatible with other two-way radios in your car or home so you can easily share communication. Read Review

2. Runner Up: Walkie Talkies 3 Pack Rechargeable, Long Range Walky Talky Handheld

These Walkie-Talkies are a must-have for outdoor groups, families, and anyone who loves to spend time outside. The range is about 35 miles so you can get the most of your walk in the woods or backyard. Lastly, these walkie talkies come with NOAA Weather Alerts and the ability to communicate with any radio, making them perfect for hiking, camping or just exploring. Read Review

3. Best Easy To Use: MOTOROLA SOLUTIONS Talkabout T460 Rechargeable Two-Way Radio Pair

The Motorola Solutions Talkabout T460 is a great choice for your outdoor activities. Whether it's taking care of the farm animals or getting to work, this radio has the power you need to keep up with your life while you do. With 22 channels and 121 privacy codes, you'll always stay in number one position at home or out on the trail. Read Review

4. Best Connectivity: Ham Radio Walkie Talkie (UV-5R 8W) Dual Band 2-Way Radio with Handheld

The UV-5R is a 2-way radio designed for both novice and experienced users. This dual-band radio comes with 8-watt output power, dual-band standby, and provides you with a low power consumption option. The UV-5R features an LCD display that displays frequency, signal strength, and other important information. Read Review

If you are a frequent traveler or often find yourself in remote places, having a reliable radio communication device can be extremely helpful. It can also be nerve-wracking to have such an important tool with you when you are out and about, especially if you don’t know anyone else around. A portable handheld walkie-talkie is a perfect solution to these common problems because they are small enough to easily fit anywhere without being obvious.

They are also not as expensive as other more professional communication devices. What’s more, they are available at most department stores and many online retailers as well for a much lower price than other brands. In this article, we will review some of the best handheld radios for travelers so that you can pick the right one for your needs and budget.

You can count on our team of experts who have spent over 16 hours conducting surveys through 4,419 real customer reviews. Because of this, we came to the conclusion that the best-reviewed product is Midland 50 Channel Waterproof GMRS Radio - Long Range Walkie Talkie. And Walkie Talkies 3 Pack Rechargeable, Long Range Walky Talky Handheld is another choice for you while keeping the product's quality and functionality.

Our Top Picks

  • 36-Mile Range - Longer Range Communication In Open Areas With Little Or No Obstruction. Easy Voice And Sound Activation Transmission (Evox) With 9 Sensitivity Levels For Hands-Free Operation
  • 142 Ctcss/Dcs Privacy Codes - The Privacy Codes Give You Up To 3,124 Channel Options To Block Other Conversations
  • Noaa Weather Scan + Alert - Noaa Weather Scan Will Automatically Scan Through 10 Available Weather (Wx) Band Channels And Locks Onto The Strongest Weather Channel To Alert You Of Severe Weather Updates. Noaa Weather Alert Will Sound An Alarm Indicating That There Is A Risk Of Severe Weather In Your Area
  • 2-Way Radios - These Walkie-Talkies Feature 50 Gmrs (General Mobile Radio Service) Channels, Along With Channel Scan To Check For Activity. The Jis4 Waterproof Protection Prevents Splashing Water From Having Any Harmful Effect On It (Splash Resistant)
  • 【Compatible with Any Radio】 You can communicate with other FRS radios regardless of brand by being on the same channel and privacy code. Easy Voice and Sound Activation Transmission (eVOX) with 9 sensitivity levels for hands-free operation
  • 【NOAA WEATHER ALERT】NOAA Weather Scan will automatically scan through 16 available weather (WX) band channels and locks onto the strongest weather channel to alert you of severe weather updates. NOAA Weather Alert will sound an alarm indicating that there is a risk of severe weather in your area.
  • 【Longer stand-by time】 Each radio comes with 3*1000MAh NI-MH AA rechargeable batteries.The larger volume provides longer standby about 54 hours.With the micro-USB cable, you can charge the radio by power bank or vehicle adaptor when you are outdoors.
  • 【Wide use】This radio provides long range communication and clear sound for hiking, biking, camping trip, road trip, cruise ship and so on. It is also a great communication tool for kids and the elder to talk to others at home.
  • 【More features】Push to talk (PTT) button; 8 adjustable volumes; 10 call tone settings; Keypad lock (only PTT button work); Scanning function for busy channel; 22 channel, 38 CTCSS privacy codes and 89 DCS privicy codes; Great customer shopping experience.
TOP Choice #3 MOTOROLA SOLUTIONS Talkabout T460 Rechargeable Two-Way Radio Pair
Our Score:
9.6
Motorola Solutions
  • Country of origin : China
  • This radio has a built-in LED light which offers emergency lighting when needed.
  • Included Components: 2 Radios, 2 Micro-USB Wall Charging Cables, 2 Rechargeable Batteries, 2 Belt Clips, User Guide and Accessory Sheet (English and French)
  • You will have 24/7 access to alerts ranging from flash floods to tornado warnings to national emergencies.
  • Dual-band standby, Enables you to monitor and transmit on two channels at the same time. 128 channel memory, fully in compliance with the FCC part 15B and part 90 regulations, you may need to apply for a radio license to use this device.
  • Wide Compatibility: The Greaval UV5R Dual-band ham radio covers the most commonly used frequency range, compatible with many other radios such as the BF-F8HP/UV 82HP, etc. Bit-Trading is authorized by Baofeng officially through Amazon's Brand Registry. The Greaval UV5R is made by Baofeng on behalf of our trademark and compatible with other UV-5R models.
  • Power Output: High /Medium /Low Power Switchable, Programmable Radio Supports Keyboard or PC programming (for Outdoor /Home /Workplace use, etc.)
  • Complete Set: Package contains a full set of accessories, no more worry about looking for compatible accessories. Best choice for your business. We provide 30-day hassle-free return, 18-month warranty, hardware and tech-support provided.
  • Power Source: Rechargeable 2100 mAh Li-ion Battery, Supports 12-20 Hours continual use, one more extra battery supports non-stop communication, car charger adapter also included.
  • 【Durable battery】Under normal circumstances,walkie talkie can be used for 8-96 hours with a full charge, and up to 8-12 hours with continuous use. The actual time depends on the frequency of use;3-4 hours to fully charge a battery with 0 capacity,long battery life.
  • 【Long-Range communication】walkie talkies long range can reach 3 miles in open areas such as rural areas, suburbs or seaside, etc. where there is no shelter. If in cities or towns, walkie talkies can reach 0.6-1.2 miles in most cases. The actual distance Depends on the obstruction of the current environment.
  • 【Lightweight and compact, suitable for multiple scenes】Small size and light weight, Hard and durable shell, drop-proof, Rainproof, this Handheld two way radio transmitters are suitable for hotel management, villas, restaurant kitchens,outings,Outdoor mountain climbing, construction sites, factory warehouses, car driving, cruise ships, school,churches, retail stores and supermarkets, security personnel, construction personnel, safety maintenance personnel.
  • 【Diversified functions】FCC ID: 2AX68PX-888S, 16 preset channels can be selected by rotating the knob on the 2 Way Radios to select any channel within the frequency range; you can program 50 CTCSS audio and 105 CDCSS audio on each programmed channel, The Two-Way Radios has the functions of VOX voice control, scanning, low battery alarm and night flashlight,etc;package contains (walkie talkie, battery pack, Charger, belt clip, hand strap, Earpieces) X 4 and user manual.
  • 【After-sales service】pxton walkie talkies, provide return and money back service within 30 days and lifetime customer service. If you have any problems, please tell us through the Amazon platform,our professional team will solve your after-sales problems as soon as possible.
  • 【Ultra-portable 2-way Radio】 Preset 22 FRS channels plus 99 set of CTCSS tones, provides an extensive frequency usage (up to 2178 combinations), License-FREE in the US.
  • 【Battery Operated】The easiest way to power the walkie-talkie, just replace the batteries when the battery is low, save your time from charging. They use both AAA Alkaline batteries and AAA rechargeable batteries, provides you with the most flexibility. [Please place the battery in correct direction following the polarity marking to avoid potential circuit damage by short circuit.]
  • 【Built-in Backlit LCD Screen, Speaker & Mic】 LCD display shows you the battery status, channel number as well as the sub-tones, Volume level, and signal status, etc. Built-in flashlight for night use or emergency.
  • 【Wide Range & Easy Operation】UHF radios support up to 5 miles communication range in open fields, provide 0.6-1.2 miles communication in built-up areas or obstructed conditions. Walkie Talkies for adults in outdoor activities hiking camping road trip as well as for kids to keep in contact with parents.
  • 【More Features】Voice Operated Transmit (VOX) supports the hands-free operation, Keypad Lock prevents unintended input, Call tones enables you to ring other radios before sending voice, Roger beep and Channel Scan Feature supported.
  • ✔️Equipped with speaker mic; giving you clear and high quality sound communications in the noisy environment without holding your radio
  • ✔️ Built-in high brightness LED that can be used as a flashlight or alert system for emergency situations
  • ✔️ Keypad setting and clearly LCD display will offer you more convenience when you need to change some functions
  • ✔️ TD-771 high gain antenna: greatly expands the signal transmission distance and enhances signal reception.
  • ✔️Upgrades from Baofeng UV-5R: 128 Memory Channel; 50 CTCSS/105 DCS; VOX Mode for Hands-Free; A/B band independent operation; Busy channel lock-out; Auto Keypad Lock. FCC ID:2AWL3TIDRADIOTDUV5R
  • ✔️TD-5R radio is compatible with CHIRP; More convenient to manual programming most of settings via the keypad
  • ✔️All you need is in one box: TD5R comes with programming cable, two 1800 mAh batteries, charger, earphones, hand microphone,car charger and TD-771 long antenna, no need to purchase additional accessories, more cost-effective!
  • ✔️All you need is in one box! Get Extended pack of ham radio with 2pcs 2200 mAh Batteries + CH340 Programming Cable + TD-771 High Gain Antenna + High Quality Radio Mic and more; No more worry about looking for compatible accessories.
  • ✔️Easy Programming:More convenient to manual programming most of settings via the keypad, as well as PC programming with the cable in the box. TD-H6 is also compatible with CHIRP.
  • ✔️Durable Rugged Shell:Completed with a hard case outside, supports using for years, especially for business and outdoor using, like at the construction field, security work, survival rescue.
  • ✔️Tri-Power & Long Range:TD-H6 ham radio have higher output power and TD-771 high gain antenna, greatly expands the signal transmission distance and enhances signal reception;Tri-power switch, allow you to choose between high power to maximize range or low power to conserve battery life.
  • ✔️Wide Compatibility:TD-H6 ham radio covers most commonly used frequency range, makes it compatible with many other handheld radio such as the baofeng uv-5r series and baofeng bf-f8hp series, baofeng uv-82 series.
  • ✔️This model has been FCC certified, FCC ID: 2AWL3TIDRADIOTD-H6;FCC Certification and Program Guide under the listing product guides and documents; Enjoy 60 days no reason to return including the accessories.
  • ✔️96 Hours Battery Life:Rechargeable 2200 mAh Li-ion Battery, up to 48 hours standby time, one more extra battery supports non-stop communication, car charger adapter also included;Supports you longer, especially in outside activity.
  • 【Power Source】Rechargeable Li-ion Battery packs (Original 1800mAh + Extra 3800 mAh), Support 24 hours continual communication.
  • 【More Features】VOX: 0-9 gain level adjustable丨channel step: 2.5/5/6.25/10/12.5/25Khz丨voice Companding: 50 ctcss/ 104DCS coder & tone searching.
  • Anliss Direct (Anliss) is the authorized BaoFeng US Distributor, all Baofeng radios we sell qualifies Baofeng's warranty, we also provide our own 30-day hassle-free return, 18-month warranty on the main unit and 12-month on the parts as well as 6-month free replacement on the battery pack.
  • 【Power Output】High /Medium /Low Power Switchable, Programmable Radio Supports Keyboard or PC programming (for Outdoor /Home /Workplace use, etc.)
  • 【Frequency Range】This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to part 15B and part 90 of the FCC Rules. FCC IDENTIFIER: 2AJGM-UV5RPRO.
  • 【2 Way Radios with Dual PTT】Left Side PTT allows you to make "direct calls" to the same channel members. GROUP PTT allows you to talk to other people simultaneously even they are not on the same channel. Ideal for on-site business applications, help work crews connect, coordinate and collaborate to get the job done right.
  • 【Custome your own UHF RADIO】Pre-program with 20 channels with private CDCSS codes can be used directly out of the box. The frequency range is UHF 406.1-470MHz; Support reprograms the business radio to prevent irrelevant signals from interfering with your conversation & work with other brands' hand free walkie talkies. Provide SAMCOM Programmable software. ( Software support Windows only, not Mac)
  • 【Two Way Radio Long Range】5 Watts strong penetration walkie-talkies with long antenna guarantee the stability of the communication process. Selectable High Power (5W) provides strong penetrating power between the construction area. Low Mode (2W) saves battery life and long use.
  • 【Heavy Duty Walkie Talkie】360°Rotate the channel knob easy to switch the channel, adjustable volume level keeps sounds clarity without noise and distortion. The backlit LCD display can easily read the status of the channel and setting. A built-in speaker and mic with additional ear-bud attachments. Anti-drop two-way radio can withstand harsh environments.
  • 【Rechargeable Walkie Talkies】Worry-free Day Night Shift with a large-capacity 1500mAh lithium rechargeable battery. Working Time: 12 hours, Standby Time: 50 hours. Less than 4-5h to be fully charged quickly. Communicate effortlessly in working areas like hotel, school security,market,construction area and concert.
  • 【FCC Certificated SAMCOM Radios】Best Christmas Gift -SAMCOM 5 Watts Radio FCC ID : 2AIOQ-FPCN30AA. The Package includes Two-Way Radio x9; 1500mAh Battery x9; Long Antenna (6.7 inches) x9; K-Type Earpiece x9; Dock Charger (US Standard) x9; Belt Clip( Already Assembled); Manual x9. Radio :1.19*1.18*11 inch
Product Images, Product Titles, Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API

What to Look For in a best handheld walkie talkie?

To buy any product seems easy, but to choose the best one is not straightforward. The time you take to research its outcome is significant. The same matter also comes to best handheld walkie talkie of 2024 that we include in this article. But you can relax instead of spending too much time learning the products. It’s our duty!

Here are the main features of best handheld walkie talkie that all of you guys should keep in mind when deciding to make a purchase:

Channels & Privacy Codes

Two-way radios that are license-free have a fixed frequency they can transmit on. PMR446 The majority of two-way radios without a license have 8 to 16 channels. These tune the frequency at which handsets communicate. There are usually privacy codes in addition to channels. These codes do not protect your transmissions, contrary to the title. They allow you to talk freely and without being interrogated by others. This can prove problematic if your use them in an area such as a ski resort, where many other two-way radios are in use.

Number Of Handsets

You will need as many handsets as you can afford when purchasing two-way radios. While a twin-set may suffice for camping trips, busy warehouses might need more to ensure everyone is connected. The price per handset drops when you purchase in bulk. To meet every customer's requirements, we offer many two-way radio packages. If you need to add more handsets, we also have single handsets.

Battery Type

Many two-way radios can be powered with regular alkaline batteries. Others have rechargeable batteries that include a dock. Two-way radios should not be used for longer than one day without power access. A model that takes both regular and multiple batteries is a better option if you are going on camping trips. We recommend regular 2-way rechargeable radios. This is because used batteries are expensive and can cause damage to the environment.

Emergency Features

Your two-way radio is a great tool for emergency planning, whether you are camping, hiking or hunting. An Emergency Alert radio sends an alert to all radios within your radio group in case you need immediate help. There are many types of emergency alerts available, and they vary from brand to model. Some alerts combine a beacon flashing S.O.S with international Morse Code, others send a loud alarm to members of the group. These alerts block any activity on radios and get louder until someone responds.

Weight And Size

Both weight and size play a major role in carrying all you need. Two-way radios are small and lightweight, so they can be carried in a bag or attached to your belt. Although smaller units can be more affordable than larger models, they might not offer as many features or provide the same protection. Heavy-duty, impact-resistant two-way units that are heavier and more durable are a better choice for outdoor enthusiasts who want to be tough.

Maximum Range

When choosing a 2-way radio, the first thing to think about is how far you want them to travel. Consumer 2-way radios with a transmit power of 0.75W and the PMR446 frequency can travel up to 10 km. This could be possible only in the ideal circumstances: high above ground with no obstructions between radios. This range is unlikely to be achieved unless you use your walkie-talkies to connect between mountaintops. The maximum range in a dense urban setting is more likely to be lower. A good radio will provide sufficient range to reach the majority of people. You will require more power and range than that. They are more costly than the license-free model and require a license.

Weatherproofing

You can't keep your two-way hidden in your bag, but there is a good chance it will be exposed to other conditions than the cool, mild, early summer sun when there is a gentle breeze blowing. It is important to consider the weatherproofing of your two-way. If you reside in an area with moderate temperatures and light to predictable rains, some models can withstand splashing water.
An entirely waterproof radio is an option. Many models are waterproof and can withstand severe rain. Some models can be submerged up to 30 minutes without causing any damage. A model that floats will be your best option if your radio is used for fisherman, fishing or crossing open waters. If you drop your model accidentally, it can be easily picked up from the water surface.

FAQs

Is VHF Or UHF Better?

The frequency band that a radio can operate within is called VHF (very high frequency), or UHF [ultra high frequency]. VHF operates between 136 and 174 MHz, while UHF operates between 400 and 512 MHz. Wave length is shorter the higher frequency. A signal will travel farther if it has a longer wave length. It is easier for the signal's to penetrate if the wave length is shorter. VHF broadcasts better over open water and from an unobstructed location to another. For broadcasting through buildings or other obstructions, UHF is better than VHF.

Can I Change The Frequencies On My 2 Way Radios?

Many commercial-grade 2 way radios can be programmed from either a computer onboard or via a PC. Although you cannot change VHF to UHF, the radio can be programmed with a PC or on-board programming. However, it can alter the frequencies in the band.

How Many Radios Can I Use One Location?

You can use as many radios at any location you wish, regardless of the license. To manage communication better, we suggest that the channel's users be limited to ten.

Why Do 2 Way Radios Have Multiple Channels?

Every channel can be programed at a different frequency. Most modern 2 way radios can have between 4 and 16 channels, although some radios may have up to 256 channels. Channel one will be the only channel that broadcasts on the frequency being used. It is beneficial for commercial applications to have different communication depending on the work group or whereabouts. Radios can be used by schools to broadcast the news. Teachers and administrators might prefer one channel.

What Is The Life Expectancy Of A 2 Way Radio?

Two-way radios of commercial grade are made to comply with Military Specifications as well as Intrusion Protection standards. These radios can live for a long time if they are maintained and used in accordance with the specifications. Two-way radios can last up to 10 years. But radio batteries rarely last more than 3 to 4 years.

How Far Do 2 Way Radios Broadcast?

Broadcast distances of commercial-grade hand-held radios are generally between one and two miles. While VHF radios can broadcast further, they do not penetrate as far. UHF radios transmit a greater distance and have better penetration.

What Is 2 Way Radio VOX?

Voice activation is VOX. VOX promises hands-free operation. "Speak and the radio will open to broadcast your message." However, voice activation should actually be called sound activation. The VOX function on a 2-way radio can't distinguish between a call to help or the usual grunts, groans and grunts of normal physical activity. VOX may cause more problems than it solves. We do not recommend VOX being used in commercial applications.

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About Tim Powers

Tim Powers

Tim Powers is an audio equipment & home theater gadget reviewer and the editor of TheAudioInsights.com. He has been involved in the home theater hobby since the late 1990s when he purchased his first AV receiver. Tim is also a writer, with articles appearing in various online and print publications.