The Long Distance Radios For 2024
The Rundown
1. Best Overall: Midland 40 Watt GMRS MicroMobile Two-Way Radio - Long Range Walkie Talkie
With 15 High/Low Power GMRS channels you can talk to your friends and family in places where your cell phone doesn't work! The 40 Watt MicroMobile walkie-talkie is equipped with a 65-mile range, long enough for open areas with little or no obstruction. Read Review
2. Best For The Price: Arcshell Rechargeable Long Range Two-Way Radios
Thanks to the best range, dependability and durability available on the market, Arcshell rechargeable two-way radios are your go-to for industrial, commercial and residential use. These two-way radios work great in congested areas thanks to their compact design. Read Review
3. Best Style: Retevis RT21 2 Way Radio Long Range, Walkie Talkies
The RT21 two-way radios with a strong audio quality will stand up to harsh job-site conditions and the demands of a busy environment. Designed for the manufacturing floors and retail warehouses, these radios are rugged and reliable. Read Review
4. Best Connectivity: Midland 50 Channel Waterproof GMRS Two-Way Radio
Midland's 50-channel 2-way radios are the perfect way to stay in contact with friends and family during outdoor activities. With a 36-mile range, this walkie-talkie can be used for long-range communication in open areas with little or no obstruction. Read Review
Long distance two-way communication is one of the most challenging aspects of an outdoor communications network. Radio signals attenuate rapidly in vegetation and can be masked by other signals. In addition, radio signals can have multipath distortion and suffer from frequency selectivity. Signals are also sensitive to the antenna orientation, so a fixed antenna array may not provide enough gain for reliable communication link operation.
This article looks at some of the more common solutions to long distance radio challenges and some suggested best practices for deploying outdoor radios for reliable signal transmission and reception.
You can count on our team of experts who have spent over 14 hours conducting surveys through 17,809 real customer reviews. Because of this, we came to the conclusion that the best-reviewed product is Midland 40 Watt GMRS MicroMobile Two-Way Radio - Long Range Walkie Talkie. And Arcshell Rechargeable Long Range Two-Way Radios is another choice for you while keeping the product's quality and functionality.
RELATED: Take A Look At The Top 10 walkie talkie cb radio For You. See Our Top Picks of 2024 and Find The Best One For You.
Our Top Picks
TOP Choice #1
![Midland 40 Watt GMRS MicroMobile Two-Way Radio - Long Range Walkie Talkie]()
- INCLUDED IN THE BOX - MXT400 MicroMobile GMRS 2-Way Radio, flip-frame detachable mount, mounting hardware, microphone, 12V power cord, quick start guide, and owner’s manual.
- 2-WAY RADIO - The 40 Watt MicroMobile walkie talkie is equipped with 15 High/Low Power GMRS channels and 8 Repeater Channels for increased communication range.
- KEYPAD CONTROL - Keypad lock prevents accidental activation of function/mode keys. Keystroke tones provides audible tones with each key press for response or confirmation. Use silent operation to turn off all tones.
- 142 CTCSS/DCS PRIVACY CODES - The MicroMobile has 142 privacy codes that gives you many channel options so unwanted transmissions are not heard.
- 65-MILE RANGE - Longer range communication in open areas with little or no obstruction.
- Small and convenient size;it easily fits on your hand;it measures 4.53 inches in height;1.30 inches thick;2.36 inches in width;6.3 oz light-weighted;solid built;water-resistant;easy to operate for all ages; each radio has a removable belt clip
- Each radio comes with a 1500mAh rechargeable Li-ion battery and a charging dock; the charger comes with an AC wall-wart Type A plug and works in 110v-240v; it takes about 2.5 hours to fully charge; battery life is determined by transmit time;it lasts around 8 to 96 hours on a single charge depending on how much you transmit;you can charge the battery alone or charge the radio with battery installed
- Range is very dependant on terrain;up to 5 miles with no obstructions,less in congested area;work great in a commercial construction or around the house;suitable for security team;maintenance team;construction team;fire department;warehouse;factory;kitchen staff;hotel;retail store;at the school;events communications;roadtrip while driving in different cars;family camping and hunting;on a cruise ship;in mountains;it works worldwide;you can add as many as you want and they work great together
- High quality built-in speaker on the radio provides loud and crystal clear sound; Push-to Talk button and built-in mic on the radio;each radio comes with a single-earbud style earpiece(foam piece included) with a microphone built in and a Push-to-Talk button; earpiece plug is K-type of 3.5mm plug and 2.5mm plug;when you plug in the earpiece,all sound goes to the earpiece and the radio speaker is silent;the radio has a VOX function
- 16 channels;each radio has identical frequency on each of the 16 channels out of the box;16 position mechanical rotary switch channel selector;when you turn the knob to change the channel,a synthesized voice will tell you the channel number
TOP Choice #3
![Retevis RT21 2 Way Radio Long Range, Walkie Talkies]()
- Strong shell and stubborn accessories will last long time and save cost for your business
- Equipped with 6 way gang charger and charging 6 pack walkie talkies together to save time for your business
- Our walkie talkies is only FRS walkie talkies;the FCC ID is 2AAR8RETEVISRT21;our walkie talkies meet FCC rule part 95
- Have been set well could use directly when out of box; emergency alarm will protect your safety when you work alone
- Belt clip and VOX function will offer real hands free;improve your working efficiency
- 1100 mAh battery will last about 10-12 hours using;power your working time all the time
- 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
- 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)
- 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
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![4 Long Range Walkie Talkies Rechargeable]()
- 💪 【Support Team Communication】：The adult walkie-talkie has superior compatibility, super power and large capacity rechargeable battery(1800mAh), so you can not only make long-distance calls with all teammates at the same time but also keep connected all the time. The portable PTT walkie-talkies are perfect for women or men outdoor adventures, such as camping, hiking, hunting, boating, fishing, skiing and so on
- 💪 【USB Charging Walkie Talkies】：The rechargeable two way radios have USB charging cable and original fast charger, more convenient to charge anytime, anywhere, such as charged by PC, car charger or power bank. The 1800mAh polymer lithium rechargeable battery has high safety and long life, so you don't need to buy the batteries again and again
- 💪 【Advanced Technology】：With stronger usability, more mature technology and even better portability. The best walkie talkies support many advanced features, such as Auto squelch system, Auto memory function, Auto scan function, Auto power saving, Low battery alert, Voice activated(iVOX), Keypad lock, Adjustable power, Drop-protection(ABS), 22 channel each with 121 privacy codes, Large LCD screen with backlight, Compatible with most brands, NOAA's Weather Emergency Alert and so on
- 💪 【NOAA Weather Scan and Alert】：The super power walkie talkies 2 way radio support NOAA's National Weather Service, it can scan 10 NOAA radio channels transmitting in your area. If you turn on the weather alert function, the work walkie talkies will auto alert you the warnings from designated NOAA broadcast stations
- Range up to 350,000 sq. ft. or 30 floors indoors,10 pre-programmed channels to communicate with separate work groups
- Repeater Capability, 3 Voice Scramble settings to reduce eavesdropping
- AA Battery Compatible (requires 5 AA cells & alkaline battery frame accessory)
- 4 Watts of power,89 UHF business-exclusive frequencies and 121 interference eliminator codes
- 2-Pack includes: 2-Motorola RDU4100 Two-Way Radios, 2-2400 mAh Li-ion Rechargeable Battery, 2-10 Hour Plug-In Charger, 2-Spring Loaded Belt Clip, 2-Antenna
- 【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.
- 【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
- 【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.
- 【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.
- 【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)
- Dual band walkie talkies;128 channels 50 CTCSS and 105 DCS dual-band display; dual frequency display; A/B band independent operation
- Long range walkie talkies; two selectable power modes;you can choose the high power to maximize range or low power to conserve battery life
- 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
- Full feature; keypad lock;emergency alert; 0-9 grades vox selectable; also easy to operate and learn even if you are not a radio expert
- Equipped with shoulder speaker mic; giving you clear and high quality sound communications in the noisy environment without holding your radio
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![Retevis RT29 2 Way Radios Walkie Talkies Long Range]()
- Whatever your needs;RT29 two way radio provides a simple;reliable; cost-effective communication solution to help work crews connect; coordinate and collaborate to get the job done right
- 3200mAh battery capacity enable this radio has far more usage time and service life than other models of the same type
- Super durable material casts rugged firmware and strong audio enable you have louder and crystal voice; strong back clip to fix the walkie-talkie; it is recommended to use a T9 screwdriver to fix or remove the back clip screws
- High power and strong penetrating power of walkie talkies greatly enhance its coverage so that you have accurate transmission without dead ends
- 50 non-standard CTCSS and 232 DCS provide a safe calls;which can avoid unnecessary chats; provide you with a safe and clear call
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![Retevis RT86 Two Way Radios Long Range Rechargeable]()
- Shock-proof and dust-proof walkie talkies;heavy-duty appearance design; stout antenna ; can withstand a drop of about 2 meters
- Compared to the fragile LCD screen, RT86 adults walkie talkies features shatterproof active view display uses hidden LED lighting;save more power; better dustproof
- VOX allows you to operate hands-free; put the microphone on the collar; you can talk freely without holding it
- Long battery life rechargeable walkie talkies; built-in 2600 mAh battery; can provide 16-24 hours of use time
- Emergency 2 way radios;large LED flashlight; can be used for emergency lighting; also convenient to use at night
- Long range; high-power design; RT86 long range two way radio can effectively penetrate buildings; steel structure; provide stable and reliable signal
- Safe walkie talkies;emergency alarm function; press the side key 2; the alarm sound can be transmitted to other walkie-talkies in the same channel
- Out of the box; directly communicate with the default channel of Retevis RB85; when work with other models of analog walkie talkies; you need to set the same frequency and CTCSS/DCS of the walkie talkies through computer software
- Wireless clone function; you can quickly copy the settings of the walkie-talkies to other walkie-talkies; only the same models
- Easy to use walkie talkies;50 CTCSS and 232 DCS can reduce unnecessary chat; improving communication efficiency
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What to Look For in a long distance radios?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
FAQs
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.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.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.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.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.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.Conclusion
Choosing the long distance radios for your purposes might be a difficult challenge. It is critical to remember what you want to achieve with the purchase as well as any factors that may influence your selection.
Whether it's as basic as reading reviews before purchasing or inspecting images of long distance radios on the market from numerous perspectives. When you wish to locate another one, you may also look at the Radtel RT12 Rechargeable Walkie Talkies. Now, let’s pick one for you!
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