The Waterproof Mobile Ham Radio For 2024
The Rundown
1. Best Overall: BTECH UV-5X3 Tri-Band Radio
With busy channel lock-out, transmission time-out, and frequency reverse squelch tail elimination, you can be sure that you'll have the best experience possible. Read Review
2. Best For The Price: Midland MXT400 MicroMobile Two-Way Radio
This durable, lightweight device gives you a range of up to 50 miles, so you can stay in contact even in remote locations. Read Review
3. Best Handheld: Yaesu VX-6R Submersible Amateur Ham Radio
This compact handheld radio has all the standard features of a transceiver, plus some great extras like Automatic Repeater Shift and Auto-Range Transponder System. Read Review
4. Best For Beginners: Baofeng UV-5R Ham Radio
This useful radio offers many useful features, including a rugged design, 8 watts of transmission power, and long battery life. Read Review
When a natural disaster strikes, standard phone lines can become overloaded or fail. Even if you have cell service, your provider may not be able to get a call out. HAM radios are a reliable source of communication in these kinds of situations.
They’re also ideal for anyone who enjoys outdoor activities like hiking and camping that take place outside the range of cell phone towers. Waterproof mobile ham radio is one of the best ways to ensure your communication needs remain covered, no matter where your adventures take you.
Below, we will present our top selections for the best waterproof mobile ham radios to help you find the right option for your specific circumstances and budget. When it comes to affordability and reliability, our BTECH UV-5X3 Tri-Band Radio is almost unbeatable. A portable device with a hands-free operation? What more can you ask for. If you're looking for a model to use while driving, then our Midland MXT400 MicroMobile Two-Way Radio is a better option.
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Our Top Picks
- Features: VOX Talk Around Mode Busy Channel Lock-Out (BCLO) Transmission Time Out Channel Receive Only (TX OFF) Frequency Reverse Squelch Tail Elimination (STE) Work Mode (Selectable VFO/ Menu Lockout) Alpha Numeric Channel Storage PC Programmable
- BTECH is proud to be in the USA, which allows you to have the best available local support for any issue that may arise. BTECH only engineers and develops radio products. That brand focus allows you to have the best available radios and accessories with the most features, with real USA warranty and support.
- What’s New: Tri-band Frequency Range Display Sync DTMF Decode Incoming ANI Display Remote Stun, Kill, Revive, Inspect, and Monitor Selectable Frequency Range Scanning Remove/Add Channels from Scanning Right in Menu
- Kit Includes: UV-5X3 Radio, 1500mAh Battery, V-85 Dual Band Antenna, 220MHz Single Band Antenna, CH-5 Charger, CH-5 110V Adapter, Earpiece Kit, Wrist Strap, Belt Clip, User Manual
- Recommended Accessories: Pair UV-5X3 with the Nagoya NA-320A Antenna for all-in-one antenna option. The PC03 FTDI Cable is recommended for easy computer programming - Uses CHIRP Software
- 65-MILE RANGE - Longer range communication in open areas with little or no obstruction.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Included in the box: Yaesu VX-6R Tri-Band Transceiver, FNB-80LI 1250mAh battery, SAD-11B Wall Charger, YHA-67 Antenna, Belt Clip, Manual and Warranty Card
- Transmits the 144, 220 & 430Mhz Amateur Ham Radio Bands, & receives 0.5-999Mhz!
- Additional features include a convenient access key for Vertex Standard's WIRES (Wide-coverage Internet Repeater Enhancement System), a transmit Time-Out Timer (TOT), Automatic Power-Off (APO), Automatic Repeater Shift (ARS), Yaesu's exclusive ARTS (Auto-Range Transponder System) which "beeps" the user when you move out of communications range with another ARTS equipped station, plus provision for reduction of the TX deviation in areas of high channel congestion.
- Compact, Mil-Spec, Waterproof & Submersible Tri Band Ham Radio!
- Output Power is 5 Watts on 2 meter & 70cm, & 1.5W on 222Mhz, with multiple lower power settings!
- Two way radio support Chirp programming. Support manually programming via button. Support PC programming, please download the software on the baofeng official website.
- 2 way radio walkie talkies function: LCD display with backlight adjustable in 3 colors. VOX, Scan, Dual Watch. Power Save. TOT. DTMF. BCL. Repeater.
- Ham radio handheld up to 128 memory channels. Squelch adjustable in 9 levels. 50 CTCSS tones and 210 DCS codes. SOS Emergency.
- Baofeng radio frequency band: VHF/UHF; 144-148/420-450MHz. 8 watt high power. VHF and UHF bands and channel name displayed.
- Amateur radio include: 2 x UV-5RE 8W radio. 2 x High gain antenna. 2 x 2800mAh Li-Ion battery pack. 2 x 1800mAh battery. 2 x Headphone. 2 x Desktop charger. 2 x Power adapter. 2 x Antenna. 2 x Belt clip. 2 x Hand strap. 2 x User's manual.
- Quad Watch Receiver: The UV-25X2 operates as multiple radios in one, with either 144 MHz or 430 MHz as the "Main" TX/RX band, while simultaneously watching up to 3 other frequencies or channels; and, if you like, you can configure your UV-25X2 for simultaneous VHF-VHF or UHF-UHF operation, too!
- Recommended Accessories: Pair UV-25X2 with the Nagoya UT-72 Magnetic Mount Antenna for easy installation. The PC04 FTDI Cable is recommended for easy computer programming
- What Makes the UV-25X2 Unique: Dual Synchronize Display Mode, Mic Audio Gain Settings, In depth user's guide, Auto Power Off Function, Channel Mode Editing Settings, Auto Scan, Scanning Resume, and Variable Frequency Scanning, Quad Watch Delay Time, Randomization Privacy Mode, Builds upon previous generation UV-2501
- Kit Includes: BTECH UV-25X2, Speaker Mic, 6 foot DC Cable with Cigarette Plug Connector, Radio & Mic Brackets, Mounting Hardware, and User Guide
- High / Low Power Settings (25W/10W); Frequency Range: VHF: 144-148 MHz(Rx/Tx). UHF: 420-450 MHz(Rx/Tx); Broad (Wide) / Narrowband (Narrow) Selectable
- Analog and digital combined; Cross-band send and receive; TX and RX frequencies; Channel number; 32 radio ID etc; Users can customize the side buttons according to their own habit
- 3000 channels 20000 contacts; tri group call models make you call freely without the group restrictions; supports to save 32 radio ID and edit radio ID via keypad
- Dual time slot for point to point supports two group calls in one channel under direct model; supports DTMF connecting
- IP67 waterproof and dustproof; can be immersed in 1 meter of water for 30 minutes and can easily cope with complex outdoor environments
- FPP function; you can set almost all functions with the keyboard; access to many menu settings; VFO mode; very easy to learn and use
- 3200mAh battery enable normal use more than 15 hours; excellent for outdoor activities in skiing; hiking; hunting
- HD1 dmr radio can communicate with other two way radio of the same frequency; compatible with Motorola TierⅠ&Ⅱ; use out of the box
- GPS/APRS function; provides real-time location information and complete tracking feedback
7
![FONGHOO TYT TH-9800D Quad Band Cross-Band Radio]()
- 5. Kit Includes: TYT TH-9800D Mobile Radio, Speaker Mic (DTMF Function), DC power cable with fuse holder, Radio & Mic Brackets, Mounting Hardware, User Guide and TYT Programming Cable
- 4. Function: Cross Brand Repeater, 800 AlphaNumeric Memory channels, CTCSS, DCS (PL & DPL), DTMF, 2 Tone, 5 Tone, ANI, Display Brightness Setting, Channel Spacing 5/10/12.5/15/20/25KHz
- 3. CHIRP Software for Easier Programming or FREE download the programming software on TYT official website
- 2. Quad-band Transmit, Twin Receive, Dual Display; TX: 28-29/50-54/144-148/420-450MHz; RX: 26-33/47-54/110-180(with AM Air Band)/350-399/430-512/750-947MHz; Power Output Setting: VHF: 50/20/10/5W UHF: 35/20/10/5W, Pair with Quad-Band Antenna
- 1.▲▲☞FONGHOO☜▲▲ Official Distributor of TYT. Great Radio At Great Price, "Plus" Version of TYT TH-9800, Remote Mountable Faceplate, Twin simultaneous Receive, Seperate Vol & Squelch Controls, Multiple Tuning Steps
- Feature Rich｜Quad Channels Standby, 199 Channels, Wideband or Narrowband Switchable, Easy-to-read large display (Blue background color, white text color), High (25W) / Mid (10W) / Low (5W) Power Switchable, PC programmable, 260 Privacy Codes, Busy Channel Lock-Out, TOT
- Flexible Customizable Channels｜The DB25-G offers 130 empty channels for programming, not only support to receive and transmit on GMRS channels/repeater channels but also support to receive on UHF and VHF channels. It provides more channels to make it flexible to reach more groups of people, saving your programming time.
- What's in the Box?｜DB25-G comes with a compact mobile radio, speaker microphone, programming cable, 10-15V cigarette power plug, microphone holder, mount bracket, user manual, and some assembly accessories.
- Impressive Long Range Talking｜DB25-G easily reaches up to 25 miles in the open air, 15 miles on a mountain trail, and is very effective for camping/Off-Road/Overlanding and being able to communicate with your crew!
- Plug-in-and-go GMRS Mobile + Scanning Receiver｜DB25-G works well with all brands of GMRS radios right out of the box and is capable of accessing the GMRS repeaters. It is also a UHF, VHF scanning and receiver. Easy to install the DB25-G with the cigarette plug in your vehicle.
- 5.Package Include:TH-9000D (VHF/144-148MHz) Two Way Radio,DTMF Keypad Microphone,Mobile Mounting Bracket,DC Power Cable with Fuse Holder,USB Programming Cable,Screws Accessories,User Manual
- 3.Function:65W/45W/ Mono Band/CTCSS/COMP/DCS Setting & Scanning/200 Memory Channels/Remote Kill, stun,activate and revive/8 group’s of scrambler/1024 groups of DCS,Keypad lock, Scan modes & more
- 1.Important:FCC ID:PODTH-9000DV. Frequency Range: TX:144-148 MHZ, RX:136-174 MHz
- 2.CTCSS/COMP/DCS Setting & Scanning/200 Memory Channels/Remote Kill, stun,activate and revive/8 group’s of scrambler
- 4.Come with a free USB programming cable,easy to program;Dimensions(WxHxD):5.71(W)x1.85(H)x7.48(D) inch,Weight: 2.65 lbs
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![HESENATE TYT TH-8600 Dual Band Mini Mobile Transceiver]()
- 1. HESENATE x TYT Mobile Transceiver Series, ONE YEAR U.S Based Warranty, Warehouse (Domestic Return) in CA State--No Further Return Issue.
- 4. A MUST HAVE Programming cable (Window 10 Supported, Driver Installation Needed) included for easier Computer/PC programming with software, FULL Reviews/Instructions/FAQ/video tutorials about operations on the internet. Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions.
- 2. Rugged Compact Reliable MOBILE RADIO (Ham), New Addition to Any Motocycle or Off-road Vehicle. Super IP67 Dust/Waterproof, Full Color Screen, P1-P4 Programmable Functional Keys, Dual Band, Dual Display, Dual Watch.
- 3. Size: 4.2" (W) x 1.8" (H) x 5.4 (D)" (107 x 45 x 125 mm); Frequency: VHF(144-148Mhz/2m), UHF(420-450Mhz/70cm), Output Power 25W/20W, 200 Channels, CTCSS/DSC, DTMF, Priority Channel Scanning, 2Tone/5Tone, Remote Kill/Stun/Activate, 1750Hz Burst Tone.
- 5. Kit includes: TH-8600 Mobile Radio, Microphone, Mounting Brackets & Screws, Programming Cable, and User Manual. Software Download at TYT Official Website.
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What to Look For in a waterproof mobile ham radio?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
FAQs
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.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.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.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.READ NEXT: The 10 Best Tablet 13 Inch Of 2024, Tested By Our Experts
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