Best walkie talkie for keeping connected in 2023
While technology advances, you may have thought the walkie talkie would be left behind. You’d be wrong. They’re still a trusted tool for event organisers, construction workers, outdoor enthusiasts and other individuals looking for quick, responsive communication.
It’s not hard to see why. Walkie talkies remove the need to dial numbers or wait for phone calls to connect, plus there are no charges for network coverage as they operate on dedicated frequencies.
If you’re looking to pick up a walkie talkie today, we’ve listed our top picks below.
Best walkie talkies 2023
Best all-rounder for a big group
Retevis RT27 Walkie Talkie
With a PC plastic shell and a thickened alloy metal middle frame, the RT27 from Retevis is designed to withstand pressure, falls and impacts. It features a range of up to 2.7 miles in open areas and 0.7-1.4 miles in urban environments.
Its VOX (Voice-Activated Transmit) functionality allows for hands-free operation and it also includes useful features like scanning, monitor mode for enhancing signal reception, an emergency alarm and battery-saving capabilities.
With 16 channels and a battery that provides six to eight hours of continuous usage, the RT27 should be suitable for a day’s work. There’s also a six way charger featuring multiple LED charging indicators to show the charging status of each device.
Range: 0.7-1.4 miles (urban areas), 2.7 miles (open areas)
Channels: 16
Battery life: 6-8 hours of continuous use, up to 24 hours in standby
Best affordable option
eSynic Walkie Talkies
With VOX function for hands-free communication and DCS and CTCSS noise reduction, eSynic Wireless Walkie Talkies aim for smooth communication at an affordable price.
eSynic claim the range can work for up to three miles without obstacles, but with more complex terrains it’s likely to drop to under two miles.
To keep users on track they feature a low battery alert which reminds you to charge in time for uninterrupted communication.
There are two ways to charge, including USB cable charging. The built-in LED torch provides a flashlight for emergency situations.
Range: 3 miles (uninterrupted range)
Channels: 16
Battery life: Not listed
Best underwater walkie talkie
Subea Communication Kit
Waterproof walkie talkies are one thing. The Subea Communication Kit is another.
This pair of walkie talkies are designed to keep snorkelers connected while underwater. It offers a range of up to 70 meters in calm seas, paired together via Bluetooth.
Subea claim they are waterproof for depths of up to 3 meters. If connection is lost, it’s reportedly regained when users return to the surface.
It has a stated battery life of up to 10 hours, with three AA alkaline batteries included for immediate use, although they are also compatible with NiMH rechargeable batteries.
Range: 70 metres
Channels: Not applicable
Battery life: 10 hours
Best walkie talkie for long range
BaoFeng BF-F8HP
The BaoFeng BF-F8HP is an upgraded version of the popular UV-5R. It features twice the output power (8 watts), a durable shell and a 30% larger battery.
This is a walkie talkie for advanced users, boasting a range of up to 25 miles, with the V-85 high-gain antenna aiming for improved signal performance. It offers multiple power settings (8W, 4W, 1W) and operates on a wide frequency range, which aims for versatility across different communication needs.
The kit includes essential accessories such as a 2100mAh battery, dual-band antenna, charger, earpiece kit, wrist strap, belt clip and a user manual.
One thing to note: you’ll need a license, so it’s a good idea to have a look at restrictions where you’re likely to be using this radio.
Range: 25 miles
Channels: 30 GMRS channels, 8 repeater channels
Battery life: 17 hours of continuous use
Best mid-range walkie talkie
Solognac Walkie Talkie
The Solognac walkie talkie from Decathlon features a maximum range of just over six miles in open fields. Its rainproof design (IPX4) and flexible antenna provide added durability.
The walkie talkie features 16 analogue channels and 121 coded sub-channels, offering a wide range of communication options. The device operates on NiMH rechargeable batteries, which are said to provide up to 13 hours of reception time.
The backlit LCD screen displays essential information, including the channel, sub-channel and battery status.
Range: up to 6.2 miles
Channels: 16
Battery life: 13 hours (continuous use)
Best mid-range walkie talkie with accessories
Forclaz USB Rechargeable Walkie Talkies
Decathlon’s Forclaz USB rechargeable walkie talkies offer a maximum range of around six miles in flat terrain. The batteries provide up to 13 hours of usage and can be recharged using a USB cable.
With 16 channels and 121 coded sub-channels. The walkie talkies are also compatible with other PMR 446 MHz devices and can be powered by regular batteries if needed.
The outer shell features a shock and drop-resistant case and display, which the brand claims can provide durability during outdoor adventures. The rainproof (IPX4) design adds to their resilience in varying weather conditions.
For a hands-free experience, there’s also VOX and a remote microphone.
Range: up to 6.2 miles (flat terrain)
Channels: 16
Battery life: 13 hours continuous use
Best walkie talkie with earpieces
Midland Walkie Talkie and Earpieces
Midland’s set of walkie talkie and earpieces feature a communication range of up to just over four miles. The water-resistant design, certified with an IPX4 rating, provides protection from splashes and light rain.
The walkie talkies offer versatile power options, operating on either a NiMH 1800 mAh battery or triple A alkaline batteries. The product includes earpieces to minimise noise and enhance communication clarity.
Technical features such as the “Emergency” call function enable communication with radios using the same feature, regardless of the channel.
There’s also an “Out of range” function which alerts users if they move beyond the coverage area. The “Vox Talkback” mode allows real-time communication even when another device is in VOX emission mode, removing the need to wait for the other person to stop talking before responding.
Range: Up to 4.3 miles
Channels: Not listed
Battery life: Not listed
Best durable walkie talkie
DEWALT DXFRS800
The DEWALT DXFRS800 is a rugged two-way radio designed to meet the demands of challenging terrain. With a 2-watt RF output, it offers ultra-clear long-distance reception, providing coverage of up to 300,000 square feet or 25 floors.
The radio is IP67 rated for water and dust protection and its shock-resistant, anti-slip design can withstand drops of up to 2 meters, ensuring durability in challenging environments.
The DXFRS800 comes equipped with 22 preset channels and 121 privacy codes, minimising unwanted interference and ensuring secure communication. It also features battery-saving technology, allowing for up to 18 hours of continuous use on a single charge.
The radio supports hands-free VOX operation, vibration alert, roger beep, and auto squelch and can be used with convenient accessories like 6-port charging and earpieces (sold separately).
Range: 6 miles
Channels: 22
Battery life: 8 hours
What to consider when buying a walkie talkie?
Battery life
Battery life can vary significantly based on usage, power output and battery capacity. Always make sure to check the battery life capability listed by the manufacturer, as well as considering your intended use and demands.
Walkie-talkies are powered by rechargeable or disposable batteries. Most rechargeable batteries will use a NiMH battery, while most disposable will be Alkaline. In advanced walkie talkies, you may find Lithium-ion batteries, a premium rechargeable battery offering higher battery life.
Range
The effective communication range of walkie-talkies can vary based on the terrain, obstructions and radio power output.
In open areas, some walkie-talkies claim a range of several miles, while in urban or densely forested areas, the range may be more limited.
Special features
Walkie-talkies may have various accessory options, such as headsets, external microphones and belt clips, to enhance usability and convenience.
There may also be other, more specific features, such as weather alerts, built-in gadgets, GPS or water and dust resistance.
Top image credit: Pradamas Gifarry/Unsplash
from... sciencefocus.com
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