Best Walkie Talkie (2024)

Not the most magnificent item on our tool belt or in our backpack, the walkie talkie. However, it is a vital piece of equipment that we have been using for decades, whether it is for finding friends at far-off campsites in the woods or for communication on the job site. Two-way radios only make it easier to communicate whether we’re skiing and boarding on the slopes to arrange meeting up, taking pictures and videos, or rock climbing multipitch routes in situations when we can’t see or hear our teammates. Not to add, we’re glad we have them to keep an eye on weather channels in the countryside in case of emergency.

They are also widely used in a wide range of other professions, such as event planning and security to eateries and building sites. Though they haven’t changed as drastically as cell phones and smartphones over the past 20 years, modern walkie talkies are nonetheless very different from the inexpensive, two-channel plastic walkie talkies we used to play pretend in our enormous fantasy forest adventures. Some offer more sophisticated functionality, such as NFC chips or bluetooth connections for pairing with smart devices, accessories, and each other. Fundamentally, though, they are simple-to-use communication tools that flourish in environments where cell phones cannot.

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Last update on 2024-07-14 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon.

Best Walkie Talkie (2024)

1.Midland X-Talker T71VP3 Two-Way Radio Walkie Talkie

Last update on 2024-07-14 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon.

These trustworthy Midland radios have served us well for years, both in the city and in the mountains. It provides a terrific value with some advanced capabilities, such hands-free VOX and NOAA weather channel monitoring, and comes in a two-pack for less.

We appreciate that it is among the most adaptable walkie talkies in terms of battery life. Each device comes with a charging cradle in a two-pack, but you can also use a micro-USB cable to charge it. If you need more power after several days in the field, you can replace the battery pack or use three AA batteries to power the device, though it can be challenging to remove the cover.

36 channels are available on the walkies, some of which are preset for privacy. It contains 121 channels in total with privacy codes. The range isn’t as good as some other models, and the speaker and microphone aren’t as clear as some other types.

Nevertheless, the majority of folks will find that this reasonably priced set of walkies offers the perfect feature set.

The Midland X-Talker T71VP3 is a feature-rich two-way radio walkie talkie designed for those who require reliable and long-range communication. Ideal for outdoor adventures, professional use, and emergency situations, this model offers several advanced features to enhance user experience. Here’s a detailed review covering its features, performance, usability, and value for money.

The Midland X-Talker T71VP3 stands out with its impressive range of up to 38 miles in open areas with little to no obstruction. This makes it suitable for various outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and hunting. The device supports 36 channels and 121 privacy codes (38 CTCSS/83 DCS), which significantly reduce the likelihood of interference from other radio users.

One of the notable features is the NOAA Weather Scan and Alert, which automatically scans through 10 available weather (WX) band channels and locks onto the strongest weather channel to alert you of severe weather updates. This is particularly useful for outdoor enthusiasts who need to stay informed about changing weather conditions.

The X-Talker T71VP3 also includes the Hi/Lo power settings to adjust the transmitter power and extend battery life. Speaking of battery, it comes with a rechargeable battery pack, but can also operate with AA alkaline batteries, providing flexibility in power options. The radio supports USB charging, making it convenient to recharge on the go using a power bank or car charger.

2.Motorola Talkabout T803 Two-Way Walkie Talkies

Last update on 2024-07-14 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon.

It should come as no surprise that a firm best known for smartphones, like as Razr+, would incorporate some smartphone-like functionality into its premium walkie-talkie lineup. Motorola achieved precisely that with their Talkabout 800-series product line. In order to provide capabilities that other walkie talkies cannot, such as the ability to use the series 800 as a kind of smartphone modem when there is no cell connection, it makes use of the Talkabout app for iOS and Android devices.

Using an 800-series radio and the app, you can also send texts or share your location with others. Since most walkie talkies are only two-way radios, they lack this feature. Additionally, it facilitates connections to Bluetooth devices, such as headphones or earbuds, and clever pairing of the walkie talkies.

Above In addition, the 800 series Talkabout provides access to 121 privacy codes and all the capabilities you would anticipate from a high-quality walkie talkie, including 22 FRS channels. The T803 radio is superior to the T800 and T802 radios in a few ways. It is more waterproof and lacks a rechargeable battery.

The Motorola Talkabout T803 is a robust two-way radio designed for outdoor enthusiasts who need reliable communication in various terrains. Known for its durability and range, the T803 is ideal for hiking, camping, skiing, and other adventurous activities. This review covers the features, performance, usability, and overall value of the Motorola Talkabout T803.

The Motorola Talkabout T803 offers a maximum range of up to 35 miles in open areas with minimal obstructions, making it suitable for outdoor use. It supports 22 channels and 121 privacy codes (38 CTCSS/83 DCS), allowing for a wide selection of channel combinations to minimize interference from other users.

One of the standout features of the T803 is its rugged design. The radio is weatherproof, meeting IPX4 standards, which means it can withstand splashes of water and is durable enough for challenging outdoor conditions. The device also includes a built-in flashlight, which can be handy in low-light situations or emergencies.

The T803 comes with the iVOX/VOX function for hands-free communication, allowing the radio to be used without pressing the push-to-talk button. This feature is particularly useful when you need to keep your hands free during activities. Additionally, the T803 has a dual power option, operating with both NiMH rechargeable batteries and AA alkaline batteries, providing flexibility for extended use.

3.Retevis RT22 Walkie Talkies (6-Pack)

Last update on 2024-07-14 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon.

Not everyone is searching for the best two-way radio for backcountry use. Walkie talkies are used by many establishments, including restaurants and retail stores, to discreetly facilitate front- and back-of-house discussions and to transmit information like orders and inventory checks. The RT22 excels in the situation.

A microphone and earphone (not included with all packages) or VOX communications are two ways that team members can interact with each other using the compact, user-friendly equipment that can lock into a channel. The gadget can be purchased individually or in sets containing up to 20 of them.

The RT22 is not like most other walkie talkies in that it lacks a display and uses a pre-recorded voice to confirm channel selection.

The Retevis RT22 is a popular choice for those looking for reliable, compact, and cost-effective walkie talkies. This 6-pack set is often used in various settings such as retail, hospitality, event management, and even for personal use in outdoor activities. Here’s a comprehensive review based on features, performance, usability, and value for money.

The RT22 is designed to be lightweight and small, making it easy to carry around without causing fatigue. Each unit can easily fit into a pocket or be clipped onto a belt. Equipped with a 1000mAh rechargeable lithium-ion battery, the RT22 offers up to 12-16 hours of usage on a single charge, depending on the usage intensity. The RT22 provides clear and crisp sound quality, which is essential for effective communication. The built-in squelch function helps to eliminate background noise.

These walkie talkies are built to withstand everyday wear and tear, making them suitable for various environments. With simple controls and no complex setup required, the RT22 is user-friendly. The push-to-talk (PTT) button is conveniently placed, and the channels can be easily switched. The RT22 supports 16 channels and 50 CTCSS/105 DCS privacy codes, which help to minimize interference from other radios. The Voice Operated Exchange (VOX) function allows for hands-free operation, which can be particularly useful in certain work environments. Additionally, the units can be charged via USB, offering flexibility in charging options, whether from a power bank, car charger, or computer.

4.BaoFeng BF-F8HP Walkie Talkie

Last update on 2024-07-14 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon.

One of the most potent handheld two-way radios on the market is the BaoFeng BF-F8HP, which looks like a cross between a wireless home phone and a Casio calculator watch from the 1980s.

The BF-F8HP can broadcast at up to 8 watts, hence in order to use it, you must have an FCC Technician license. If not, you might be fined. The gadget can run at 1 watt and 4 watts, but it needs a GMSR license to do so. The BF-F8HP can receive commercial FM transmissions and operate on VHF and UHF channels in addition to transmitting on the 22 FRS channels.

The walkie talkie is more complex than other two-way radios on this list even with all those features. However, for those who desire a more competent as well as more potent two-way radio, the BF-F8HP is a fantastic choice. It comes with a decent accessory kit that includes a wired earpiece and microphone, a charging cradle, and a long-range antenna.

The BaoFeng BF-F8HP is a high-power, versatile two-way radio designed for both amateur radio enthusiasts and professional users. As an upgrade from the popular BaoFeng UV-5R, the BF-F8HP offers improved performance and additional features, making it a favorite among users who need reliable and long-range communication. Here’s a detailed review of the BaoFeng BF-F8HP, focusing on its features, performance, usability, and overall value.

The BaoFeng BF-F8HP boasts a maximum power output of 8 watts, significantly higher than the 4-watt output of its predecessor, the UV-5R. This increased power translates to a longer communication range and improved signal clarity, especially in challenging environments. The radio supports three power settings (High/Med/Low), allowing users to adjust the power output according to their needs and conserve battery life when necessary.

One of the key features of the BF-F8HP is its dual-band capability, operating on both VHF (136-174 MHz) and UHF (400-520 MHz) frequencies. This provides flexibility in communication and makes the radio compatible with a wide range of other devices. The BF-F8HP also includes 128 programmable channels, giving users ample options for communication and organization.

The radio comes with a high-capacity 2000mAh battery, providing extended usage time compared to standard batteries. Additionally, the BF-F8HP includes a built-in flashlight, a VOX (Voice-Operated Exchange) function for hands-free operation, and a tri-color display, which can be customized for better readability.

5.DeWalt DXFRS800 Heavy-Duty Walkie Talkies

Last update on 2024-07-14 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon.

This robust and vivid yellow walkie talkie is made by DeWalt, as one might anticipate. You won’t have to worry about it getting wet, dropping it, or inadvertently hitting a board or anything sharp on the job site because it is ruggedized and waterproof.

This FRS walkie talkie features 121 privacy codes in addition to 22 regular channels. Therefore, you can largely isolate your group on one channel and privacy code if you’re working in an area where there are a lot of other construction teams present.

The item is easily put on and taken off of the belt clip cradle. Just be aware that since you have to remove it in order to position the radio, it can wear out after years of use.within the charging dock. A USB-C port on the side of the walkie talkie allows you to recharge it as well. We particularly appreciate that the DXFRS800 can be purchased in two-packs or 48-packs with gang chargers that can handle up to six units each, as these packs are designed for both large and small work sites. Additionally, if you’d like to make it easier to use with VOX, you can choose to combine it with additional accessories like an earpiece and mic set.

The DeWalt DXFRS800 Heavy-Duty Walkie Talkies are designed for tough environments where durability and reliability are paramount. These radios are ideal for construction sites, industrial settings, and other demanding applications where robust communication tools are necessary. Here’s an in-depth review of the DeWalt DXFRS800, focusing on its features, performance, usability, and overall value.

The DeWalt DXFRS800 is built to withstand harsh conditions, featuring a rugged design that meets IP67 standards for dust and water resistance. This makes the radios suitable for use in extreme weather conditions and dirty, wet environments. The radios are also designed to survive drops of up to 2 meters, ensuring they can handle the rough and tumble of daily use on a construction site.

The DXFRS800 offers a maximum range of up to 300,000 square feet or 25 floors, making it ideal for large job sites. It operates on 22 FRS (Family Radio Service) channels and has 121 privacy codes, providing a variety of communication options and minimizing interference from other radios.

One of the standout features is the long battery life, with up to 18 hours of usage on a single charge. This is facilitated by the included rechargeable lithium-polymer battery, ensuring that the radios can last through an entire workday without needing a recharge. The radios also come with a micro-USB charging port, making it convenient to charge them using standard USB cables.

How We Tested Walkie-Talkies

If you’ve had a walkie-talkie or two, you’re probably familiar with the almost comical ranges they purport to achieve, and it’s this type of fluff we aimed to cut through in our testing. As little pieces of tech, walkies can tuck a lot of functionality under the hood, and unraveling all that took us to reaches of radio-nerdery we aren’t sure we can return from now.

Our walkie-talkie testing is led by Nick Belcaster, a licensed amateur radio operator and multi-sport enthusiast from the Pacific Northwest. His radio usage spans from calling off-belay on long alpine multi-pitch climbs to hailing other radio enthusiasts on peaks in the Cascades (he’s even talked to the astronauts on the Space Station).

In a previous role, he has managed fleets of handheld radios for a national mountain guiding operation, and programmed handhelds for hailing bushplanes on Denali. His expertise is compounded by a team of multisport GearJunkies who took to the four corners to test these radios on backpacking, climbing, paddling, and even heli-skiing trips.

Testing History

We looked into the market and found 11 of the most well-liked radios with industry-leading features and specifications for our first round of walkie-talkie testing. In order to reach the widest possible audience, we concentrated mostly on FRS radios, comparing them to a few GMRS radios and testing the capabilities of a real handheld amateur radio to see what the big dogs could accomplish.

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose a Walkie-Talkie

It can be difficult to determine what you’re really receiving with a walkie-talkie without taking a closer look at the internals; many of them seem the same yet have drastically different functions. And that can really important when taking kids on high-stakes excursions.

However, with a little bit of knowledge, your next pair of walkies will not only last longer, but they will also function more consistently and help you stay focused on the essentials. When selecting your next radio, think about the following and what your specific needs are for backcountry communication. In the event that you absolutely must spread the word, we also offer advice on the Best Satellite Phones and Messengers.

FAQ

What brand of walkie-talkie is the best?

Even if there are plenty of walkie-talkie brands to criticize, it’s difficult to ignore when a brand takes up two of our award winner places. In our tests, Rocky Talkie radios consistently outperformed rival radios, and they included nearly every feature we wanted in a fantastic walkie-talkie (though we can live without VOX, which is surprising).

A representative of the more traditional radio manufacturers, Motorola also produces a lot of excellent radios that are difficult to go wrong with, while Midland continues to produce high-quality FRS and GMRS radios like the X-Talker and GXT1000 series.

What is the difference between a walkie-talkie and a two-way radio?

Not every two-way radio is a walkie-talkie, even if every walkie-talkie is a two-way radio. FRS and GMRS handheld radios, which are restricted to their respective bands and power outputs, are commonly referred to as walkie-talkies.

Conversely, two-way radios can include a wide range of communicators, from complete base-station radios that need a tower-mounted antenna to handheld 10-watt amateur radios. Another unique aspect of walkie-talkies is their portability.