Communication is essential during times of disaster. It can be the deciding factor that stands between life and death in dire situations. What’s more, during these times, modern communication lines such as the Internet and phone lines often go down. At times like these, you need to have the best dual band two-way radios.
A dual band two-way radio is a reliable backup communication device that should be part of every man’s survival pack as it is as essential as food, water, medicine, and other emergency supplies. The ability to communicate is essential for survival and even allows you to extend help to others in times of disaster.
Two-way radios have had a long history of being used as an emergency communication device. Since they can transmit signals over short and medium distances and are not reliant on modern communication infrastructures, it only makes sense that Two-way radios are considered to be the more reliable communication device in the event that a disaster occurs. Two-way radios have proved time and again how useful and reliable they are when modern communication tools fail us.
Here is a list of the seven best dual-band two-way radios you need to have in your emergency kit to help you stay connected in case a disaster occurs.
Comparison Chart
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | DETAILS | PRICE |
|---|---|---|---|
| BaoFeng BF-F8HP (UV-5R 3rd Gen) 8-Watt Dual Band Two-Way Radio | BaoFeng is a known name in the USA when it comes to emergency communication devices. It is the only Chinese company licensed to sell dual band two-way radios in the USA. One of the best dual band two-way radios available. | ||
| Retevis RT-5R 2 Way Radio 128CH FM UHF VHF Radio Dual Band Two-Way Radio | In times of emergencies, you need to have a reliable and durable radio for easy communication. With the Retevis RT-5R, you can be sure that you will always have a way to communicate with your family, loved ones, and even with emergency services. One of the best dual band two-way radios available. | ||
| Midland 40 Watt GMRS MicroMobile Two-Way Radio – Long Range Walkie Talkie | Versatile and easy to use, the Midland 40 Watt GMRS MicroMobile Two-Way Radio – Long Range Walkie Talkie is one of the most reliable radios on the market. It is a 2-way radio with 40 Watt MicroMobile, equipped with 15 High/Low Power GMRS channels and 8 Repeater Channels for an increased communication range. One of the best dual band two-way radios available. | ||
| BaoFeng UV-5R Dual Band Two Way Radio (4 Pack) UHF/VHF 136-174/400-520 | Another product from the BaoFeng company, the UV-5R is an affordable and easy-to-use dual band two-way radio. It is a must-have for any emergency kit because of its long battery life and large channel storage. One of the best dual band two-way radios available. | ||
| Radioddity GM-30 GMRS Handheld Radio | For large families or groups, it is critical to have a way to communicate with each other during emergencies easily. The Radioddity GM-30 GMRS Handheld Radio ensures that you will always have a strong and reliable line of communication to keep each other updated. One of the best dual band two-way radios available. | ||
| Nicama Baofeng UV-5R A Ham Two Way Radio Dual-Band Transceiver | With BaoFeng dual band two-way radios, you are guaranteed to have a reliable radio with a wide range of channels, strong frequencies, and a durable way to communicate with your family and loved ones during emergencies. One of the best dual band two-way radios available. | ||
| Uniden SX167-2C Up to 16 Mile Range Two-Way Radio Walkie Talkies | Uniden might be a different company compared to others on this list. However, you will not be disappointed with their radios. Their dual-band two-way radios are equipped with newer technologies that offer clearer communication channels, a wider range of frequencies, and a larger battery life. One of the best dual band two-way radios available. |
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A Detailed Review on the 7 Best Dual Band Two-Way Radios
BaoFeng BF-F8HP (UV-5R 3rd Gen) 8-Watt Dual Band Two-Way Radio
BaoFeng is a known name in the USA when it comes to emergency communication devices. It is the only Chinese company licensed to sell dual band two way radios in the USA. One of the best dual band two-way radios available.
Product Highlights
The BaoFeng BF-F8HP is one of the most powerful dual-band handheld radios due to it being the third and final generation of the UV-5R. It has three selectable power levels (Low -1w, Med -4/5w, High -7/8w), a better high-gain antenna (7”), and a customizable tri-color display. It also comes with a FULL IN-DEPTH 76-page User Manual to help you get acquainted with all the new features.
The Good
The BaoFeng BF-F8HP has more transmit power due to its new generation chipset, 30% larger battery (2000mAh), and High Gain V-85 antenna. It also has the latest N5R-304A firmware that is not available on any other model.
The Bad
According to reviews, some of the units’ radio and computer interface does not work. This may be because most of the items are damaged during shipping, as packaging is not very durable.
PROs
- Larger battery (compared to 1st and 2nd generation)
- Three selectable power levels
- High-gain antenna
- Latest N5R-304A firmware
CONs
- Some items are damaged when you receive them
- Some items appear to be clones/knockoffs
Retevis RT-5R 2 Way Radio 128CH FM UHF VHF Radio Dual Band Two-Way Radio
In times of emergencies, you need to have a reliable and durable radio for easy communication. With the Retevis RT-5R, you can be sure that you will always have a way to communicate with your family, loved ones, and even with emergency services. One of the best dual band two-way radios available.
Product Highlights
The Retevis RT-5R 2 Way Radio is a dual-band two-way radio that reduces interference so that you can enjoy multi-group communication. Its keypad setting makes it easy to set the radio so that you don’t have to use a cable to plug it up into a computer. It also has a 1400 mAh battery capacity that lasts for quite a while allowing for smoother communication. It allows you to store 128 channels and seek the same frequencies that allow you to join the communication faster and more easily.
The Good
One of the best features of this product is its long-range setting. Its high output power can work well for a long range, allowing you to stay in touch with your partners whenever you need it. What’s more, with its CTCSS and DCS codes, you are safe from receiving irrelevant calls allowing you to do private communication without any worries. There’s also a squelch function to help you suppress background noise, enhancing signal sensitivity and sound clarity.
The Bad
Take extra care of the battery and belt clips as reviews say that these parts are quite flimsy. Computer installation also seems to be a known issue with this product.
PROs
- Long-range setting
- Frequency/channel mode
- Keypad setting
- Crystal transmitting
CONs
- Some parts break easily
- Difficult to connect to PC
Midland 40 Watt GMRS MicroMobile Two-Way Radio – Long Range Walkie Talkie
Versatile and easy to use, the Midland 40 Watt GMRS MicroMobile Two-Way Radio – Long Range Walkie Talkie is one of the most reliable radios on the market. It is a 2-way radio with 40 Watt MicroMobile, equipped with 15 High/Low Power GMRS channels and 8 Repeater Channels for an increased communication range. One of the best dual band two-way radios available.
Product Highlights
One of the best features of this product is the keypad lock that prevents accidental activation of function/mode keys. Keystroke tones provide audible tones with each key press for response or confirmation. Use silent operation to turn off all tones.
The Good
Great sound, no shortage of power and works well with ALL repeaters, not just some like other models.
The Bad
The only issue that people might have is that it appears that repeater channels are either all on, or all off. You cannot enable repeater functionality per individual channel.
PROs
- A solid radio
- 65-mile range
- Keypad lock
- 8 Repeater Channels
CONs
- Issues with the repeater channels
- Mic jack would not seat properly
BaoFeng UV-5R Dual Band Two Way Radio
Another product from the BaoFeng company, the UV-5R is an affordable and easy-to-use dual band two-way radio. It is a must-have for any emergency kit because of its long battery life and large channel storage. One of the best dual band two-way radios available.
Product Highlights
This is one of the earlier models of the UV-5R Dual Band Two Way Radio. With 1800 mAh Li-ion Battery, It can last up to 8 to 12 hours of continuous use. It has a 128 group channel storage, dual-band display, dual-frequency, dual-standby, AUTO keypad lock, and built-in high brightness LED.
The Good
As mentioned earlier, this product is one of the earlier models of the UV-5R Dual Band Two Way Radio of this brand. It is pretty standard and pretty easy to use, so even children will be able to use it in case of an emergency.
The Bad
Because this is a second-generation product, the features are quite simple and basic. If you are looking for more “customized” features, this product may not be for you.
PROs
- Battery can last for up to 8 to 12 hours of continuous use
- Durable item
- Very affordable
CONs
- Basic features
Radioddity GM-30 GMRS Handheld Radio
For large families or groups, it is critical to have a way to communicate with each other during emergencies easily. The Radioddity GM-30 GMRS Handheld Radio ensures that you will always have a strong and reliable line of communication to keep each other updated. One of the best dual band two-way radios available.
Product Highlights
This is a wonderful product for communication from Radioddity. The GM-30 lets you receive and scan on UHF & VHF channels in either CH/VFO mode, not just limited to GMRS channels. It also includes scanning options of CTCSS/DCS scanning, precise frequency range scanning, and channel scanning.
The Good
You can do so much as this comes with a high power of 5-watts while being able to hit GMRS repeaters. With this, it can go up to 5 miles – perfect for group and outdoor activities! You won’t also worry about charging as it has an upgraded USB Type-C charging port.
The Bad
Be mindful that this unit is not waterproof. So, be careful when going extreme or when the rain catches you outside. But overall, this is a great starting point for newbies out there.
PROs
- Great communication capabilities
- Clear audio quality
- It is well-designed
CONs
- Knockoffs are rampant on the market
- Not waterproof
Nicama Baofeng UV-5R A Ham Two Way Radio Dual-Band Transceiver
With BaoFeng dual band two-way radios, you are guaranteed to have a reliable radio with a wide range of channels, strong frequencies, and a durable way to communicate with your family and loved ones during emergencies. One of the best dual band two-way radios available.
Product Highlights
The UV-5RA two-way radio is authorized by FCC. With 128 Channels, it comes with a dual-band display, dual-frequency display, and dual-standby. You can’t go wrong with this one as it has a built-in VOX Function, a Brust tone of 1750Hz, LED Flashlight, and many other things that you’ll find useful with two-way radios.
The Good
This two-way radio from Baofeng incorporates 105 codes with a selectable wide or narrow, battery save function, key lock, and a built-in flashlight. As a basic unit, this item is not bad for a starter radio. Everyone can easily understand and use this item in case of an emergency.
The Bad
Battery life may not be as sustainable as you expect it to be, and the signal may not always be as clear as you want it. Plus, there is a lot of imitation out there – so be careful!
PROs
- Very easy to understand and use
- Comes with amazing features
- It is budget-friendly
CONs
- Basic interface
- Lot of knockoffs
Uniden SX167-2C Up to 16 Mile Range Two-Way Radio Walkie Talkies
Uniden might be a different company compared to others on this list. However, you will not be disappointed with their radios. Their dual band two-way radios are equipped with newer technologies that offer clearer communication channels, a wider range of frequencies, and a larger battery life. One of the best dual band two-way radios available.
Product Highlights
This two-way radio from Uniden transmits and receives based on new technology chipsets. It also functions on industry-standard frequencies. With this, anyone can quickly communicate with others using other units or brands. You can even get NOAA Weather alerts to remind you ahead of foul weather.
The Good
The radio works surprisingly well for its price. The controls are easy to understand and use, so programming channels manually can be easily done. You can expect that up to 50 miles with a clear view, these two-way radios will offer great range.
The Bad
There isn’t a lot to hate about this product. Some users have advised you to quickly check the capability of the range of your units. If you find any issues, immediately contact your buyer.
PROs
- Good value for money
- Long battery life
- Clear audio quality
CONs
- Issues with its range
- Not ideal for long-distance communication
Conclusion
There you have it! The7 best dual-band two-way radios you need to have in your emergency kit to help you stay connected in case a disaster strikes. These radios are affordable, reliable, easy to use, and durable, allowing you to communicate and stay connected to others during emergencies.
Always make sure to have a reliable communication device along with food, water, medicine, and other supplies in your emergency kit. Don’t forget to pack extra batteries for your two-way radios to ensure continuous communication with others.
Make sure to regularly check the batteries inside your radios to make sure that your devices have enough power, and be sure to change old batteries to keep them from destroying the connectors on the radio.
Remember that a reliable communication device is essential not just to stay connected to others, but also to pass important information along to people who are outside of the disaster area. Having all of these and being prepared can make all the difference in life-threatening situations.