One of the scariest things during a crisis is not being able to communicate. A severe catastrophe can cause power and communication black outs. If you get lost during a trip, how do you manage to reach out to anyone for assistance? Surviving any emergency requires an efficient tool of communication. If you have the best emergency two-way radio in your kit, it will save you a lot of worries and prepare you for any severe emergencies. In this article, we will go through the 7 best emergency two way radios that are out in the market today!
Comparison Chart
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | DETAILS | PRICE |
|---|---|---|---|
| Motorola Talkabout T465 Two-Way Radios / Walkie Talkies | If you mean serious business, then check out the Motorola Talkabout T465 Two-Way Radios. It comes in 10 separate mobile radios that you can share with friends and family jam-packed with 22 channels, each with 121 privacy codes. To give you and your family optimum communication with zero disturbance. | ||
| Retevis RT87 Two Way Radio | If your area receives more rainfall than usual, the Retevis RT87 Two-Way Radio is ideal for you. It is 100% IP67 waterproof and can even work after being submerged in water for 30 minutes. You won’t be experiencing short circuits when using the two-way radio during heavy rainfall. | ||
| Retevis RT-5RV Two Way Radio (10 Pack) | These high-powered walkie-talkies provide crisp and loud un-distorted audio. The Retevis RT-5RV Two Way Radio comes with a VOX function to provide you with hand-free communication. Definitely something worth looking at in this list of the best emergency two-way radio. | ||
| SAMCOM Two Way Radio | If you are looking to make long-distance calls in your country with a two-way radio, then the SAMCOM Two Way Radio is for you. It works like your regular smartphone already. You can’t beat that! The best out of both worlds, online and offline communication. | ||
| Motorola Talkbout T465 Rechargeable Two-Way Radio Bundle | This weatherproof two-way radio is ready to handle those elements nature throws at you. Motorola Talkbout T465 Rechargeable Two-Way Radio Bundle is equipped with a flashlight, an emergency alert button, and has a built-in FM radio. It comes in a four-pack bundle, which is definitely something you and your family can use in times of crisis. | ||
| 4pcs BaoFeng UV-9R Two Way Radio | Are you looking to get a pure long-range two-way radio? The BaoFen UV-9R Two Way radio should be perfect for you. It is waterproof and dustproof. It has a seamless design and gets the job done. Suitable to have, especially for your first two-way radio unit. | ||
| FRS Two Way Radio | The FRS Two Way radio is ready with an FCC-certified license allowing you to get on 22 channels 36 miles apart. It has a backlit screen, which provides high visibility to set up during the dark. It also comes with the keypad lock feature to prevent accidental activation in cases where it is in the pocket. |
A Detailed Review On the 7 Best Emergency Two Way Radio
Motorola Talkabout T465 Two-Way Radios / Walkie Talkies
If you mean serious business, then check out the Motorola Talkabout T465 Two-Way Radios. It comes in 10 separate mobile radios that you can share with friends and family jam-packed with 22 channels, each with 121 privacy codes. To give you and your family optimum communication with zero disturbance.
Product Highlights
NiMH rechargeable batteries power the Motorola Talkabout T465 Two-Way Radio. Charging requires a micro USB, which already comes with the unit. You also have an option to use earbuds with a PTT microphone. It comes with an emergency Alert button to signal for help in case of an emergency.
The Good
I like how the unit can quickly find a channel when needed. Twenty-two channels to choose from is a lot and can serve as leverage during times of crisis. You never know how many people out there are using two-way radios to communicate. So it is best to keep things as private as possible.
The Bad
The earbuds that come along with the Motorola Talkabout T465 Two-Way Radio hurt my ears during prolonged usage. Adding some extra foam padding to the earbuds helps in releasing ear tension.
PROs
- Comes with an emergency alert button
- 22 channels to choose from
- Comes with rechargeable batteries
CONs
- Earbuds are not user friendly
- Waterproof but not water-resistant
Retevis RT87 Two Way Radio (6 Pack)
If your area receives more rainfall than usual, the Retevis RT87 Two-Way Radio is ideal for you. It is 100% IP67 waterproof and can even work after being submerged in water for 30 minutes. You won’t be experiencing short circuits when using the two-way radio during heavy rainfall.
Product Highlights
The Retevis RT87 also comes with the UHF VHF dual-band. It has 128 channels that give you options for communication as well as privacy. The Retevis RT87 is also equipped with an emergency alarm function to signal a distress call. This is to make sure you are aware of your situation when something wrong happens.
The Good
I like how you can charge all six radios at the same time. They come in a multi-gang charger, each having its charging protection feature. So, you do not need to worry about overcharging the units. This is something to note for your peace of mind.
The Bad
I’ve noticed that the push to talk button requires a firm press. It may hinder the user a little bit during an emergency, which can lead to some problems.
PROs
- Comes with a distress call button
- 122 different channels to choose from
- 100% waterproof and water-resistant
CONs
- Pricey for a pack of 6 radios
Retevis RT-5RV Two Way Radio (10 Pack)
These high-powered walkie-talkies provide crisp and loud, undistorted audio. The Retevis RT-5RV Two Way Radio comes with a VOX function to provide you with hand-free communication. There is definitely something worth looking at in this list of the best emergency two way radios.
Product Highlights
The Retevis RT-5RV Two Way Radio comes with 1400mAh rechargeable battery that provides 6-12 hours of communication time. This detail is something to keep in mind if you are going to use them for work since it meets the demands of an employee’s work shift. It can provide you with 128 different channels for optimum communication and privacy.
The Good
The range is impressive on the Retevis RT-5RV Two Way Radio. You will have no problems talking behind closed walls as the signal can penetrate steel frames. It has a high power gain antenna that can tap into repeaters to boost its signal. This is indeed an advantage in desperate situations.
The Bad
With the availability of different channels, you can easily divert to the wrong channel. There is no locking feature to lock on to channels. I am hoping for an update on this feature in the future.
PROs
- It is long-range
- Has an LCD for monitoring
- Radio function capabilities
- Attachments included
CONs
- Not water-resistant
SAMCOM Two Way Radio
If you are looking to make long-distance calls in your country with a two-way radio, then the SAMCOM Two Way Radio is for you. It works like your regular smartphone already. You can’t beat that! The best out of both worlds, online and offline communication.
Product Highlights
The SAMCOM Two Way Radio is 4g capable. Equipped with a highly accurate GPS antenna, you can always count on it to know where you are. Online positioning software propels you to whichever location you need to communicate with inside the country a must-have for anyone serious about two-way radios.
The Good
I like how the SAMCOM Two Way Radio can offer group calls. A vital feature, especially when dealing with something serious that requires insight from different individuals. Group calls can be done anywhere in the country using the 4g network.
The Bad
Because of the number of features available, there are instances where the Retevis RT51 has to be programmed first before usage. Programming can prove to be a barrier, especially for people who aren’t that tech-savvy.
PROs
- Online functionality
- Water resistant
- Programmable walkie talkie
CONs
- Not user friendly
Motorola Talkbout T465 Rechargeable Two-Way Radio Bundle
This weatherproof two-way radio is ready to handle those elements nature throws at you. The Motorola Talkbout T465 Rechargeable Two-Way Radio Bundle is equipped with a flashlight, an emergency alert button, and has a built-in FM radio. It comes in a four-pack bundle, which is definitely something you and your family can use in times of crisis.
Product Highlights
The Motorola Talkbout T465 Rechargeable Two-Way Radio Bundle is navy and IP54 waterproof certified. It works like a charm in snowy and rainy situations. It comes equipped with an ECO Smart feature that provides low power consumption. The range of the Motorola T460 can reach up to 35 miles for long-distance communication. It can last 8.5 hours with 2 AAA batteries.
The Good
What you see is what you get. The Motorola two way radio is all you need to communicate with friends and family within a 35-mile radius. I like the fact that it is user-friendly and can be used automatically right out of the box.
The Bad
There is a tendency for the earpiece auxiliary to loosen up. It generates unwanted, noisy sounds coming from its audio. The noise makes it hard to have a satisfying hands-free conversation.
PROs
- User friendly
- Compact size
- Comes with earpiece
- Clear communication lines
CONs
- Loose earpiece auxiliary
4pcs BaoFeng UV-9R Two Way Radio
Are you looking to get a pure long-range two-way radio? The BaoFen UV-9R Two Way radio should be perfect for you. It is waterproof and dustproof. It has a seamless design and gets the job done. Suitable to have, especially for your first two-way radio unit.
Product Highlights
The BaoFeng UV-9R Two Way Radio comes with battery-saving features and boasts a high and low power switchover. It has a timer, with which it automatically shuts off if unused. An emergency alarm is ready to signal for help in the case of an emergency or crisis.
The Good
I like how it already comes equipped with the channel lock function. Some brands that have more features don’t even give you this option. A handy feature to make sure you and your team are connected to the right channel when communicating.
The Bad
The range is not so good with this unit. The BaoFeng UV-9R Two Way Radio has a problem going through multiple walls or barriers. It works better when used outdoors or in open areas.
PROs
- Affordable price
- Easy to use
- Battery saving
CONs
- Low range
- Limited frequencies
FRS Two Way Radio
The FRS Two Way radio is ready with an FCC-certified license allowing you to get on 22 channels 36 miles apart. It has a backlit screen, which provides high visibility for setting up in the dark. It also comes with the keypad lock feature to prevent accidental activation in cases where it is in the pocket.
Product Highlights
The FRS Two Way Radio has a battery life of 10 hours when used continuously and can reach 40 hours if unused and on standby. It is powered by a 1250 mAh rechargeable battery, and it comes with a simple design. It is equipped with an emergency alert button that is ready to call for help during an emergency.
The Good
What I like most about the FRS Two Way Radio is its charging cable. It is something I haven’t seen in gadgets, let alone a two-way radio. It has a 2 in 1 split zipper charging cable that has the capability of charging two radios in one USB power adapter outlet. An innovation to look out for when choosing the best emergency two-way radio available in this list.
The Bad
The range of the FRS two-way radio is not so good. A weak reception can be caused by construction areas or obstructions. It works best if its used in an open space.
PROs
- Innovative charging cable
- FCC certified
- Good battery life
CONs
- Weak signal
- Low frequency
- Simple two-way radio
How To Choose The Best Emergency Two Way Radio
There are factors to consider when choosing the best emergency two way radio. Here are some questions to guide you:
What is a two way radio?
A two way radio has both a transmitter and a receiver (transceiver) for communication. It is an efficient tool where you can both send and receive radio waves. The walkie-talkie is a portable form and is also the most commonly known type of two way radio.
Why Do I Need A Two Way Radio For An Emergency?
- When other forms of communication stop working, you can rely on your two-way radio.
- You can communicate with people located miles away. A two-way radio can reach up to 30 miles. This way, you can seek and ask for assistance or information.
- You can check on everyone else around you with a two-way radio. You can save time searching for members of your family or team.
- Emergency two-way radios are portable and durable. Modern models have added features such as water resistance. A two-way radio is a necessary tool for handling emergencies.
NOTE: Always bring an extra set of batteries (if applicable) for your two-way radio.
How do I choose the best two way emergency radio? Here are some things to check:
- RANGE – A lot of two-way radios claim a 30-mile range, but these are usually possible in ideal conditions.
- POWER – Two way radios are powered by rechargeable or alkaline batteries. Check for what is most convenient for you.
- PORTABILITY – Two way radios may vary in weight and size.
- WATERPROOF FEATURE – You wouldn’t want your only source of communication to malfunction in the middle of a typhoon. Some two-way radios come with excellent waterproof features and can even be submerged in water. Choose a durable two-way radio.
- ADDED FEATURES – Some radios have added features like a flashlight, emergency alerts, and weather alerts.
Conclusion
A telecommunications outage must not stop us from communicating. Yes, the possibility of being cut off from communication during a crisis is a scary thing, but we can still prepare for it. Don’t hesitate to get the best emergency two way radio for you and your family. It is just within your reach, to keep you ready whenever, wherever. Get more tips on radios.