Best Bluetooth Walkie Talkies

Maybe you’ve had an experience with terrible communication, low range, and the weather scanner alert keeps giving the wrong alert or probably not working at all. It is not unnatural for us to feel conflicted when trying to pick the best out of many options. Sometimes it gets so tense that we feel we might end up going to the wrong ones. Well, you don’t have to worry about that because we’re going to bisect everything you need to look out for while picking a Bluetooth walkie talkie. You wouldn’t have to worry about communication being interrupted, flash alarm or malfunctioning radio. You won’t have to worry because you’d be getting every necessary information you need on the best Bluetooth radio.

Consideration for choosing best Bluetooth walkie talkies

With the number of radios in the market, you might think it’s an easy job to pick one radio and move on, but it’s not that simple. Picking the best radio is entirely different from picking the best radio that suits you. Yes! Even the best product in the market might not be your choice. While the most functional radio might seem to be the best radio for every occasion, it might have qualities you find unnecessary or of no use to you. You need to consider a list of vital things before buying the two-way radio of your choice.

Size

One of the important things to consider when picking Bluetooth two-way radios is the size. Walkie talkies come in different sizes and is also a marketing strategy used by companies to publicize their two-way radios. Sometimes, it’s also about the radio’s functions and features that’ll determine the dimensions. It is most important for you to pick something that suits your need while considering its size.

Range

Walkie talkies communication strength differ based on the manufacturer, but the radio should be able to cover 3 to 4 miles without any interference or break in the transmission. The range is also a must to be considered when picking your radio. Most radios will come with a range anywhere between 20 to 50 miles, except you need something covering wider. You can’t afford to buy a radio that can cover a few miles when you need one that can cover more. Always check the features of the radio you’re planning to buy before you settle for it.

Durability

Radio durability mostly depends on how you use it. Still, the best radios are fashioned to withstand and survive trying times, irrespective of the location or weather. Notwithstanding, you should check and confirm the walkie-talkie’s durability before purchasing, especially if you’re using it outdoors to be exposed to the element. Understanding what you need it for would always determine which and how strong you want your radio to be. You can’t afford to buy a two-way radio that’s not water-resistant if you’re going to be spending most of your time near water.

Battery Life

The radio is as good as the longevity of the battery. There’s no point in getting a radio with many features and low battery life. Walkie-talkies use different batteries ranging from disposable AA or AAA batteries (alkaline battery, a lithium-ion battery) to a rechargeable battery pack. The rechargeable batteries should be able to charge fast and last long too. it should be an option to be considered when picking the best radio for you.

Channels

Two-way radio at large function properly under two channels, FRS channel and GMRS channels. GMRS radios are the best to use because they can operate on a higher power level. They have repeaters and are also easy to use. While GMRS radios are the best to go for, FRS configured radios are also perfect for your need; it might not be as strong as its counterpart. Still, it’s notable for being a functional and effective one.

Another thing to consider when picking a radio based on the channels is the number of channels it has. Some radios have 16, some 22, while others might have more or less; whatever you need the radio for will determine how many channels you need on your radio. Notwithstanding, If the radio is an FRS or GMRS radio, both would function properly and give you soothing effectiveness.

Price

Prices of radios vary, depending on the manufacturer and the quality. Picking the best radio depends on how much you can afford, But if you need the best of the best should be ready to pay the price. It’s all about preference.

15 Best Bluetooth Walkie Talkies

1. Motorola Talkabout T800

The Motorola T800 Talkabout two-way radio is a Bluetooth radio that keeps you connected; you can connect the T800 to your smartphone over Bluetooth. The Motorola T800 is of high quality, and it has 22 channels, including 121 privacy tones. The Motorola T800 Talkabout  is water-resistant. It has a hands-free (VOX) operation. It has a belt-clip, which makes it easily attachable by the user, and it runs on rechargeable battery packs. The aesthetically pleasing Bluetooth radio has a built-in LED flashlight. It has NOAA weather alerts, which help you stay safe and updated every time.

PROS

• This Motorola Bluetooth walkie talkie is licensed.
• The radio can be easily paired with other radio devices.
• Long-lasting battery life.
• It is a long-range radio.

CONS

• No anti-squelch function.

2. Midland GXT1000VP4

Enjoy your outdoor activities without missing out on communication with your friends with the Midland GXT1000VP4 GMRS Bluetooth radio. It is a two-way radio which provides excellent sound quality during transmission; it is a long-range Walkie-Talkie with up to 36-mile range. This radio features the VOX (hands-free) function; it has up to 142 privacy codes with easy button access. This radio has the NOAA scan and alerts, which update you in case of severe weather conditions. The two-way radio runs on both rechargeable battery packs and AA batteries.

PROS

• The radio offers users long range reception and transmission
• It has dual-power options.
• VOX (hands-free) function.
• It has excellent sound quality.

CONS

• It is heavy.
• It has weak belt clips.

3. Retevis RB17

The retevis RB 17 radios are powerful radios which have been designed for long-range communication. Suppose you need a two-way radio with a long-lasting lithium-ion battery and excellent signal range. In that case, you should definitely consider getting the Retevis RB 17 Bluetooth radio. Another great benefit of purchasing this radio is its user-friendly design and its hands-free feature.

PROS

• Its battery is a large 4,400mAh lithium-ion battery. 
• It is a compact size radio and convenient to carry about.
• The radio features a top class radio with good sound quality

CONS

• Battery life may reduce due to extended charging.
• The signal range cannot go beyond 3 miles.

4. Midland – LXT500VP3

The retevis RB 17 Bluetooth radio is a powerful radio which is capable of communicating to an extended frequency range. People who have used this long-range two-way radio have given positive testimonies about its features, including a PTT button, LCD display and easy-to-use function. Another great benefit of purchasing this radio is its user-friendly design and more features, which you’d be amazed to see when you get it. 

PROS

• A 5-Port USB Input Charger can charge its 4400mAh battery.
• It is a compact size radio and convenient to carry about.
• These radios are one of the best items to get whenever you’re going on a camping trip.

CONS

• The battery life of the Retevis radios may reduce due to extended charging.
• Just like others, its signal range cannot go beyond 3 miles.

5. Cobra PR562BLT

Adults always like simple to use and discrete equipment when they need one. The Cobra PR562BLT presents you with a mature look and other great features which make these walkie talkies one of the best. This walkie device comes available with a Bluetooth walkie talkie headset for privacy and other functions like 22 different channel combinations, 10 NOAA channels for viewing weather conditions and CTCSS.

PROS

• It is readily available with 5 different call tones pre-programmed.
• It is designed to be water-resistant.
• Its hands-free feature allows users to pair with its Bluetooth headset –best for privacy.

CONS

• It might not work with a Bluetooth headset when delivered.
• Its Bluetooth option doesn’t work with common Bluetooth earbuds.
• Signal strength doesn’t get up to 28 miles.

6. Midland LXT633VP3

The Midland LXT633VP3 Two Way Radio is a long-range communication walkie talkie which is Bluetooth enabled. This Bluetooth feature allows it to pair with a hands-free headset or Bluetooth speaker when necessary. It also features over 36 FRS channels, 121 CTCSS privacy codes, 10 NOAA weather alert channels. Suppose you need a portable and compact radio with a great signal range for your expeditions. In that case, the Midland LXT633VP3 walkie radio is good for you!

PROS

• The device features excellent sound quality.
• It is one of the best FRS radios available.
• It is suitable for both adults, teenagers and kids.

CONS

• Signal strength doesn’t get up to the specified 30-miles.
• Its battery could get depleted easily.

7. Baofeng BF-888S

The Baofeng BF-888S walkie talkie is an excellent radio with amazing functions which will amaze you once tested. This communication device was designed as a family radio service capable of connecting to frequencies from 400 to 470MHZ. it also has Bluetooth functions, an earpiece and many more functions. You can use this radio to make sure your family members are okay, thanks to its signal range.

PROS

• Its batteries are easily replaceable.
• Great for outdoor use.
• Great price for a device of its quality.
• It has a great signal strength.

CONS

• The signal range gets cracked up in extreme weather.
• The weather could affect its sound quality.

8. COBRA ACXT1035R

 Cobra ACXT1035R FLT two-way radios are the perfect radios for your outdoor adventures, camping, hiking, etc. This two-way Walkie-Talkie is one of the best Bluetooth Walkie-Talkies; you can connect it to your smart-phones; it keeps out the background noise when communicating and keeps you prepared when you’re out and about. With the built-in NOAA weather alerts, it prepares you for storms and emergencies. The ACXT1035R FLT is a long-range device with a max-performance range of 37 miles. It has a hands-free (VOX) function and has a built-in LED torch and S.O.S siren, which provides enhanced functionality to keep you going when it’s dark. It’s Rewind say it again function allows you listen to important messages again Incase you missed them.

PROS

• Long-range device.
• It has a VOX (hands-free) function.
• It is water-resistant.

CONS

• Fragile belt-clip.

9. Uniden SX327-2CKHS

Uniden SX327-2CKHS FRS/GMRS two-way radio keeps you connected when you’re out and about with your friends and family. The 22 channels radio lets you select a private channel for uninterrupted communication with your friends via its privacy codes. It is a long-range radio with a mile range of up to 32 miles. It is water-resistant, has a PTT(push to talk) button, and has a built-in LED torch. The two-way radio has built-in NOAA weather alerts, which alerts you if it’s going to rain or not and in case of emergencies. The Uniden SX327-2CKHS two-way radio keeps customers connected and more.

PROS

• It has NOAA weather alerts and channels.
• Water-resistant.
• It is easy to use.

CONS

• No anti-squelch function.

10. Retevis RT21

The Retevis RT21 handsfree Bluetooth radio is amazing two-way radios made available in a 5 pack set. This two-way radio is capable of long-range transmission. It is readily available with an earpiece for privacy during a conversation. These walkie-talkies have been designed to beat other radios’ standards and beat extreme weather conditions and more.

PROS

• It is easy to use and has fewer buttons compared to its other versions.
• It is drop resistant.
• It is water-resistant.

CONS

• Poor battery life.
• It cannot be used with other walkie brands.

11. Baofeng UV-5R5

The Baofeng UV radio performs the functions of both a phone and a walkie talkie radio. The device has a vox function, an earpiece, LED flashlight, PTT key function and others that might help you. These radios also feature Bluetooth pairing capabilities and are compact and easy to carry about. It can stand extreme weather conditions.

PROS

• It features a waterproof backlit Dual-Band display.
• It can automatically lock its keypads.
• Its signal range is the specified 3 miles.
• It is a rugged radio which can withstand falls.

CONS

• It has a low battery capacity.
• It is not suitable for beginners.

12. Retevis RT45

Retevis has been providing and serving the public with high-quality walkie talkie radios since inception. Individuals who have used their devices have testified of amazing quality, especially with their walkie talkies with Bluetooth headsets –and this one is nothing less. This radio is capable of long-range transmission and features a Bluetooth headset, 12 weather channels, and a PTT button.

PROS

• These radios are great for campers in the wild or places with extreme weather conditions.
• It’s designed to be rugged.
• It features an FRS license.
• It has dual power options and a flashlight.

CONS

• Its signal strength in extreme weather conditions could be crappy.
• Bluetooth headset could go on/off at times.

13. Ansoko Walkie talkies

Ansoko is another great communication equipment suitable for adults and teenagers alike. This long-range two-way radio features a Bluetooth headset, an earpiece for discrete conversations and other items within its box. If you need rugged walkie talkies suitable for dangerous weather conditions and probably surfing, choose Ansoko walkie talkies.

PROS

• It has a frequency range that falls within 400 and 470MHz.
• It has a great battery capacity.
• Great customer service.
• It features a programming cable for easy programming.

CONS

• Its battery life is not so great.
• Its headsets aren’t durable.

14. Midland – LXT600VP3 walkie talkie

The Midland LXT600VP3 radio is a powerful long-range walkie talkie which is push to talk (PTT) enabled. Its features allow it to communicate with other radios in its two-way channel effortlessly and when necessary. The radio features over 36 FRS channels, 121 CTCSS privacy codes, 10 NOAA weather alert channels. It is a great radio for camping, snowboarding, surfing, and other adventures.

PROS

• Its weather channels are always accurate.
• It is easy to use. 
• The radio has excellent display quality.
• It is suitable for both adults, teenagers and kids.

CONS

• Signal strength might not get up to the specified 30-miles.
• It has poor battery life.

15. COBRA PX500

This FRS two-way radio is colorful and aesthetically pleasing. It is easy to use and is a durable Walkie-Talkie. Uniden SX327-2CKHS has 22 channels and privacy codes, which lets you stay in touch without interruptions. This Walkie-Talkie can be connected to a Bluetooth headset, an earpiece, a Walkie-Talkie headset, and it has a PTT (push to talk) button. The built-in LED flashlight helps you keep going at night, and the built-in NOAA weather channels keep you updated about the weather and emergencies in your area.

PROS

• Long-lasting battery life.
• It enables Bluetooth connection.
• It has NOAA weather alerts.
• It is easy to use.

CONS

• No noise-cancellation feature.
• Poor reception.

Overall Best Buy

This is a long list, and if you’re still indecisive, it’s understandable. Suppose you’re in the store wondering which is best to pick out the above-listed radios. In that case, you should go for the Midland GXT1000VP4 because it configures about 50 channels, double the average channel of the other two-way radio on the list and a 36-mile range of smooth communication. If you care more about the quality, then you should go for the Midland GXT1000VP4.

Best Budget Buy

Sometimes it is also about money. But I’d you’re worrying a low price might not give you want or need, then you’re worrying about the wrong thing. Baofeng BF-888S is the perfect radio to use and one of the best radios. It is as low as $24.90, and it will give you the best of function. Apart from its low budget price, it’s transmitter and receiver are very strong and active, it has an emergency alarm (which you can turn on using channel 11), a low voltage alert, and it has 16 channels with a 1500mAh lithium-ion battery, flashlight, and all other incredible functions. It is the best option for you if you’re looking for a radio that’s cheap and can serve your purpose exceptionally.

FAQs

Where to Buy best Bluetooth walkie talkies

The 21st century and the internet makes it easy to purchase things we want and need with ease. Getting yourself Bluetooth radios night be one easy task but at the same time tricky.

You can get the best radios in local stores and electrical stores near you. Suppose you’re the type that likes to order online and get it to your delivery address. In that case, you can always check online stores like Amazon, Walmart, and various online stores, or if you know exactly what you’re looking for.

Before you purchase radios online, never hesitate to check customer reviews, especially if you’re new to it. Be sure to check people’s comments to know how it has worked for them and see if they have complaints. If there’s no comment under a product, it’s advisable to move to another department or better still go to their official website or visit local stores so you can be sure what you’re buying is the original. Also, make sure they have a return policy or a warranty on the product.

How to pair walkie talkies

Most radio pairs come ready to be paired outside the box, all you need to do is make sure that both devices are on the same channel. If you do this and you are still unable to pair the devices. Troubleshoot with the following steps.

ONE

If the radios do not pair when they are on the same channel,it is possible that the devices are programmed differently and different frequencies are registered under different channels. This is often the case when you are trying to pair radios of different models. The solution is to manually configure both devices by selecting the same frequency on the radios.

TWO

If manual configurations do not work, the problem must be that both radios have different squelch systems or privacy tones. Privacy tones help ensure that your conversations are private, and you can only communicate when both radios are on the same channel and the same private tone. If both devices have incompatible squelch systems, you should turn the feature off on both devices.