Best Motorola Walkie Talkies

Motorola is a brand known for manufacturing communications devices of the best quality, they have produced ham radio and cb radios that bridge gaps and connect people across long distances. This makes it more difficult to pick out your model of choice to handle the rigors of your day, this Motorola walkie talkies reviews help you understand your choices, allows flexibility when making your decision and clarity to understand the difference between the receivers available on sale. Are you unsure of which Motorola walkie talkie to go for, worry no more, as this research article brings you all the answers to your questions.

Considerations choosing walkie talkie motorola 2 way radios

There are a lot of factors to be considered when choosing the right motorola model for your businesses, when you go camping, hiking or any other outing with family and friends. The following ensures that everyone leaves the store with the right piece of communications equipment. They are:

Range of Communication

The range of two way radios, signified in mile range on the packaging is dependent on the wattage of the device. This leads us to the two main types of handheld radios, the FRS and GMRS radios; they have significantly different wattage levels which translates to different ranges across the two radio types.

FRS: This stands for family radio service and it is for close range communication by individuals and was created in 1996. The FRS system rather than use amplitude modulation to increase its unpredictability, uses the frequency modulation (FM). FRS systems are usually used by friends and family in close proximity to each other, this makes this radio type inexpensive and the range is limited because the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has limited the system to 500 milliwatts (half a watt).

FRS radios can pick up signals from channels 1 to 14, with 1-7 being shared with GMRS radios and 8-14 being specific to FRS radios. This radio type also allows users a privacy code feature that enables encryption of transmissions, giving a measure of privacy.

GMRS: This system is preferred to the FRS system mainly because it offers more power, as much as 50 watts of power. Although most GMRS devices have between 1 and 5 watts of power, that is still a lot more than FRS radios offer. This translates to more range, stronger signals for connections and transmissions. Using the GMRS service would require FCC licensing and listening to some channels illegally could bring about legal action.

Another limitation to the range of the device are the obstructions in the surrounding environs, walkie talkies tend to have more range when used in the open than when used in a town or city setting with trees and buildings getting in the way.

Battery-life

Battery life of your handheld radio is very important, it allows you enjoy the other features and functionalities for extended periods. Some higher end models allow you boost the signal by increasing the power levels, allow you sue accessories like a headset, all of which take power from the battery. This makes it important for your battery to have a sturdy charging station for quick charge, preferably run on rechargeable batteries and other alternative power sources like replaceable alkaline batteries.

Durability

The motorola two way radios review has shown to make sure to strike a balance with durability, aesthetics and functionality. These radios are the sizes of phones and could very easily fall off your hands, in the case of falls and drops, you want to be able to pick up the radio and get on the road.

Frequencies

Most radios transmit on either VHF or UHF frequencies, which each frequency type with its advantages and posing its individual drawbacks. The frequency you want on your device depends largely on what you want from the radio.

VHF: These radios are better suited for use in the outdoors or in open terrain, they are the ideal option if you are planning an event where everyone you intend to communicate with would be in your line of sight. VHF radios broadcast between 30MHz and 300MHz, they are the go to radios at construction sites; they are the preferred option for maritime and aviation operations.

UHF: These on the other hand are better for use indoors, UHF stands for Ultra High Frequency and this means they have shorter wavelengths that are able to pass through concrete and steel. These devices broadcast between 300MHz and 3 GHz. This type is ideal for crowdy places like a school hall.

20 Best Motorola Walkie Talkies in 2020

1. Motorola T260TP

The Motorola T260TP Talkabout Radio comes with different capabilities. It can be powered by either NiMH batteries or 3 AA batteries giving the user enough control over its battery power. It comes with about 11 NOAA weather channels, though depending on the area the weather alerts may not always be available.  This GMRS two way radio has 22 channels with 121 privacy codes, giving about 2,662 possible combinations. Its build quality is top-notch and can communicate with any other FRS/ GMRS radio no matter the brand, as long as it is on the same channel and privacy code making it a really handy talkie. This device has an LCD screen and has a long range, solid at about 25 miles depending on weather conditions and the terrain

Pros

• The Instructions are really easy to use understand
• It can be used wirelessly
• The 3AA batteries last up 29 hours ensuring long lasting use

Cons

• The range is dependent on the terrain, so it might not be as functional in some areas
• The Y-charging cable it comes with may not be as durable as other charging cables

2. Motorola T100

Motorola T100 Talkabout Radio is one of the best Motorola radios for family use. The design is efficient, simple enough to use by kids, has a nice attractive color and an LCD display. It is available either as a two radios pack or three and comes equipped with belt clips. It is compatible with other two way radios, with 22 channels and one call tone feature. This walky talky can last up to 18 hours with its 3 AAA batteries and qualifies as a long range walkie with about 16 miles range depending on the terrain and condition of its use. The build quality is very good, compact and easy to carry,

Pros

• The audio quality is very good and voices are heard clearly
• Its ease to use makes one of the best communication devices for family use
• It comes with functional qualities like the flashing low battery alert.

Cons

• The range may not be as speculated depending on the location
• The battery life may be less depending on its frequent use 

3. Motorola T402

Motorola walkie talkie sets are the best walkie talkie for escapades outdoors. The two-way radios have 22 channels over a long range of 35 miles transmission including weather channels on NOAA weather to stay abreast of conditions. This model of the gmrs two way radio uses aa batteries to give long-lasting battery life, and it’s easy to use to maintain communication in emergency situations. The design of these products gives performance expected from the best walkie talkies as it facilities users navigating its operation.

Pros

• Dual power
• IVOX/VOX feature
• Belt clip and LED flashlight

Cons

• The sound quality can be better

4. Motorola T600

Being outdoors is no barrier to communication with the innovative technology of T600 H20. This pair fits perfectly in your pocket and its high functionality and transmission increases its efficiency, to ensure you keep connection with ease. It radios over a relatively long distance which gives you great signal and performance regardless of the conditions you encounter. The waterproof feature of the devices ensures it floats and has the ability to withstand submersion or rain without water damage disconnecting you from people during your adventures.

Pros

• Dual Power
• Accessory Brochure
• Built-in Flashlight
• Charging Adapter cables

Cons

• It requires prolonged Charging
• Hypersensitive Sensors

5. Motorola T465

This walkie-talkie offers a solution to hunters with its voice activation feature. With the belt clip, you can attach it to the surface of your clothes and utilize ivox hands free communication. The receiver has different sensitivity levels for you to choose from depending on the environment. This innovative class of brands updates you about weather conditions and with the waterproofing feature, the gmrs two way radio displays all the radio vitals, so you and the radio stays in good shape.

Pro

• 22 channels each with 121 privacy codes
• Easy to use PPT button
• Adjustable power output
• Clear sound quality

Cons

• Slow scanning
• Loud static noise

6.  Motorola T800

This Motorola rechargeable walkie talkie has to be one of the best walkie talkies on the market at the moment. This hands free Bluetooth device ranges over 22 channels and has 121 privacy codes which equals about 2,662 possible combinations. It is equipped with a rechargeable battery making it an efficient tool for people on camping trips. Its weatherproof design is flawless, with LED flashlight, and Micro USB charging amongst other things.

Motorola products are good ranged communication devices, and this radio work within a 20-mile data range and has 35-mile voice range with respect to the terrain and conditions of its use.

Pros

• One of its basic strengths is its easy pairing making it really easy to use
• It comes with 11 weather channels with proper alert features
• The package is light weight, and is compatible with older sets of Motorola radios

Cons

• The sound quality is not exactly better compared to other two way radios
• The range may not be good as speculated

7. Motorola RMU2040

Motorola RMU2040 two-way radio is one of the best Motorola two-way radio with excellent radio signals and frequencies. It is suitable for business use because of its reliability, casual look and high performance. The battery life of the thing is incredible; it uses lithium ion battery which excellent power retention capacity. You can put it on battery savings mode for long-lasting hours. The device comes with its desktop battery chargers.

The range walkie talkie can cover a distance up to 250,000 sq. ft. or 20 floors indoors. It comes in a pair. The design of the walkie-talkie is attractive, with excellent talk confirmation tones. It is useful for passing information across users.

Pros

• Long Distance Coverage

• Lasting battery power

• Clear transmission

Cons

• Low-quality sound output

8. Motorola RDU4100

This small Motorola walkie talkie is a great device for communication between groups of people. The other functions strengthen its importance, such as message, alerts, and calls functions. The manufacturer built this device to be compatible with large buildings communication with 30 floors indoors range strength. The lightweight walkie talkie is suitable for company use.

The gear makes use of li ion batteries. There is a minimal issue with the device; it uses business-exclusive UHF frequency and has an outstanding vox quality with a mic function. The body design of each unit is lovely; it comes in a box.

Pros

• Lightweight device

• Excellent battery life

• Lone-range coverage

Cons

• Not waterproof

• No back-light display

9.  Motorola Business CLS1110

This two way radio is a useful addition to the labour-intensive workplace. The manufacturer, Motorola, designed the device for use in the hospitals and outdoors. It has a coverage range of 200,000 square feet or up to 15 floors.

The audio quality and radio frequencies are excellent; its sound is clear. There is a keypad lock functions that prevent you from operating it accidentally. The features of the device include a headset, call tones and radios.

Its small unit size makes it portable and convenient to carry around. The device operation is easy, and the results of its communications are top-notch. It has a rechargeable battery, which when full, the power can last up to 18 hours. The device makes use of aaa batteries.

Pros

• Keypad lock function

• Long-lasting battery power

• Wide communications coverage

Cons

• No backlight

• The charger may develop a fault.

10. Motorola CLP1010, 6 Pack

The Motorola CLP1010 Two Way Radio Walkie Talkie Models comes with 6 radios and added accessories that can be used anywhere within its range. This device has only one channel meaning all activities and conversations are transmitted on this single channel at all times. These ones are set to default UHF frequencies and has about 10 floors coverage which is about 100,000 square feet range of transmissions. It comes with C-shaped earpieces for the user, a single-unit charger and a lithium ion battery. It is one of the smallest Motorola business tier radios anywhere in the world, with very good signal strength and versatility.

Pros

• The design is small and compact, easy to carry around
• It is easy to use and voices are heard clearly
• There are no complex modes or settings

Cons

• The radio cannot be used without the earpiece due to its small design
• The use of its one channel technology gives no room for private interactions

11. Motorola VX-261

The motorola VX-261 has proven times over that it is one of the best walkie talkies around for business use. The design is very functional, it is just the right weight for you to carry around and its 16 VHF channels means it is better used for outdoor events with little to no obstructions in the area. In the pack is the VAC UNI rapid charger, a six inch whip antenna (ATV-8B) and a 1380mAh Li ion battery. This translates to seamless communication and endless talk time.

Pros

• It has a classy styling and finish
• The device is ready to use out of the box
• The antenna ensures

Cons

• VHF means it would not be optimal when used indoors

12. Motorola Talkabout T503

This is the ultimate walkie talkie for hiking and every other kind of adventure. The crisp display means you always know how the radio is faring, the signal strength and how much battery life you have left. This tool would help you connect with your friend across long distances , and its water resistance as a result of the manufacturers waterproofing means this is the go everywhere, do anything two way radio. The compact size means you would not have any trouble storing this with your luggage when you are on a trip.

Pros

• It features a display screen
• You can call across long distances

Cons

• You might experience battery drain

13. Motorola T801

The construction of this walkie talkie is lauded for a number of reasons, which include but ar not limited to the following; the intelligent VOX feature that allows for hands free transmissions without the pressing the push to talk button, the impressive 35 mile range that allows for transmissions across many frs/gmrs radio frequencies with top shelf audio quality. You would always be a step ahead as this weather radio informs you of all the weather changes that happen near you, the privacy codes mean that all your calls are private and your device can be easily powered with its quality rechargeable batteries.

Pros

• It features a rechargeable battery pack
• The privacy codes prevent against interference
• The units are sturdy and durable.

Cons

• The range can be better

14. Motorola RMU2080D, 6 Pack

This model is used by many coporations to facilitate communication between co workers, the 6 pack unit allows for transmissions among groups of people and the range is just right to transmit across floors and offices. The device is easy to use and can be used by anyone, anywhere. It features a quality speaker that ensures you get the message just right without missing out on important information.

Pros

• The units feature a screen that informs you of the channel and other vitals
• The unit is durable

Cons

• It is relatively pricey

15. Motorola MS350R

This radio has a easy learning curve, it is stylish and ahead of its time with its futuristic finish. The device allows for communication across 22 channels and the frs/gmrs radio has 8 extra repeater channels. The radio set can transmit over long distance, in this case 35 miles if there are no obstacles in the environment. With the quality speaker fitted on this radio and its water resistant build, you have the best piece of equipment to take on your adventures.

Pros

• The radio is of durable build
• It has an IP67 rating
• It is compact sized

Cons

• You might experience drain from batteries
• Audio quality can be better

16. Motorola Solutions T480 Talkabout

This radio has won majority over with its intelligent construction, the package comes with a single unit that allows the user transmit information across a 35 mile range, the two way radio prevents against interference across the long distances due to the privacy codes it features. This is one of the radios on the market with the NOAA function allows the walkie talkie access to weather radio channels that keeps you informed of the weather and the changes close to your location.

Pros

• The gadget has a power boost to extend the transmission range
• With 2,662 combinations, you would not need to worry about interference

Cons

• Adapter is not durable
•  The battery drains

17. Motorola RMM2050

Buyers of this radio have had no reason to complain as it does everything just right, it even transmits on special MURS frequencies that do not need licensing. The radio is durable and can survive being used in any environment, the quality of the build ensures that this piece of tech facilitates communication with one of the best sound quality on the list.

Pros

• The radio is durable and can withstand great stress
• It does not require a license

Cons

• It is pricey

18. Motorola MG167A

This radio allows you use call tones instead of the default ring that comes with most radios. the MG167A is a frs/gmrs radio that allows you know what channels are currently in use with the scanning feature and low battery alerts that let you keep track of how the batteries on your gadget are doing. All these with the keypad lock to prevent against inadvertent use makes this one great radio to contend with.

Included in the package are two belt clips, two radios and user guide.

Pros

• You can scan for channels
• Button lock feature protects the radio from accidental use and from children

Cons

• The battery compartment can be tricky to access

19. Motorola DTR410 Site Radio

This is regarded by many as the best business radio, it is also perfect on job sites as it offers many features that wuld foster easy communication among teammates. The DTR410 allows one to one and one to many transmissions, this makes it easier to co ordinate plans among groups. The radio meets military standards as it provides some resistance against extreme temperatures, shock, dust, water and vibration. This on site radio has a coverage of 25 floors or 300,000 sq ft. Its rechargeable batteries can be charged using a desktop charger that is included in the package alongside a owner’s manual, drop in charger, battery, and a holster.

Pros

• The batteries are long lasting
• The radio functions over a long range

Cons

• It is pricey

20. Motorola On-Site RDV5100

The RDV5100 has a scramble setting that helps minimize interference and allows for private conversations. You have the option of toggling between a low power setting of 2 watts and a maximum of 5 watts. The radio has 10 code/channel combinations and is IP55 rated that offers some protection against water and dust damage. The radio features a VOX function, battery indication and tri color LED to indicate when you are receiving, transmitting or indicate battery levels.

Pros

• It can be used hands free
• The radio is waterproof

Cons

• You might experience battery drain

How to Connect Motorola Walkie Talkies

If the waly talkies are of the same model, it is very easy to pair them, as they would out of the box have the same frequencies programmed to the same channel numbers. In this situation, you would need to enter the same channel and both devices and they would be connected on the same frequency.

On different brands or different models, the same frequencies could be programmed to different channels, you would need some tweaking to find out which channels broadcast the same frequencies, and only then can they pair.

And if you do these, and you are still unable to pair the devices, you need to check for CTCSS (Continuous Tone Coded Squelch System); this signalling method only allows messages or transmissions through if both devices are on the same CTCSS. If you are unsure how to tweak this setting on both devices, you can turn the CTCSS function off.

Another signalling type is DCS (Digital Coded Squelch). It does the same as CTCSS, only difference is that it does not send a tone but rather a digital code. If the devices dont work they might have incompatible DCS codes, you would need to turn the feature off.

Best Choice Overall

I am often asked what are the best motorola walkie talkies, and this product reviews has listed the top picks from the Motorola brand. But from this list of exceptional two way radios, there is one walkie talkie that rises above the pack in terms of build quality, durability, functionality, aesthetics and value for money and that is the Motorola MR350R.

This two way radio can hols its head high as the best motorola radio because it is dust and water proof, allows long range transmissions, has a sleek design and squelch features for private conversations.

Best Budget Option

This frs/gmrs two way radio is the best budget option on the market, it gives you all the functionality you would need to brave the wild despite retailing at under $30. The Motorola MG167A walkie talkie has all the features you would expect from the higher end pricey walkie talkies, features like keypad lock, channel scan, and personalized call tones. The radio offers a moderate battery life that is better than some pricier two way radios.

Best for businesses

The Motorola DTR410 is the ultimate business walkie talkie for many reasons, most notably is the group ID that gives extra security when group members connect on the same channel or frequency. The rugged design means it can survive being used in any terrain and all weather conditions, the gadget is resistant to shock, dust, water and vibrations. The two way radio is fitted with a lithium battery that can give you up to 14.5 hours on each charge, which is more than you get on other walkie talkies.

Best for Outdoor use

The Motorola RDV5100 has many features that make it ideal for outdoor use, some of these features are the voice inversation settings that scramble speech for private conversations, the powerful battery that allows up to 22 hours battery time, the hands free VOX function. But most importantly is that it is a VHF frequency transceiver; this makes the two way radio better suited for outdoor use .