Are you in the market for the best waterproof walkie talkies that money can buy? If you are in the market for the best, you would need to understand the factors that make one product better than another. These walkie talkies must be suitable for use in outdoor areas where water accidents are prone to happen such as lakes and river-sides. Unlike other waterproof walkie talkie reviews, we will go in-depth into some of the best items you can get and their specs. This piece will focus on your need and how these gadgets can best satisfy you. In the next section, we will discuss the details necessary for consideration before one of these gadgets are purchased.
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Considerations when choosing waterproof walkie talkies
Before buying a waterproof handheld radio you will need to consider the options available on the market and their various specifications. You will also have to ensure that the water resistant walkie talkie you purchase has other functions that will serve you while you are outdoors. The following are important factors you mus get behind before making your choice.
Size
Most walkie talkies are the size of the average cell phone, with some being much bigger and some smaller. There is no optimal size, it depends majorly on preference. Smaller walkie talkies foten compormise on functionality to give you a device that is mobile and can be very easily carried around, while the larger walkie talkies offer you all the capabilities you would need to brave the outdoors with the downside being its bulk.
Durability
Seeing as most radios are same size as cell phones, it is no surprise that they fall out your hands or fall off your hips. It is therefore important that the radio be able to survive the occassional fall, and offer some protection against dust. Walkie talkies are long term investments, this is why it is imperative that you pick out a radio that can survive constant use, and also the wear and tear that comes from being used anywhere in the outdoors.
Battery Life
It would matter little if the radio has all the functions you need to go swimming or dipping in water if the device is never on. This is why the quality of a radio is ofen a fucntion of the battery life, with the higher end radios offering a sizeable battery capacity. Radios offer different power options like lithium ion batteries or alkaline batteries, aa or aaa batteries, rechargeable battery packs that can be charged using a desktop charger.
Range
The range on a communications device is the distance between the receivers for optimal conversations to still be had. The ranges on different radios differ based on many factors, with the wattage and the number of obstacles in the environment being the most common examples of those factors. The higher the power in watts the radio has, the longer the transmission range and if there are obstructions in the environment, it would negatively affect the range of the device.
Price
More important than getting a radio at a cheap price is getting one that offers the most value for the money spent, and this was considered when all the radios below were picked. The common misconception is that two way radios are costly, and you would need to put a dent in your finances to acquire one, while this might be true for some, there are still man awesome radios available on sale at budget prices, with many of them represented on this list.
12 Best Waterproof Walkie Talkies
DEWALT DXFRS800
These quality two way radios have a IP67 waterproof rating and are also dust proof to eliminate the risk of your two way radio incurring water damage or reduced performance in dusty environments. This makes for an incredible long lasting device with 22 channels and a long range reaching up to 25 floors, suitable for use in several different situations.
PROS
The waterproof two way radio has the VOX feature for hands free communication as a functionality.
It has shock resistant, waterproof and dustproof features for lasting and versatile use.
The device is rechargeable and comes with required charging cables.
Its audio quality is loud and crystal clear.
CONS
The radio’s belt clip is flimsy and only mildly decent.
Motorola Talkabout T503 H2O
The Motorola waterproof 2 way radio is a front runner when it comes to two way radios. This fantastic 2 way radio is equipped with excellent battery life, and you never have to worry about continually charging. You get guaranteed 3.6v 1000mah aa batteries.
Not only is the device waterproof, when threatened by submersion, the Motorola T503 model floats. The manufacturer packed a lot of unique features in this device.
The screen is an lcd display, sound quality is the best you can find anywhere, excellent for communication, and the size is portable.
The Motorola waterproof 2 way radio’s versatility is one reason it’s a favorite amongst many. This feature, as well as the performance, erases any doubt.
The manual comes with more information on how to use this great device.
Cobra RX680
The Cobra RX680 is the best waterproof walkie talkie you can get in the market. Communication, either near or long range, is as effective as it can be with this two way radio.
With a mile range of up to 38 miles, the Cobra RX680 ensures that the sound quality is as good as it can be with little or no interference, over long range communication.s
The device is an excellent waterproofing walkie talkie designed to the IP54 waterproof rating. Not only that, but it is also dust proof, making it a very durable walkie talkie.
Cobra RX680 is easy to use, packed with the voice-operated operation, vox for short, meaning it is hands free, and you do not have to press several buttons to get going. The walkie talkie automatically turns on courtesy, the voice activation. You also get noaa weather alerts directly to your walkie talkie.
Motorola T600 Talkabout Radio
The IP67 waterproof rating of this waterproof radio provides protection for your device. The waterproof two way radios allows you access 22 channels with 121 privacy codes and are helpful to build quality transmissions over a long range. The simplicity of the design makes it easy to use to keep up conversations and the LED display feature keeps you informed about the state of your device and its features.
PROS
It uses aa batteries and has a durable battery life.
The model has the NOAA weather radio and Vibracall features.
It has a built-in white and red LED flashlight for night time adventures.
The radio can be used with several other FRS/GMRS radios.
CONS
The hypersensitivity of the flashlight sensors make it susceptible to accidental battery drain.
The availability of NOAA radio service and its communication range depends on the area.
Midland GXT1000VP4
The Midland 50 Channel Waterproof GMRS, two way radio, is an excellent walkie talkie that is great for near or long range communication. The device is loaded with a lot of unique features that make it a must-have.
The walkie talkie set is a GMRS two way radio with a ptt button, which means it is preloaded with the general mobile radio service. You have up to 50 channels with this radio. Simply stunning.
This radio also features privacy codes that provide the user with 3,124 channel options, and the user can block other conversations and transmissions. This radio device can function in several ways.
One feature that makes it stand out is the sos siren, which sounds when there is a risk of severe weather in your area. You can perform a weather scan and receive noaa weather alerts. And if it rains, you need not worry, because the Midland two way walkie talkie is a waterproof radio.
A rechargeable battery powers these features. In the box, you get a set of radios, boom mic headsets and several other accessories to ensure a smooth usage.
This two way radio is the best waterproof walkie talkie you can get anywhere.
For more information, please check the manual in the box.
COBRA ACXT1035R
This waterproof walkie talkie floats to ensure easy retrieval and can withstand submersion in water. The two way radio has 121 privacy codes to curb any interference during your communication. With the noaa weather alerts and a built-in led flashlight, It is a great device for an adventurer to use in staying updated about and coping with the weather condition outdoors.
PROS
The waterproof two way radio uses VOX feature for voice activated transmission so you can keep your hands free while communicating.
One of its features It has is the vibralert which notifies you of incoming signals.
The device has a rechargeable battery pack and a simple anti-drop design.
CONS
The 37 mile range of transmission is reduced in build-up areas.
Retevis RT49 Waterproof Two Way Radios
This model has functions such as noaa weather alerts to access information concerning weather conditions on the go. It is the best waterproof walkie talkie with 22 channels, long range transmission and a lasting battery life. The waterproof two way radios have a portable and practical design.
PROS
The device uses rechargable aa batteries and has an included USB adapter and charger.
It comes with an English user manual.
The belt clips keeps it attached on clothes for hands free communication.
It has a bright flashlight and alerts you when your battery is running low.
CONS
The device works best at close range and range is affected by weather conditions and terrain.
It does not utilize earbuds and headphones.
Uniden SX507-2CKHS
This waterproof walkie talkie is fully water resistant so you don’t have to worry about damage in wet environments. You can also get a heads-up with weather alerts using the noaa weather scan feature on the device. These are with 22 channels and quality signal reception to keep up clear conversations.
PROS
The two way radios utilize headsets and belt clips which come in the box.
It is the best walkie-talkie for long range communications.
It has dustproof and waterproof features and a cradle to store and charge your device.
CONS
The presence of obstacles limit range.
BaoFeng GT-3WP
This is a long range walkie talkie designed to give reliable long-term quality. The two way radios have selectable power output and up to an impressive 50 mile signal range. It is a waterproof walkie talkie as well, with dust and waterproofing features to protect your device in various environments. It also comes with Direct Call feature for private group calls.
PROS
The vhf radios have extendable antenna and a built in flashlight.
It provides clear sound quality and a belt clip for hands free communications.
It is suitable for use in variety of conditions
CONS
It doesn’t come with a programming cable.
The maximum 50 mile range is only applicable in ideal terrain with low construction or build up.
DEWALT DXFRS300
Users of this waterproof frs radio enjoy the features of this device in a variety of ways. For one, the devices have waterproofing feature you can trust to keep it intact when exposed to OR submerged in water. It uses a durable lithium ion battery for lasting battery life, has 22 channels ready for you to access, and also has good signal strength for longer range of transmission.
PROS
The radio has anti squelch function and is shock resistant and waterproof so it’s suitable for use in wide range of conditions.
It has long range access and an anti drop design.
It has the ability to run for up to 12 hours.
CONS
You have to purchase the earphone speaker separately.
It has fragile antenna housings or covers.
Uniden MHS75
The Uniden MHS75 is one of the best water resistant walkie talkies on the market, this waterproof two way radio ould continue to function no matter how wet it gets due to its JIS8 rating. The device is fully submersible and is protected by its waterproofing, the water tight seals mean the boards inside remain protected. This handy talkie has the NOAA weather channels feature that keeps the user updated about the weather alert in the environment nearby. The radio allows you toggle between the power levels, with the higher wattage giving you longer transmission ranges, and the lower wattage allowing you to save battery power when you need to. The device is sleek and is powered by AA batteries.
PROS
- The device is a long range walkie talkie
- The weather channels allows you stay a few steps ahead of mother nature
CONS
- The battery clip is not durable
- The device would not survive is submerged in water deeper than 2 inches.
Motorola MS350R
The Motorola MS350R is another example of the many engineering feats by Motorola. This waterproof walkie talkie allows for communication in a 35 mile range, it has 22 channels, 8 repeater channels, and each channel has 121 privacy codes. The Motorola waterproof 2way radio has a IP67 rating that protects the device from water and dust, thanks to the water resistant seals on the radio. The design of the radio is sleek, small and compact, it allows you store in your pockets easily when not in use or to pack in your luggage when you are on the road.
PROS
- The radio is small and lightweight
- The Motorola walkie talkie has privacy codes that ensures against interference on calls
- This waterproof walkie talkie is all weather, and all terrain
CONS
- The range can be better
- You might experience battery drain after constant use
Overall Best Buy
The Motorola MS350R. All the radios on the list are ideal to go fishing, swimming or anywhere for that matter where you would be in close proximity to water and other fluids. But of all of them, the one that stands out as the best option is the MS350R, it is a great option for many reasons, with one reason being the small size and weight. This is a greap option among the other products on the list because of its superior build quality and extensive features.
Best Budget Buy
The BaoFeng GT-3WP. This product by BaoFeng, now called PoFung is very easy to use and offers a lot of functionality at an affordable price. The radio can survive up to 30 minutes under one meter of water. It offers excellent signal reception and allows the user to toggle between the power levels, with higher power levels meaning longer transmission ranges. The VOX function on the radio means you can have discreet conversations without having to worry about interference or other people listening in on your conversations.
FAQs
How to pair walkie talkies
Pairing two walkie talkies is as easy as having them tuned to the same frequency or channel, and taking turn to press the PTT button to listen and send messages. If you do this and it does not work, it means that the radios are not of the same brand or model.
The different brands and models have different frequencies corresponding to different channels, if this is the case, you would need to check the instruction manual or guide for more information on the channels and frequencies. If you do this and you are still unable to connect the pair, the problem must be from the privacy codes.
Privacy codes on a radio is a feature that helps avoid interference on conversations, most radios comes with two system types; the Continuous Tone Code Squelch System (CTCSS) and the Digital Coded Squelch (DCS). And if the radios do not have the same privacy codes, the radio would be unable to pair, and you would have to turn this feature off on both radios.
Where to buy walkie talkies
You can purchase the best walkie talkies at any electronics store near you, but make sure to ask the store keeper for help understanding the different device specifications. For more options and competitive prices, you can shop at online stores like Amazon, they have a vibrant online community to help you every step of the way.
