Call it walkie talkies or two-way radio, this gadget has come to stay. In today’s world of ubiquitous smartphone penetration, we all need perfect communication tools without limitations. Interestingly, the best long-range two-way radios still prove useful in a variety of contexts.
Having taken an interest to read this 2 way radio buying guide, I am quite sure you know what it is and how it works. The obvious thing is that many people buy this tool for different reasons.
Based on this fact, it is important to highlight some factors that may be relevant to your intended use cases.
At this point, your interest in the top-rated long-range walkie talkies may fall under any of the following use cases. Please note that walkie talkies and two-way radio will be used interchangeably throughout this post.
Two-Way Radio For Hiking: for navigational and safety purposes, some people are specifically interested in the best two-way radios for hiking. As you already know, hiking is a kind of group activity. Hence, it is important to keep in touch with high-risk hiking trails. This is where the best hiking walkie talkies come in handy.
Two-Way Radio For Hunting: In most cases, a great number of these tools are made with specific use cases in mind. Hunting is just one of them. Some people start their search with words like ‘best two-way radios for hunting’ and others like this.
Two-Way Radios For Security: Even in this age and time, many security companies and other organizations still buy this for their guards. Through the use of digital encryption, people experience varying benefits of two-way radio for security. This helps to make conversations private for a great number of reasons.
Two-Way Radios For Vehicle: This is a type of car-mounted two-way radio often used by mobile employees to stay in touch with each other. However, the most important thing is that the users have to be within the stipulated range for the tool to work effectively. This type of two-way radio is often used on trucks and SUVs.
Besides some of the contexts mentioned above, a 2-way walkie talkie can also be used for kids, elderly, schools and many more. Whatever your reason for looking researching where to buy the best long-range two-way radio is, you’ll find great options here.
Fortunately, understanding some of these factors will help you to narrow down your choice as you are reading through the two-way radio review here.
Best Long-Range Walkie Talkie Buying Guide
First things first. If you are a veteran user or you are just looking for a replacement, you can skip this section. In this section, I’ll be highlighting some of the key relevant factors you need to consider before placing an order for any of these products. Before proceeding, please note that these are products were selected from the top-rated long-range two-way radios on Amazon.
That means you don’t have to spend more time looking for where to buy walkie talkie online or offline as the case may be. Regardless of your preferences, let’s dive in.
Here are the top considerations.
Number of Channels
Concerning their intended use cases, I found some potential buyers asking questions like how many channels should my two-way radio have? Here is the essence of reading buyer guides like this. One important thing to note is that if you intend to use this where a lot of other people use walkie talkies, you should go for the ones with a higher number of channels.
This will give you a higher level of privacy through programming capabilities. But please note that the number of channels often affect the price as well.
Two-Way Radio Range
The range has to do with the distance between users of each radio. To a very large extent, this determines the effectiveness of communication. In most cases, you’ll find this range between 10 – 500 miles. As you are reading this, you’ll find the stipulated service range for each device.
Number of Packs
Especially for the handheld unit, the number of packs is one other factor that differentiates one bundle from the other. The main thing to think about is this – how many persons will be using the system at a time? This will help you to narrow your options between 3 – 10 pack long range walkie talkie.
Battery Life
This is a battery-powered communication device. Perhaps, you don’t want to be stranded at a point just because the battery went dead when you needed it the most. Battery life, in this case, is measured in hours of service. One important thing you can do is to get extra batteries and charge them fully before setting out.
Out of Range Alert
Whenever you are stepping out of range with other connected devices, you’ll get an alert from any one of the best two-way radio. This helps to keep communication in sync without worrying about lost connection time.
Besides some of these features discussed above, some others are still relevant. However, by reading through the following walkie talkie reviews, you’ll become aware of more features that make one product different from the other.
Best Long-Range Two-Way Radio Reviews
Cobra MR HH450
From many other Cobra MR HH450 Dual All-Terrain-Radio reviews I have seen, one thing was mention very often – it is an all-rounder meant for different use cases. It is one of the best Cobra two-way radio devices under $200. Both for road trips and other outdoor activities, you are sure of getting what you want on this one.
For short and long-range communication, you can choose between 1 – 6-watt output. This makes it possible to experience clear sound and signal when using it.
It has 15 GMRS channels that define the capability for serving 15 miles range. Across the water, you should expect to get signals within 8 miles only. From my findings, people that do a lot of hiking and rock climbing find this one very useful.
With the specific area message encoding (S.A.M.E) you are sure of getting prompt alerts when the need arises. This feature often becomes handy in changing weather conditions.
Among other things, it has a very long antenna and orange screen where you’ll be able to read everything.
The original battery lasts just about 11 hours. Based on this fact, consider getting additional rechargeable batteries before you head out for your outdoor activities. This will help you to stay in touch while communicating without hitches.
Just in case you have this feature in mind, Cobra MR HH450 was confirmed to have the capability of receiving and transmitting the VHF marine band. At this point, if you are currently looking for the best walkie talkie with the VHF marine band, this is one of the products you should give consideration.
Pros
- Very rugged and durable design
- Proven to work for different use cases
- Moderately priced for budget-conscious buyers
Cons
- It has a weak and tricky battery gauge
- Weak voice modulation
Retevis RT21 Two Way Radio
Here is another great option among the best two-way radio for hunting and other related activities. At the point of purchase, you’ll get 10 handheld radio units. This makes it easy to serve a higher number of connected users at a time.
Based on the experiences of past users alike, these devices can be used indoors and outdoors. By indoors I am referring to things like an office building or compound. Through the advanced programming features, you can block out certain types of interference and make your communication private.
On this device, you’ll find what they call secret service ear tubes. This thing will make it easy for you to hear all sound signals even in a noisy environment.
Whenever the need for charging arises, you’ll get an alarm that will make you aware of that.
Regarding this particular model, you’ll get FRS channels that serve well for hiking and other activities. However, you can also communicate with other GMRS radio devices by being on the same channel. You just need to do the proper setting. In addition to this and other features, it has a very sensitive built-in mic which helps with prompt picking of signals.
Using cable and software provided, you can have it programmed according to your needs through a USB. When you buy this one, it comes with a charger that can help you power the device when it is needed for use. Please note that there is nothing like FCC licensing required for you to start using this radio.
Inside the package, you’ll find a guide that will help you to set up everything in no time. Before you click that buy button, be informed that this is not one of the waterproof walkie talkies you may be looking for.
However, inside this long-range two-way radio buying guide, you’ll find other models that had been proven to be waterproof.
Pros
- Very easy to program
- High-quality sound signals
- 2-year radio warranty
Cons
- The charger base doesn’t last long enough
Motorola Talkabout Radio MH230R
Among all the Motorola two-way radios found during my research, this one occupies a distinct position as one of the top sellers. Based on experience, what I found is that having higher sales volume is most times induced by repeat purchases.
The other thing that pushes the numbers very well is a recommendation from satisfied buyers and users.
With a transmitting range of 25 miles, this device can serve the users very well without fluctuations. Another impressive thing about Motorola Talkabout MH230R is the 10 hours long battery life. This means that you don’t have to worry about battery-related interruption during hours of usage.
Through the 121 privacy codes, you can restrict communication between all connected parties. People looking for 22 channels a two-way radio will find this one very suitable.
Please note that this system is made of two communication units only. But you can buy more pairs for your staff or family. You just have to set them to be working on the same channel. Depending on where you choose to buy Motorola Talkabout MH230R, it is usually available in black, grey, orange and yellow colors.
Some potential buyers are often looking for water-resistant two-way radio only. If you are one of those people, consider this one for all its merits. However, it is important to note that this device is not 100% waterproof.
The meaning is that you can use it under the rain without any signal interruption. But it cannot withstand being submerged into water.
Its weight stands at 1.3 lbs with a dimension of 2.1 x 1.1 x 6.2 inches.
Pros
- Long battery life
- Proven to be water-resistant
- Lightweight design
Cons
- Too expensive for many people
Midland – GXT1000VP4 50 Channel GMRS Two-Way Radio
Another big contender among the top-rated two-way radio brands is this one called Midland. Here is a renowned US maker of electronic products used in different industries. Unlike the competing counterpart reviewed above, Midland midland – GXT1000VP4 two-way radio comes with 142 privacy codes.
In addition to this, it gives the user up to 124 channel options. This variety of options make it easy and possible to block interrupting conversations.
Especially in security usage contexts, the whisper mode built into the mic help to restrict communication in certain conditions. When you buy this particular two-way radio, you’ll have 9 sensitivity levels of voice activation transmission. This works perfectly within the 36-mile range which is longer than what is obtainable from other competitors within the same price point.
When you are outdoor enjoying your adventure, the system uses the strongest among the 10 weather channels to send prompt alerts. This will help users to make a prompt decision regarding their activities.
Moreover, you’ll get some useful headsets as well as other accessories.
I found some potential buyers wondering if they will need a GMRS license to operate this one. Be informed here that you don’t need any kind of license.
If you have marine frequencies in mind, it is important to understand that this one doesn’t work on such frequencies. Instead, you may want to consider a VHF marine radio. Practically, you cannot reprogram the UHF radio being reviewed here.
Based on the different GMRS settings, expect it to draw ½ – 5 watts.
As for the setup of this tool, there is no software to download at all. On the main product sales page, you’ll find an instructional video that helps to set it up in no time. Interestingly, nothing like a warranty was mentioned about the product.
Pros
- A higher number of privacy codes
- Outstanding microphone
- It comes with strong chargers
- Headset included
Cons
- Not reprogrammable
- It is not a waterproof two-way radio
Retevis RT1 Professional Long Range Walkie Talkie
Here is the second model from the same brand, Retevis. When you buy Retevis RT1, you’ll get 6 communication units in one. These units come with 14.57 inches earpiece made for hand-free communication in certain delicate contexts.
Using the belt clip, you can have any of these units and the speaker mic clipped perfectly to your shoulder. The stretch rope is about 43.4 inches in length.
Among other things, it has an automatic scanning feature which will allow you to join conversations with ease.
The most outstanding feature is the 3000 mAh battery which according to past users serves for 200+ hours before needing a charge. Expectedly, it has a desktop charge that will help you to keep it fully powered for each round of usage. Through the best rechargeable walkie talkie reviews I have found during my research this one offers great value for a comparatively low price.
Some of the places where this tool has been proven to work well include restaurants, schools and construction sites. Moreover, you can use it perfectly for hiking or hunting.
Like some others in the same category, you can buy more radio pairs and set them up to be working on the same channel.
As for the alarm functions, you need to program it is a way that will suit your intended uses.
Assuming you are caught up in the rain sometimes, you can still have confidence in the functions as this product has been confirmed to be a rainproof walkie talkie. It may interest you to know that this tool works even better where there are no phone signals. Interestingly, outdoor users will find this one very suitable.
Some other models from the same brand include Retevis RT22, RT27 and RT628. Specifically, a 2-year warranty is what you get when you buy Retevis RT1 radio.
One thing I always remind potential buyers is to avoid the mistake of buying and keeping it for future use. Regardless of where you choose to buy, please endeavor to test everything completely before the return and replacement duration elapse.
Pros
- Strong and durable design
- Higher battery power
- Sound speaker and mic
- Includes earpiece
Con
- It is comparatively more expensive
Motorola MR350R 35 Mile Long Range Two-Way Radio
During my research into some of the best long-range two-way radio reviews online, one thing became clear – Motorola is one of the leading brands in this space. The amazing sales stats is one clear signal pf great trust that people have in this brand.
If you have used one of other Motorola’s electronics and found satisfaction, you are very likely to love this one as well.
First, it works with a VibraCall vibration alert system. This feature makes it possible to notice signals of incoming communication without making a sound at all. Originally in this package, you’ll get a pair of two radio units for prompt and easy communication.
Looking at it from a distance, you’ll observe the outstanding rugged design of this tool.
This product is made with 22 channels that serve users within the 35-mile range. In addition to that, you’ll get 121 privacy codes. Here is the key feature that enables users to have protected conversations within any channel of their choice. Within security settings, this feature is very important.
In terms of Motorola MR350R battery life, 23 hours is what you get on this one. Unlike some other competitors, it has a built-in flashlight which becomes handy during a power outage or night adventures.
Based on my findings, some people have a defined interest in the best two-way hunting radios with flashlight. If you are among these people, pause now to give this one serious consideration. And just like all others within this buyer guide, you can buy Motorola MR350R on Amazon.
Please note that in the event of any weather alert, this radio will only play a sound through your speakers.
In case you are thinking of typical CB transmission from highway trucks, this one doesn’t receive that at all. The frequency band in which they operate are different.
Pros
- Strong but simplified build
- Offers 11 different weather channels
- Handsfree communication with the iVOX technology
Cons
- Weak charging base
Long Range Two-Way Radio Buyer FAQ
What is the best two-way radio for long-range?
The radio reviews listed in this buyer guide were carefully selected from the bestsellers in the market. If you observe very well, you’ll find some of the top-rated brands represented here. Whatever the features you consider to be a top priority, you can find one or more products that have them all.
How far can a two-way radio work?
As for the two-way radio reviews listed here, you’ll find an indication of how many miles that each one can serve. Practically, the range usually between 25 100 miles. However, the longer the mile the higher the price.
How much is a two-way radio?
Depending on the type and the intended use cases. Two-way radios often differ from each other. Besides variations in terms of brand and model, their capacity in terms of range, battery life and privacy codes differ a lot. Such differences also determine the price point. Meanwhile, you can find affordable options priced between $50 – $500 as the case may be. However, some high-end models also exist in the market.
What is the best two-way radio with the longest battery life?
Check all models from Motorola and Midland. From these brands, you should expect to get like 200+ hours of quality service.
Where can I buy a two-way radio?
Following the appropriate links around each of the product reviews above. From here you’ll land on Amazon to order any of the products that appeal most to you.
Conclusion
To help make your purchase decision easier, I have taken the time to pick just a few from the bestsellers in today’s market. Whether you are looking at price or features as the top priority towards your purchase decision, you now have great models and options to choose from.
Looking through the reviews as well as the pros and cons, you’ll be able to pinpoint what makes one product different from the others.
And that will help you to make your final purchase decision.
As always, ignore to test the one you buy after it arrives in your home or office. This will allow you to make a prompt return and replacement within the allowed duration. Finally, you can go pick the one you want directly on Amazon or any other retailer of choice.