9 Best Long Range Walkie-Talkies
For outdoor adventures like hiking and camping, smartphones may not be reliable enough to keep in touch with your fellow adventurers. As such, it’s better to use long-range walkie-talkies to stay connected.
Aside from outdoor adventures, walkie-talkies are also ideal for communication purposes in businesses like security and construction.
Whichever the case is, we need a walkie-talkie that is both reliable and versatile. To help you out, we listed 9 of the best long-range walkie-talkies in the market and prepared a short guide as to what features a reliable walkie-talkie should have.
What Makes the Best Walkie Talkie?
Before we proceed with the list, let’s talk about first the must-have features a long-range walkie-talkie should have. This way, you can buy from other stores if the products we’ve listed below are currently not available.
Aside from the four key features below, some good features that you can look for are water resistance, weather scan, and large battery capacities.
Power Output
When selecting a walkie-talkie, it’s easy to be misled by the distance indicated on the product. But aside from that, what you should really look out for is the power rating in watts. Ideally, a long-range walkie-talkie should have a least 1 watt of power for its broadcast signal.
Operates In Very High-Frequency Band or Higher
Walkie-talkies should operate in either Very High Frequency (VHF) or Ultra High Frequency (UHF). These two are the standard frequency bands for two-way communication. Beware of the very cheap walkie-talkies that operate on lower frequencies below the standard. Being sub-standard can cause your walkie-talkie to pick up unwanted signals from broadcasting stations, making it ineffective as a communication device.
Multiple Channels
Another thing you should consider, especially if you’re running a security business is the number of channels your walkie-talkie has. You can think of channels as a sub-division to your main communication band. This is mostly used to talk about certain matters without getting distracted by other messages from the main channel.
For business applications, it’s ideal to have 22 channels. But if you’re only using walkie-talkies for outdoor adventures or other leisurely activities, then you can opt to select a walkie with fewer channels.
Privacy Codes and Licenses
For business purposes, privacy codes and licenses serve as security measures for your mode of communication. You can think of privacy codes as encryption to your broadcast. At the same time, licenses act as a permit to use an exclusive broadcast frequency out of the license-free frequencies (the range differs per country).
The Best Walkie Talkies In The Market
Now that we’re done with the brief discussion on what to look for in a walkie-talkie, let’s proceed to the best long-range walkie-talkies that you can find on the market. You’ll find an overview below of its best features, the downside, and to what purpose does it fit best.
Motorola Walkie-Talkie Talkabout T100
- Call Tones: A call tone is what people calling you can hear instead of the normal default ring. It grabs the attention of your family and friends before you start speaking.
- Quickly Find a Channel: Use the scanning feature to see which channels are currently in use.
- Flashing Low Battery Alert: Low battery alert reminds you when batteries are running low.
- Keypad Lock: Keypad lock prevents your personalized settings from being inadvertently changed.
If you’re looking for a compact two-way radio for family events and outdoor adventures, then the Talkabout T100 is the best bang-for-the-buck walkie-talkie that you buy. Each radio only weighs a quarter of a pound, has a length of five inches, a width of two inches, and a thickness of 1 inch, so it’s easy to carry around and use, even by kids.
Aside from being compact, this Motorola walkie-talkie is also very flexible. It can operate on both Family Radio Service (FRS) and General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS) at the 462 to 467 MHz band. This means that it is ideal for both indoor and outdoor use. Not only that, but this Motorola walkie-talkie is also cross-compatible with any FRS/GMRS device as long as it operates on the same frequency range.
With regards to power and signal distance, it can cover up to 16 miles and can produce up to 50 watts of signal power. But you’ll need to have a license for it. For security and privacy, the Motorola T100 has 22 channels and an inclusive 121 privacy codes.
The only downside this device has is that it operates on three AAA batteries, which can easily drain.
Topsung M880 FRS Walkie Talkie
- 【Smart System】: Auto squelch system, Auto monitor function, Auto memory function, Auto scan function, Auto power saving, Low battery alert
- 【Main Parameters】：22 main channels and 121 privacy codes(2662 Combinations), Long range in different terrains(Up to 1/4/16 miles), Long standby time(Up to 3-4 days), Power by 3 AA batteries(Not...
- 【Friendly Design】：Palm size, Lightweight(2.9oz), Hands free function(VOX), Keypad lock(Channel lock), Adjustable power and volume, LCD screen with backlight, Belt clip with lanyard hole, 2.5mm...
- 【Various Occasions】：Topsung adult walkie talkies are easy to operate and carry even for kids. So they are suitable for indoor and outdoor activities, such as home, mall, cs games, camping,...
- 【Professional Service】：All Topsung adult walkie talkies have got the latest FCC certification, so you can return for replacement with any reason in 30 days. Please contact us by email without...
The Topsung M880 is another excellent choice for those who are looking for portable walkie-talkies for family events and casual events. Although cheap, it operates on the Family Radio Frequency Band (FRS) and has 22 main channels of communication.
As for the Topsung M880’s privacy and security during communication, it has 121 privacy codes which ensure an exclusive mode of communication.
When it comes to product certifications, Topsung M880 has passed the Children’s Product Certification (CPC) and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). These certificates certify that this product is safe for kids and that it has met all the legal requirements and regulations for radio broadcasting.
As for the cons, there are quite a few. The first downside is the use of AA batteries because a walkie-talkie can drain the battery quite quickly. Secondly, the M880 has a cheap-feeling build. Although you might argue that the Topsung M880 is cheap, it feels rickety in the hands when compared to the Motorola T100.
Moico Walkie Talkies
- 【Two way Radio】FCC ID ; 2ASV6-T5A. MOICO walkie talkies have 22 FRS channels plus 99 sets of CTCSS tones (privacy codes),The continuous tone-coded squelch system gives you up to 2178 combinations...
- 【VOX-Hands Free Function】Walkie talkies for adults have easy voice and sound activation transmission (VOX) with 3 sensitivity levels for hands-free operation.you can keep in touch with friends and...
- 【 Long Distance Walkie Talkies】Walkie talkie can reach up to 3 miles communication range in open areas such as rural areas, suburbs or seaside, etc. where there is no shelter. If in cities or...
- 【Back-lit LCD Screen and LED flashlight】This walkie talkies has bold green back-lit LCD screen provides high visibility in night. Built-in LED torch can be used as both flash and emergency...
- 【After-Sales Service Assurance】MOICO provide lifetime customer service.If you have any questions, please send email to us through the Amazon platform, we have professional engineers can solve your...
If cheapest is what you’re looking for, then the Moico Walkie-Talkies are for you. For only $20, you’ll get a two-way radio bundle that can transmit radio signals up to 5 miles. It can transmit broadcast in the Family Radio Signal (FRS) and has 22 main channels which have 99 sets of privacy codes.
Aside from those, the Moico Walkie-Talkies has a hand-free function (VOX) which is a handy feature to have. Surprisingly, for its price, it has an LED display that shows the status and settings of your radio.
Some of its downsides are utilizing AAA batteries which drain easily when used in two-way radios and don’t have any protection against dust or water. But for the price of $20, it can be considered as passable.
Midland GXT1000VP4 GMRS Two Way Radio
- 2-Way Radios - These Walkie-Talkies Feature 50 Gmrs (General Mobile Radio Service) Channels, Along With Channel Scan To Check For Activity. The Jis4 Waterproof Protection Prevents Splashing Water From...
- 36-Mile Range - Longer Range Communication In Open Areas With Little Or No Obstruction. Easy Voice And Sound Activation Transmission (Evox) With 9 Sensitivity Levels For Hands-Free Operation
- 142 Ctcss/Dcs Privacy Codes - The Privacy Codes Give You Up To 3,124 Channel Options To Block Other Conversations
- Noaa Weather Scan + Alert - Noaa Weather Scan Will Automatically Scan Through 10 Available Weather (Wx) Band Channels And Locks Onto The Strongest Weather Channel To Alert You Of Severe Weather...
Now, if you’re looking for a more serious outdoor walkie-talkie, then the Midland GXT1000VP4 is most suited for you. We say this because it is rated JIS4 Waterproof. Meaning it is protected from splashing water and light rain. Aside from that, it comes with NOAA Weather Alert Radio with Weather Scan which will give you updates and alerts from your local weather channels.
The user interface (UI) and the display are also user-friendly. The controls are easy to figure out since aside from having a label, it is also intuitive. As for the display, it shows the battery meter, channel number, current privacy code, and the other radio statuses such as the siren, group mode, and key lock.
When it comes to power and signal distance, the Midland GXT1000VP4 boasts a range of up to 36 miles in optimal conditions.
For the security and privacy of your communication lines, the GXT1000VP4 has 285 privacy codes and has 50 channels that you can use—giving you an exclusive mode of communication that is free from other possible interference.
Lastly, Midland is the only walkie-talkie company that includes a 3-year warranty—showing their confidence in their product.
Motorola Talkabout T460
- Push-To-Talk (PTT) power boost allows you to extend the transmission range by increasing the transmitter power output. It also saves battery life when no power boost is necessary.
- Keep updated with real-time weather conditions by turning on the weather channel or initiating weather alerts. With these capabilities, you will always be prepared for the unexpected.
- With 22 channels and 121 privacy codes, totaling 2,662 combinations, it is easy to find an available channel.
If you’re looking for contenders against the Midland GXT1000VP4, then the Motorola T460 is a great alternative.
The Motorola T460 can transmit radio broadcasts across both FRS and GMRS bands. These signals can even reach up to 35 miles under optimal conditions. It also has 22 main channels and 121 privacy codes, so you can be sure that you’ll have a secure and clear line of communication.
Although the specifications above are all excellent, what really sets this apart from others is it can operate normally even at very low temperatures and pressures. In fact, Motorola market this product as an ultimate necessity for outdoor skiing and mountain climbing.
Midland – LXT600VP3
- 2-WAY RADIOS: The walkie-talkies are equipped with 36 FRS (Family Radio Service) channels, and communication options. Additionally, they offer a convenient channel scan feature that allows users to...
- UP TO 30-MILE RANGE: Unlock the power of long-range communication capabilities in, unobstructed environments with minimal or no obstacles. With enhanced signal reach, these devices enable seamless and...
- 121 CTCSS PRIVACY CODES: With privacy codes, the Continuous Tone-Coded Squelch System provides a wide selection of up to 2,662 channel options. These codes offer the ability to block out other...
- NOAA WEATHER SCAN: Stay informed and prepared with the NOAA Weather Scan + Alert feature. With this functionality, your walkie-talkies automatically scan through 10 weather channels, identifying and...
- INCLUDED IN THE BOX: Radios (x2), Belt clips (x2), rechargeable battery packs (x2), Desktop charger, AC Adapter, Owner's Manual
Another excellent two-way radio from Midland is the LXT600VP3. The features of this walkie-talkie are much like its brother, GXT1000VP4, albeit without the JIS rating but have a voice-operated switch or VOX.
The VOX feature of the Midland LXT600VP3 enables the user to broadcast a radio message without having to squelch the button. Meaning it’s a hands-free operation. This is useful in cases where outdoor adventurers need to communicate despite being having their hands full.
For security, the LXT600VP3 has 121 privacy codes and 36 channels of communication. Giving you the sense of privacy you want.
Like the GXT1000VP4, the Midland LXT600VP3 also has a three year warranty-showing Midland’s confidence in their workmanship.
DeWalt DXFRS800
- LONGER RANGE COMMUNICATION: Two watts of power provide up to 300,000 sq. ft. / 25 floors of long distance signal range with 2,662 channel combinations.
- 22 PRESET CHANNELS: Channels are preset with privacy codes to minimize unwanted interference from others.
- WATERPROOF & DUSTPROOF - IP67 STANDARD: Complete protection from dust and withstand water immersion for 30-minutes in 1-meter deep water.
- SHOCK RESISTANT: Can withstand 2-meter drop plus rugged anti-slip design.
Now, if you’re looking for the most rugged and durable walkie-talkie set in the market, the DeWalt DXFRS800 might be what you’re searching for.
Not only is it ideal for extreme outdoor adventures but also for construction purposes. In fact, out of all the walkie-talkies on this list, it is the only one rated at IP67 and is shock-resistant up to 2 meters of drop.
Aside from durability, the DeWalt DXFRS800 also perfectly complements the busy condition of a construction site. First, it has VOX, meaning that it can transmit broadcasts hands-free. Second, it can transmit radio signals up to 25 floors above and can cover an area of 300,000 square feet.
Arcshell AR-5 Walkie-Talkie
- Small and convenient size;it easily fits on your hand;it measures 4.53 inches in height;1.30 inches thick;2.36 inches in width;6.3 oz light-weighted;solid built; easy to operate for all ages; each...
- 16 channels;each radio has identical frequency on each of the 16 channels out of the box;16 position mechanical rotary switch channel selector;when you turn the knob to change the channel,a...
- Each radio comes with a 1500mAh rechargeable Li-ion battery and a charging dock; the charger comes with an AC wall-wart Type A plug and works in 110v-240v; it takes about 2.5 hours to fully charge;...
- High quality built-in speaker on the radio provides loud and crystal clear sound; Push-to Talk button and built-in mic on the radio;each radio comes with a single-earbud style earpiece(foam piece...
- Range is very dependant on terrain;up to 5 miles with no obstructions,less in congested area;work great in a commercial construction or around the house;suitable for security team;maintenance team;...
For business purposes, especially for those who are only starting out, the Arcshell AR-5 is a great choice for walkie-talkies. Because for only $70, you’ll receive the Archshell AR-5 bundle containing six walkie-talkies, six 1,500 mAh lithium-ion batteries, six chargers, clips, hand straps, and earphones.
Since we’re talking about business purposes, let’s focus on its connectivity and privacy. The Arcshell AR-5 has 16 channels that you can use and operates on Ultra High Frequency (UHF) at 400 to 470 MHz. As for its broadcast range, it can only cover up to 5 miles under ideal conditions.
Although the bundle is affordable and has all the functions you need, it has the downside of lacking any privacy codes declared. As such, your privacy isn’t sure. Thus, your communication signal can be intercepted by simply tuning a radio device to the right frequency.
Retevis RT22 Walkie Talkies
- The FRS two way radio is extremely compact and slim for business use; featured with 16 channels and rich features; license free; you don't need a license for RT22 walkie talkie
- 0-9 level voice activated transmit function allows real hands free operation; adjusting the level according to the environment allows you to get the best audio quality
- Emergency alarm helps you be prepared for any danger and alert team member; key lock avoids accidental button changes;working out of the box with each others
- Includes six way multi gang charger with multiple charging protections; overcharge; over voltage and short circuit protection; more safer for charging the 6 pack 2 way radios at the same time
- Fits in your palm;easy to carry and simple to operate;provides adequate coverage in many environments and the size and weight can be a huge advantage
The Retevis RT22 is another great walkie-talkie choice for businesses. Out of the box, you’ll get six Retevis RT22 two-way radio, six lithium-ion batteries, six belt clips, one six-way multi-charger, and a manual.
The two-way radios feel sturdier, slimmer, and more durable when compared to the Arcshell AR-5, which can be quite given since the RT22 is pricier.
For broadcast signals, it uses Family Radio Signal (FRS) in the Ultra High Frequency (UHF) band and has a 16-channel capacity. Sadly, it doesn’t have privacy codes declared so you may be at risk of being easily intercepted.
Final Thoughts
In summary, when selecting the best long-range walkie-talkie, you’ll need to consider your needs first. Will you be using it for casual family events? Rugged outdoor adventures? Or business purposes?
Then, consider the factors frequency band, power, privacy codes, and the number of channels you need. Finally, check the market for every walkie-talkie that fits your needs and compare each item before buying.
For our recommendations, the Midland GXT1000VP4 is the best walkie-talkie for rugged adventures. While for business purposes, we recommend the Arcshell AR-5. And for casual use such as family events or educational purposes, we recommend the Motorola Talkabout T100.
Related Questions
What is the most powerful walkie-talkie?
It depends on whether you’re talking about the range, security, or power output. If we’re talking about the range, then the Motorola T470 and Midland GXT1000VP4 can be considered the most powerful since they can broadcast signals up to 36 miles under ideal conditions.
Who makes the best two-way radios?
Motorola can be considered as the one who makes the best two-way radios in the market. Not only are they an established company, but they have also racked up awards for innovative solutions in radio broadcasting.
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