Camping, hiking and hunting is all fun until you don’t have any updates about your partner or team members. Such places don’t have mobile phone coverage and communicating with your partners is a difficult task.
But, walkie talkies have made this communication a lot easier and convenient. The plus point of having a walkie talkie is you can communicate with more than one person at a time at places where there is no mobile phone coverage.
Moreover, we have rounded up the best walkie talkies one can get in the market right now which are highly durable and offer efficient performance.
Before that..!
There are some features which you must look at before making a purchase. Let’s get straight into it.
Our Best Pick
We consider BAOFENG dual-band two way radio as the best walkie talkie in the market overall. It offers efficient and smooth call performance and it comes under a low budget. In our opinion, it offers the best price to performance ratio.
However, you may have other preferences and needs and can choose from our list accordingly.
Comparison of 10 Best Rated Walkie Talkies
If you are in a hurry then below we have compared our best picks of walkie talkies that consumers also reported very good and are reviewed in the later section below.
Select any two Walkie Talkies from the dropdown option below in the table to compare.
| Best Walkie Talkies | VS | |||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Cobra MR HH350 FLT Handheld radio | 2. Retevis RT15 Rechargeable Walkie Talkies | |||||||||||||||||||
| Product | 
| 
| ||||||||||||||||||
| Number of channels | 16 | 16 | ||||||||||||||||||
| Tuner technology | VHF | FRS | ||||||||||||||||||
| Weight | 0.60 pounds | 7.8 ounces | ||||||||||||||||||
| Dimensions | 2.09 x 2.66 x 4.75 inches | 5.35 x 2.32 x 0.83 inches | ||||||||||||||||||
| Award | Best for kayaking | Highest penetrating range (best to use in obstructions) | ||||||||||||||||||
| Amazon | Check on Amazon | Check on Amazon | ||||||||||||||||||
| Ebay | Check on Ebay | Check on Ebay | ||||||||||||||||||
| Full Review | Jump to Full Review | Jump to Full Review | ||||||||||||||||||
#1 Pick
BAOFENG dual-band two way radio is the #1 Best Walkie Talkie in our list.
Consumer Guide to Choose a Good Walkie Talkie
When looking for the best walkie talkie according to your needs and preferences, you must look for these features to get the quality ones.
Range of the walkie talkie
The most important factor which defines the quality of the walkie talkie is its range. The minimum range a walkie talkie can offer is 1-1.5 miles.
The high-quality walkie talkies offer a maximum range of 50 to 60 miles. In our opinion, a walkie talkie with a 20 miles of range will suffice.
However, the range of a walkie talkie depends upon the power it consumes. A simple rule of thumb is that one watt of power consumed by a walkie talkie covers 1 mile of coverage.
Also, the range of the walkie talkie is highly affected with obstacles like; interference from other transmission, woodlands, cars, weather, etc.
Moreover, if you want a professional walkie talkie with a longer range, then you must have a license for it.
Channels
Multiple channel options a walkie talkie offers defines how smooth conversation you can have with your partner without having any interference.
The higher number of channels a walkie talkie offers, the more private conversation you can have with your team members by sharing the channels with each other.
The high-end walkie talkies (for professional use) offer 99+ channels but they are quite expensive. However, for entertainment and adventure purposes, a walkie talkie with 20 channels would suffice.
Battery backup and battery types
Another important factor to consider is the battery type of the device. Most of the modern walkie talkies come with rechargeable lithium batteries. Also, some are equipped with Nickel-metal hydride batteries which are charged pretty quickly.
In our opinion, rechargeable batteries are the best option to opt for and they are more convenient.
Durability
Last but not the least, another important factor to consider is the durability of your walkie talkie. Look for such machines which can bear harsh weather conditions easily as they are highly durable ones.
Similarly, a lot of walkie talkies are water-proof as well so consider these options as well before making a purchase.
Other features
There are other features like; flashlight, one-button operation and multiple transmission abilities. Such features depend upon your personal choice.
Top 10 Walkie Talkies (Reviews & Reports)
So, after in depth research and testing multiple walkie talkies of various brands, we came up with the best and top-rated ones.
However, before we dive into them, you must know about some technical terms used for walkie talkies so you will understand better (specially for beginners).
FRS
FRS stands for Family Radio Service (FRS) which offers short-distance communication coverage only. Walkie talkies offering this service are best for small group activities.
UHF vs VHF
UHF stands for “Ultra High Frequency”. Two way radios or walkie talkies with UHF technology have penetrating frequencies which allows the users to communicate easily between barriers as well (like cars, walls, buildings and other barriers).
On the other hand, VHF is “Very High Frequency”. Such walkies talkies have longer wavelengths and they don’t function properly between any kind of barriers. Such radios are good to use in such areas where there are zero obstructions.
1. Cobra MR HH350 FLT Handheld radio
The first recommendation of our list is the Cobra MR HH350 walkie talkie. This one comes in two options; handheld and fixed mount. In addition, this one is good to use on a boating adventure.
Cobra walkie talkies have a maximum range of 32 miles.
Here’s more into it.
Technical specifications
| Brand | Cobra |
| Color | Gray |
| Number of channels | 16 |
| Batteries | 1 lithium polymer batteries |
| Tuner Technology | VHF |
| Weight | 0.60 lbs |
| Dimensions | 2.09 x 2.66 x 4.75 inches |
Features and performance
This handheld walkie talkie is equipped with VHF technology which allows you to communicate on a short and long range (without any obstruction). In addition, this two-way radio offers access to NOAA weather channels as well.
The interesting feature of this machine is it comes with a safety feature, which scans the channels automatically and sets them to the 16th one in emergency situations and for the record, it offers 16 channels.
Furthermore, it is designed in such a way that it can be submerged into one meter deep water without affecting the functionality of it. In addition to that, the burp feature it comes with expels the water out of the machine.
It offers a lot of customizable settings which is convenient for newbies but a user might face some programming issues. Moreover, it comes with a drop-in battery charger as well.
Overall, the performance of this walkie talkie is impressive as per our testing and is best to be used while boating with the group.
Pros
- Good battery life.
- It offers safety features.
- Easy to use.
- Good coverage.
- Easy to follow instruction manual.
- Good for boat trips.
Cons
- You might face some programming issues.
Consumers Report
Thousands of buyers have rated this walkie talkie with 4.4 ratings out of 5.
Those who have been using this pair of walkie talkies have praised its overall performance. The durability and customizable options it offers impressed them the most.
Our suggestion
We rate this walkie talkie with an 8 score out of 10.
If you are someone who does kayaking a lot with a bunch of friends, then this walkie talkie would be a considerable option to opt for communication.
2. Retevis RT15 Walkie Talkies Rechargeable Long Range
The next one on our list is RTC 15 walkie talkie. This one is a set of 10 and is among the top rated ones. Unlike its predecessors, this one offers penetrable range. Let’s have a detailed look into it.
Technical specifications
| Brand | Retevis |
| Color | Black |
| Number of channels | 16 |
| Batteries | 10 lithium batteries (included) |
| Tuner Technology | FRS |
| Weight | 7.8 ounces |
| Dimensions | 5.35 x 2.32 x 0.83 inches |
Features and performance
This set of walkie talkies are equipped with FRS technology which is good for shorter range but RTC walkies talkies are famous for long penetrating waves. Just like the previous one, this one offers 16 channels as well.
The battery life is around 8 to 12 hours and it comes with a USB charger. However, as per our testing, the batteries die quickly and it would be best to take a power bank with you. In addition, the build is sturdy and can withstand drizzling weather.
Furthermore, the voice and audio call it offers is really impressive. You will be receiving crystal clear voices from the other end. What impressed us the most is its portability factor and high access to respond when needed.
Pros
- Good for short distance communication.
- Easy to carry.
- Small and compact.
- Rechargeable batteries.
Cons
- Batteries die a bit quickly.
Consumers Report
The buyers have rated this walkie talkie with 4.4 stars out of 5.
As per the reports, the users who have used these and have been using these for months are impressed with the performance of them. Also, the size of these walkie talkies are small and compact which a lot of users praised about.
Our suggestion
We rate this walkie talkie set with an 8.5 score out of 10.
If you are looking for a set of walkie talkies which offers quite impressive penetrating range, then this one would be a considerable option. Also, this set can be used by professionals as they offer smooth performance among barriers/obstructions as well.
3. Motorola Talkabout T800 Two-Way Radios
The next one on our list is the Motorola Talkabout T800 two way radio. Unlike previous ones and other models of Motorola, this one is best to use off-grid. Let’s have a look at the features it offers.
Technical specifications
| Brand | Motorola Solutions |
| Color | Black and blue |
| Number of channels | 22 |
| Batteries | 2 AA batteries |
| Tuner Technology | UHF |
| Weight | 7.5 ounces |
| Dimensions | 7.52 x 2.2 x 1.28 inches |
Features and performance
The design of this walkie talkie set (2) is water-resistant (not water-proof though). The backlit LCD display is good to be used at night time as well. The interesting feature of this walkie talkie is, the buttons are recessed which makes it easy to use without even looking at it.
Another interesting feature of this walkie talkie is, you can connect it to the mobile phone via Bluetooth. The Motorola app allows the users to send messages and locations to other users having the Motorola T800 app.
Furthermore, the walkie talkie alerts the users about weather conditions. For user’s convenience, you can set the radio settings by getting help from the Motorola app. When we used this walkie talkie set while hiking, the reception was quite smooth.
However, after using all the tips and tricks of the instruction manual, what didn’t really impress us was the clarity of sound when used on mountains at a long distance.
Pros
- Good for hilly areas.
- Easy to use.
- It keeps you updated with the real time weather conditions.
- Sturdy build
- Highly efficient and penetrating radio waves.
Cons
- The battery sometimes creates a problem.
Consumers Report
Thousands of buyers have rated this walkie talkie with 4.5 stars out of 5.
Majority of the users who have been using this walkie talkie for months now are very impressed with its long and penetrating range which can easily penetrate major barriers as well. Also, a lot of users praised its overall performance.
Our suggestion
We rate this walkie talkie with a 8.5 score out of 10.
We consider this walkie talkie best to be used in mountain and hilly areas. Furthermore, this one offers 22 channels and it’s easy to find the desired channel.
However, in reference to our testing, the quality of batteries could have been better. We would recommend you to change the batteries after using it for months.
You may also like: Best Compact Stereo Systems Reports
4. Huaker Kids Walkie Talkies
Kids love to play with walkie talkies with one another especially on a trip. That’s why we decided to add a category for kids. It offers a good range (3 miles) for communication. However, let’s dive deep into it.
Technical specifications
| Brand | Hauker |
| Color | Camo pink, green and blue |
| Number of channels | 22 |
| Batteries | AAA Batteries |
| Tuner Technology | UHF |
| Weight | 9.1 ounces |
| Dimensions | 5.94 x 4.33 x 2.4 inches |
Features and performance
The sound quality of this walkie talkie set impressed us the most. This walkie talkie offers 22 channels along with 99 sub-channels. The kids can easily change the channels to find the suitable one to communicate without any interference.
The interesting feature of this walkie talkie which makes it best for kids is the VOX feature (Talk without pressing PTT button). However, it is observed that a lot of adults also used this walkie talkie set.
The built-in flashlight allows the kids to use it at night when playing. Comparing these walkie talkies with the older version, these models are designed with a compact size and integrated buttons engraved on it.
Pros
- Best for Kids.
- Colorful.
- Small and compact.
- Good range.
- It comes with a built-in LED torch.
- Pack of 3.
Cons
- Battery life is low.
Consumers Report
Thousands of buyers have rated this walkie talkie with 4.4 score out of 5.
Almost every user who uses these walkie talkies has praised its performance and the good range it offers from a kid’s point of view. Also, the price of this walkie talkie set is affordable.
Our suggestion
We rate this walkie talkie with an 8 score out of 10.
If you are looking for kids walkie talkies under a good price range, then this one would be a considerable option.
5. MOTOROLA Talkabout T402 Rechargeable Two-Way Radios
This one is another entry from Motorola Talkabout. This one is specifically manufactured for construction sites. The distinguishing feature of this set is, it offers automatic battery saving mode.
However, let’s have a look at its other features as well.
Technical specifications
| Brand | MOTOROLA |
| Color | Yellow |
| Number of channels | 22 |
| Batteries | 2 AA batteries |
| Tuner Technology | UHF |
| Weight | 6.9 ounces |
| Dimensions | 7.54 x 2.26 x 1.37 inches |
Features and performance
This one is equipped with 22 channels as well with 35 miles of range (quite impressive though). The ultra high frequency technology of it offers high penetrating radio waves and its 35 miles range is enough to penetrate 20-25 floors as per the claim of manufacturers.
When we tested this walkie talkie personally for a year, the range it offered was around 1 to 3 miles only.
Using it is super easy; just a push of a button a user will start communicating with their group members. This model comes with a built-in flashlight as well which will help the users to work and communicate at night at a construction site.
Moreover, the cover of this walkie talkie is dust, weather-proof and shock-proof.
Pros
- It is shock resistant and water-proof.
- Good penetrating range.
- Built-in flashlight.
- Easy to use.
- Good looks.
Cons
- A bit heavy.
Consumers Report
Thousands of buyers have rated this walkie talkie handset with 4.4 stars out of 5.
The design and build of this walkie talkie got a lot of attention from users. Also, it offers wall penetrating range and two users can easily communicate with each other if there is a difference of 20 floors between them.
Our suggestion
We rate this walkie talkie with an 8.5 score out of 10.
In reference to our testing, this one is best for those people who work on a construction site. Also, it is good for a group of people who want walkie talkies of a good penetrating range to be used on a wide and huge area.
6. BAOFENG Dual Band Two-Way Radio
Author’s Best Pick.
The next recommendation is BAOFENG dual-band two-way radio (walkie-talkie). Comparing it with others and its predecessors, this one offers high-end performance and comes under a low budget.
Let’s have a look at the features and performance it comes with.
Technical specifications
| Brand | BAOFENG |
| Color | Black |
| Number of channels | 127 channels |
| Batteries | 1 lithium ion batteries |
| Tuner Technology | UHF, VHF |
| Weight | 10.1 ounces |
| Dimensions | 10.5 x 2 x 2 inches |
Features and performance
This walkie talkie is equipped with a dual-band radio which offers double transmit power as compared to other ones. It offers 3 power levels (1,4 and 8) and if a user uses it at its maximum power, the battery power will still be long lasting (this feature attracted us the most).
This walkie talkie can scan both technologies; UHF and VHF which means it is good for short and long range distance communication. Moreover, this one can monitor two channels at the same time but the active channel will get the priority.
Overall, the price to performance ratio this one offers really impressed us. However, it requires a license to own it.
Pros
- Budget-friendly.
- Multiple channels.
- Rechargeable battery.
- Clear display.
- It offers built-in FM radio.
- Best walkie talkie for long distance.
Cons
- Users will need a license.
Consumers Report
Thousands of buyers have rated this walkie talkie with 4.7 stars out of 5.
The build of this walkie talkie is super solid and coming under a low budget really impressed the majority of users. The number of channels and tuner technology of this walkie talkie got a lot of appraisal from customers.
Our suggestion
We rate this walkie talkie with a 9.4 score out of 10.
We consider this one the best walkie talkie in the market to consider. Although one needs a license for it, the price to performance ratio it offers is really out of the box.
7. Retevis RT49P Floating Walkie Talkie
This one is another entry from the Retevis brand and unlike the previous one (Retevis RT15), this one is highly-waterproof. Furthermore, it is good for kayaking as well. Let’s have a look at the other features of it.
Technical specifications
| Brand | Retevis |
| Color | Fluorescent green |
| Number of channels | 22 |
| Batteries | 12 AA batteries |
| Tuner Technology | FRS |
| Weight | 4.7 ounces |
| Dimensions | 10.3 x 9.1 x 4.9 inches |
Features and performance
As far as the performance of this walkie talkie is concerned, it offers 22 channels and updates about bad weather conditions side by side. This one can work efficiently with any FRS radio band (only if you are on the same channel).
The distinguishing feature of this walkie talkie is, the flashlight turns On automatically the moment it drops into the water.
Furthermore, it can withstand harsh weather conditions easily. However, in reference to our testing, one needs to recharge the batteries more often.
This walkie talkie is good for short distances specifically in kayaking and it’s safe to use in water.
Pros
- Water-proof.
- Easy to use.
- It notifies the users about bad weather conditions.
- Built-in flashlight.
- It can float on water easily.
Cons
- Battery life could have been better.
Consumers Report
The buyers have rated this walkie talkie set with 4.3 stars out of 5.
In reference to the reports, the users who have been using this walkie talkie are satisfied with its performance. The most interesting feature of this set which impressed them the most is the floating feature. However, the battery timing of it is a bit compromised.
Our suggestion
We rate this walkie talkie with an 8 score out of 10.
We consider it the best water-proof and floating walkie talkie available in the market. This one is good for kayaking as well just like the Cobra MR HH350 but this one offers a floating feature as well.
8. Topsung Walkie Talkies Long Range Two Way Radio
There are a lot of people who want to try a walkie talkie set having zero knowledge about its operation. That’s why we came up with the Topsung Walkie talkie suggestion.
Technical specifications
| Brand | Topsung |
| Color | Multiple colors |
| Number of channels | 22 |
| Batteries | 6 AA batteries |
| Tuner Technology | UHF |
| Weight | 1.03 pounds |
| Dimensions | 2.2 x 1.3 x 6.1 inches |
Features and performance
This set is specifically designed for beginners to enjoy their outdoor activities. This walkie talkie comes with 3 rechargeable batteries (for 2 walkie talkies) which a user can use for a prolonged period of time (48 hours on a single charge).
The build is solid so that it can withstand falling on the ground. The distinguishing feature of this walkie talkie is it comes with VOX/EVOX feature (voice-operated exchanged) which allows the users to speak into it without pushing any button once the VOX feature is On.
The ultra high frequency of the tuner technology offers good penetrating radio waves. However, as per our testing, this one is not good for long distance communication.
For outdoor activities (hiking etc.), it will perform well.
Pros
- Good for hunting.
- Solid build.
- Good sound quality.
- Easy to use.
Cons
- Not water-proof.
Consumers Report
Thousands of buyers have rated this walkie talkie with 4.5 stars out of 5.
The users who have zero experience about walkie talkies used this set and found it quite reasonable for a beginner point of view. Furthermore, it offers hands-free communication due to its VOX/EVOX function.
Our suggestion
We rate the walkie talkie set with an 8 score out of 10.
If you are a beginner and looking for a walkie talkie set for adventure purposes, then this one would be a considerable option.
9. COBRA ACXT1035R FLT Floating Walkie Talkies
Best 50 miles walkie talkie for skiing and rafting.
The next one on our list is for adults who are adventure-freaks. Cobra walkie talkies are no doubt high-quality ones and ACXT1035R is good for hunting and skiing.
Let’s have a look at what it has more to offer us.
Technical specifications
| Brand | Cobra |
| Color | Black and orange |
| Number of channels | 2662 |
| Batteries | 6 AA batteries |
| Tuner Technology | UHF |
| Weight | 5.6 ounces |
| Dimensions | 1.5 x 2.4 x 7.5 inches |
Features and performance
This one is IPX7 rated which makes it safer to be submerged in the water (1 meter depth only) for 30 minutes. It floats as well (not attractive as Retevis one though when it comes to floating features).
Users can communicate with each other in heavily wooded areas as well. Also, it offers a feature to playback the transmission messages your partner sent in case you missed it.
Furthermore, it scans the weather conditions automatically and alerts you about bad weather conditions.
When using it you might find it difficult to press it as the buttons are a bit hard. The LED flashlight allows you to see at night.
Pros
- Long-range.
- A variety of channels.
- Water-proof.
- It offers call alerts as well.
- Good for biking.
- Good for adults and families.
Cons
- A bit costly.
- The buttons are a bit hard to press.
Consumers Report
Thousands of buyers have rated this one with 4.5 stars out of 5.
The feedback we received is positive. In reference to the reports, this walkie talkie offers pretty good range for communication with crisp sound quality. Also, the multiple variety of channels it comes with impressed them the most.
Our suggestion
We rate this one with an 8.5 score out of 10.
Overall, this one offers quite a good communication range (up to 50 miles) and is best for hunting and skiing. The distinguishing feature of this one is its multiple channels option.
10. Midland 50 Channel Waterproof Two-Way Radio
Lastly, we recommend Midland water-proof two-way radio walkie talkie with the highest range of communication. Unlike its other models, this one is best for emergency situations. Not only that..!
It comes with other interesting features as well and let’s get into them.
Technical specifications
| Brand | Midland |
| Color | Black, silver and other colors |
| Number of channels | 50 channels |
| Batteries | 1 lithium batteries |
| Tuner Technology | FRS |
| Weight | 0.3 pounds |
| Dimensions | 7.9 x 2.4 x 1.5 inches |
Features and performance
These walkie talkies are specifically designed to handle impromptu occasions. The backlit LCD display allows the users to use them in dark places.
The most distinguishing feature of this walkie talkie set is, it comes with a whisper feature which allows you to communicate with your partner by whispering as well.
It offers NOAA weather alerts and the FRS technology is good for short and long range communication with minimum or no obstruction.
It will alert you about the bad weather conditions by automatically scanning the weather condition.
It is available in multiple colors as well. The 50 channels with 142 privacy codes allows you to communicate with your group/partners without worrying about any interference.
Pros
- It offers a 500 km range (as per our testing).
- It offers 3124 channels to block other conversations.
- It comes with a whisper mode.
- It alerts you about calls by vibrating.
Cons
- The receiver is a bit noisy.
- Charging requires a bit of time.
Consumers Report
Thousands of buyers have rated this walkie talkie with 4.5 stars out of 5.
In reference to the reports, this one is considered good to use in emergency situations for longer range communication. Apart from battery issues, this walkie talkie is a quite good option for multi-day trips.
Our suggestion
We rate this walkie talkie with an 8 score out of 10.
In our opinion, this one offers the highest range for communication and requires some experience to operate it. Furthermore, these walkie talkies can withstand light rain and water splashing easily.
FAQs
How to accept a walkie talkie invite?
Accepting the invite is super easy. You need to set the settings “Allow notifications” from the notification settings.
How to add friends on a walkie talkie?
In order to add friends, a user needs to open the walkie talkie app in the mobile phone or Apple watch and add friends from your contacts, then wait for the other user (friend) to accept the invitation and you are done.
Which walkie talkie offers an unlimited range?
Motorola T402 and Midland 50 walkie talkies have the highest ranges available in the market.
Which walkie talkies are best for small kids?
For children under 10, Paw patrol walkie talkies are the best due to their childish and colorful design. It offers only 1 channel and a small range for children to play.
What is walkie talkie invite not working?
In case you are not getting any invite from your friends, then restart your Apple watch and re-open the walkie talkie’s app and send the invite again.
Conclusion
Having two way radios along with you on an adventure makes the whole program more interesting and fun. We have added a variety of walkie talkies of different preferences and needs so one can choose as per one’s needs.
In our opinion, walkie talkies with a variety of channels offer interference-free communication with your partners. Still, if you are facing any problems regarding making a decision, then feel free to consult us. We will be glad to help you in every way possible.
