If you're looking into buying a two-way radio for your company, we got you covered. Perhaps your work is on a film set or a remote construction site. Wherever you are, long range two way radios can really help your onsite communication.
Here is our round-up of the best business two way radio models for 2021.
Why Use a Business Two Way Radio?
If you work takes you on an adventure, then a two-way radio can help you get signal in areas where there's no reception. Two-way radios have a vast number of channels and can give you long range with security codes. This way, you will always have clear communication running between you and your team.
These devices are a secure way to communicate and incredibly easy to use. Most run on batteries, so you don't have to worry about power.
Before we get into the best two-way radios out there, here are the answers to some common questions.
Does It Come with a Charger?
When a radio has a rechargeable battery, it comes with a charger. There usually isn't always a car charger, although you can buy an attachment that allows you to charge in your car. More and more radios today include a USB plug, so you can charge them on your computer or other electronics.
Typically two-way radio charges stand on a desk or table. It's best to fully charge them and carry backup batteries when using them for a while.
Can My Two-Way Radio Pair with Other Two-Way Radios?
It can - and it doesn't even have to be the same model. You can connect other radios as long as they're on the same channel.
How Well Does It Work with NOAA Weather Alerts?
The NOAA weather alerts come with most radios. Your radio can most likely scan for NOAA channels to get weather updates even if you're connected to another channel.
How to Maintain Your Two-Way Radio
Two-way radios can be a little pricey, so you want to make sure you're taking care of it so it lasts. This will also ensure that you have a better, longer, and smoother service.
To care for your two-way radio, remove dust, debris, or anything else that can get inside the radio. Also, be sure to test, tune, record, and restore all of your settings to align with the FCC regulations.
Checking the battery condition and service life will also help your radio run longer.
Make sure that the power of the antenna line is checked and the transmitting and receiving frequencies are correct. If your radio isn't waterproof, keep it away from moisture at all times.
Features to Consider When Buying Two Way Radio
There are also certain features that come with two-way radios. It's a good idea to be aware of these features and decide which ones are necessary for your business.
Types of Radio
There are two types of radios.
First, there's the FRS or Family Radio Service. These radios work on 0.5 watts on 14 channels, and eight to 14 of those channels are FRS dedicated. Because of this, FRS radios don't need a license to use since they have low transmission power.
There's also GMRS or General Mobile Radio Service, which run on 1-2 watts of high power frequency. You'll have better range and experience with these radios, but you must have a license to use GMRS frequency.
Most two-way radios run on both FRS and GMRS frequencies. This means you don't need to get a license as long as you stay on FRS.
Range
You want to make sure your radio has a good range, especially since most of the time you're using it to communicate with someone who isn't near you.
Typically, most radios come with a range of 35 miles, but the range is based on the amount of free space you have. If you're on open land, you'll have a larger range than you would in an urban area that's blocked by buildings.
Battery Life
Running out of battery is the worst, especially if it happens at a crucial time. This can make you look incredibly unprofessional as a business owner.
Make sure your radio has a battery life that pairs well with your workday.
Transmission Power
If there's a wall or obstacle in front of you, then your radio's promised 35-mile range won't work. Find a quality model that has a strong receiving and transmitting ability. Typically, GMRS radios are more powerful than FRS radios.
As a rule of thumb, more wattage equals more power, and the bigger the antenna, the better the signal.
Weather Proof
Try to find a radio that's weather-, water,- and dust-proof so you can use it in all conditions. Two-way radios are mainly used in the great outdoors, so make sure your device can handle it.
Handsfree Mode
When you're working, there's a good chance you're multitasking, so make sure your radio can keep up. Look for radios that have headsets or a VOX handsfree mode.
Privacy Codes
Be sure you can have secure conversations on your business two-way radio. It's worth paying extra for a device that can keep your signal private.
Noise Cancellation
If there's a lot of background noise where you work, you're going to want to find a radio that has a noise cancellation feature. That way, you and your coworkers can focus on the two-way conversation, and not the ambient noise.
Now that you know what to look for, here are some of the best business two-way radio models.
1. Midland GXT1000VP4
Midland is one of the top radio manufacturers. This model comes with a powerful mic that delivers clear audio, making it perfect for business. The battery lasts for up to 10 hours.
The device is waterproof, so it can last even in heavy rain. It can run on both rechargeable and AA batteries, and has a long range of up to 36 miles. There's also the option to use one of its 142 security codes.
It also has an SOS siren in case of an emergency. While there is no group mode, a pair only costs $65.
2. Motorola MR350R
This radio can easily fit into your pocket. Its big buttons make it easy to use, even with gloves. The Motorola MR350R's sound is crystal clear with stunning audio quality.
This device also comes with iVOX mode, so you can use it handsfree.
There's also a dual battery. One is rechargeable and then other is AA, so it's easy to carry a backup. This radio features 121 security channels and a group mode.
It's also water and dust proof and provides a range of up to 35 miles. This model costs about $80.
3. Midland LXT600VP3
This radio has 12 hours of battery life with Hi/Lo power settings. It also offers a strong 30-mile range and can run on low power to keep your charge lasting longer.
The device has a dual battery mode, so you can either run on a rechargeable battery or an AAA battery. There's also a silent mode, so you can silent all calls with the flick of a button.
The Midland LXT600P3 has other great features like noise cancelation, security codes, hands-free mode, and water resistance. And the best part? It's only 65 dollars.
4. Motorola MH230R
This radio is considered one of the best and comes with up to a 23-mile range, 22 channels with 121 privacy codes and a 14-hour battery life.
It has great performance, clear audio, NOAA weather alerts, and it's only $135.
5. Midland GXT1050VP4
This radio allows you to automatically scan channels to find an activity. It also gives you call notification and can remove background noise.
The GXT1050P4 is considered to be one of the most powerful two-way radios out there. While it's ideal for hunters, you might find its features like whispering mode to help your business too. This function allows you to whisper into your radio, and sound crystal clear on the other end.
It has many features, such as NOAA weather alerts, hands-free mode, 50 channels, 142 privacy codes, and an SOS siren. Plus, it only costs $70.
6. Motorola T605 Talkabout
This radio is waterproof and comes with a built-in flashlight with 121 privacy codes and 22 channels. You also have a connection to the NOAA service and a range up to 35 miles.
The Motorola T605 as a Push To Talk feature as well as a micro USB for charging. Its design is functional and easy to use. This model costs $98.
7. Uniden GMR5098
The Uniden Submersible GMR5098-2CKVP has up to a 50-mile range, NOAA weather alerts, and top of the line battery technology. The device can survive water, and can even be used for up to 30 minutes in three feet of water.
This radio comes with 23 channels and a 142 privacy codes. It also features headsets and a handsfree option. Due to its USB charging abilities, it's easy to charge on the go.
In case something goes wrong, there's an emergency strobe light function. There's also a direct name display call feature. This model costs about $130.
8. Motorola Consumer Radios MT352R FRS
This radio can go up to a 35-mile range, it's waterproof, and can give NOAA weather alerts.
It runs on a rechargeable battery and also has a USB connector, so you can easily recharge it. This device has 22 channels, 121 privacy codes, and costs $95.
9. Retevis RT5 Dual Band 2 Way Radio
This radio has incredible features like a built-in flashlight with a large battery capacity and a four-color LED display.
It comes with an 1800 mAh rechargeable battery, which is powerful. The battery can be used for eight to nine hours after only being charged for two or three hours. You also can charge it in your car.
Its four-color LED display allows you to clearly see dark areas. Overall, this radio is incredibly user-friendly and effective. Features like its low battery alarm, keypad locks, battery voltage display, editing and busy lock our functions make this device stand out from the rest.
This device is also programmable with your PC. Its well-known TOT or Time Out Timer comes with this radio. There's also a language prompt where you can choose between English and Chinese, which is handy if you do business in China.
This high performing radio costs 80 dollars on Amazon.
10. Motorola Talkabout T460 Rechargeable Two-Way Radio
The Motorola Talkabout T460 has a long range of up to 35 miles.
It's weatherproof with IP54, making it withstand rain or snow damage. It also has hands free capabilities and it's super user-friendly, making it incredibly easy to use when you're multitasking.
The radio comes with 22 channels and 121 privacy codes that offer a private and secure connection. There's also a LED flashlight, making it easy to use this device in the dark. The emergency light and alarm are handy too.
The power is also great on this device. The radio has a PTT power boost and a micro USC charging feature, so you can charge it anywhere. There's also a silent vibration call function, or you can set your call tone to a custom sound instead of the default tone.
This model has NOAA weather alerts, an emergency alert button, and LED emergency light. There's also a button you can use to let co-workers know you need help. The radio only costs about $70 on Amazon.
Buy Your Two-Way Radio Today
Now that you know what's out there, isn't it time you buy a business two way radio to improve your communications at work?
If your work is outside, a two-way radio is a no-brainer. Be sure to find one that has plenty of channels and privacy codes, and one that has a handsfree function so you can multitask.
Weatherproof radios with emergency features and NOAA weather alerts are key. Of course, you want one that does everything you need and isn't super expensive. For more product reviews and other tech news, check out http://twowaysignal.com