If you’re outside of cell phone coverage and out of sight, the best way to talk to someone is with a walkie talkie. Of course, walkies are also useful in an urban or suburban environment, whether because you need instant, push-button communication or because you’re talking with multiple people at once.
We’ve searched the web for the best walkie talkies, and come up with the top rated models we think are worth owning. As part of this search, we’ve looked for walkies with the longest range, the most channels, the longest battery life, and the most durable design. We’ve also looked at a few budget options, as well as some toy walkies for the kids.
As you read, keep in mind how you’re going to be using your walkie. Depending on your environment, you may not need the longest battery life or the most channels. What works for you is what’s most important.
Best Walkie Talkies
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1. BaoFeng BF-F8HP
BaoFeng BF-F8HP
1 used from $62.90
Free shipping
Features
- Upgrades from our Previous Generation UV-5R: Twice the Output Power (8 watts up from 4 watts output), New Hardened Durable Radio Shell, 30% Larger Battery, V-85 High Gain Antenna (Twice the Antenna Performance), USA Support + In-depth User Guide Included; A PC03 FTDI Programming Cable is Recommended for Easier PC Programming
- High / Med / Low Power Settings (8W, 4W, 1W); Frequency Range: VHF: 136-174 MHz(Rx/Tx). UHF: 400-520 MHz(Rx/Tx); Broad (Wide) / Narrowband (Narrow) Selectable
- The BF-F8HP was designed in the USA and because not everyone is a radio-expert we really wanted to focus on providing an easier user experience! That starts with the new in-depth manual that guides you through the capabilities and customization of the BF-F8HP. On top of that the BF-F8HP also includes exclusive concierge customer help and warranty support. This concierge service is only available on select BaoFeng models such as the BF-F8HP, UV-82HP, and UV-5X3
- Kit Includes: BF-F8HP, 2100mAh Battery, V-85 Dual Band Antenna, CH-5 Charger, CH-5 110V Adapter, Earpiece Kit, Wrist Strap, Belt Clip, User Manual
- BTECH is proud to be in the USA, which allows you to have the best available local support for any issue that may arise. BTECH only engineers and develops radio products. That brand focus allows you to have the best available radios and accessories with the most features, with real USA warranty and support.
The BaoFeng BF-F8HP is wide and easy to carry, with a comfortable, adjustable hand strap.
Key Features
- Hundreds of channels
- 30-mile range
- Up to 24 hours of battery life
- 2,000 mAh rechargeable battery pack
- Transmits on VHF, UHF, and FM frequencies
- 1, 5, and 8-watt power outputs
- Includes charging station, earpiece, belt clip, and hand strap
The BaoFeng BF-F8HP is more than just a walkie talkie: it’s a full-featured mini HAM radio, complete with a toggle to switch between VHF, UHF, and FM frequencies. This provides literally hundreds of broadcast channels and makes the BaoFeng a solid choice for avoiding interference.
Of course, you can also use it to contact other radio operators and enjoy all the excitement that comes from joining the HAM radio community.
One nice feature about this radio is the ability to switch between 1, 5, and 8-watt power outputs. This means you can use low power when communicating at close ranges, and only toggle up when you actually need to use that much power. When used properly, this feature can help you squeeze more than 24 hours out of a single battery charge.
Pros
- Hundreds of channels on VHF, UHF, and FM frequencies
- Very long range
- Long battery life
- 12-month manufacturer’s warranty
Cons
- Complicated to use
If you want a handheld radio that also works as a miniature HAM, look no further.
2. Midland – GXT1000VP4
Midland - GXT1000VP4
3 used from $69.00
Free shipping
Features
- 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 Having Any Harmful Effect On It (Splash Resistant)
- 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 Updates. Noaa Weather Alert Will Sound An Alarm Indicating That There Is A Risk Of Severe Weather In Your Area
The Midland GXT1000VP4 is available in pairs or as a three-pack; it’s also available individually, so you can add more to your kit.
Key Features
- 50 channels with 142 privacy codes
- 36-mile range
- 6 hours of battery life (18 with AA batteries)
- Built-in rechargeable battery (also takes 4 AAs)
- Hands-free mode
- 10 weather channels
- Includes charging station, earbuds, and power adapters for both home and car
- Available individually, as a pair, or as a three-pack
The Midland GXT1000VP4 is a mid-range walkie talkie that’s designed for use inside a neighborhood, or within a few hundred yards of a campsite. The rated 36 miles is pure fantasy unless you’re flying a plane or otherwise completely unobstructed.
Our frustration with walkie talkie advertising aside, this is a decent little radio. Not only can it tune to an impressive 50 channels, but it can be set to 142 different privacy codes. All told, that’s more than 7,100 possible channels to communicate on. Not to mention, you also get 10 different weather stations, so you can get your forecast even if you’re outside of cell phone range.
Pros
- Lots of privacy codes
- Can be used hands-free
- Can receive weather alerts
- Earbuds and car charger included
Cons
- Relatively short range
This walkie talkie includes a car charger, making it a good choice for day trips and other excursions.
3. Cobra ACXT645
Cobra ACXT645
$76.99 in stock
8 used from $52.54
Free shipping
Features
- 【BUILT IN AMAZON ALEXA & GPS】You can talk to Amazon Alexa on your Amazfit GTS 2 Mini Smart Watch. Ask questions, get translations, set alarms, and timers, create shopping lists, check the weather, control your smart home devices, and more. Get precise tracking on your daily steps, distance traveled, and calories burned thanks to integrated GPS..Suported Application:Alarm,Calendar,Calorie Tracker,Heart Rate Monitor,Distance Tracking. Connectivity technology:Bluetooth,GPS. Wireless comm standard:Bluetooth
- 【14-DAY LONG-LASTING BATTERY】A fully-optimized battery management system provides upto 14 days of battery life for the Amazfit GTS 2 mini watch. Get rid of the anxiety brought on by constant charging, and keep the energy flowing. The 220mAh battery is ready to power you through upto two weeks of activity.
- 【70plus SPORTS MODES & 5 ATM WATER RESISTANT】The Amazfit GTS 2 mini features over 70 built-in sports modes, allowing to cover sports enthusiasts whether indoors or outdoors. With 5 ATM water resistance, this fitness watch can resist any of your daily activities and can even be worn while swimming.
- 【ALL-ROUND HEALTH MANAGEMENT】This smart watch can provide heart rate monitoring, blood-oxygen saturation measurement, sleep monitoring, stress level monitoring and female cycle tracking, as well as other functions to achieve total health management from your wrist. The PAI health assessment system also processes complex health data with an advanced algorithm to present your physical condition in a simple, single-value score.
- 【SupR LIGHT AND THIN & BUILT IN AMOLED DISPLAY】The Amazfit GTS 2 mini adopts a borderless design. Featuring carefully curved 2.5D glass to enhance your most fashionable outfits. With a light 19.5 g weight, a thickness of 8.95 mm (without the sensor base), and a skin-friendly silicone strap, this smart watch allows you to enjoy the lightness of time. And a 1.55-inch vibrant AMOLED screen for enhanced color and clarity.
The Cobra ACXT645 features a built-in LED flashlight for emergencies.
Key Features
- 22 channels with 121 privacy codes
- 35-mile range
- 8 hours of battery life
- Takes 3 AA batteries (rechargeables included)
- 10 weather channels
- Hands-free mode available
- Built-in LED flashlight
- Includes charging station and power adapter
The Cobra ACXT645 is designed to provide as many features as possible while still maintaining a middle of the road price point. It offers 22 channels with 121 privacy codes, which is a large enough number to avoid interference in crowded areas.
It also has a 1-2 mile effective range even under the worst of conditions, up to about 5 miles in the suburbs. No, that’s not the 35 advertised miles, but as we know by now this is totally normal.
In addition to 10 weather channels, the Cobra also offers one other useful safety feature: it has a built-in LED flashlight in the back of the unit. Not only can this be used to find your way out of the woods, but it can also be used to signal for help.
Pros
- Reasonably long range
- Lots of privacy codes
- Great survival tool
- Can receive weather alerts
Cons
- Limited battery life
This walkie talkie provides reasonably long-range transmission at a reasonably low price.
4. Midland LXT500VP3
Midland - LXT500VP3
1 used from $42.50
Free shipping
Features
- 2-WAY RADIOS - These walkie-talkies feature 22 FRS (Family Radio Service) channels, along with channel scan to check for activity
- 24-MILE RANGE - Longer range communication in open areas with little or no obstruction
- DUAL POWER OPTIONS - Use rechargeable battery packs (included) or 4 AAA alkaline batteries (not included) to power your radio. Includes a battery life extender
- KEYPAD CONTROL - Keypad lock prevents accidental activation of function/mode keys. Keystroke tones provides audible tones with each key press for response or confirmation. Use silent operation to turn off all tones
- INCLUDED IN THE BOX - Radios (x2), rechargeable battery packs (x2), desktop charger, AC wall adapter, belt clips (x2), and an owner’s manual
The Midland LXT500VP3 is an affordable walkie that’s designed primarily to maximize battery life.
Key Features
- 22 channels
- 24-mile range
- 8 hours of battery life (24 hours with AAA batteries)
- Takes 4 AAA batteries (rechargeable pack included)
- Low and high-power settings
- Locking keypad
- Includes charging station and power adapter
- Available in 3 colors
The Midland LXT500VP3 is a walkie that isn’t just easy on your wallet; it’s also easy on your batteries. Not only does it get 24 hours of battery life if you provide your own AAAs, it also has a low-power setting that allows you to transmit with less wattage for short-range applications.
Not only that, but the Midland also includes a locking keypad. This keeps you from accidentally wasting batteries – and silencing your microphone – by pressing the “send” button against your gear. All in all, this is a well-designed two-way radio, particularly for the price.
Pros
- Long battery life with AAAs
- Locking keypad prevents accidental transmissions
- Low-power setting saves battery life
- Affordable
Cons
- No privacy codes
This walkie talkie features a low-power setting to save batteries when you’re transmitting at short range.
5. Motorola RMU2080D
Motorola RMU2080D
Free shipping
Features
- Operates on 89 UHF business exclusive frequencies and features 219 PL/DPL codes, including 6 customizable codes to help ensure a clear signal.
- Quickly view your operating channel and radio status at a glance with the easily readable display.
- Meets military specifications for sealing against dust, wind, shock, vibration and other adverse conditions.
- Powerful 1500 mW speaker ensures clear communication without distracting feedback in noisy conditions.
- (NWR) Channel 8 is pre-assigned to receive official National Weather Service warnings, watches, forecasts and other hazard information 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
The Motorola RMU2080D is a heavy-duty walkie that’s designed to take a lot of abuse.
Key Features
- 99 UHF channels with 219 privacy codes
- 1.5-mile range
- 16 hours of battery life
- Built-in rechargeable battery pack
- Military-grade shock and particle resistance
- NOAA weather frequency
- Includes charging station, power adapters, and belt holsters
The Motorola RMU2080D is no shrinking violet. These walkies are engineered to military specifications, both for shock and particle resistance. They also include rugged belt holsters, which secure your walkie far better than a simple belt clip.
These walkies have a range of about a mile in real-world applications and offer 16 hours of battery life. While that’s not spectacular for camping use, it’s plenty for private security, where 16 hours means a double shift.
This Motorola walkie also receives NOAA weather alerts, which is a good feature for anyone on security duty. Finally, the loudspeakers provide a clear broadcast of whatever you’re receiving, so you won’t miss out on a transmission just because of noise.
Pros
- Durable construction
- Lots of privacy channels
- Loud, clear speakers
- Can receive weather alerts
Cons
- Limited range
- Expensive
The loud speakers on these walkies make them an ideal choice for private security.
6. FAYOGOO
Features
- 【PERFECT TOYS GIFTS FOR BOYS AND GIRLS】Perfect size and easy to use, 1.2m drop resistant. With vivid camo exterior, compact bodies, ergonomic design and simple push-to-talk operation, intended for kids aged from 3 to 12 years old, these walkie talkies would be impressive toys and birthday Christmas gifts for boys and girls.
- 【UP TO 4-MILE RANGE】 Up to 4 miles effective range in open field and 1/2 to 1 mile range in residential area, this camo walkie talkies set has got you covered anywhere from outdoor adventures like camping, road-trips, to running in the woods, in the neighborhood, and to indoor activities like shopping to the mall and pillow talks. Kids enjoy using walkie talkies as part of their role play wherever they are!
- 【22 CHANNELS + 38 PRIVACY CODES+AUTO SQUELCH】 The walkie talkies for kids are equipped with 22 channels and enhanced by 38 CTCSS sub-channels/ privacy codes, which cut down drastically on outside interference to protect your privacy, and also feature an auto squelch system which automatically cut off weak transmissions and unwanted noise for clearer communication.
- 【ADDITIONAL ADVANCED FEATURES】Backlit LCD display, built-in flashlight, earpiece connection, 10 ring tones, battery indicator, channel auto scan, power saving function, hands-free function (VOX), adjustable volume control, roger beep. AAA batteries required (not included).
- 【BUILT FOR DURABILITY】 Sturdily built with eco-friendly materials, the walkie talkies for girls and boys are backed up by FAYOGOO 30-day money back guarantee and 1 year warranty. If you have any issues about our toy walkie talkies, please feel free to reach out to us, we will get back to you soon once message received.
Fayogoo is an affordable way to provide your kid with a walkie talkie.
Key Features
- 22 channels
- 4-mile range
- 12 hours of battery life
- Auto shutoff after 15 minutes of inactivity
- Takes 3 AA batteries
- Includes flexible lanyards
- Available in 4 colors
Fayogoo Kids Walkie Talkies are, to be blunt, toys. There. We said it. Now let’s talk about how awesome they are, and how much fun your kids will have while they’re using them.
To begin with, these walkies can transmit and receive on 22 channels, which is plenty for kids who are using them for entertainment. They also have an automatic shutoff feature, so you won’t endlessly be replacing batteries just because someone forgot to turn their walkie off when they were done playing.
Fayogoo walkies have a rugged, rubbery design that can take some abuse. They’re available in four fun colors, so they’ll match all tastes.
Pros
- Great choice for kids
- Rugged, drop-resistant design
- 12-month manufacturer’s warranty
- Inexpensive
Cons
- Very short effective range
- It’s a toy
These walkies are rugged enough to stand up to the beatings kids will dish out.
7. Retevis H-777
Retevis H-777
$119.99 in stock
Free shipping
Features
- The updated 3.0 version of H-777 has a more compact body; you can easily put it in your pocket or wear it on your belt
- Easy to use; you can talk directly with RT22 walkie-talkie out of the box; there are no complicated buttons; which is convenient for employees or teams to get started quickly
- Rugged walkie-talkie; can effectively resist the harsh vibration and impact in the business environment; can be used for a long time
- 1000mAh battery capacity supports 10-12 hours continuous use or longer; durable battery latch teeth maintain solid contact to promise your continuously communication
- Multifunctional commercial 2 way radios; hands-free; emergency alarm; squelch; LED flashlight; power saving; low battery reminder
The Retevis H-777 comes in a 10-pack, so it’s an exceptional value for the price.
Key Features
- 16 channels with 50 privacy codes
- ½-mile range
- 8 hours of battery life
- Built-in 1,000 mAh rechargeable battery packs
- Includes belt clips, hand straps, charging stations, and power adapters
- Comes in a 10-pack
The Retevis H-777 is a short-range walkie that’s designed for construction crews, Boy Scout troops, churches, and other organizations that need to keep close together. It transmits and receives on 16 channels with 50 different privacy codes. While this is by no means impressive, it’s enough to avoid interference in most environments.
These walkies come in a 10-pack, including charging stations, power adapters, belt clips, and hand straps for each walkie. If you need a set of walkies for a large group, it’s hard to beat what Retevis is offering.
Pros
- Comes in a 10-pack
- 2-year manufacturer’s warranty
- Affordable
Cons
- Very short range
- Short battery life
This walkie is an ideal choice for large groups like Boy Scout troops or churches.
8. Cobra ACT220B
Features
- LONG RANGE UP TO 12 MILES: Extended long range capability provides up to 12 miles of range
- UP TO 10 HOURS OF BATTERY LIFE: Built-in Li-polymer Battery enables Up to 10 hours battery life per charge
- RECHARGEABLE BATTERY SAVING TECHNOLOGY: Includes rechargeable Li-polymer battery & micro-USB charging cable
- TURNABLE BELT CLIP: Clips onto lapel allows you to talk and listen without holding radio
- VOICE PROMPTS: Provide audio feedback on operation (power on/off, channel selection)
The Cobra ACT220B is a simple, rectangular walkie that’s designed to clip to your backpack strap.
Key Features
- 22 channels
- 12-mile range
- Up to 10 hours of battery life
- Built-in rechargeable battery packs
- Unique, speaker-shaped design
- Waterproof
- Includes micro USB chargers
The Cobra ACT220B is a small, square speaker that clips directly to your backpack strap. It can be heard easily without the need to un-clip it, and it features large buttons for quick, easy responses.
This may not look like a traditional walkie, but it performs like one. The signal can be picked up from about a mile away, which is about average for a mid-priced commercial walkie. Ultimately, the only thing we didn’t like about the Cobra was the fact that it doesn’t allow for the use of any privacy codes. Your channel may get crowded in a populated area.
That said, the Cobra is a great choice for backpackers, and for anyone who needs to keep their hands free.
Pros
- Large and easy to operate
- Great choice for backpackers
- Mostly hands-free
- Charges with micro USB
- Unique design
Cons
- No privacy codes
This walkie is a good choice for backpackers who want to keep their hands free.
9. AINA PTT Voice Responder
Features
- Remote Push-to-Talk control for Zello, ESChat, Novatalk and other PTT apps
- iPhone & Android compatible
- Industry Certifications: CE, FCC, MIL STD 810G
- IP65 dust proof and hold pouring rain, Rugged & Loud (100+dB)
- Battery life: est. min. three consecutive work shifts
The Aina PTT Voice Responder is a Bluetooth accessory that converts your cell phone into a walkie talkie.
Key Features
- Hands-free walkie add-on for mobile phones
- Infinite range
- No interference from wireless channels
- Compatible with most walkie talkie apps
The Aina PTT Voice Responder isn’t technically a walkie talkie. It’s a Bluetooth accessory that works with multiple cell mobile walkie apps, including ESChat, Azetti, Talk-IP, Novatalk, and Zello. Provided you have cell signal coverage, you’re good to go.
This attachment provides a transmission that’s as clear as if the other person was standing right next to you. And it won’t pick up interference from other wireless devices. That’s not a bad deal, as long as your buddies also download the app.
Pros
- Crystal clear signal
- Excellent battery life
- Works with Android and iPhone
Cons
- Requires a cell phone signal
- Pricey
If you want a reliable signal and cell phone coverage is not an issue, these walkie talkies are an ideal choice.
Bottom Line
As you can see, these are all good walkie talkies. But not all of them are equally well-suited for all purposes.
For example, the best walkie talkie for hiking is going to be one that has a long-range, so you can communicate with your friends across several miles of trees and hills. Conversely, if you’re working on a construction site in an urban area, you’ll likely be more concerned with having a lot of channels to avoid interference.
No matter why you’re buying a walkie talkie, it’s important to remember that rated distances are based on open terrain. In other words, a 35-mile walkie will only transmit that far if you’re on an open plain in Kansas. Woods, buildings, and especially hills will reduce the range of your walkie.
Visit the OutdoorWorld Reviews homepage for more expert information and guides including must know walkie talkie lingo.
The Review
9 Best Walkie Talkies
Check out our ratings of the best walkie-talkies available.
Review Breakdown
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BaoFeng BF-F8HP
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Midland - GXT1000VP4
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Cobra ACXT645
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Midland - LXT500VP3
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Motorola RMU2080D
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FAYOGOO
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Retevis H-777
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Cobra ACT220B
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AINA PTT
9 Best Walkie Talkies DEALS
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