10 Best Walkie Talkies Consumer Ratings & Reports 2023

Can you imagine relying on cell phones when you are out for skiing, camping, tracking, or an off-road trip?

I mean if something happens during trekking, skiing, or motorbiking on hills, how would you communicate to other group members?

Do not you think Having two-way radio or walkie-talkie that connects with radio signals is the best option?

By using this gadget, you can call the rescue team on time, or communicate in groups when hitting in the wilderness.

All walkie-talkies are not the same. You cant’ just go with an option that comes first. It is your life or security that is at risk, so pick the right option that suits your off-road trip.

Walkie Talkies are distinct groups they are defined with the power output, Frequency, and license.

In this post, I am going to help you pick the right walkie-talkie that suits your needs and help you enjoy the off-road trip the way you planned.

So without further ado, here are the 10 best walkie-talkies according to consumer ratings and reports 2023.

Related: Best Emergency Radios

Best Walkie Talkies Consumer Ratings & Reports

I have compiled a list of the 10 best walkie talkies based on consumer ratings and reports 2023.

1. Motorola Talkabout T800 Two-Way Radios

Motorola is a known name in the world of smartphones but its Motorola Talkabout T800 has helped walkie-talkies to enjoy a new height of success due to a premium range of features or functions.

The premium features are amazing, starts from 22 radio channels and 121 privacy codes for enhanced security.

This walkie-talkie can use a rechargeable battery or let you swap the batteries with standard AA batteries.

In optimum conditions, this 2-way-radio can transmit voice signals up to 35 miles, it is easier even in the toughest weather condition to find the camp and locate your friend in the surrounding.

The most amazing benefit of this 2-way-radio is once you connect it to your smartphone via Bluetooth and install the Motorola Talkabout smartphone app, it can be operated using a smartphone.

Once you install and enable this application, your communication goes beyond push to talk.

After that, the app uses the T800 as a modem to send messages, find location over the radio frequencies, view offline maps and locate people in the surrounding of 35-miles.

More than this, this 2-way radio allows you to get instant notifications and alerts from weather channels.

Even if your smartphone is dead, you get notifications on the walkie-talkie, these are real-time alerts, not recorded messages.

If you are staying in a place where discipline is a priority, you can put the pair on vibrate mode, which helps you to respect the disciplinary code and still get the messages.

The pair of these walkie-talkies costs more than many other brands we are going to list down.

But, if you compare the capabilities, performance, functions, and arrays of premium features, this T8000 stays ahead of all of them.

2. DEWALT 2 Watt Heavy Duty Walkie Talkies

If you are a tough guy and looking into buying a walkie-talkie that stays with you in every weather condition, I think Dewalt is here to back you.

Dewalt as you know is one of the biggest brands in outdoor products manufacturing, got products in distinct categories to add value to users’ lives.

This product is designed to be used roughly. Yes, It is designed for the users who spend life in construction zones, it got impressive housing absorbs and stays conscious even drowned in the waters or burdened in the dust.

This Dewalt production has many amazing features including Auto Squelch that produces the cleanest signals possible when the battery is down and the device is about to shut down.

If this feature is enabled, even when you are working in a noisy environment, you will enjoy clearer, and error-free signals quality.

It produces a beep signal when communication is over, and in that way, you do not have to deal with people in a group talking with each other.

You know that when you are talking on a walkie talkie it is paramount to say over when you are complete, but if anyone of you in the group forgets to say over, and completes its talk, the beep signal will remind you of that.

And if minutes go in silence without talking, to save power this device automatically turns power saving mode to extend the battery life.

When turned power saving mode, it can last around 18-hours consistently.

It got the support to access 22-channels, in other ways it ensures that you find a signal even living in a congested area and lots of traffic around you.

It comes integrated with a Key lock feature that provides Pad security and prevents accidental clicks or channel changing.

It also got a big LCD, it is an easy-to-view display that renders great radio status at a glance to help you enjoy superior communication.

3. Motorola T600 Talkabout Radio, 2 Pack

If you are planning to indulge in water-based activities, and looking into buying a 2-way radio, I think Motorola-designed T600 is a good pick. I am saying this because stats and ratings are backing up my words.

It got a waterproof rating in the tests, that’s why most of the users pick this for water-based activities.

As per the brand’s claims, and at some scale tests also backs up the claims, it stays around 30-minutes submerged in the water without getting any damage. You can use underwater communication, even on long-distance communication in water.

This option is a go with sea divers or peddles boarder. It got a waterproof casing, and in my view, that’s the most attractive thing and top-selling point that lures the users going to hit water-based activities.

If you are not into complete water-based activities, there are other cheaper options to pick.

I mean if you do not require a complete waterproof radio, you can pick a budget-priced model, no need to spend this much money.

However, if the work is completely underwater, that’s the only option I think that suits the environment.

It got keypads and a bright LCD. The Keypad can be locked to prevent unwanted changes when you are working.

Yes, the two-way radio got a Built-in flashlight with White and Red LEDs.

Pick the white LED settings from the flashlight settings in the evening activities, and turn the flashlight settings to red when you want some help or indulged in an expected emergency.

The battery hours of this Walkie-Talkie are better than most of the options added here.

It runs around 23-hours on alkaline, and up to 9-hours when it comes to rechargeable NiMH batteries.

4. Midland 50 Channel Waterproof GMRS Two-Way Radio

This Midland walkie-talkie package comes at a hefty price but the price is going to worth it.

It is not just the performance of this walkie-talkie that makes it one of the most purchased walkie-talkies but the many premium range features that come in handy and make it the perfect pick.

Take the battery options alone, enough to set this model performance apart from the rest.

The battery runtime is enough for long trips, overnight tripping and the option to swap the batteries with a rechargeable AA pack is extremely handy.

And interestingly for different levels of signal amplification and battery length, it allows you to choose the desired power option; medium, low, and high.

This advanced designed handheld set also features Whisper, group call, and VOCs hands-free communication.

More interestingly, whisper settings allow volume increase for output audios to make communication error-free.

It is for the time when you are staying in a quiet place or using the device at night and do not want to disturb others around.

Group calling is also an amazing feature to let you communicate with all the group members at one time.

More interestingly, you can also call one group member without alerting the others, and eVOX allows you to operate the device hands-free.

It got GMRS and FRS channels capabilities. In addition to these channel’s capabilities, this Midland-designed Walkie talkie got the weather report channel.

It is a sturdy made option, got splashing and light rain resistance, take it around in any weather condition if you are careful not to put it in a lake to sink in it, this device stays awake even if it is wet.

5. Retevis RT21 Walkie Talkies For Adults

If you are on a budget and looking into buying a 2-way radios option under an affordable price range, I do not think there is any other better option than RT21.

It comes under a screaming bargain, and the package includes 4 radios instead of 2, an incredible value.

It is not like at a cheap price you put away the quality or performance.

This is equally good compare to our first contender the only difference would be that you would not enjoy the premium features such as Bluetooth, Smartphone connectivity, or flashlight options.

What these Walkie-talkie bundles promise is durable handsets that are going to last for around 3-days, and 12-hours of consistent performance, even if the handsets are dead, it is still good to provide emergency signals to help the rescue team reach you.

Yes, it is a rugged constructed walkie-talkie bundle. It is a dust-proof option, drop-proof also, shock-resistant and stable reception add the cherry on the cake.

It runs even in harsh weather conditions, lets you transmit your voice up to 30-miles in optimal weather conditions.

It got VOX that allows you to enjoy hands-free connectivity and communicate.

Receive remote emergency alarms, instant real-time notification, and much more to help you enjoy the wilderness.

In my view, these walkie-talkies are simple to use and easier to operate. There are no complicated buttons around to make it hard to use for first-timer.

It got the simplest functions to let you enjoy the supreme connectivity and voice transmit to help you trek, skiing or enjoy off-road trips.

6. Tacklife MTR01 Advanced Long Range Two-Way Radio

Let me clear one thing here, due to the lack of enough reviews of this product on  Amazon we were reluctant to add this model.

But, after checking its performance on long distances with effective ranges, at such a low budget we are lured to add this product.

If you do not like too many functions or features and require a simple-to-go-with device at a cheap budget this is for you.

This walkie-talkie is a go-to option for all-terrain and weather conditions.

It offers an impressive voice transmission at such a low budget compared to its counterparts.

It is great to rely on for positions and directions, let you enjoy superior functionality.

At a budget price range, the transmission, simplicity, and easy to use the functionality of this model are unparalleled.

It adheres to a smooth, shape with a detachable antenna. It also has a belt clip to help you put this thing on your waist or use it in your hands without any issue.

With 16 memory channels, this walkie-talkie helps the rescue team access you in time of need.

Its battery runtime is amazing, with 5-6 days of standby time it allows you to enjoy a seamless and error-free performance.

Yes, if your battery is dead and you get a USB charging device, this allows USB charging to make you juice up the device right to make it functioning once again.

The model comes integrated with advanced speakers, you enjoy a seamless, clearer, and loud sound around you.

And do not forget that it also has a built-in scrambler to enhance two-way communication.

The uses of the VOX function can help you enjoy hands-free communication, especially when your hands are not free, just one click of the button will connect you to the group right away.

7. BTECH GMRS-V1 Two Way Radio

If you have a GMRS license and looking for an outstanding GMRS Radio for a price, I think BTECH GMRS-V1 is the right option to go with.

It has incredible GMRS use, and due to its performance can easily outperform GMRS/FRS radio you get in stores.

Yes, the build quality is impressive, battery life is more than amazing and lifespan is surely going to give tough competition to many premium range walkie talkies.

Do not worry about the GMRS channels set up, this device comes to set up with all GMRS channels with great range, especially in power mode.

Besides offering FRS and GMRS radios compatibility, this device is VHF and UHF scanning receiver, capable to receive signals.

This device makes you get the fullest use of GMRS specs, a great two-way radio to help you support in the toughest condition and its scanning receiver functionality adds an edge over many other products in the same range.

It supports all 30 GMRS channels, with 8 repeater channels. All these channels are supported in receiving as well as transmit mode, additionally, the PTT button makes it easy to take advantage of the Duplex function.

It also got Keypad and LCD support with a backlight to help you choose the channels.

It allows you to mix and match the tones for repeater usage, it saves any modification to the channel and remembers the change channel in any mode.

This radio is compatible with a range of accessories including speakers mics, PC programming, VOX built-in, and many other.

You can enjoy a hands-free calling experience, just fasten the radio on your waist using a belt and enjoy a hands-free calling experience with just one touch of the button.

8. Midland T10 X-TALKER 22 Channel FRS Walkie Talkies

If a simple two-way radio is what you want, Midland is there to help you with its simple-to-use and sturdy in structured designed X-talker T10. This option comes with impressive features and decent-to-use functionalities.

It is a compact and lightweight model that can easily be carried around. The slim profile makes users put it in any bag and travel without any problem.

Its range might not be as good as most of the options we reviewed but enough to fits the needs of most of the users.

It got a great battery backup, runs around 10-hours in a single go, you can pick a pack of 2, 3 packs, or 8 packs package as per your or your group’s needs.

Yes, the battery hours might not be as impressive as a pro needs, I think 10-hours still enough to fits your needs. Plus, you can replace the removable batteries, to use AA batteries anywhere you like.

With sturdy construction, and a ruggedly built detachable Antenna this device is going to last more than you could imagine.

It withstands harsh weather conditions, survives a shower from a water hose, and even submerges in a water pound.

Yes, it is also sand proof for the users who work on construction sites, which can take this beast to connect.

With around a 20-miles range, and the capability to connect 22-channels this is the best device you can get hands-on.

This 2-way radio got 38-CTCSS Privacy codes, its continuous tone-coded squelchy system gives great communication capabilities when you are in group calls.

In a nutshell, the small and compact walkie-talkie performs the way you like a budget product performs.

Yes, you can rely on it for clearer and reliable communication, take it on board and you are there to enjoy your off-road trips.

9. BAOFENG BF-F8HP 8-Watt Dual Band Two-Way Radio

If you have a HAM radio operator license, probably this BAOFENG designed latest F8HP 2-way radio is going to be the perfect option to go.

It is a fully-featured radio option on our list, capable to handle any time of conversation, and withstand every tough weather condition.

It got more power than any of the models here we reviewed. It got the power to transmit signals further and through any obstruction such as hilly terrain, or rough weather conditions.

Yes, keep in mind it requires a license to utilize this option, or you will have to suffer the consequences.

This model as per our finding got two to three times better signal range compare to any of the models we added to this list.

And obviously, it is because of its higher power and large Antenna. It is a detachable antenna, you can detach it when backpacking.

This device supports arrays of added accessories. It can be programmed connecting it to a computer, yes there is a special cable that is required to program this machine, better to own one.

This two-way radio got learning curves. If you are a first-timer, it is better to learn how to operate this device, because if you do not learn to use it and the local regulations, you are going to pay a fine, most probably.

Yes, it got impressive features and functionalities that help users stay connected even at long distances.

But, you will be walking on a tight rope between legal and breaking rules due to its higher power and programmability, if you have never been using it, do not hit the off-roads relying on this product.

10. Floureon Two Pack Walkie Talkies for Kids

If you are looking for the best walkie-talkie for kids, Flureon two-way radio is the right pick to go with.

It is pocket-friendly, simple in design, and affordably priced range a product that is perfect for small kids.

Its Amazon rating might not be that impressive, but in our findings, this product is good to go option for the mentioned budget range.

It got 22 channels, more than enough to ensure that you do not share your signals with others around.

It got a beautiful, simplistic interface and display that makes it easy to use and navigate different options.

This model and product got close competition from the Retevis designed model.

But the one we did not include in our list got comparatively bigger sized and slightly more price than Floureon.

However,  the Retevis is also a good option for kids, to let you roam them around without any security or safety issues.

One more thing, in our finding this option got clearer and louder sound quality.

It is a durable, and environmental-friendly material made a product. It is safe for kids and lets you hear their whispering when stranding in the backcountry.

One more thing, it is not like that this product is particularly designed for kids.

There is nothing that you can’t use this product as an adult. It is a durable, and sturdy constructed bare-bones product that lets you enjoy as much as your kids do.

Things To Consider Before Buying A Walkie Talkie

Before you get your hands on any of the options we reviewed here it is important to learn a few basic attributes that distinguish one product from the other.

These all products are great, but it is your requirement that is particular and must match with the equally good and needed product.

So, before you go in haste and pick one, have a quick overview of this section.

Frequency

Whatever Walkie Talkie you pick, they run on either High frequency or Ultra High frequency.

1. VHF

VHF walkie-talkie use frequencies between 136 and 174 MHZ, these frequencies can travel long distances with small power.

But they are not good in areas where obstacles are in ways, such as Hilly areas. It is good for plain and open surface areas.

2. UHF

UHF Walkie talkie runs at 400-512MHZ Frequencies.

It is a powerful frequency they run at, and at this frequency signals can make their way even in the high sky-touching obstacles, they are good for any area.

Size and Weight of the Walkie Talkie

Walkie Talkie comes in different sizes, shapes, and weight range.

If you have to carry your Walkie-Talkie for a longer period, you must consider buying a lightweight model.

Also consider their fittings, because some can be flimsy hard to hold for longer periods, especially if you are trekking or skiing.

Durability

I think more than the product’s durability you need to learn how you will be using your walkie-talkie?

f you are going to take it on casually, once in an area when you spend your vacation backcountry, the durability is not that much important.

But, if you use it on regular basis, take it on for activities like hill-climbing, or mountain biking, expect drops and scrapes, here the ruggedness of the product plays a part.

Here you should pay special focus to the durability of the product. And buy only the one that is good durable and withstands roughness or toughness.

Channels

Yes, several channels are also important to pay special attention to an attribute.

The biggest drawback of using walkie-talkies is that anyone with a compatible device and frequency can join your frequency and hear your conversation.

But if you have more channels, less likely will be that anyone uses any of them.

Here FR’s walkie-talkie can support between 2-7 seven channels, on the other hand, GMRS models can support up to 30 or more.

If you are interested in using a walkie-talkie in a remote area, it is good that it supports a handful of channels.

Final Verdict

When you are there to buy a new walkie-talkie and chose what is the best model for you it is important to ask yourself what you need from a two-way device?

In most cases, you just need a simpler and cheaper option that helps you connect to your group when hitting off-the-road trips on vacations.

Yes, even for simplest use, you need to consider many attributes that help you communicate clearer and better.

In the last section, we have put a buying guide to help you pick what suits you the most.

People Also Asked About Walkie Talkies

Can a walkie-talkie be tracked?

Although for regular communicating we do not rely on radio signals what Walkie Talkie or two-way radio used.

But in some remote areas where the strength of your signal is not reliable, it is good to use Walkie Talkie for short distance tracing.

Walkie Talkies are challenging to trace. But they are traceable. Its tracking might not be as easier and powerful as a GPS device, but it is possible.

Tracing is possible because of the radio signals or radio waves the device produces or receives.

Do I have to pay for a walkie-talkie license?

If you are using a short-distance walkie talkie aka VHF walkie talkie there is no need to purchase a license for that.

But in the case of UHF frequency Walkie Talkie, you have to purchase a license that costs different indifference geological locations.

In the USA it costs around $70 once in five years.

What is the difference between a walkie-talkie or a two-way radio?

A two-way radio is another name used for Walkie Talkie. It is easier to understand what it does with the name Two-way radio.

So, next time if you read about two-way radio, it is a walkie-talkie you have been reading about.

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Jonathan Perry

With a deep passion for innovation and a keen eye for cutting-edge devices, Jonathan has become a trusted authority in the realm of gadget reviews. From smartphones to smart home devices, wearables to gaming accessories, Jonathan’s expertise spans across a wide range of gadget categories. Read Full Bio

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