10 Best Emergency Two Way Radios 2025 in the United States

The Uniden MHS338BT Marine VHF Radio stands out in several key areas essential for emergency two-way radios. Firstly, it offers a strong range with its full 6-watt transmit power, which is ideal for ensuring maximum communication coverage during emergencies. The ability to adjust the power level (1.0W, 2.5W, 6.0W) adds versatility depending on your range needs. The integrated GPS feature is a major asset for location tracking, and the ability to save and manually enter positions can be very useful in marine environments. Moreover, the radio's Bluetooth capability allows for easy setup and text messaging via a smartphone app, enhancing connectivity options.

The device is highly durable, boasting IPX8 submersible rating and the ability to float, making it reliable for use in harsh marine conditions. The emergency strobe light and flashlight that activate upon water contact are critical safety features. The radio's sizeable, backlit LCD screen ensures easy readability both day and night, and its noise-canceling feature improves audio clarity.

However, there are a few considerations to keep in mind. The number of available channels (25) might be limiting compared to some other models, depending on your specific needs. Additionally, the product is slightly heavier (10.6 ounces) and moderately sized (1.5 x 2.52 x 4.6 inches), which could impact portability for some users. The inclusion of only one specialized battery might be a limitation for extended use without access to recharging facilities. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Uniden MHS338BT offers a comprehensive set of features, including NOAA weather alerts and compliance with International Class D DSC standards, making it a robust choice for those needing a reliable emergency marine radio.

The Uniden Atlantis 275 is a robust emergency two-way radio designed for marine use. Its most notable strength is its waterproof and floating capability, adhering to the IPX8 submersible standard, making it highly reliable in wet environments. The radio offers a powerful 6-watt output, with adjustable settings for 6W, 2.5W, or 1W, ensuring strong communication over long distances, up to 36 miles under optimal conditions.

The inclusion of an emergency strobe light and built-in flashlight adds to its safety features, making it an excellent choice for emergencies at sea. The large dual-color LCD screen enhances visibility, with a paper white backlight for daytime and a red backlight for nighttime use, ensuring readability in varying light conditions. It covers all USA, International, and Canadian marine VHF channels, including NOAA Weather Channels and alerts, keeping users informed of weather changes. The built-in lithium-ion battery pack, along with AC and DC charging options, ensures long battery life and flexibility in recharging.

However, its compact size and weight of 1.5 pounds make it portable, though it may still feel slightly bulky for some users. Another strength is the 3-year warranty, including a full waterproof warranty, providing peace of mind regarding its durability. On the downside, some users may find the number of channels (25) limiting compared to other models offering more variety. Potential buyers should consider whether the specific marine-focused features align with their needs. The Uniden Atlantis 275 is particularly well-suited for marine enthusiasts and professionals who require a reliable and durable communication tool for emergency situations on the water.

The Retevis RT86 walkie talkies are designed for professional and emergency use with an impressive long-range coverage, capable of penetrating dense buildings and reaching up to 700,000 square feet, which suits large warehouses and multi-floor sites well. They feature a robust design with impact-resistant ABS material and a hidden LCD screen that stands up to tough daily use. Battery life is strong, offering up to 16 hours of continuous use and 130 hours on standby, supported by a convenient USB charging base. The package includes handy extras like a shoulder mic with a rotating clip for hands-free operation and a built-in flashlight for nighttime situations.

With 16 channels available, it covers basic communication needs, though it lacks privacy codes and dedicated weather alerts, which might be important for some emergency scenarios. The radios weigh about 5.65 pounds for the set, which is a bit heavy but manageable given their durability and features. Compatibility with other Retevis models requires manual setup through CHIRP software, which could be a minor hurdle for casual users.

The RT86 radios provide reliable, clear communication with solid battery life and sturdy construction, making them a good choice for property management, construction sites, and warehouse teams who need dependable walkie talkies without advanced weather alert functions.