10 Best Handheld Vhf Radios 2025 in the United States

The Cobra MR HH350 FLT is a solid choice for a dependable handheld VHF radio designed for marine use. It offers a strong 6-watt power output with the flexibility to switch between 1, 3, and 6 watts, helping balance battery conservation with reaching farther distances when needed. Its rechargeable lithium polymer battery tends to hold a good charge, and its waterproof, submersible design allows the radio to handle being dropped in water, making it very practical for boating. The radio also floats and comes in bright white with an orange backlit display, which improves visibility in low-light or rough conditions and helps you spot it if it falls overboard.

Channel selection includes coverage for the USA, Canada, and international marine channels, making it versatile for various locations. The noise-cancelling microphone enhances call clarity by reducing background sounds, a useful feature on noisy boats. Additionally, the built-in NOAA weather and emergency alerts keep you informed of changing conditions, boosting safety.

Measuring about 10 inches tall and weighing just under 10 ounces, it is relatively lightweight and easy to carry. This radio is well-suited for recreational boaters who want a rugged, easy-to-use device with good power, clear audio, and important safety features.

The Cobra MR HH600FLTBTGPS is a solid choice for those needing a reliable handheld VHF radio, especially for marine environments. Its standout feature is the built-in GPS, allowing users to see their coordinates on screen and send location information during DSC calls, which is crucial for safety at sea. The Bluetooth capability also lets you make calls directly from the radio, keeping your phone safe and dry. With a maximum power output of 6 watts, it provides good coverage, enabling communication over distances of up to 15 miles, and access to emergency channels adds peace of mind.

This radio excels in usability with features like the rewind-say-again function, ensuring you can replay missed messages, and the burp feature that helps clear water from the speaker, enhancing audio clarity. It also comes with a comprehensive set of accessories, including various chargers, a battery pack, and a belt clip, making it ready to use right out of the box.

There are some downsides to consider. While it is designed to be submersible and has a waterproof rating, prolonged exposure to water can still be a concern for some users, especially in extreme conditions. The radio's size and weight, while manageable at 11.6 ounces, may not suit everyone looking for a compact device. The battery life is decent, but heavy usage of features like Bluetooth and GPS can drain it faster. The Cobra MR HH600FLTBTGPS is ideal for boaters looking for a feature-rich VHF radio that combines safety, usability, and convenience, but users should be mindful of its weight and potential battery life limitations when using advanced features.

The Uniden Atlantis 275 is a powerful and versatile handheld VHF marine radio that offers 6 watts of power, ensuring strong and reliable communication over long distances. Its standout feature is its excellent waterproof rating (IPX8), which means it can be fully submerged and still function properly, making it ideal for marine environments. The radio also floats and includes an emergency strobe light and built-in flashlight, adding to its utility in emergency situations.

The large dual-color LCD screen is another strong point, providing clear visibility in both day and night conditions. Channel selection is robust, with access to all USA, Canada, and international marine VHF channels, including NOAA weather alerts, which are crucial for staying informed of weather conditions. The built-in lithium-ion battery pack is convenient and the inclusion of both AC and DC charging cables and a charging cradle ensures you can keep it powered up easily. At 1.5 pounds, it is relatively lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry around. However, it may not be the lightest option available in the market.

The interface is user-friendly, and the customer support from Uniden is comprehensive for setup and troubleshooting. One potential drawback is the limited number of channels (25), which might be less than some other models in its class. Additionally, while the radio has a strong 36-mile talking range, this can vary significantly based on environmental conditions. Despite these minor concerns, the Uniden Atlantis 275 is a solid choice for anyone needing a reliable and durable marine VHF radio.