10 Best Handheld Vhf Radios 2025 in the United States

The Cobra MR HH350 FLT handheld VHF radio is a solid choice for anyone looking to stay connected while on the water. With a power output of up to 6 watts, it offers flexible communication options for both short and long-range use, making it suitable whether you're close to shore or out on the open water. The noise-cancelling microphone is a notable strength, ensuring that your voice comes through clearly even in windy conditions, which is essential for safety and effective communication.

One of the standout features of this radio is its floating design, which makes it easy to retrieve if accidentally dropped in the water. The backlit display adds to its usability, providing clear visibility in various lighting conditions. Additionally, the integration of NOAA weather channels is a valuable asset, keeping you informed about weather changes that can affect your outing.

While it has a decent battery life, some users might find themselves needing to recharge more frequently if they use the radio extensively. The product is water-resistant but not fully submersible, which could be a disadvantage for those who require a radio that can withstand fully submerged conditions. At a weight of 9.6 ounces and compact dimensions, it's portable, but for those with larger hands, the interface might feel a bit cramped. With 16 channels covering USA, Canada, and international waters, the Cobra MR HH350 FLT provides maximum coverage for marine communication. This radio is well-suited for recreational boaters and anyone seeking reliable communication while enjoying water activities.

The Standard Horizon HX890 Black Handheld VHF radio is a robust option for those needing reliable marine communication. With a power output of 6 watts, it offers decent transmission strength, making it suitable for both short and mid-range communication needs. The unit is waterproof, which is a crucial feature for marine use, ensuring it can handle splashes or even brief submersion without damage. The radio has a waterproof rating, giving confidence to users who might be in wet environments frequently.

The radio supports 66 channels, providing a comprehensive selection for various communication needs on the water. Its size and weight make it relatively portable, though at 2.16 pounds, it might feel a bit heavy for extended handheld use. The display and interface are user-friendly, which simplifies operation even for those not particularly tech-savvy. Additional features, such as the DSC (Digital Selective Calling) capability, enhance safety by allowing for quick distress signaling.

However, the product's date of first availability is from 2018, suggesting it might lack some more recent technological advancements. The dimensions and weight make it slightly bulkier compared to some other handheld VHF radios, which might be a consideration for those prioritizing ultra-portability. In essence, this radio is a solid choice for marine communication, particularly for users who value reliability, safety features, and ease of use.

The Icom M94D VHF Marine Radio is designed for those who need reliable communication on the water, making it ideal for boaters and sailors. One of its standout features is the built-in AIS Receiver, which helps users receive vessel traffic information and enhances safety with Distress Signal Calling (DSC). The radio is waterproof and can float, ensuring that it remains functional if accidentally dropped into the water. Additionally, the AquaQuake function effectively drains water from the device, helping maintain audio clarity, which is a significant advantage in wet conditions.

Power-wise, the M94D offers 6 watts of output, which is good for reaching other vessels within a range of approximately 5 kilometers. However, it's important to note that the device uses AAA batteries, and while it provides around 10 hours of operating time, some users may prefer a rechargeable option for convenience.

The radio's size and weight (2.2 pounds and compact dimensions) make it portable and easy to handle, and its back-lit display is easy to read in various lighting conditions. With four channels available, it offers basic communication options, although more experienced users might find this limiting compared to models with greater channel selection. The noise cancellation feature is a nice touch that improves audio quality, but it may not be sufficient for all environments.