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 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.