10 Best VHF Radios 2025 in the United States

The Simrad RS40-B VHF radio offers valuable features for boaters needing reliable communication on the water. It includes integrated AIS (Automatic Identification System) and GPS receivers, which help with navigation and tracking nearby vessels — a plus for safety. The radio operates within the standard 156-174 MHz VHF frequency range and supports 8 channels, which is fewer compared to many VHF radios that often have 16 or more channels for wider communication options.

It has a water resistance rating of IP67, meaning it can handle being briefly submerged in water, making it suitable for marine environments. Weighing about 5.5 pounds and measuring 18 by 10 by 6 inches, it’s somewhat bulky but comes with useful mounting kits and a suncover to protect the display from glare. The maximum talking range is listed as 23 miles, which is typical for VHF radios under ideal conditions.

This radio represents a solid choice if you want integrated GPS and AIS with decent waterproofing. However, if you need more channels or a lighter device, you might want to consider other options.

The Cobra MR HH350 FLT Handheld Floating VHF Radio is a solid choice for marine communication. Its key strength is the noise-cancelling microphone, which ensures clear conversations by blocking out background noise. This is particularly useful when you are out on the water where wind and engine noise can be disruptive. Another notable feature is its power output flexibility, allowing you to switch between 1, 3, and 6 watts for short- and long-range communication, making it versatile for different water adventures.

The device is also submersible and floats, which is a huge plus for preventing loss overboard, and the backlit orange display is easy to read in various lighting conditions. The radio supports USA, Canada, and international channels, providing broad coverage for communication wherever you go. Additionally, it includes NOAA weather alerts, which are crucial for staying informed about changing weather conditions and emergencies on the water.

On the downside, the radio does not include GPS integration, which could be a valuable feature for navigation and safety. However, its compact size and lightweight design (9.6 ounces) make it highly portable and easy to handle. Battery life is not explicitly detailed, but it includes a battery saver mode which is likely to enhance usage time. The product includes necessary accessories like a dock charger and belt clip. This VHF radio is well-suited for boating enthusiasts who prioritize clear communication, weather updates, and a durable, floating design.

The Icom M94d VHF Marine Radio is designed with several impressive features tailored for marine environments. It offers 6W RF power output, providing clear communication over a maximum range of 5 kilometers. The radio includes DSC for distress signal calling and an AIS receiver, enhancing safety by providing access to vessel traffic information. With a waterproof rating and AquaQuake draining function, it is reliable in wet conditions and even floats and flashes if dropped in water.

The inclusion of a simplified navigation system and a dimmable, back-lit display ensures easy readability in various lighting conditions. The radio also has noise cancellation for clearer audio output and an audio output of 1500mW, making it suitable for noisy marine settings. It is relatively lightweight at 2.2 pounds and compact with dimensions of 2.4 x 5.7 x 1.7 inches, which makes it portable and easy to handle.

The device operates for up to 10 hours on one AAA battery, which might require frequent battery changes for extended use. Additionally, it lacks built-in GPS integration, which could be a downside for users needing precise location tracking. This marine radio is ideal for boaters seeking reliable communication and safety features but may not suit those looking for extensive GPS functionality.