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A two-way radio is, as the name suggests, a radio that allows for communication in both directions — sending and receiving signals. When you imagine two-way radios, truck drivers may be the first thing that comes to mind. And though they’re great for staying in communication on the road (for trucks, RVs, and cars too), you don’t need to be driving cross-country to get the most out of a two-way radio. These are ideal for taking hiking, camping or anywhere you may need to send out an SOS. Some radios even offer tracking features, so rescue is always a click away if you get stranded. Read on for our complete buying guide.
Two-Way Radio Buying Guide
When you’re shopping for the best two-way radio, there are multiple factors to consider before you add it to your cart. Here’s what you need to know.
Reliability: Even with cellular towers everywhere nowadays, getting a signal on your phone isn’t always a given, and satellite phones are extremely expensive and impractical to take along. That’s where these offer peace of mind.
Clarity: Modern radios have come a long way from the garbled, unintelligible broadcasts of the past. Today’s two-ways cut down on static and boost voice. A backlit display that’s large and easy to read in dark, rough conditions is important for night driving too.
Connectivity: Modern radios can often connect to your smartphone via Bluetooth, and have lots of different channels (some with privacy codes) so you can speak freely without being interrupted. You can even have the ability to monitor two channels at once, and get NOAA weather alerts before storms hit.
Build Quality: Since these are often designed for jobs where it’ll risk some rough treatment, most models are durable and can take a beating, along with being waterproof too.
Battery Life: Depending on how long you’ll be away from a power source, there are different options for fueling a radio on-the-go. Rechargeable ones are great, especially via USB, but the option to use a few AAs can be a lifesaving backup. Operating on a lower transmission range can help save battery life as well, and a life of about 15 hours is an average range.
Finally, check the requirements and your local laws before buying. You may need an FCC license to operate some two-ways.
What Are the Best Two-Way Radios?
With the above tips in mind, here are our top picks for buying your next two-way radio.
