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 Cobra MR HH600WFLTBTGPS Handheld Floating VHF Radio is a solid choice for those needing a reliable communication tool on the water. One of its standout features is the 6-watt power output, which allows for robust short and long-range communication, and access to channels in the US, Canada, and internationally. The device includes a lithium polymer battery, ensuring a decent battery life, and comes with multiple charging options, such as AC and 12V DC chargers, enhancing convenience for users on the go.

It is fully waterproof, making it suitable for marine use, and its burp feature helps maintain clear communication by vibrating water out of the speaker grill. The added benefit of floating if dropped in water is a significant plus for durability and usability in rough conditions. Additionally, it includes NOAA weather alerts and instant Channel 16 access for emergencies, which are critical features for safety at sea.

The inclusion of GPS and Bluetooth is a modern touch, allowing users to make calls directly from the radio and share their exact location, which can be lifesaving in emergencies. The backlit LCD display and noise-canceling mic are user-friendly features that enhance the device's ease of use in various conditions. On the downside, the radio's dimensions and weight (5.71 x 2.83 x 1.87 inches and 11.6 ounces) might be slightly bulky for some users looking for a more compact device. Also, the number of channels is somewhat limited to 10, which may not be sufficient for all users. Nonetheless, the Cobra MR HH600WFLTBTGPS is a robust handheld VHF radio with a range of features that make it a reliable choice for marine communication needs, particularly suited for users who prioritize safety and advanced functionalities like GPS and Bluetooth.

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.