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10 Best Marine Vhf Radios 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Uniden UM385BK 25 Watt Fixed Mount Marine VHF Radio, Waterproof, Noaa Weather Alert, All USA/Intl/Canadian Marine Channels

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,444
Channel Selection
DSC (Digital Selective Calling)

Most important from
2630 reviews

Channel Selection
Supporting a wide range of channels, communication with vessels, marinas, and coastguards is seamless across USA, international, and Canadian waters.
DSC (Digital Selective Calling)
DSC capability is a lifesaver, enabling quick distress signal transmission with just a few button presses.

The Uniden UM385BK is a fixed mount marine VHF radio designed for use on various marine vessels. With a power output of 25 watts, it is capable of providing a long talking range, up to 25 miles, making it suitable for both recreational and professional marine activities. The radio supports all USA, international, and Canadian marine channels, which is a significant advantage for those who travel across different territories, ensuring comprehensive communication options.

A notable feature of this radio is its DSC (Digital Selective Calling) capability, including distress button functionality and position send/request features, which enhance safety by allowing for quick emergency communication. Full Class D DSC capability ensures reliable transmission and reception.

The waterproof rating of IPX4 indicates that the device is resistant to rain and splashes, which is suitable for typical marine environments but might fall short in extreme wet conditions like heavy storms. This is something to consider for users who often find themselves in harsh weather. The Uniden UM385BK has a compact design with dimensions of 5 x 6.3 x 2.6 inches and weighs 3.34 pounds, making it easy to mount without taking up much space. The rugged handheld mic is another practical feature, enabling convenient communication while maintaining focus on navigation.

On the downside, the battery life is not detailed, which could be a concern for users depending on longer operational times without access to power sources. However, the unit operates on 12 volts, typical for marine electronics, hence likely dependent on vessel power. The Uniden UM385BK suits users looking for a reliable, long-range marine radio with excellent communication features and adequate waterproofing in moderate conditions.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,444
Channel Selection
DSC (Digital Selective Calling)

Most important from
2630 reviews

Channel Selection
Supporting a wide range of channels, communication with vessels, marinas, and coastguards is seamless across USA, international, and Canadian waters.
DSC (Digital Selective Calling)
DSC capability is a lifesaver, enabling quick distress signal transmission with just a few button presses.
#2

Cobra MR HH350 FLT Handheld Floating VHF Radio - 6 Watt, Submersible, Noise Cancelling Mic, Backlit LCD Display, NOAA Weather, and Memory Scan, Grey

Rating
10.0
DSC (Digital Selective Calling)
Waterproof Rating
Battery Life

Most important from
3044 reviews

DSC (Digital Selective Calling)
Despite lacking DSC functionality, it is recommended for leisure boaters on small bodies of water for emergencies.
Waterproof Rating
Sound is clear, has decent range, and the radio is absolutely waterproof, making it a reliable choice for inland rivers and protected bays.
Battery Life
After four full days of boating on a single charge, the battery indicator still read full, showcasing impressive battery life.

The Cobra MR HH350 FLT Handheld Floating VHF Radio is a versatile and robust choice for marine communication. One of its standout features is the 6-watt power output, which allows for customizable communication ranges, making it suitable for both short and long-distance use. The radio supports USA, Canada, and international channels, providing broad coverage for various regions. However, it does not seem to support Digital Selective Calling (DSC), which is a significant safety feature in marine radios.

The radio is submersible and has a floating design, ensuring it can be easily retrieved if dropped in water. Additionally, it comes with a noise-cancelling microphone to ensure clear communication even in noisy environments. Its backlit LCD display is designed for high visibility, which is essential for use in different lighting conditions at sea.

The NOAA weather and emergency radio feature is a great addition, providing 24-hour updates on weather conditions and emergencies, which is crucial for safety. The radio has a compact size and is lightweight at 9.6 ounces, making it easy to carry and handle. The included battery saver mode and the lithium polymer battery provide a decent battery life. In summary, the Cobra MR HH350 FLT is an excellent choice for recreational boaters who need reliable communication and weather updates, but professionals who require DSC might need to look for alternatives.

Rating
10.0
DSC (Digital Selective Calling)
Waterproof Rating
Battery Life

Most important from
3044 reviews

DSC (Digital Selective Calling)
Despite lacking DSC functionality, it is recommended for leisure boaters on small bodies of water for emergencies.
Waterproof Rating
Sound is clear, has decent range, and the radio is absolutely waterproof, making it a reliable choice for inland rivers and protected bays.
Battery Life
After four full days of boating on a single charge, the battery indicator still read full, showcasing impressive battery life.
#3

Cobra MR HH600WFLTBTGPS Handheld Floating VHF Radio 6 Watt, GPS, Bluetooth, Submersible, Noise Cancelling Mic, Backlit LCD Display, MemoryScan, White

Rating
9.8
DSC (Digital Selective Calling)
Waterproof Rating
Display and Interface

Most important from
286 reviews

DSC (Digital Selective Calling)
The built-in GPS receiver and Digital Selective Calling (DSC) with a Distress Button are crucial safety features, allowing anyone aboard to send life-saving information without needing radio knowledge.
Waterproof Rating
It's waterproof to the advertised depth, but only if sealed properly. Ensuring the battery compartment, antenna connection, and optional microphone connector port are secure is vital.
Display and Interface
Setup is menu-driven and straightforward, but reading the manual is recommended to maximize the radio's capabilities.

The Cobra MR HH600WFLTBTGPS Handheld Floating VHF Radio is a versatile device perfect for marine communication. With a power output of 1, 3, and 6 watts, it offers good coverage for both short and long-range communication. The built-in GPS and DSC capabilities are standout features, allowing you to transmit your exact location in emergencies. Additionally, Bluetooth functionality lets you make calls directly from the radio, keeping your phone dry and safe. The radio is waterproof and designed to float, an essential feature for marine environments.

It also includes a noise-canceling mic and a backlit LCD display, making it easy to use even in noisy or low-light conditions. The battery life is reasonable, and the package includes a LiON battery pack along with multiple charging options, ensuring you can keep it powered on the go. On the downside, the size and weight of the radio might be slightly cumbersome for some users, measuring 5.71 x 2.83 x 1.87 inches and weighing 11.6 ounces.

With access to NOAA weather channels and a 'burp' feature to clear water from the speaker, it ensures clear communication. However, the number of channels (10) might be limiting for users needing more options. This radio ranks well in customer satisfaction with a 4.3 out of 5-star rating, making it a reliable choice for boaters requiring robust and dependable marine communication.

Rating
9.8
DSC (Digital Selective Calling)
Waterproof Rating
Display and Interface

Most important from
286 reviews

DSC (Digital Selective Calling)
The built-in GPS receiver and Digital Selective Calling (DSC) with a Distress Button are crucial safety features, allowing anyone aboard to send life-saving information without needing radio knowledge.
Waterproof Rating
It's waterproof to the advertised depth, but only if sealed properly. Ensuring the battery compartment, antenna connection, and optional microphone connector port are secure is vital.
Display and Interface
Setup is menu-driven and straightforward, but reading the manual is recommended to maximize the radio's capabilities.

Buying Guide for the Best Marine Vhf Radios

Choosing the right marine VHF radio is crucial for ensuring safety and effective communication while out on the water. A VHF radio is an essential tool for boaters, providing a reliable means of communication for both routine and emergency situations. When selecting a marine VHF radio, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you get the best fit for your needs. Understanding these specifications will help you make an informed decision and choose a radio that meets your specific requirements.
Power OutputPower output determines the range of your VHF radio. It is usually measured in watts. Higher power output means a longer communication range. Marine VHF radios typically offer 1 watt for short-range communication and 25 watts for long-range communication. If you are mostly boating in coastal areas or near shore, a lower power output may suffice. However, for offshore or long-distance communication, a higher power output is recommended.
Channel SelectionMarine VHF radios operate on specific channels designated for different types of communication, such as distress, hailing, and ship-to-ship communication. It's important to choose a radio that supports all the necessary channels, including international channels if you plan to travel outside your home country. Ensure the radio has access to weather channels for receiving important weather updates. The more channels available, the more versatile your communication options will be.
DSC (Digital Selective Calling)DSC is a feature that allows you to send a distress signal with your GPS location to other vessels and rescue authorities at the push of a button. This feature is crucial for safety, as it can significantly speed up rescue operations in an emergency. When choosing a VHF radio, look for one with DSC capability. Ensure it is connected to a GPS device to provide accurate location information.
Waterproof RatingSince marine VHF radios are used in a wet environment, it's important to choose one with a good waterproof rating. The Ingress Protection (IP) rating indicates the level of water resistance. For marine use, an IPX7 rating (submersible up to 1 meter for 30 minutes) or higher is recommended. This ensures the radio will continue to function even if it gets wet or is accidentally dropped in water.
Battery LifeBattery life is an important consideration, especially for handheld VHF radios. Longer battery life means you can rely on the radio for extended periods without needing to recharge. Look for radios with rechargeable batteries and consider carrying spare batteries for longer trips. If you are using a fixed-mount radio, ensure it is connected to a reliable power source on your vessel.
Size and WeightThe size and weight of the VHF radio can affect its portability and ease of use. Handheld radios should be lightweight and compact for easy carrying and operation. Fixed-mount radios should fit well in the available space on your vessel's console. Consider how and where you will use the radio to determine the best size and weight for your needs.
Display and InterfaceA clear and easy-to-read display is important for quickly accessing information and operating the radio. Look for a radio with a backlit display for visibility in low light conditions. The interface should be user-friendly, with intuitive controls and buttons that are easy to operate, even with wet or gloved hands. A good display and interface can make a significant difference in the ease of use and overall experience.

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