10 Best Marine Vhf Radios 2025 in the United States

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.

The Uniden UM385 25 Watt Fixed Mount Marine VHF Radio is a solid choice for marine communication, especially for those who need a reliable and versatile device on the water. With a power output of 25 watts, it ensures robust and long-range communication, which is crucial for safety and coordination at sea. The radio supports all USA, international, and Canadian marine channels, along with memory channel scan, making it versatile for different regions and user needs.

The inclusion of DSC (Digital Selective Calling) with features like Distress Button, Position Send, and Request is a significant safety advantage, allowing for quick distress calls and position sharing during emergencies. The Uniden UM385 is also equipped with Triple Watch features and NOAA Weather Alerts to keep users informed of weather conditions and potential hazards. The IPX4 waterproof rating means the radio is resistant to rain and splashing water, which is essential for marine environments. However, it is not fully waterproof, so it should not be submerged in water.

The unit weighs 3.6 pounds and measures 2.6 x 5 x 6.3 inches, which is reasonable for a fixed mount radio and should not be cumbersome to install or use. The rugged handheld mic is designed for ease of use, allowing users to transmit without looking away from the waters ahead. Positive customer reviews (4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,580 ratings) indicate general satisfaction with the product's usability and performance. In summary, the Uniden UM385 is a durable, feature-rich marine VHF radio well-suited for boaters seeking reliable communication and enhanced safety features.

The Garmin 0100209800 VHF 215 AIS radio is designed for marine enthusiasts who require reliable communication on the water. One of its notable strengths is the impressive talking range of up to 36 miles, making it suitable for both coastal and offshore use. The inclusion of 10 channels allows users to easily switch between communications, which is a plus for busy maritime environments. The radio operates on VHF frequencies between 156.050 MHz to 163.275 MHz, which includes important weather channels, enhancing safety during navigation.

The anti-glare display is another commendable feature, ensuring that users can read the screen in various lighting conditions, a vital aspect when out at sea. Furthermore, the unit is designed to be water-resistant, offering peace of mind for those frequently exposed to water.

There are a few drawbacks to consider. While the radio is described as water-resistant, it may not be fully waterproof, which could be a concern in heavy rain or extreme conditions. The size and weight, at 5.3 pounds, might make it less portable than smaller handheld models, which could be a factor for users looking for a compact communication device.