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 STANDARD HORIZON HX890BK VHF-HH is a solid choice for a handheld VHF radio, especially for marine use. It boasts a powerful 6-watt power output, which provides a significant range, up to 15 miles, making it suitable for various communication needs on the water. The device is waterproof and submersible, ensuring it can withstand harsh marine environments without compromising functionality.

The noise reduction feature is a valuable addition, enhancing audio clarity in noisy conditions. With 66 channels available, users have extensive options for communication and can easily find a clear channel for transmissions. The built-in GPS and FM receiver are excellent bonus features, offering additional functionality beyond basic communication. This can be particularly useful for navigation and entertainment purposes during long trips.

At 10 x 8 x 4 inches and weighing 2 pounds, the HX890BK is somewhat bulky and may not be the most convenient for users seeking a more compact and lightweight option. The 3-volt battery and lithium-ion requirement are standard. Despite these minor drawbacks, this handheld VHF radio is best suited for boaters and marine enthusiasts who need a robust and reliable communication device with added features like GPS and FM radio.

The Standard Horizon HX210 is a robust handheld VHF radio, suitable for marine use. One of its main strengths is the IPX7 waterproof rating, meaning it can be submerged in 3.3 feet of water for up to 30 minutes, making it highly reliable in wet conditions. The device also floats, which is a crucial feature for users on the water. Its power output is adjustable, offering 6W, 2.5W, and 1W options, allowing flexibility depending on your communication needs. With a maximum talking range of 5 miles, it provides solid coverage for most marine environments.

The high-capacity 1850 mAh lithium-ion battery ensures long battery life, and the included rapid charger helps in quickly recharging the device, which is convenient for extended outings. The HX210 includes all USA, International, and Canadian channels, plus it receives FM radio bands, adding to its versatility. The large dot matrix LCD display and easy-to-operate menu system make it user-friendly, even for those who aren't tech-savvy. Additional features like the programmable function keys, water-activated emergency strobe light, and built-in FM receiver enhance its functionality.

However, one potential drawback is its size and weight (1.57 x 2.36 x 5.2 inches and 1 pound), which might be slightly bulky for some users. Also, while the device does have a speaker mic jack, some users might find the speaker quality less than perfect in noisy environments. In conclusion, the HX210 is an excellent choice for marine enthusiasts who need a reliable and feature-rich VHF radio with strong waterproof capabilities and good battery life.