Как выбрать лучший рацию: обзор топ-моделей Motorola, Midland и Retevis

How to choose the best walkie-talkie For specific situations where cellphones or smart devices don’t have a signal or simply aren’t practical, a quality walkie-talkie is a reliable and convenient form of communication. Walkie-talkies are ideal to use outdoors while hiking, camping, fishing etc., and you can quickly get or stay in touch with coworkers and colleagues in professional situations. Not all walkie-talkies provide the same service, which is why it is important to choose one with adequate range, durability and the features you need for your lifestyle. The Motorola T600 Talkabout Two-Way Radio is fully waterproof, making it a great option for use during water activities and inclement weather. In this article: Motorola T600 Talkabout Two-Way Radio, Midland GXT1000VP4 GMRS 50-Channel Two-Way Radio and Retevis H-777 Two-Way Radio 10-Pack What to know before you buy a walkie-talkie FRS vs. GMRS walkie-talkies FRS walkie-talkie FRS stands for Family Radio Service. Walkie-talkies that use this form of communication are inexpensive and easy to use, but usually have a shorter range limited to less than a mile. This type is an ideal recreational option for those who won’t be far apart. Anyone can use them without a required license. GMRS walkie-talkie GMRS stands for General Mobile Radio Service. GMRS models are designed for long-distance communication. You may hear this type of walkie-talkie referred to as a two-way radio. Despite being more expensive, they usually are more durable and have a significantly longer range. However, to operate one, you need a license from the FCC. Walkie-talkie phrases While it may not seem necessary to use special lingo when using walkie-talkies for recreational purposes, it can help others understand what you’re saying when the reception isn’t crystal clear. To learn more about specific phrases, check out the full walkie-talkie buying guide from BestReviews. If you need to spell out certain words, you may need to use the NATO phonetic alphabet, which can come in handy in emergency situations. Frequency UHF frequency Ultra-high-frequency walkie-talkies produce transmissions between 400 and 512MHz (megahertz). They penetrate larger obstacles and obstructions and use more power. VHF Very high-frequency options operate between 136 and 174MHz and are best suited for more open areas. These walkie-talkies require less power to run. What to look for in a quality walkie-talkie Size The overall size and weight of your walkie-talkie will come into play for those who plan on hiking or covering longer distances while carrying one on their belt or in their pack. In those cases, a compact, lightweight model is your best bet, although sacrificing durability to save a couple of ounces may not be the best thing to do. Channels The greater the number of channels available on your walkie-talkie, the greater the likelihood of finding a more private line of communication. Unlike cellphones, walkie-talkies allow anyone in the area using the same frequency to tune into your conversation and vice versa. In busy areas, having multiple channel options is the way to go. However, those in more remote areas can get by with just a few. Durability Chances are you’ll use your walkie-talkie outdoors, potentially in rugged environments or during inclement weather. Unless you are using your walkie-talkie around your home or neighborhood, choosing one that can withstand unexpected wetness or an accidental drop is crucial. Wattage In general, the higher the wattage, the greater the range. In a real-world application, one watt usually translates to about one mile of range. While FRS models are limited to about .5 watts, GMRS walkie-talkies tend to be more powerful, giving you several miles of reliable coverage. Battery life Rechargeable batteries power some walkie-talkies, while others use disposable options. If you plan on being away from an outlet for an extended period, pack extra batteries or a portable charger. How much you can expect to spend on a walkie-talkie Basic FRS walkie-talkies can cost as little as $15 per set, while high-end options are likely to be closer to $100. GMRS walkie-talkies are more expensive, ranging from $25-$200. Walkie-talkie FAQ Does a GMRS license from the FCC cost money? A. Yes. There is a one-time fee associated with applying for a GMRS license. The $35 fee is valid for 10 years. Will walkie-talkies still work in bad weather? A. Even if a large storm has disrupted power lines or internet access, a high-quality walkie-talkie should transmit your communications, as long as there are no severe obstructions or blockage. Many people include walkie-talkies in emergency kits. What are the best walkie-talkies to buy? Top walkie-talkies Motorola T600 Talkabout Two-Way Radio What you need to know: Designed for use around water, the floatable design and water-activated emergency light are highly useful. What you’ll love: With 22 frequency channels, 11 emergency weather channels and the ability to be submerged in a meter of water for 30 minutes, this high-quality device won’t quit when you need it the most. What you should consider: The batteries have been known to lose charge quickly. Top walkie-talkies for the money Midland GXT1000VP4 GMRS 50-Channel Two-Way Radio What you need to know: This is a reliable and waterproof walkie-talkie with a decent range. What you’ll love: This uses both FRS and GMRS, so you can choose the right frequency for your outing. What you should consider: The included earpiece isn’t the best quality. Worth checking out Retevis H-777 Two-Way Radio 10-Pack What you need to know: This affordable 10 pack is great for larger groups, providing a budget-friendly device without sacrificing quality. What you’ll love: These simple walkie-talkies include a hands-free option and sport a long battery life for extended use. What you should consider: There have been occasional reports of radio failure after a few months. Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change. Check out our Daily Deals for the best products at the best prices and sign up here to receive the BestReviews weekly newsletter full of shopping inspo and sales. BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. BestReviews and its newspaper partners may earn a commission if you purchase a product through one of our links.