The 10 Best Military Radio Of 2024, Researched By Us

Harlan Ellison By, Harlan Ellison
Updated
BAOFENG BF-F8HP Dual Band Two-Way Radio
Image credit: Amazon.com

The Rundown

1. Best Overall: BAOFENG BF-F8HP Dual Band Two-Way Radio

This is a rugged, high-power radio which offers reliable performance in all kinds of tough environments. Read Review

2. Runner-Up: Retevis RT5 Dual Band Two Way Radio

The sealed design enhances the water and dust resistance of the device and you can also attach a base station to increase the distance that it can travel. Read Review

3. Best Display: BTECH MURS-V1 MURS Two-Way Radio

With a range of up to 36 miles, these radios are perfect for emergency preparedness and keep you connected with your team. Read Review

4. Best License-Free: Midland T295VP4 X-TALKER GMRS Long Range Walkie Talkie

These license-free radios feature 22 GMRS channels, 14 privacy code channels, and a channel scan to check for activity. Read Review

Military radios are reliable communication devices important for both personal and team communications on a military base or battlefield.

A good military radio should have a robust transmission range, the ability to operate in different channels, as well as a sensitive receiver. Additionally, it is important that these devices are lightweight and easy to carry on when moving.

In this article, we explore some of the best military radios available on the market. For this list, we recommend the BAOFENG BF-F8HP Dual Band Two-Way Radio as one of the ideal selections. These radios are powerful with a hardened and rugged shell to withstand any impact. We also love how users can choose the power level from low to high settings for heavy-duty or power-saving use.

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 BAOFENG BF-F8HP Dual Band Two-Way Radio
Our Score:
9.8
BAOFENG
  • High / Med / Low Power Settings (8W, 4W, 1W); Frequency Range: VHF: 136-174 MHz(Rx/Tx). UHF: 400-520 MHz(Rx/Tx); Broad (Wide) / Narrowband (Narrow) Selectable
  • Upgrades from our Previous Generation UV-5R: Twice the Output Power (8 watts up from 4 watts output), New Hardened Durable Radio Shell, 30% Larger Battery, V-85 High Gain Antenna (Twice the Antenna Performance), USA Support + In-depth User Guide Included; A PC03 FTDI Programming Cable is Recommended for Easier PC Programming
  • Kit Includes: BF-F8HP, 2100mAh Battery, V-85 Dual Band Antenna, CH-5 Charger, CH-5 110V Adapter, Earpiece Kit, Wrist Strap, Belt Clip, User Manual
  • The BF-F8HP was designed in the USA and because not everyone is a radio-expert we really wanted to focus on providing an easier user experience! That starts with the new in-depth manual that guides you through the capabilities and customization of the BF-F8HP. On top of that the BF-F8HP also includes exclusive concierge customer help and warranty support. This concierge service is only available on select BaoFeng models such as the BF-F8HP, UV-82HP, and UV-5X3
  • BTECH is proud to be in the USA, which allows you to have the best available local support for any issue that may arise. BTECH only engineers and develops radio products. That brand focus allows you to have the best available radios and accessories with the most features, with real USA warranty and support.
TOP Choice #2 Retevis RT5 Dual Band Two Way Radio
Our Score:
9.6
Retevis
  • Long range walkie talkies; high-power and high-gain antennas support long-distance calls; you can also connect base station to increase the distance
  • Car charger support battery allows you carry it outside when you need to work or trip for a long time; 1400mAh Li-ion battery provides 8-12 hours continuous use
  • Keypad setting allows you to set your radio to connect with your companion or other radios user; Built-in flashlight and 4 color LCD display provide additional visibility in dark or strong light environments;support CHIRP
  • 128 channels with CTCSS/DCS; dual-band display
  • Emergency alarm function supports you to ask for help in danger
  • RT5 has strong radio body and excellent radio cell;sealed design enhances the water and dust resistant of the radio
TOP Choice #3 BTECH MURS-V1 MURS Two-Way Radio
Our Score:
9.4
BTECH
  • Channel Skip: Easily add or remove a channel from the scanning list - if you have a nuisance channel, just skip it.
  • BTECH is proud to be in the USA, which allows you to have the best available local support for any issue that may arise. BTECH only engineers and develops radio products. That brand focus allows you to have the best available radios and accessories with the most features, with real USA warranty and support.
  • Features: 20KHz/12.5KHz Switchable (Channels 4/5) FM Radio Large Tri-color LCD Display (3 Selectable Colors) LED Flashlight Scanning Modes: Channel and Tone High /Low Power Switchable (2W High Power, 500mW low) VOX 50 CTCSS 346 DCS Tones Tone searching/scanning Dual standby PC programmable Alpha Numeric Channel Storage Work Mode (Menu Lockout) Transmission Time Out (TOT) Busy Channel Lock-Out (BCLO)
  • Kit Includes: MURS-V1 Radio, 1800mAh Battery, MURS VHF Single Band Antenna, CH-8 Charger, CH-8 110V Adapter, Earpiece Kit, Wrist Strap, Belt Clip, User Manual
  • The MURS-V1 has one built-in receiver but can "watch" two channels (semi duplex). Monitor 2 MURS channels and the radio will monitor both frequencies giving priority to the first station to receive an incoming call.
  • IDEAL FOR HUNTING - 5 Animal Call Alerts (turkey, duck, crow, cougar and wolf), a Vibrate feature to silence all tones, and the Break-Up Country Camouflage pattern make this an ideal walkie-talkie for hunters.
  • HANDS-FREE - Easy Voice and Sound Activated Transmission (eVOX) for hands free operation. ALSO INCLUDED - Belt clips (x2), 700 mAh NiMH rechargeable battery packs (x2), desktop charger, AC wall adapter, micro USB charging cable, and an owner’s manual.
  • 121 CTCSS PRIVACY CODES - The Continuous Tone-Coded Squelch System gives you up to 2,662 channel options to help block other conversations. Use silent operation to turn off all tones.
  • NOAA WEATHER SCAN + ALERT - NOAA Weather Scan will automatically scan through 10 available weather (WX) band channels and locks onto the strongest weather channel to alert you of severe weather updates. NOAA Weather Alert will sound an alarm indicating that there is a risk of severe weather in your area.
  • 2-WAY RADIOS - These license-free walkie-talkies feature the standard 22 GMRS (General Mobile Radio Service) channels plus 14 extra privacy code channels, along with channel scan to check for activity.
5 MOTOROLA SOLUTIONS RMU2040 On-Site Two-Way Radio
Our Score:
9.2
Motorola Solutions
  • Meets military specifications for sealing against dust, wind, shock, vibration and other adverse conditions.
  • Leave your radio on your belt and know exactly what channel you are communicating on.
  • Powerful 1500 mW speaker ensures clear communication without distracting feedback in noisy conditions.
  • Operates on 89 UHF business exclusive frequencies and features 219 PL/DPL codes, including 6 customizable codes to help ensure a clear signal.
  • Enables hands-free operation with or without the use of optional accessories.
  • VOX can realize hands-free operation by voice activation when you are busy;comfort and G shape headsets give you clear call in noisy environment
  • Whatever your needs;RT29 two way radio provides a simple;reliable; cost-effective communication solution to help work crews connect; coordinate and collaborate to get the job done right
  • High power two way radios with strong penetration;sound transmission can pass between buildings and keep sounds undistorted
  • Each channel with secure call can prevent irrelevant signals;make sure you have a secure and secure call
  • 3200mAh large capacity battery support over 24h hours of use and 250 standby time;sturdy body design with military standard can anti-fall and anti-friction for long use life
7 SAMCOM Two Way Radios
Our Score:
8.9
SAMCOM
  • 【Two-way Radio Strong Penetration and Long Working Time】 With a long antenna, 5W strong penetration, and 20 channels obstructed 1-2 miles, partially obstructed 3-5 miles, no obstructed 5-15 miles. It is divided into two modes, the high power mode has more powerful penetration, and the low power mode extends the battery life.
  • 【Long Range Radio Double PTT with Muti-Channel Group Talk】 Besides the in-channel radio communication, GROUP PTT can realize one-key group calling of different channels, suitable for announcements or emergency contact; Built-in High quality 1500mAh rechargeable battery. Working time 12 hours, standby up to 50 hours.
  • 【Programmable 2-Way Radio】 The frequency range is UHF 406.1-470MHz; You can rewrite the frequency through the Programming Data Cable to match other brands of walkie-talkie. ( Support Program Frequency by cable. The software does not support Mac)Programming Data Cable is not included in the package, you can buy it in our store.
  • 【Easy to Operate Walkie-Talkies for Adults】 You do not need to set it up, you can use it out of the box. FCC certificated SAMCOM walkie talkie, FCC ID: 2AIOQ-FPCN30AA. The Package includes: Two-Way Radio x 2; Long Antenna (6.7 inches) x 2; K-Type Earpiece x 2; Charging dock x 2; 30-days no reason to return and “Lifetime” Quality Warranty.
  • 【Safer and More Convenient Dialogue UHF Radio】 By turning the buttons at the top to adjust the channels. You can use computer software to set the CDCSS code for each channel. Equipped with an LCD backlight screen, you can see the basic settings of the radio.
8 Motorola RMM2050 Two-Way Radio
Our Score:
8.8
Motorola
  • Includes owner's manual.
  • RMM2050 is direct replacement to RDM2020 and RDM2080D. Very reliable, simple, heavy-duty radio .
  • 2-watt (covers up to 20 floors, 200,000 square feet range depending on terrain & conditions), 5 channels (communication groups) total. These RMM2050 radios are set to special MURS frequencies that don't require an FCC license .
  • 2 Pack of radios and associated accessories .
  • Each of our radios comes complete with a single-unit charger, 15 hour lithium ion battery, swivel belt holster.
9 Cobra HH50WXST Hand Held CB Radio
Our Score:
8.2
Cobra
  • Sound tracker The sound tracker system helps by cutting 90% of the noise, You'll hear crystal clear communication without the distractions of static and interference.
  • Noaa weather channels - be the first to know of incoming Hazards or changing weather with instant access to NOAA weather channels 24 hours a day.
  • Channel scan - find the channel with the best signal automatically, with 40 channels to chose from. You won't have to manually search for a strong signal again.
  • Dual watch - select two channels to constantly monitor simultaneously. Keep an ear open for incoming transmissions on multiple channels so you will hear alerts around you.
  • Extended range - 4 Watt power output allows maximum power and extended range of communication.
10 MOTOROLA SOLUTIONS On-Site RDU4160d Two-Way Radio
Our Score:
8.0
Motorola Solutions
  • Three voice-inversion scramble settings to minimize eavesdropping; three audible call tones; five programmable buttons
  • Designed to IP-55 and MIL-SPEC specifications; channel scan with selectable scan list; keypad lock
  • 38 analog and 83 digital interference eliminator codes; 22 hours battery life; battery gauge; signal strength indicator
  • Two-way radio with up to four watts power (two-watt low power setting); up to 16 channels with aliasing (up to eight characters); repeater capable
  • VOX with three sensitivity levels; tri-color LED with transmit, receive, and low battery indication; two-pin accessory plug
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What to Look For in a best military radio?

Some consumers are concerned about ordering best military radio. Various aspects should always be explored before making big product choices. Our expertise on best military radio will help determine the best possible decision.

Please keep in mind the following points before selecting best military radio:

Maximum Range

When choosing a 2-way radio, the first thing to think about is how far you want them to travel. Consumer 2-way radios with a transmit power of 0.75W and the PMR446 frequency can travel up to 10 km. This could be possible only in the ideal circumstances: high above ground with no obstructions between radios. This range is unlikely to be achieved unless you use your walkie-talkies to connect between mountaintops. The maximum range in a dense urban setting is more likely to be lower. A good radio will provide sufficient range to reach the majority of people. You will require more power and range than that. They are more costly than the license-free model and require a license.

Weight And Size

Both weight and size play a major role in carrying all you need. Two-way radios are small and lightweight, so they can be carried in a bag or attached to your belt. Although smaller units can be more affordable than larger models, they might not offer as many features or provide the same protection. Heavy-duty, impact-resistant two-way units that are heavier and more durable are a better choice for outdoor enthusiasts who want to be tough.

Battery Type

Many two-way radios can be powered with regular alkaline batteries. Others have rechargeable batteries that include a dock. Two-way radios should not be used for longer than one day without power access. A model that takes both regular and multiple batteries is a better option if you are going on camping trips. We recommend regular 2-way rechargeable radios. This is because used batteries are expensive and can cause damage to the environment.

Weatherproofing

You can't keep your two-way hidden in your bag, but there is a good chance it will be exposed to other conditions than the cool, mild, early summer sun when there is a gentle breeze blowing. It is important to consider the weatherproofing of your two-way. If you reside in an area with moderate temperatures and light to predictable rains, some models can withstand splashing water.
An entirely waterproof radio is an option. Many models are waterproof and can withstand severe rain. Some models can be submerged up to 30 minutes without causing any damage. A model that floats will be your best option if your radio is used for fisherman, fishing or crossing open waters. If you drop your model accidentally, it can be easily picked up from the water surface.

Number Of Handsets

You will need as many handsets as you can afford when purchasing two-way radios. While a twin-set may suffice for camping trips, busy warehouses might need more to ensure everyone is connected. The price per handset drops when you purchase in bulk. To meet every customer's requirements, we offer many two-way radio packages. If you need to add more handsets, we also have single handsets.

Emergency Features

Your two-way radio is a great tool for emergency planning, whether you are camping, hiking or hunting. An Emergency Alert radio sends an alert to all radios within your radio group in case you need immediate help. There are many types of emergency alerts available, and they vary from brand to model. Some alerts combine a beacon flashing S.O.S with international Morse Code, others send a loud alarm to members of the group. These alerts block any activity on radios and get louder until someone responds.

Channels & Privacy Codes

Two-way radios that are license-free have a fixed frequency they can transmit on. PMR446 The majority of two-way radios without a license have 8 to 16 channels. These tune the frequency at which handsets communicate. There are usually privacy codes in addition to channels. These codes do not protect your transmissions, contrary to the title. They allow you to talk freely and without being interrogated by others. This can prove problematic if your use them in an area such as a ski resort, where many other two-way radios are in use.

FAQs

How Many Radios Can I Use One Location?

You can use as many radios at any location you wish, regardless of the license. To manage communication better, we suggest that the channel's users be limited to ten.

What Is 2 Way Radio VOX?

Voice activation is VOX. VOX promises hands-free operation. "Speak and the radio will open to broadcast your message." However, voice activation should actually be called sound activation. The VOX function on a 2-way radio can't distinguish between a call to help or the usual grunts, groans and grunts of normal physical activity. VOX may cause more problems than it solves. We do not recommend VOX being used in commercial applications.

Can I Change The Frequencies On My 2 Way Radios?

Many commercial-grade 2 way radios can be programmed from either a computer onboard or via a PC. Although you cannot change VHF to UHF, the radio can be programmed with a PC or on-board programming. However, it can alter the frequencies in the band.

What Is The Life Expectancy Of A 2 Way Radio?

Two-way radios of commercial grade are made to comply with Military Specifications as well as Intrusion Protection standards. These radios can live for a long time if they are maintained and used in accordance with the specifications. Two-way radios can last up to 10 years. But radio batteries rarely last more than 3 to 4 years.

Why Do 2 Way Radios Have Multiple Channels?

Every channel can be programed at a different frequency. Most modern 2 way radios can have between 4 and 16 channels, although some radios may have up to 256 channels. Channel one will be the only channel that broadcasts on the frequency being used. It is beneficial for commercial applications to have different communication depending on the work group or whereabouts. Radios can be used by schools to broadcast the news. Teachers and administrators might prefer one channel.

How Far Do 2 Way Radios Broadcast?

Broadcast distances of commercial-grade hand-held radios are generally between one and two miles. While VHF radios can broadcast further, they do not penetrate as far. UHF radios transmit a greater distance and have better penetration.

Is VHF Or UHF Better?

The frequency band that a radio can operate within is called VHF (very high frequency), or UHF [ultra high frequency]. VHF operates between 136 and 174 MHz, while UHF operates between 400 and 512 MHz. Wave length is shorter the higher frequency. A signal will travel farther if it has a longer wave length. It is easier for the signal's to penetrate if the wave length is shorter. VHF broadcasts better over open water and from an unobstructed location to another. For broadcasting through buildings or other obstructions, UHF is better than VHF.

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About Harlan Ellison

Harlan Ellison

Harlan Ellison is a writer and audio equipment enthusiast. He's particularly interested in home theater HiFi audio, and he has been the editor of The Audio Insights since its inception. Harlan is known for his sharp wit and scathing critiques, but he also has a great love of music and audio gear. When he's not writing or editing, Harlan can be found listening to music or watching movies with his wife.