The 30 best walkie talkie brands
Motorola, Baofeng and Retevis lead our ranking of 30 walkie talkie brands. Compare what each brand makes, visit its official site, or shop it online.
Walkie Talkie brands, ranked
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1
Motorola
Motorola makes consumer and business two-way radios, including its Talkabout family of walkie talkies.
Website: motorola.com |Brands like Motorola
Popularity 10.0/10
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2
Baofeng
Baofeng makes low-cost handheld two-way radios used for amateur and general communication.
Website: baofengtech.com |Brands like Baofeng
Popularity 9.8/10
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3
Retevis
Retevis makes handheld two-way radios for business, outdoor and amateur use.
Website: retevis.com |Brands like Retevis
Popularity 7.3/10
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4
Cobra Electronics
Cobra Electronics makes consumer walkie talkies and two-way radios for recreation and road trips.
Website: cobra.com |Brands like Cobra Electronics
Popularity 7.2/10
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5
Midland
Midland makes FRS and GMRS walkie talkies for outdoor, family and emergency use.
Website: midlandusa.com |Brands like Midland
Popularity 5.5/10
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6
Uniden
Uniden is known for scanners and cordless phones and has also offered FRS and GMRS two-way radios.
Website: uniden.com |Brands like Uniden
Popularity 4.3/10
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7
eSynic
eSYNiC is a tech brand that serves high-quality electronic appliances. Founded in 2012, it has emerged as one of the leading tech brands and offers its products across the globe. Their terms and conditions are very user-friendly, including free and easy returns within 30 days and free shipping above the order of 30$. Their long-lasting and innovative products have made customer's life easier and more pleasant.
Website: esynic.com |Brands like eSynic
Popularity 2.6/10
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8
Upgrow
Looking for a place that offers housewares, different types of tools, accessories, etc., is not an easy task. Such places are often hard to find, so Upgrow brings you a one-stop store for all your household needs and other plans. Established in 2013, Upgrow offers various items, from toys and gifts to regular tools and houseware appliances. With exceptional quality products, they also provide professional customer service, so you don’t go short of any products.
Website: upgrow.store |Brands like Upgrow
Popularity 2.6/10
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9
ZASTONE
ZASTONE makes handheld two-way radios sold for business and personal use.
Website: zastone.cn |Brands like ZASTONE
Popularity 2.1/10
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10
TYT
TYT makes budget handheld two-way radios for amateur and general communication.
Website: tyt888.com |Brands like TYT
Popularity 2.0/10
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11
Binatone
Binatone is known for household phones and has offered consumer walkie talkie sets.
Website: binatoneglobal.com |Brands like Binatone
Popularity 1.9/10
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12
Kenwood
Kenwood makes amateur and commercial two-way radios and mobile transceivers.
Website: kenwood.com |Brands like Kenwood
Popularity 1.8/10
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13
Hytera
Hytera makes professional digital and analog two-way radios for business and public safety.
Website: hytera.us |Brands like Hytera
Popularity 1.7/10
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14
Lafayette
This 21st century is the century of technology. Several instruments are coming into the market, which makes human life easy. Several people are doing innovations to produce the latest technology equipment. Lafayette is one such brand of instruments. Customers will...
Website: lafayetteevaluation.com |Brands like Lafayette
Popularity 1.7/10
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15
LEIXEN
As a child, we all thought how cool it would be to own a walkie-talkie at least for once. Leixen Electronics seems to live our childhood dreams, as they specialize in professional two-way radio or walkie-talkies. These are handy devices,...
Website: leixen.com |Brands like LEIXEN
Popularity 1.7/10
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16
Floureon
Floureon is a well-known brand specializing in security cameras for the home, office, and other locations. It has several characteristics, including simple installation and connection. You can always be sure of safety and peace of mind with Floureon security cameras....
Website: floureon.com |Brands like Floureon
Popularity 1.7/10
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17
Maxtop
Standing upon the strong foundations of quality and efficiency, Maxtop was founded in 1998. They continue to stand sturdy with their high customer satisfaction. They manufacture two-way radio accessories and communication tools. These are used by several people coming from...
Website: maxtop.com |Brands like Maxtop
Popularity 1.6/10
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18
Icom
Icom makes amateur, marine and commercial two-way radios and handheld transceivers.
Website: icomamerica.com |Brands like Icom
Popularity 1.6/10
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19
Maxon
Maxon manufactures and distributes two-way radio and data radio equipment. Some of their excellent products are analog portable radios with capabilities such as monitoring, scan, lone worker, emergency alert, flashlight, and a battery saver, utilized in schools, restaurants, retail establishments,...
Website: maxonamerica.com |Brands like Maxon
Popularity 1.5/10
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20
MTM
Sometimes a classy watch is all you need to pump up your glamour quotient. MTM offers a vast display of trendy, rugged, and elite men's wristwatches suitable for every occasion. Although they have something for everyone in their collections, if...
Website: mtmwatch.com |Brands like MTM
Popularity 1.3/10
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21
Ritron
Ritron makes business band and commercial two-way radios and repeaters.
Website: ritron.com |Brands like Ritron
Popularity 1.3/10
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22
INTEK
The most incredible online store to purchase Vintage Radios is INTEK. Online radio purchases include more than simply aesthetics. It has to do with how you feel and what you hear. They ensure that each vintage radio they sell has...
Website: intek-radios.com |Brands like INTEK
Popularity 1.2/10
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23
Entel
Entel makes professional and business two-way radios for industrial and public sector users.
Website: entel.co.uk |Brands like Entel
Popularity 1.0/10
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24
QYT
QYT makes handheld two-way radios for amateur and general communication.
Website: qytradio.com |Brands like QYT
Popularity 1.0/10
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25
Xact Communication
Xact Communications is a company that provides phone system software to clients which helps them achieve a real business impact. Established in the USA, the company offers all 50 states data and communication services. The company aims to increase flexibility,...
Website: xactcommunications.com |Brands like Xact Communication
Popularity 1.0/10
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26
Brondi
Brondi makes consumer walkie talkies and two-way radios sold in Europe.
Website: brondi.it |Brands like Brondi
Popularity 0.9/10
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27
Radioddity
Radioddity makes budget handheld two-way radios for amateur and general use.
Website: radioddity.com |Brands like Radioddity
Popularity 0.8/10
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28
Stabo
Stabo is a German maker of CB and two-way radio equipment.
Website: stabo.de |Brands like Stabo
Popularity 0.8/10
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29
WOUXUN
WOUXUN makes handheld and mobile two-way radios for amateur and business users.
Website: wouxun.com |Brands like WOUXUN
Popularity 0.6/10
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30
TEKK
TEKK makes handheld two-way radios for amateur and general communication.
Website: tekk-radios.com |Brands like TEKK
Popularity 0.6/10
Official websites and social accounts
| Brand | Website | X / Twitter | YouTube | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Motorola | motorola.com | – | – | – | – |
| Baofeng | baofengtech.com | /BaoFeng.Tech.Radio | btech_radios | – | – |
| Retevis | retevis.com | /retevis | – | – | – |
| Cobra Electronics | cobra.com | /CobraElectronics | cobraelectronics | @CobraElectronic | – |
| Midland | midlandusa.com | /MidlandUSA | midlandusa | @MidlandUSA | Midlandusa |
| Uniden | uniden.com | /UnidenAmerica | – | @Uniden_America | Uniden America |
| eSynic | esynic.com | /Jiangsu-steel-group | – | @jiangsusteel | – |
| Upgrow | upgrow.store | – | – | – | – |
| ZASTONE | zastone.cn | – | – | – | – |
| TYT | tyt888.com | – | – | – | – |
Walkie Talkie Buying Guide
Walkie talkies are an essential communication tool for outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, hunters, and those who work in demanding environments. They allow you to stay connected to others within range without relying on cellular or Wi-Fi networks. When choosing a walkie talkie, there are a few key factors to consider to ensure you end up with a quality product that meets your needs.
Range
Range is one of the most important factors to consider when buying a walkie talkie. The range is the distance that the walkie talkie can transmit and receive messages. It is essential to choose a walkie talkie that has a range that meets your needs. If the walkie talkie's range is too short, it will be useless for communicating over long distances, and if the range is too long, it can drain the battery quickly.
When looking at a walkie talkie's range, you must understand that manufacturer's advertised range is not always accurate. The range can be affected by several factors, including terrain, buildings, and interference from other devices. To ensure you get an accurate estimate of the range, consider factors such as the typical terrain you will be using it in and use customer reviews to gauge real-world performance.
Battery Life
The battery life of a walkie talkie is another crucial factor to consider, especially if you plan to use it for extended periods. Battery life can vary significantly from model to model, and it's essential to choose a walkie talkie with a battery that can last as long as possible. Walkie talkies use batteries such as AA, AAA or rechargeable Li-ion batteries.
A walkie talkie that has a low battery life will require you to replace or recharge the battery frequently, which can be tedious and time-consuming. Some walkie talkies have additional features such as low battery alerts and energy-saving modes that extend the battery life. Consider the overall battery capacity, the time required for charging fully, and how the battery can be replaced if required.
Water Resistance
If you plan to use your walkie talkie in wet or damp environments or near water bodies, it is essential to choose a model with a high level of water resistance. Some walkie talkie models that are marketed as water-resistant do not work correctly if they get wet or submerged in water.
Look for ratings such as IPX7 or IPX8 that indicate its depth and duration of immersion in water without any damage. A higher rating means the walkie talkie can withstand more water pressure and depth for a longer duration. If you plan to use your walkie talkie in harsh outdoor conditions, choose a model with a high water-resistant rating.
Channels
Walkie talkies transmit and receive messages on specific frequencies called channels. Walkie talkies can have a fixed number of channels or multiple channels, each with a separate frequency. If you plan to use the walkie talkie for multiple purposes, it can be beneficial to choose a model with enough channels that meet all your needs.
Some walkie talkie models also allow you to talk via private single channels or use privacy codes, which can be helpful if you want to keep your conversations private. Channels can also be helpful in group communication, as two or more walkie talkies can be set to the same channel to keep everyone within the group connected.
Weight and Size
The weight and size of a walkie talkie are two essential factors to consider if you plan to carry it around for an extended period. Most walkie talkies are small and lightweight for convenience, but they can still differ significantly in terms of size and weight. Choose a model that is light, compact and easy to carry i.e. fits in your pocket or can be clipped to your waistband.
Display and Interface
The display and interface are two critical aspects of any walkie talkie. A good display should be easy to read, have an intuitive design, and show all the necessary information clearly. Display options range from LCD to LED displays, and intuitive designs like backlit or colour-coded screens can help you read them easily in low light conditions, for example, night time.
The interface should be user-friendly and easy to navigate, allowing you to perform common functions quickly and easily. This includes menus and dial options that are easy to understand and access.
Add-On Features
Additional add-on features that a walkie talkie comes with can significantly enhance the product's functionality. Features such as VOX (Voice-Activated Transmission) that allows you to use your walkie talkie hands-free can be a valuable feature during outdoor activities, especially cycling, hiking or climbing where holding the walkie talkie can be inconvenient.
Other features such as vibration and tone alerts, flashlights, and GPS can make a walkie talkie even more versatile and useful in various outdoor situations. Consider the overall functionality of the walkie talkie when choosing a model to ensure you get everything you need.
Price
Price is always a crucial factor when buying any product. Walkie talkies can range from budget to premium pricing, depending on the features and functionality they offer. It's essential to find a balance between price and functionality to ensure you get a model that gives you the features you need without breaking the bank.
When choosing a walkie talkie, consider your budget and make sure you get the most value for money. A higher-priced walkie talkie may have additional features, but if they are not something you need, you may end up paying for something you don't use.
Conclusion
When choosing the right walkie talkie, understanding the range, battery life, water resistance, channels, weight and size, display and interface, additional features, and price are essential considerations. It's essential to identify your specific needs and budget to ensure you get a model that meets your requirements. A quality walkie talkie can be a valuable communication tool for outdoor activities, work environments and emergency situations.