Instruments such as walkie-talkies have been around for quite some time. If the very first products were distinguished by a weak signal, a large amount of interference, then modern designs are compact and powerful products. With its help, you can provide remote communication in those areas where it is needed most, and this happens quite often. If you do not take into account entertainment or amateur devices, then the capabilities of compact radio stations are very wide. Walkie-talkies are often used by security officers, security officials, taxi drivers, hunters, fishermen, ship captains, builders, and so on.
On sale today you can find a really huge assortment of such products, so choosing the most suitable device is not so easy as it might seem at first glance. We decided to dedicate the rating to the best walkie-talkies of 2019. Before we begin to consider specific models and analyze their operational characteristics, let's look at what these devices are and what should be paid attention to in the process of their selection.
Summary of the rating:
What factors are important when buying a walkie-talkie?
At the first stage, you should decide for what purpose this device will be used. We did not begin to consider highly specialized equipment, having decided to turn to only the most common products. Conventionally, products can be divided into several varieties: tourist walkie-talkies - they must have small overall dimensions and a capacious battery that allows them to do without recharging for a long time. Walkie-talkies for lovers of hunting and fishing are necessarily equipped with shockproof and waterproof housing. Units designed for motorists in general and truckers in particular should be powerful and reliable, small overall dimensions are not important in this case. Products designed for use within the city limits are usually used by security guards and builders. The most important characteristics of these devices are autonomy and compact overall dimensions.
Such radio stations operate in certain bands, in our country the most popular are CB (27 MHz), UHF (400-480 MHz), VHF (136-174 MHz). In principle, it is impossible to say which one is better or worse - a lot depends on the area of use: for example, CB will show its best in open spaces, in a forest area it will not work so well. Here the optimal device will be operating at a frequency of VHF.
Another important point affecting the choice of device is the transmitter power. It seems to be that the more powerful the better, however, this affects the battery life. If it is possible to regularly recharge the battery, then it is perfectly acceptable to purchase powerful products. In addition, pay attention to the type of battery - it can be both specialized batteries, and the most ordinary AA finger batteries. Battery-operated walkie-talkies are best suited for hiking, there are models that have a reduced energy consumption mode, which allows you to extend battery life. This parameter is absolutely not important for models designed for use in cars, since there the device is connected directly to the vehicle’s power supply.
Portability options depend on the type of walkie-talkie.For automotive products, it is important that it is convenient to install, and the tourist structure should fit comfortably in the palm of your hand and not exceed the mass of an ordinary smartphone. Be sure to take into account the radius of the radio. The communication range can vary significantly depending on the frequency at which the product operates. In addition, at the moment, external factors directly influence - humidity, cloudiness, ambient temperature, topography, possible obstacles. The range of an automobile-type walkie-talkie depends on the power of the installed antenna, the most powerful transmitters allow communication between cars located at a distance from each other of the order of several tens of kilometers.
In accordance with applicable law, some types of walkie-talkies are subject to registration. In particular, this applies to devices operating in the UHF and VHF bands. Many models have a number of additional features. In particular, with their help it is possible to select certain subscribers and conduct a dialogue directly with them, which is very convenient in case of air congestion. Active noise reduction system allows you to reduce the amount of interference on the channel and make communication more comfortable. Many walkie-talkies are equipped with an external headset. Tourist walkie-talkies, as a rule, are placed in a shockproof and waterproof housing, which will reliably protect the device from damage.
When compiling our rating of the best walkie-talkies in 2019, we took into account all these points, in addition, we took into account the ratio of price and quality of products, as well as user reviews. We tried to include here only affordable products so that each of our readers could afford to purchase the model they like.
Inexpensive products
4. ROGER KP-55
This is an ideal device for people who prefer outdoor activities such as cycling, skiing and so on. The mass of the product is only 60 grams with overall dimensions of 47x74x14.5 mm. The radio is placed in a case made of rubberized plastic. The assembly is excellent, no extraneous creaks, backlashes and other manufacturing defects were found. It reliably protects internal elements from dust and moisture - the assembly complies with the international standard IP57. This can tell the user that the walkie-talkie will work quietly even in the most dusty places, it can be immersed in water to a depth of 1 meter and kept there for an hour. In urban conditions, the communication range of the device is from 500 meters to 1 km, in open areas this figure is much higher.
A DSP processor is installed in the walkie-talkie, which allows you to make the device circuit simpler and achieve minimum overall dimensions. It is worth noting that such a product is susceptible to various electromagnetic type interference. Speech on the radio is heard very well. The autonomy of the product is also very decent - about 15-17 hours in a 5/5/90 cycle, if you use the maximum settings with the highest power, the battery will last for about 6 hours of continuous operation. The model is charged from the power supply with a micro USB connector. The antenna here is soft, so breaking it will be almost impossible. Despite the fact that the device is more like a toy, it is quite high quality and allows you to create a completely acceptable communication channel. The product operates in the frequency range of 446 MHz at an ambient temperature of -20 to +55 degrees.
Benefits:
- The mode of reduced battery power consumption is provided;
- If necessary, you can instantly copy the settings from one device to another;
- Noise reduction is configured in manual mode;
- Minimum overall dimensions and weight;
- Reliability and durability;
- Waterproof housing.
Disadvantages:
- No communication verification system is provided;
- Too late reports a low battery.
3.BELLSOUTH T-388
This kit is characterized by high quality workmanship and low cost. With the help of these walkie-talkies it will be possible to always stay in touch on tourist and country trips, including those where there is no mobile communication, and where it is, it will be possible to save on these costs well. The overall dimensions of the device are small. The case is made of matte plastic medium roughness, which will never slip in your hands. Its shape is ergonomic, the walkie-talkie fits comfortably in the hand, the recesses for the fingers are arranged in such a way that the product is very convenient to hold in large and miniature palms. In the upper part of the structure there is a rigid, non-bending antenna, a high-brightness LED flashlight is provided, as well as a headset jack. On the front side is the earpiece, which is closed by a perforated plastic plate. There are also function buttons and a backlit LCD display where all the information the user needs will be displayed.
Performance for a model of this price category is quite high. The maximum communication range reaches 5 km in open space. Each walkie-talkie operates on the basis of 4 finger batteries. This ensures long-term autonomy of the device, if necessary, the batteries change within a matter of seconds, which saves a large amount of time on charging the battery. The flashlight is quite bright, it will be very useful in the dark. The noise reduction system is very reliable, it works stably, the sound is crisp and clear.
Benefits:
- The design is equipped with an informative liquid crystal display with a diagonal of 2.5 inches;
- Managing the product is very simple;
- High-quality noise reduction system;
- Convenient ergonomic body shape;
- Reasonable cost.
Disadvantages:
- Information on the display is problematic to read under the bright sun.
2. TYT TH-UV8000D
Another design that is quite affordable in terms of cost, which is characterized by decent packaging. In particular, with this device there are two sets of antennas - one standard, whose length is 17 cm, and elongated - by 35.5 cm. The design is quite interesting, the shape is streamlined, all corners are rounded, the surface of the case will not cut into fingers or palms . The case is made of high-quality medium-density plastic, users in reviews regularly note high build quality: there are no backlashes and extraneous creaks, all elements are carefully adjusted, the gaps between them are minimal. The design has a built-in lithium-ion battery, which has a significant resource of work. all controls are very convenient. All the keys are plastic, they are pressed with characteristic clicks, the stroke is average, you don’t have to make especially significant efforts when pressed.
The maximum power of the radio station is 10 W, which allows you to effectively use it even at fairly large distances. All settings can be changed by connecting the equipment to the computer - for this you will have to download the appropriate driver and application. The radio operates stably both in open spaces and in difficult terrain. There is a liquid crystal display with three backlight modes, which allows you to comfortably use the equipment both on sunny days, and in bad weather or in low light conditions. There is a monitoring function that allows you to catch and listen to even weak signals and scan all channels, there is a connector for connecting a wired headset, which is also very convenient.
Benefits:
- Powerful enough device;
- Long work from one battery charge;
- High-quality assembly;
- Attractive appearance;
- The convenience of use.
Disadvantages:
- Tight connector for connecting the antenna.
1. Baofeng BF-888S
Among inexpensive products, this walkie-talkie is the most popular not only among Russian users, but also among many foreign fans of similar equipment - this is evidenced by statistical data from various electronic trading platforms. The radio is equipped with built-in memory for 16 channels, and they can be programmed only through a personal computer. The model is placed in a plastic case, the assembly is reliable, does not cause any complaints. The display is not provided here, which is why it is not possible to access important functions such as activating the noise reduction system. The power of the radio is 5 watts, it operates at a frequency of 400-470 MHz. The overall dimensions of the device are 115x60x30 mm - it is quite comfortable to hold in both large and small hands.
This walkie-talkie has a minimal set of features, but it is quite enough, especially at such a low price. Often a station is acquired as a backup channel. Along with the design, a charger for the battery is supplied, there is a clip that allows you to hang the walkie-talkie on your belt, and there are also headphones. The antenna length is 11 cm. The device is also equipped with an alarm system and a very powerful LED-type flashlight, the capacity of a lithium-ion battery is 1500 mAh at a voltage of 3.7 V, thanks to which the model is able to work offline for up to 8 hours, the battery will fully charge for 4 hours.
Benefits:
- Quite a decent quality of communication;
- Reliable battery that provides continuous operation without recharging;
- Acceptable power output;
- There is everything you need for comfortable use.
Disadvantages:
- The flashlight after a while starts to flicker.
The best models for fishing and hunting
3. Motorola TLKR-T80 Extreme Quad
This is a very convenient means of communication when used outdoors at short distances, especially in the case when mobile communication is intermittent or does not work at all. The walkie-talkie is quite simple to use - even a person who previously had no experience with radio stations can set it up. The device operates in a range that does not require registration. In open spaces, the maximum communication range can reach about 10 km, but the manufacturer does not indicate in the instructions that this can be achieved in sunny weather in the absence of wind and exclusively in open areas. You can use standard finger-type batteries or rechargeable batteries for power, in addition, a built-in nickel-cadmium battery is provided, however, it cannot be recharged - it must first be fully charged and then charged.
The set entered the wide sale literally a year ago. Four radios are delivered at once, which is very convenient for hunters, there are also two stations for charging devices. There are 8 channels for communication, this is enough for a full conversation. The case is waterproof rubberized. There is a liquid crystal display, it is equipped with a convenient backlight and a charge indicator. The mass of one radio is 140 grams. The functionality is wide, there is the ability to scan channels, at the same time you can monitor two channels at once, if necessary, the keyboard is locked, automatic shutdown is provided.
Benefits:
- Just to use;
- You can use ordinary finger batteries;
- No need to register walkie-talkies.
Disadvantages:
- Shows battery discharge only when it is already fully discharged.
2. KENWOOD TK-2406M
This walkie-talkie operates in the VHF range at a frequency of 136-174 MHz, and provides the highest power of 5 watts. The user can use one of 16 communication channels. There are two programmable buttons on the case, which a person can configure depending on his own needs. The radio has a so-called panic button.In order to quickly make the choice of an available communication channel, there are scanning modes. It is worth noting that this model is able to function normally in a fairly wide temperature range - from -30 to +60 degrees. The mass of the product is negligible, the case is of high quality, made of rubberized materials. On the sides there are rubber inserts that will not allow the walkie-talkie to slip out of your hands. The sound transmission quality is very high largely due to the installed powerful speaker. The device is perfectly protected against moisture - IPX5 standard.
All settings are programmed using a personal computer or laptop. In addition to the function of high-quality suppression of extraneous noise, there are a number of additional features. In particular, there is activation of the radio by voice through the headset. The battery power is not very high, so it discharges quite quickly, especially if the device is in cold weather.
Benefits:
- Good workmanship and assembly;
- Pure sound, voice can be heard with ease;
- Long service life;
- On the surface of the case there is nothing superfluous.
Disadvantages:
- Weak battery.
1. Vector VT-43 H2
This device is the best suited for lovers of hunting or fishing. This walkie-talkie is capable of operating in two bands - VHF 136-174 MHz and UHF 400-470 MHz. The maximum power of the equipment is 5 W, if desired, the user can choose a low radiation power of 1 W, which can significantly save battery power. There are quite a few memory channels, all of them are provided with quick access, and switching between frequencies is carried out almost instantly. The design is equipped with a functional liquid crystal display, where not only the necessary information is displayed, but there is an additional opportunity to gain access to all the features of the product. In particular, it can be used to configure the operation of a tone or digital type noise suppression system.
The case of this walkie-talkie is made of polymer materials, it has a full-fledged button keyboard where you can enter the required frequency. When scanning the range of ether, it is possible to use the frequency grid. The walkie-talkie has a jack for connecting a wired headset. It is equipped with a rather powerful lithium-ion battery, the capacity of which is 2800 mAh, which allows to achieve a long battery life. This radio station is quite suitable for daily use in a variety of conditions. The case is waterproof, also protected from dust.
Benefits:
- Display with universal backlight;
- The keyboard is locked if necessary;
- You can program the walkie-talkie both offline and through a computer connection;
- The case of the increased durability;
- High battery capacity;
- Reasonable cost;
- The battery indicator displays current data.
Disadvantages:
- Not found.
Walkie-talkies for cars
3. President Lincoln II ASC
It is enough to even glance at this device, and it immediately becomes clear - it combines everything you need, which only a sophisticated amateur radio amateur and an ordinary trucker can wish for. The product is quite complex, it is suitable even for those who are well versed in radio engineering and the corresponding type of communication. Such a walkie-talkie is made on the basis of components of the highest quality. The design is equipped with a multifunctional display, which displays all the necessary data. In particular, it provides information on the frequency, channel number, and range letter. The radio operates in the range of 28-29.7 MHz. There are a lot of settings here, with the right approach to this issue, you can ultimately get the optimal quality of data reception and transmission. If necessary, the user can even adjust the microphone sensitivity.
It is possible to adjust the frequency of reception, which will ensure clear sound of the interlocutor's voice.There are built-in filters that allow you to completely get rid of even the most serious interference. Noise suppressor is available both manual and automatic. If necessary, the display can display information about the mains voltage on board the vehicle, and a system of reliable protection against too high voltage or amperage is also provided.
Benefits:
- It is made exclusively of the highest quality materials;
- Rotary channel selector - no need to be distracted by it while driving;
- A huge number of fine-tuning equipment;
- Enhanced LCD functionality;
- The radio station is perfectly protected from high voltage and from its surges.
Disadvantages:
- To gain access to all the features of the device will have to delve into the hardware component of the design.
2. MegaJet MJ-333
The radio station has a set of all necessary functions, which allows you to comfortably use it on the road. The device is made in the form of a monoblock with a wired intercom. The case is of high quality, made of metal, the front panel is made of matte black plastic, on which various kinds of pollution, dust and so on will not be noticeable. The display of the walkie-talkie is liquid crystal, on it the information is perfectly visible regardless of viewing angles. Amber backlight, LED type. All buttons and other functional elements of the model also have a backlight, which positively affects the usability of the design. The headset has no additional elements - only a microphone and a tangent. The assembly of the model is high-quality, we have not met a single criticism in user reviews.
In terms of hardware device, the radio station is equipped with two noise suppressors at once - automatic and threshold. In general, as noted by the owners of such stations, they are characterized by low cost and a long service life, during which they retain all of their original functions. The overall dimensions are compact, therefore such a device can be placed even in a passenger vehicle. The speaker is quite loud - its power is 3 watts, it is possible to quickly switch to the emergency channel.
Benefits:
- It catches a signal well even at a considerable distance;
- Reasonable cost;
- High quality workmanship;
- Reception and transmission of a signal occurs at a qualitatively high level;
- A simple device allows for a long equipment life.
Disadvantages:
- Automatic noise reduction makes reception a bit rude.
1. Optim Voyager
This is a modified model of the previous generation. The creators tried to take into account all the comments and wishes of users, as well as the latest market trends for radio stations operating in the CB band. The result is a rather interesting and stylish design. The package bundle is no different from the standard one - a headset and accessories for fastening in the passenger compartment are supplied with the walkie-talkie. The case is made of cast aluminum with additional stiffeners, which reliably protects the radio from the occurrence of various kinds of defects. The liquid crystal display located on the front panel of the color walkie-talkie has a night mode. A large amount of various information that will be useful to the user is displayed on it, including a status indicator. In addition to it, on the body you can find six hardware function buttons, the purpose of which, if necessary, can be programmed.
Shortcuts to the shared or rescue channel are provided. Like the previous model, there are two types of noise suppressor - spectral and threshold.It is worth noting that the device will consume energy if only time is displayed. However, the developers of the walkie-talkie claim that this moment can be reduced to almost zero if you set the supply voltage to 12.5 V or even less.
Benefits:
- Inexpensive, but quite effective equipment;
- Color liquid crystal display;
- All functional elements have LED backlight;
- It is convenient to use regardless of the time of day.
Disadvantages:
- Not found.
In conclusion, a useful video
Well, our review of the best walkie-talkies of 2019 has ended. For each model, we have collected a maximum of information, therefore, as we want to believe, now you can easily choose the best products for yourself. If you still have doubts or unresolved questions, you can ask them in the comments - we will try to quickly respond to them and give you a comprehensive answer.
(1 ratings, average: 5,00 out of 5)
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