Waterproof walkie-talkies are the best for staying in touch with the rest of the team during an excursion. They’re most appropriate during water-based activities like paddling in the open ocean or a local lake. Where the noise from the gutsy waves and swooshing wind. Will leave you out in the water yelling to communicate.
The walkie-talkie is also a safety precaution that prepares you in the case of an emergency. The most likely situation; is communication with a crew member who has wandered away from the group and cannot be seen.
The difference between a cellphone and a walkie-talkie is that the latter will still allow for communication even in the absence of cell service.
The 5 Best waterproof Walkie Talkies
After weeks of research, we came up with a list of the best waterproof walkie-talkies. Besides impressing us, these gadgets had received positive feedback. From both experts and consumers who had experience using them
Cobra MR HH350 FLT Handheld Floating VHF Radio
This is undoubtedly the best waterproof walkie-talkie out there. It is durable, and offers clear communication with help of a noise-canceling microphone. In addition it has a burp feature that vibrates water out of the speaker grill.
Key Features
- Can monitor three channels at once (Channel 16 and two user selected channel).
- JIS7 (IPX7) waterproof standards
- Access to NOAA weather channels.
- 1, 3 or 6 watts selectable output power
- 16 channels
- 0.6-lbs in weight
- 3 year warranty
Midland GXT1000VP4 GMRS Waterproof Walkie Talkie
The Midland GXT1000 offers reliable and powerful performance to keep you in touch with your crew.
Key Features
- 50 GMRS (General Mobile Radio Service) Channels
- Jis4 Waterproof Protection
- NOAA Weather Scan + Alert
- 36-Mile Range in a no obstruction area
- 142 privacy codes
- Includes rechargeable battery
- Weighs 1.5-lbs each
- 3-year warranty
COBRA ACXT645 Water Resistant Walkie Talkies
This is a rugged alternative that comes with rubberized grips and enhanced functionality. It has a voice-activated transmission and vibrating feedback that notifies you of incoming transmissions.
Key Features
- 22 channels combined with the 142 privacy codes
- Built-in LED Flashlight
- 35 mile range
- 10 NOAA weather channels
- IPX4/JIS4 waterproof standards
- Weights 0.35-lbs
- Rechargeable NiMH batteries included
Uniden Atlantis 155 Waterproof Walkie Talkie
This highly rated walkie-talkie has the Largest LCD screen in its class -25mm (h) x 40mm (w). It has a Paper White Backlight display for Day Time, and Red Backlight display for Night Time.
Key Features
- large LCD display
- IPX8 / JIS8 waterproof standards
- Receives all NOAA Weather Channels and Alerts
- 950mAh NiMH rechargeable batteries and DC charging cable included
- 3 year Waterproof Warranty
- 25 channels
- Weights 1.06-lbs
Standard Horizon HX210 HX210 Waterproof Walkie Talkie
This compact cased
Key Features
- IPX7 Waterproof rating
- Selectable 6W / 2.5W / 1W output power
- High resolution dot matrix LCD display
- High capacity 1850 mAh Li-Ion battery
- 3 hour desktop rapid charger
- 3 year waterproof warranty
- Weighs 0.91-lbs
Best Waterproof Walkie Talkies- Buying Guide
These are the important features to look at while shopping for a waterproof walkie-talkie.
1. Battery type and life
Most walkie-talkies run on either lithium-polymer or lithium-ion batteries which are easily rechargeable when down on charge. However, we have budget models powered by alkaline AA batteries. Which we consider ideal for wandering away from civilization. Since you can always carry spare batteries in case the batteries lose charge.
When shopping for a walkie talkie you want a device that will keep you powered for as long as possible. To enable you to communicate effectively with your crew.
2. Waterproofing Rating
There exist different waterproofing standards denoted by the IP or JIS ratings. You can go through the IP and JIS rating charts to learn more about the numbering. But for a well-waterproofed walkie-talkie, we recommend at least the following;
- IP-67 rating-This will provide protection against dust and water submersion up to a depth of 1 Meter for 30 Minutes.
- JIS 4/IP-x4– Protects from splashing water coming from all directions
3. Range
Walkie-talkies only work up to a particular distance. Most operate within a range of 1 or 2 miles. But we also have others meant for long-range. Consider your desired range when shopping for a walkie-talkie, to prevent calls from breaking up during crucial times.
4. Channel selection and Privacy codes
The channel provides an open line through which communication can be made. Two total strangers using walkie-talkies in a similar location can mistakenly tune into each other’s channel. That’s why it’s important to get a walkie-talkie with a wider range of channels. To make it easy to find an open channel.
A privacy code adds an extra variable to the channel settings to prevent another person from easily tuning into it. This is a useful feature if it’s included in a walkie-talkie. It’s however good to note that if a stranger sets a similar privacy code, they can still access the channel.
5. Weather readings and NOAA alerts.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association (NOAA), has a dedicated weather channel. That provides updates in the case of unpleasant weather such as; storms and heavy rains that could pose a risk.
Getting a walkie-talkie with this capability is a huge safety advantage.
6. Buoyancy
Some walkies are made to float, in the case of an accidental drop into a water body. Such can also be a very useful characteristic if its present in a walkie-talkie.
7. GPS capability
This feature comes in handy when you are lost in the middle of the ocean, or deep in the woods. Knowing the coordinates from your walkie will lead to easier extraction.
Final Thoughts
A walkie-talkie is an important piece of equipment to carry around during that getaway or excursion. Personally, I go camping a lot and besides a foldable rocking chair, the walkie-talkie is something else that I never leave behind. It gives me a feeling of safety and also helps me feel connected in areas without a cell signal.
Now, knowing all the features to look for. You will easily be able to get the right gadget next time you want to go camping.
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