The Best Long Range Two Way Radios for 2023

Best Long Range Two Way Radio Reviews

1. Arcshell AR-5 Long Range Two-Way Radios

I see that you can gain effective long-range radio communication with other teammates at a meager price by purchasing this pack of 4 identical Arcshell UHF radios. Although each of them is made small enough to fit into your hand, the long-range two-way communication is water-resistant and solidly built for durable use.

There are 16 UHF channels in the 400 – 470MHz range that have been preset, and these 4 radios are at the same frequency from the start. A synthesized voice would tell you the station number if you use the channel switch knob. Its push-to-talk button and built-in microphone are the finest for two way communication.

In terms of privacy protection, I highly value the CTCSS/CDCSS tones of this long-range UHF transceiver and its busy channel lock function in securing your conversations. The earpiece that comes along with each two-way radio is the single-earbud type with a soft foam piece and pluggable into a 3.5 or 2.5mm jack.

I suggest using the radio emergency alarm and its integrated LED flashlight during sudden emergency cases. You have up to 2 charging methods to choose, whether to charge this entire long-range radio or 1500mAh lithium-ion battery alone on the supplied dock. It only takes 2.5 hours for a full charge to transmit up to 96 hours.

Though the audio distortion rate of this long-range two way radio is below 5%, the external speaker still stays loud and clear with an extra VOX function. I know that the transmission range is highly dependent on your terrain, despite that it gained my trust with UHF wavelengths and a long antenna, which work their best around urban areas.

2. Uniden SX507-2CKHS Long Range FRS Two-Way Radio

At present, IPX7 is the highest waterproof rating for electronic devices and this SX507-2CKHS long-range FRS radio from Uniden is proudly manufactured to be certified for this. It means the walkie talkie can handle being submerged at 3 feet underwater for 30 minutes without problems, and it is floatable as well.

As the brand has engineered this transceiver to work with radio frequencies of industry-standards, you can use this pack of 2 commercial two-way radios and long-range to radio with other radio models. The FRS two way unit receives NOAA weather channels to alert you when there is any weather emergency.

A total of 22 FRS channels are available to your advantage, so pick one that is not being used by anybody for smooth communication. The long-range walkie talkie is said to operate well up to 50 miles, which means you are connected with other family members on all occasions like shopping, camping or biking, etc.

This two-way radio can save you an extra open communication line, thanks to the 142 privacy and direct call codes that reduce the interference from other units. Its direct call mode is used when you need to contact a certain person in your group; only their radio vibrates and rings like a phone while others’ remain silent.

This long range FRS walkie talkie consumes a set of 6 rechargeable AA NiMH batteries that work up to 14 hours after a full charge. Since there are 2 radios in the package, its charging cradle is made in a dual-type and flexible USB adapter. The roger beep function helps you to end conversations much faster.

3. SAMCOM 2 Way Long Range Handheld UHF Ham Radio

If you are looking for a powerful handheld long-range radio that can transceive through wood, metal, and concrete in urban areas, this two way UHF radio from SAMCOM is what you need. Its transmit power is 5W, and you are offered to choose between a high or low power mode for this device to adapt to the surroundings.

Although 20 channels are at the radio frequency range of UHF 400 – 470MHz, this two-way ham radio still communicates easily with FRS/GMRS units when on the same wavelength. A long built-in antenna of 6.7 inches supports the UHF transceiver to work within a 5-mile range without too many obstructions.

The PTT button on its left side enables direct calling to other members of your team at the same UHF station. Whereas the center Group PTT allows you to communicate with people even if they are not on your current channel. I think the two-way ham radio is certainly ideal for team coordination of commercial uses.

Moreover, I find out that this long-range portable transceiver is IP54 rated for the ability to resist water and damages from dropping, which makes the unit stronger in harsh environments. Your teammates and family members would have safer talks via this radio by adding CDCSS privacy codes in each of the stations.

Its LCD display has been supported with a backlit for you to see the channel status clearly, even in the dark. The UHF two-way radio features an integrated 1500mAh rechargeable battery that runs for 12 hours and standbys up to 50 hours straight. 3 belt clips come with 3 walkie talkies to help you carry them conveniently.

4. Retevis RT21 Long Range Two Way Radio

You will receive 2 boxes on the purchase of this Retevis RT21 long range two way radio packages. As they contain 5 units each, so there will be a total of 10 walkie talkies. Its solid shell is manufactured to the point of sturdy to avoid falling apart too quickly. Plus, all of the knobs are large and sensitive for you to rotate.

After starting the station scanning, you can store up to 16 favorite frequencies in the radio memory channel to have quicker access later on. With strong penetration on the thick materials through the high-gain antenna, all users in your team stay connected and communicate at ease regardless of whether you are indoor or outdoor.

In case you have to work alone at night, having this long range two way walkie talkie by your side would guarantee safety because being equipped with an emergency alarm function. A PTT and microphone have been engineered on its secret covert air acoustic earpiece, so you needn’t hold the entire radio on your hands anymore while communicating.

Concerning the 1100mAh lithium-ion battery of this long distance transceiver, it has an aluminum plate to enable better heat dissipation for extra durability. It can be charged quickly on the charging base and adapter to work up to 10 to 12 hours. This two way radio will alert you when its battery is low and requires charging.

5. Cobra ACXT1035R FLT Long Range Two Way Radio

I love to hold long distance 2 way radios that are firm and not easily slipped out of hands, so the package of 2 ACXT1035R FLT long range walkie talkie from COBRA with rubberized grip is the finest option. Even if I drop the radio by accident into the water, it can float thanks to an IPX7 rating to be retrieved.

The number of its channel combinations impresses me with up to 2,662 radio stations and more than 120 privacy codes to reduce undesirable interruption while communicating. I can see that the longest possible range that this two-way radio can transmit and receive signals is around 37 miles, which is quite amazing.

If there happens to be a severe storm coming to your neighborhood, the alerts from NOAA weather channels will be automatically sent to your location. You needn’t tune to these stations all the time to wait for an alert like other radios. It includes an LED/S.O.S flashlight on the bottom for extra light if you need it.

This long-range two way device detects your voice through the VOX function to enable completely hands-free transmission. It also comes with a feature to replay your missed radio calls and auto records 20 last seconds of incoming audio. The unit delivers a call tone-only or both with vibration for signal alerts.

6. Midland MXT400 GMRS Long Range Two-Way Radio

Different from all of the small handheld two way walkie talkies up until now, the Midland MXT400 unit is the type of GMRS radio that you often see in vehicles. Its package also includes a flip-frame detachable mounting bracket and the essential mounting hardware for you to install the device on or under the dash.

By using 40W of output power, this long-range transceiver is able to transmit up to 65 miles in open areas, making it one of the longest range 2 way radios on the current market. Aside from 15 channels at the GMRS frequency range in a High/Low power mode, it has 8 extra repeater ones to increase the communication.

The LCD display has been supported with a backlit for you to view all of the icons and digits much easier. There are icons for this radio power level and its signal strength, plus, another icon to indicate the CTCSS/DCS privacy codes. One hundred forty-two of them are included to avoid outsiders from overhearing your group talks.

Its high-grade microphone is separated from the two-way radio and features a side PTT button with channel controls for more convenience. You will need to use the keypad lock to prevent accidental changes in its settings. At the same time, the keystroke tones provide audible sounds for all radio key presses to respond or confirm.

7. DEWALT DXFRS800 Long Range Two-Way Radio

Again, this DEWALT DXFRS800 long-range transceiver is a compact unit that works with 2W to deliver a signal range transmission up to 300,000 sq. Ft. The two way FRS radio includes 22 channels and 2,662 channel combinations to make sure no interruption can get in between your conversations with family members.

As it responds to the IP67 standard, this long-distance two-way radio is able to resist both dusting and 1m water immersion in half an hour. Its anti-slip rugged shell can endure a sudden drop from a maximum of 2m, which means the unit is a suitable one among all of those available two-way radios for mountains.

The radio swivel holster can be rotated sideways for diverse positions thanks to its flexible 180° design. Plus, I find out that its VOX transmission is truly an effective function for complete hands-free radio operation in a safe way. I love the large radio gang charger that can handle all of these 6 identical devices at once.

8. Motorola FRS/GMRS Long Range Two Way Radio

For people who complain about the limited charging sources of most two way long-range radios on the market, here is a suggested choice for you to give a check. This FRS/GMRS long range walkie talkie uses dual power, which is a built-in 10-hour NiMH rechargeable battery or 3 AAA batteries for 26 hours of operation.

As you know, the actual signal transmission range relies on the terrain, but the Motorola FRS/GMRS unit with 35 miles of transmission is close to being a two-way radio longest range. When you work alone or in impending danger, the helpful emergency alarm button informs your situation to other users.

There are a total of 22 FRS/GMRS stations on this handheld two-way radio plus 121 privacy codes to make sure you are always connected to your family in a private way. I highly appreciate how this famous brand has managed to make this unit compatible with other brand radios as long as they are on the same channel.

By picking up important NOAA weather stations, the long-range transceiver is capable of updating real-time weather conditions for you to prepare yourself. It is also rated with the IP54 standard to become highly weatherproof. The iVOx hands-free operation provides quick radio activation through voice recognition.

9. Arcshell AR-6 Long Range Two-Way Radios

I would like to introduce the AR-6, another wonderful version of the Arcshell two way UHF walkie talkie above. For me, this is a nice compact unit because its height without the built-in antenna is a little more than 4 inches to be held in your hands. The package contains 4 identical units and 4 removable belt clips.

Though the transmission range depends a lot on its surrounding terrain, I think this UHF walkie talkie is still a part of the best two way radios for concrete buildings. With 2W power output for operation, the long range transceiver is capable of providing loud and clear conversations for your team within 5 miles.

There are already 16 pre-programmed stations at the UHF frequency range of 400 – 470MHz for each radio. I like how you are allowed to use 50 CTCSS and 105 CDCSS tones for these UHF channels for better privacy. After you rotate the channel switch selector, a voice will come up to inform the station number.

Because the PTT button, its high-quality microphone and external speaker are all engineered right on this long range two way radio, it is really convenient to communicate on most occasions. Furthermore, it has K-type earpiece plugs of both 3.5mm and 2.5mm for you to listen and talk more privately on the radio.

Apart from the high and low power selection, you can choose either the wide 25KHz or narrow 12.5KHz band for this long range portable radio to work. In case its PTT button is held down for longer than average, the transceiver unit features a channel time-out timer to stop the system from transmitting signals.

10. Topsung Long Range Walkie Talkies CB 2-Way Radios

I am often concerned about charging a radio since it involves complex accessories, and I cannot bring all of them along on many occasions. Luckily, this Topsung long-range CB radio goes with a charging stand and USB cable that allow conveniently recharged through your PC, a normal car charger or power bank.

Besides a large LCD backlit screen for easier reading in the dark, this two way FRS/GMRS radio also supports loads of automatic innovations. Its auto scan and memory channel functions help you to search and save different radio stations quicker. At the same time, the automatic squelch system excludes unwanted noise in your environment.

The long-range walkie talkie takes 2W and an efficient 1200mAh rechargeable battery to enable stable calls between your teammates in a long distance. You should activate its power-saving mode when this CB transceiver delivers a low battery alert. It is a suitable communication device for both men and women to use.

Furthermore, this FRS/GMRS long-range transceiver picks up NOAA weather stations and alerts if there is any emergency coming to the neighborhood. There 22 radio channels are available at your service, but I suggest you use the 121 privacy codes to make sure your group conversations are private in your team only.

Its keypad lock is effective for anti-kids purposes. The two-way radio is made out of a strong, durable ABS material that prevents dropping. There are 10 diverse call tones for a quick confirmation, so other users recognize you. The iVOX function identifies your voice and begins operating in a hands-free way.

What to Look for When Buying a Long Range Two Way Radio

Transceiving ability – A transceiver unit has to perform well in both situations, transmitting and receiving signals, whether it is a UHF or FRS radio. Because it is a walkie talkie for long distances, you should better go for the device that guarantees to transceive loud and clear sounds within a considerable range.

Of course, its performance also relies a lot on the surrounding environment. Despite being able to penetrate wood, concrete, and metal in the cities, too many buildings and vehicles would interrupt its transceiving ability. Audio distortion under 5% or a noise reduction feature would be helpful in this case.

I suggest you read the product description in advance to understand its normal transceiving range. Afterward, it is your choice whether to use the long-range two-way walkie talkie in congested urban or less obstructed terrains for best results. Its transceiving ability must come from itself and the environment.

Privacy features – When a long-range two-way radio includes privacy codes for its channels, these CTCSS, CDCSS, and DCS codes should be revealed for a certain number of users only. If someone does not have these codes for access to your channels, they definitely cannot join your group conversations.

Moreover, the busy channel lock in this long-range two way radio indicates an occupied frequency so irrelevant people would not be able to pick up and use your current station. That way, your group exchanges through the radio within a long distance cannot be interfered by the unwanted signals from the outside.

As far as I am concerned, these features ensure that private information is not accidentally leaked out or overheard by outsiders when you talk through a long range two way radio, especially in commercial uses. They help to reduce the undesirable interruption in your long distance conversations with your team as well.

Besides the built-in radio privacy functions, there is usually a standard 2.5 or 3.5mm jack and a pair of earphones in the pack for people who want to use this radio privately. When you plug them in, the audio will not be transmitted to its speaker, so you can enjoy the best long range radio without disturbing others.

Overcharge protection – Most long range two way radios use rechargeable lithium-ion batteries so you may charge it overnight to get ready for the next day. Consequently, I know that you would need a certain measure for you to rest assured whenever your radio is charged through the night.

There have been regretful cases in the past related to exploded radio batteries as their users were not noticing or asleep. That is why I highly recommend long range two way radios that come with overcharge protection. This function auto cuts off the electricity source as soon as its charging process is finished.

Much or little, the battery lifespan will be downgraded over time. Therefore, I see that the most effective way to extend its service is to prevent this battery from overcharging as much as possible. Or else, even the most powerful 2 way radio would not last long if its integrated battery keeps being charged like that.

Other Important Factors to Consider

What is a long range two way radio? Who is this for? How does it work?

A long range two way audio device can either be an FRS or GMRS radio, but in general, it is a transceiver audio unit that can operate in a long distance. Most people use it in vast quantities since it is useful for long-distance and private communication. This type of radio also offers lots of interesting side functions.

Long distance two way radios can support both household and commercial uses. They are mainly applied for use among maintenance teams, security guards, the fire department, a control center, police office, hotel and kitchen staff, family camping, at school, the factory, on road trips or ship traveling, etc.

The radio enables two way communication within a certain range by receiving and transmitting signals from one radio to others at the same frequency. You can talk to multiple users at the same time if their units are tuned to an identical channel. Plus, a lot of extra features are in-store to support this long distance contact.

What are the different types of long range two way radios?

From what I know, a long range two way radio can either be an FRS (Family Radio Service) or GMRS (General Mobile Radio Service) unit. But technically, they are the same as they both work on the UHF frequency band. These 2 way radios long range support communication between a group of users as well.

Why do you need a long range two way radio?

Long range communication devices keep you connected with other users in the team or family even when you are a distance away. A long range two way radio is certain to enable quick communication and stable signal transceiving between multiple users at once for effective, uninterrupted private exchanges.

Apart from the main mission to help you communicate in two ways with other users, there are functional side features of this long range radio to boost your communication quality in general. In case of emergency, you would see that the immediate local weather alerts and an alarm for when you work alone are valuable.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most trusted long range two way radio brands?

If you ever wondered about the most trusted long range two way radio brands, these names would instantly jump out in my head: Arcshell, DEWALT, Uniden, Motorola, Retevis, Midland, Cobra, SAMCOM and Topsung. I promise that you will find the best long range handheld radio manufactured by these brands.

Long range two way radios from these manufacturers are all famous for their compact designs, powerful transceiving abilities within long distances, and a lot of other advanced functions. To be honest, I have never once regretted trying out each of them in this article because these radios have helped me out so much.

What is the longest range two way radio?

Despite the vast quantities that claim to be the longest range two-way radio at present, the biggest competitor for others regarding the signal transmission range is the Midland GXT1000VP4 transceiver. Its maximum power is boosted with the X-TRA TALK feature to transceive nearly 36 miles in areas with little construction.

Aside from the 22 main GMRS channels with 142 privacy codes for each, this radio is equipped with 28 extra ones to allow free and private communication. You can scan through the frequency range to find your favorite stations and choose the long-range two way radio to work in a low, medium, or high power mode.

I believe it is a durable device due to the JIS4 certification for water resistance and completely lead-free. 9 sensitivity levels of the VOX hands-free operation are available for you to select. In case of emergencies, this two-way walkie talkie can alert you with a vibration tone and a strong SOS siren.

The radio package is fully equipped with 2 identical devices and their built-in rechargeable batteries. Its pocket desktop charger is accompanied by an AC wall and DC adapters for vehicles, which means you could charge it at home and in your car. I really like the provided pairs of microphones for their great audio.

How to set up and use it?

First, give it a full charge on the provided dock/cradle due to the required amount of time. You can charge the entire radio or its lithium-ion battery alone. Turn the device on to use its most basic features, including the PTT button, a built-in microphone, and speaker to talk to and hear what other users say in return.

Activate the auto or manual scan through the radio frequency range to pick up powerful stations with little static. Other teams or family members need to tune their radio to the same channel as yours to start a group conversation in a certain range. You should remember that the terrain decides its transceiving power.

Make use of suitable private tones/codes and busy channel lock functions for guaranteed privacy while talking. The alarm and an LED flashlight are useful for emergency cases. You might want to start the convenient VOX to enable hands-free use. The squelch system works to eliminate unwanted noise while transmitting.

A roger beep is sometimes included to end the conversation faster by confirming it with a beeping sound. Its keypad lock is ready to be used at all times to prevent other people from adjusting your initial radio settings and frequency. The removable belt clip is optional for when you need to carry the unit around.

How to take care and maintain it?

If there happens to be any dirt stains or dust on the radio surface, make sure to wipe them off gently with a damp cloth. Do not add any chemical solvents to this soft cloth to avoid damaging the radio components. Also, I advise you not to insert a different battery source from the instructed one into this long-range unit.

You should not disassemble the entire radio on your own if you are not skilled in electronic devices. The two-way radio ought to be protected from drops and smashes as well. These methods can be applied to all long range walkie talkies, and I hope you could follow them properly to extend the radio service life.

Where can I buy it?

In my opinion, eBay, Best Buy, Home Depot, Walmart, Amazon, Lowes are the most reliable addresses to purchase a high-quality long-range two-way walkie talkie in my review list above. These places offer the most reasonable prices and genuine distributed sellers to deliver a desirable long-range two-way unit.

Conclusion

Whenever you need to have a large group of users equipped with a reliable communication device over long distances, remember that a long-range two-way radio is your best choice to pursue. All of its advanced features will surely amaze you with uninterrupted supports in your long-distance conversations.

I hope my product reviews, the detailed buying guide, and other experienced tips will assist your shopping process of the best long range two way radio in the future. You might want to spread the word to potential users of this radio type via most online platforms as well. Thank you for reading this.