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10 Best Long Range 2 Way Radios 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Midland GXT67 Pro GMRS Two Way Radio

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,146
Range
Battery Life
Channels and Privacy Codes

Most important from
97 reviews

Range
While the effective range might be less than advertised without a clear line of sight, this model offers a commendable range of about 1.5 miles in obstructed areas.
Battery Life
The battery life impressively lasts all day on a single charge, with convenient recharging options including a car adapter for on-the-go use.
Channels and Privacy Codes
Privacy is well-maintained with channel options, making these radios a great choice for staying connected in areas without cell service.
Additional Features
NOAA weather alerts provide essential updates, enhancing safety during outdoor activities.

The Midland GXT67 PRO GMRS Radio is a robust choice for those needing reliable long-range communication. With 5 watts of power, it offers an effective talking range of up to 5 miles, which is suitable for both casual users and those in emergency situations. Its repeater capability on 8 GMRS channels is a significant advantage for extending communication distance even further.

In terms of durability, this radio is IP67 rated, making it waterproof and dustproof, which is ideal for outdoor adventures or survival scenarios. The device also boasts active noise canceling, enhancing clarity in noisy environments, and hands-free operation, which is convenient when multitasking.

For battery life, the GXT67 PRO performs adequately with a 16-hour life span and can last up to 4 days on standby. The rapid 4-hour recharge via multiple charging options, including USB-C and a vehicle adapter, adds flexibility. However, a single lithium-ion battery may be a limiting factor during extended trips without access to power.

The radio provides 99 channels and supports privacy codes, allowing users to maintain clear and private communications. Additional features like NOAA weather alerts add safety value by providing critical weather updates.

With its compact dimensions and a weight of just 9.6 ounces, the radio is portable and easy to carry. Despite its strengths, the maximum range may not fulfill those who require communication over significantly larger distances in varied terrains.

In essence, the Midland GXT67 PRO GMRS Radio is a strong contender for those needing a reliable, feature-rich two-way radio with a focus on range and resilience against the elements.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,146
Range
Battery Life
Channels and Privacy Codes

Most important from
97 reviews

Range
While the effective range might be less than advertised without a clear line of sight, this model offers a commendable range of about 1.5 miles in obstructed areas.
Battery Life
The battery life impressively lasts all day on a single charge, with convenient recharging options including a car adapter for on-the-go use.
Channels and Privacy Codes
Privacy is well-maintained with channel options, making these radios a great choice for staying connected in areas without cell service.
Additional Features
NOAA weather alerts provide essential updates, enhancing safety during outdoor activities.
#2

Motorola Solutions RMU2040 2-Pack Two-Way Radio Digital Non-Display 99 UHF Business Exclusive Frequencies

Rating
9.6
Battery Life
Channels and Privacy Codes

Most important from
69 reviews

Battery Life
Battery life is a concern, with some reporting issues holding a charge.
Channels and Privacy Codes
Programmable channels make it versatile for different tasks.

The Motorola RMU2040 Business Two-Way Radio is a solid choice for businesses seeking reliable communication within a large building or campus environment. With a range of up to 250,000 square feet or 20 floors indoors, it effectively covers significant areas, making it suitable for warehouses, schools, and large office buildings. The radio operates on 89 VHF business-exclusive frequencies with 122 privacy codes, offering secure and clear communication channels. It includes 4 channels and 2 watts of power, which is adequate for most business environments but might fall short in extremely large or heavily obstructed areas.

The device is durable, meeting military specifications for toughness and IP54/55 standards for dust and water resistance, ensuring it can withstand harsh conditions. The battery life is supported by rechargeable lithium-ion batteries with a battery saver feature and a low battery alert, which is practical for extended use. The hands-free (VOX) mode is convenient for multitasking, although it requires compatible accessories. Weighing 2.4 pounds and sized at 1.6 x 2.2 x 4.5 inches, it is quite portable. However, some users may find it a bit bulky for daily carry.

The inclusion of two programmable buttons, voice prompts, and a fixed antenna adds to its user-friendly features. The product package includes two radios, chargers, and holsters, providing good value for the price. The main drawbacks are its limited number of channels and the need for specific accessories to utilize some features fully. The Motorola RMU2040 is a dependable tool for business communications, especially in structured environments.

Rating
9.6
Battery Life
Channels and Privacy Codes

Most important from
69 reviews

Battery Life
Battery life is a concern, with some reporting issues holding a charge.
Channels and Privacy Codes
Programmable channels make it versatile for different tasks.
#3

Retevis RT22 Two Way Radio Long Range Rechargeable,Portable 2 Way Radio, USB-C Charging, Handsfree Walkie Talkies for Adults Cruise Hiking Camping(4 Pack)

Rating
9.3
Range
Battery Life
Channels and Privacy Codes

Most important from
3778 reviews

Range
Ideal for cruises, these radios offer clear communication from the 2nd to the 9th floor without static or stray signals.
Battery Life
Quick charging and long battery life—used all day without losing power.
Channels and Privacy Codes
Changing channels is easy with audio feedback to confirm your selection.
Size and Weight
Compact, lightweight design makes them easy to use, even for a 6-year-old.
Additional Features
Loud and clear volume without distortion, even on high settings.

The Retevis RT22 Two Way Radio is an excellent choice for those needing reliable, long-range communication in various settings like hiking, hunting, or even commercial use. Its compact, lightweight design makes it easy to carry, resembling the size of a cellphone, which is particularly useful when on the move. The unique wrap-around back clip simplifies hands-free operations, adding to its convenience.

The device features a sturdier Type-C interface, reducing wear and tear over time, which means fewer worries about charging issues in the long run. Users will benefit from its loud and clear sound quality, making communication accurate and near-natural. Another plus is its license-free operation with 16 channels, making it user-friendly right out of the box. It’s also compatible with other Retevis FRS radios, adding versatility.

The talking range maxes out at 3 kilometers, which might not be sufficient for extreme long-range needs. While it’s water-resistant, it may not be fully waterproof, so caution is advised in heavy rain. With a battery life supported by 4 included lithium-ion batteries, you should expect decent usage time, though heavy users might need to recharge frequently. Its dimensions and light weight (0.01 ounces) ensure it won’t be a burden during your activities. The RT22 could benefit from more advanced features such as GPS or weather alerts, which are absent. For those needing a straightforward, reliable communication device for short to moderate distances, the Retevis RT22 is a strong contender.

Rating
9.3
Range
Battery Life
Channels and Privacy Codes

Most important from
3778 reviews

Range
Ideal for cruises, these radios offer clear communication from the 2nd to the 9th floor without static or stray signals.
Battery Life
Quick charging and long battery life—used all day without losing power.
Channels and Privacy Codes
Changing channels is easy with audio feedback to confirm your selection.
Size and Weight
Compact, lightweight design makes them easy to use, even for a 6-year-old.
Additional Features
Loud and clear volume without distortion, even on high settings.

Buying Guide for the Best Long Range 2 Way Radios

Choosing the right long-range 2-way radio can be a bit overwhelming, but understanding the key specifications can help you make an informed decision. These radios are essential for communication over long distances, whether for outdoor adventures, professional use, or emergency situations. Here are the key specs you should consider and how to navigate them to find the best fit for your needs.
RangeThe range of a 2-way radio indicates the maximum distance over which it can communicate effectively. This spec is crucial because it determines how far apart users can be while still maintaining clear communication. Ranges can vary significantly, from a few miles to over 30 miles in ideal conditions. For casual use, such as hiking or camping, a shorter range may suffice. However, for professional use or in areas with challenging terrain, a longer range is essential. Keep in mind that obstacles like buildings, trees, and hills can reduce the effective range.
Frequency Bands2-way radios operate on different frequency bands, primarily VHF (Very High Frequency) and UHF (Ultra High Frequency). VHF radios are better suited for outdoor use with fewer obstructions, as they can cover longer distances in open areas. UHF radios, on the other hand, perform better in urban environments with many obstacles, as they can penetrate buildings and dense foliage more effectively. Choose VHF for open, rural areas and UHF for urban or indoor use.
Battery LifeBattery life is a critical factor, especially if you plan to use the radio for extended periods without access to charging. Radios can come with rechargeable batteries or disposable ones. Rechargeable batteries are more cost-effective and environmentally friendly in the long run, while disposable batteries can be convenient for emergencies. Consider how long you need the radio to last on a single charge and whether you have the means to recharge it regularly. For outdoor adventures, longer battery life is preferable.
Durability and Weather ResistanceDurability and weather resistance are important if you plan to use the radio in harsh conditions. Look for radios with rugged designs and those that are water-resistant or waterproof. This ensures that the radio can withstand drops, dust, and exposure to rain or snow. For outdoor enthusiasts or professionals working in tough environments, a durable and weather-resistant radio is a must.
Channels and Privacy CodesThe number of channels and privacy codes available on a 2-way radio can affect your ability to find a clear communication channel and avoid interference from other users. More channels provide more options for communication, while privacy codes help prevent others from listening in on your conversations. If you are using the radio in a crowded area or for professional purposes, having more channels and privacy codes can be very beneficial.
Size and WeightThe size and weight of the radio can impact its portability and ease of use. Smaller, lighter radios are easier to carry and handle, making them ideal for activities like hiking or traveling. However, they may have fewer features or shorter battery life compared to larger models. Consider how you will be using the radio and whether portability or additional features are more important to you.
Additional FeaturesSome 2-way radios come with additional features such as built-in GPS, emergency alerts, hands-free operation, and weather updates. These features can enhance the functionality of the radio and provide added convenience and safety. Think about which features are essential for your needs and which ones are nice to have. For example, built-in GPS can be very useful for outdoor adventures, while hands-free operation might be important for professional use.

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