10 Best Marine Radios 2025 in the United States

The Cobra MR HH600WFLTBTGPS is a handheld marine radio that stands out with its impressive features. As a handheld device, it's portable and convenient for various marine activities. Its power output ranges from 1 to 6 watts, allowing for both short and long-range communication. This radio covers essential frequency bands (156-174 MHz) and supports US, Canada, and international channels, providing broad coverage options. Its waterproof rating ensures it can withstand submersion, a critical factor for marine equipment. Additionally, the radio floats, making retrieval easy if dropped in water. The built-in GPS is a significant advantage, allowing users to view their coordinates and send their location during emergencies.

Bluetooth functionality is another notable feature, enabling hands-free calls directly from the radio, which enhances safety and convenience. The noise-canceling microphone and the 'burp' feature for clearing water from the speaker add to the clarity and reliability of communication. The backlit LCD display ensures visibility in various lighting conditions, and the MemoryScan feature helps in quickly accessing important channels. However, one potential drawback is the battery life, which may require frequent recharging during extended use. The provided lithium polymer battery and various chargers do mitigate this to some extent.

At 11.6 ounces, the radio is relatively lightweight and easy to handle. The inclusion of accessories like chargers, a belt clip, and a wrist strap makes it ready to use right out of the box. This radio is well-suited for those needing reliable, clear communication and safety features on the water, though it may not be ideal for very long-term use without access to charging facilities.

The Cobra MR HH350 FLT is a handheld VHF marine radio that fits well within the specified category. One of its standout features is its noise-cancelling microphone, which ensures clear communication by blocking out background noise. This is crucial while on the water, where wind and engine sounds can interfere with conversations. The radio offers adjustable power output settings of 1, 3, and 6 watts, making it versatile for both short and long-range communication depending on your distance from shore.

Additionally, it supports USA, Canada, and International channel maps, providing broad coverage wherever your marine journey takes you. The floating design with an orange core enhances visibility and retrieval if accidentally dropped overboard, complemented by a backlit LCD display that remains readable in diverse lighting conditions. Its submersible feature attests to a solid waterproof rating, an essential attribute for marine radios.

On the downside, this radio does not have GPS integration, which might be a deal-breaker for users who require precise location tracking for safety and navigation. The NOAA weather and emergency alerts are a valuable addition, keeping users informed of any impending weather changes or hazards. While it lacks GPS, its strengths in communication clarity, channel versatility, and robust design make the Cobra MR HH350 FLT a reliable choice for those seeking a functional and durable marine radio.

The Garmin Fusion Apollo MS-RA770 is a fixed marine stereo with an impressive set of features that make it suitable for users seeking high-quality audio on their boats. One of its standout features is the brilliant 4.3” touchscreen LCD, which supports touch swipe commands for an intuitive user experience. This stereo is the world's first to offer built-in Wi-Fi and Apple AirPlay 2, making it easier to stream high-quality audio from compatible devices. Additionally, the built-in Digital Signal Processing (DSP) technology ensures superior audio quality with custom audio profiles.

The Fusion PartyBus-Network technology allows for stereo grouping, volume control, and power options, enhancing the user experience. It is also rated IPX6 and IPX7 water-resistant, which is essential for marine environments, and comes with True-Marine accreditation and a 3-year limited consumer warranty for added peace of mind. Since this is a fixed stereo, it lacks the portability of handheld marine radios. Furthermore, it doesn't include GPS integration, which could be a drawback for users needing navigation assistance.

The stereo is more focused on audio features and connectivity options, including Bluetooth, Auxiliary, Wi-Fi, USB, SiriusXM, and others, offering extensive compatibility with various devices. The item is relatively lightweight at 1.94 pounds with compact dimensions, making installation manageable even in smaller spaces. Its lack of GPS and the fixed type may limit its appeal to users specifically looking for a comprehensive marine radio solution with navigation capabilities.