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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 by1,396
Range
Battery Life
Channels and Privacy Codes

Most important from
103 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 by1,396
Range
Battery Life
Channels and Privacy Codes

Most important from
103 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

6 Pack of Motorola RMU2080D Two Way Radio Walkie Talkies

The Motorola RMU2080D two-way radios come in a 6-pack, making them a solid choice for businesses or teams that need reliable communication across multiple users. These radios operate on UHF frequencies (450-470 MHz), which generally work well for clear signals over various environments. They offer a maximum talking range of up to 36 miles, though this is under ideal conditions, so actual range might be less in urban or obstructed areas.

With 8 channels available, users can easily organize groups and switch conversations, useful for managing different teams. The radios include privacy codes to reduce interference, helping keep your communications clearer. Battery life is decent with a 15-hour lithium-ion battery, which should support a full day of typical use before needing a recharge. They’re also water-resistant, which adds durability and makes them suitable for outdoor or rough workplace conditions. Each radio weighs about 8.6 ounces and measures roughly 7.4 x 1.5 x 2.25 inches, so they’re fairly lightweight and easy to carry with the included belt holster.

Each radio requires its own battery and charger, so managing six units means handling multiple batteries and charging cycles. The design is simple and rugged, with a basic feature set focusing on straightforward, dependable communication. If you want heavy-duty radios for team coordination over long distances with good battery life and water resistance, these Motorola units fit the bill well.

#3

Cobra Performa 450 Business Radio (1-Pack with Dock) - 6-Channel UHF/LMR Professional Two Way Radio, Waterproof Walkie Talkie, Shockproof, IP67 & MIL-SPEC Rated, 18hr Battery, LCD Screen

The Cobra Performa 450 is designed as a professional two-way radio suitable for businesses needing reliable long-range communication, such as in hospitality, retail, or dining environments. It offers a strong maximum range of up to 36 miles, which is quite impressive for a device in its class, making it well suited for large workspaces or outdoor sites. Operating on UHF and LMR frequency bands with 6 channels, it ensures secure communication with reduced interference — a key point for business use where privacy and clarity matter.

Battery life is solid, with an 18-hour rechargeable lithium-ion battery that can easily last through a full workday. The included charging dock and USB-C cable add convenience for quick recharging. The radio’s durability stands out too, as it meets IP67 waterproof and dustproof ratings and MIL-SPEC 810H standards, meaning it can handle shock, vibration, and extreme weather conditions. This rugged build makes it a reliable choice for tough environments.

The device is relatively lightweight at just over a pound, with a compact design that’s easy to carry during long shifts. Additional useful features include an LCD screen for clear channel and status viewing, weather alerts to keep users updated on conditions, and over-the-air cloning to sync settings easily across multiple radios. However, the radio offers only 6 channels, which might be limiting for very large teams needing many separate communication groups. While setup is generally straightforward, customizing channels beyond preset frequencies requires programming software, which might be a bit technical for some users. The Cobra Performa 450 suits businesses needing dependable, long-range communication with solid durability and battery life. Its focus on professional-grade UHF/LMR frequencies and rugged design make it particularly valuable for demanding work environments, although users with very large teams might find the limited number of channels a constraint.

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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