In today’s world, natural disasters and human caused disasters are a common occurrence. What would you do if all forms of daily communication such as cell phones and the internet ceased to exist?
With that said, having a reliable long-range two-way radio is a great survival tool. Not only are these radios great for survival situations but you can use them for camping, biking, hiking, picnics, and RV road trips.
In this blog, I will look at 13 of the best survival walkie-talkies and focus on their technical specs.
When purchasing a walkie-talkie some key points to look for are long battery life, frequency range, maximum range, mode of communication (Analog or Digital), and durability to withstand weather conditions in any emergency situation.
Keep in mind, all radio signals transmitting through the air are monitored by the FCC Federal Communications Commission. To transmit on these frequencies you are required by law to obtain an FCC license, but there are some exceptions to the rule for FRS (Family Radio Service) and a GMRS (General Mobile Radio Service) license.
Please consult the FCC for more information. If you are interested in a radio license for Amateur Radio (Ham Radio) check out: HamRadioPrep.com.
#1 – Cobra ACXT145
 Cobra ACXT145 - $34.95 The Cobra ACXT145 is a compact, affordable, and lightweight two-way radio/walkie talkie for everyone from the novice to the professional radio enthusiast. With up to 16-mile range, NOAA Weather Alerts, Roger Beep Tone, Battery/Power Saver and more, the ACXT145 is great for clear communication, inside and outdoors. |
Key Specs
Maximum Radio Range: Up to 16 miles
Number of Channels: 22
Features
NOAA / Weather Channels: 10
Power
Rechargeable Battery: Yes
Number of Batteries Required: 3 per radio
Batteries Included: 3 AAA NiMH rechargeable batteries per radio
Battery Life: 5 hours
Charger / Cable: Micro-USB charging cable with “Y” Plug
Unit Dimensions
Length: 1.5″
Width: 2″
Height: 5.2″
Weight: 2.31 ounces
#2 – Cobra ACXT345
 Cobra ACXT345 - $49.95 The Cobra ACXT345 is a rugged, weather-resistant two-way radio/walkie talkie designed for recreational or business use. With up to 25-mile range, Water Resistant (IPX2) Rating, NOAA Weather Alerts, Voice-Activated Transmission (VOX), Channel Scan and more, the ACXT345 is great for clear communication at longer distances. |
Key Specs
Maximum Radio Range: Up to 25 miles
Number of Channels: 22
Number Of Privacy Codes: 121
Features
Weather Resistant: Yes
NOAA / Weather Channels: 10
Weather Alert: Yes
VOX (Steps): Yes (5)
Channel Scan: Yes (Channels or Privacy Codes)
Power
Rechargeable Battery: Yes
Battery Size: AA
Number of Batteries Required: 3
Batteries Included: 3 AA NiMH rechargeable batteries per radio
Charger / Cable: Micro-USB charging cable with “Y” plug
Unit Dimensions
Length: 1.6″
Width: 2.4″
Height: 6″
Weight: 3.76 ou
#3 – Cobra ACXT545
 Cobra ACXT545 - $69.95 The Cobra ACXT545 is a rugged, weather-resistant two-way radio/walkie talkie with additional features for recreational or business use. With up to 28-mile range, Water Resistant (IPX2) Rating, NOAA Weather Alerts, VibrAlert feedback for incoming transmissions, built-in LED flashlight and more, the ACXT545 is great for clear communication and emergency preparedness. |
Key Specs
Maximum Radio Range: Up to 28 miles
Number of Channels: 22
Number Of Privacy Codes: 121
Features
Waterproof: Yes
NOAA / Weather Channels: 10
Weather Alert: Yes
LED Flashlight: Yes
VOX (Steps): Yes (5)
Channel Scan: Yes (Channels or Privacy Codes)
Patented VibrAlert: Yes
Power
Rechargeable Battery: Yes
Battery Size: AA
Number of Batteries Required: 3 per radio
Batteries Included: 3 AA NiMH rechargeable batteries per radio
Charger / Cable: Micro-USB Dock
Unit Dimensions
Width: 1.96″
Height: 5.16″
Depth: 1.46″
Weight:2.31 ounces
#4 – Cobra ACXT645
 Cobra ACXT645 - $79.95 The Cobra ACXT645 is engineered for demanding outdoor conditions. With up to 35-mile range, Splashproof (IPX4) Rating, built-in LED flashlight, NOAA Weather Alerts, VibrAlert feedback for incoming transmissions, and more, the ACXT645 is perfect for all of your rugged outdoor adventures as well as for emergency preparedness. |
Key Specs
Maximum Radio Range: Up to 35 miles
Number of Channels: 22
Number of Privacy Codes: 121
Features
Waterproof: IPX4/JIS4
NOAA / Weather Channels: 10
Weather Alert: Yes
LED Flashlight: Yes
VOX (Steps): Yes (5)
Patented VibrAlert: Yes
Scan: Yes (Channels or Privacy Codes)
Power
Rechargeable Battery: Yes
Battery Size: AA
Number of Batteries Required: 3 per radio
Batteries Included: 3 AA NiMH rechargeable batteries per radio
Charger / Cable: Micro-USB Dock
Unit Dimensions
Weight: 5.06 ounces
Height: 6.74″
Width: 2.54″
Depth: 1.74″
#5 – Cobra ACXT1035R FLT
 Cobra ACXT1035R FLT - $119.95 The Cobra ACXT1035R FLT is a waterproof, full-featured two-way radio/walkie talkie built for the most demanding conditions. With up to 37-mile range, Waterproof (IP67) Rating and floating design, NOAA Weather Alerts, Rewind-Say-Again , and more advanced features, the rugged ACXT1035R FLT is engineered for clear communication practically anywhere. |
Key Specs
Maximum Radio Range: 37 miles
Number of Channels: 22
Number of Privacy Codes: 121
Features
Waterproof Rating (IP67): Complete protection from dust and withstand water immersion for 30 minutes in 1-meter deep water
NOAA / Weather Channels: 10
Weather Alert: Yes
LED Flashlight: Yes
Scan: Yes (Channels or Privacy Codes)
Rewind-Say-Again: Yes
VOX (Steps): Yes (5)
Patented VibrAlert: Yes
Power
Rechargeable Battery: Yes
Battery Size: AA
Number of Batteries Required: 3 per radio
Batteries Included: 3 AA NiMH rechargeable batteries per radio
#6 – Cobra RX380
 Cobra RX380 - $59.95 The Cobra RX380 contains a pair of weather-resistant walkie talkies that are perfect for families and friends to use outdoors. With up to 32-mile range, 40 channels, NOAA Weather Alerts, built-in LED flashlight, and more, the RX380 walkie talkies provide easy-to-use and clear communication. |
Key Specs
Maximum Radio Range: Up to 32 miles
Weather Resistant: Yes
Number of Channels: 40
Features
Weather Resistant: Yes
NOAA / Weather Channels: 10
Weather Alert: Yes
LED Flashlight: Yes
VOX (Steps): Yes (5)
Scan: Channel Scan
Power
Rechargeable Battery: Yes
Battery Size: AA
Number of Batteries Included: 3 per radio
Batteries Included: 3 AA NiMH rechargeable batteries per radio
Charger / Cable: Micro-USB “Y” Charging Cable
#7 – Cobra RX680
 Cobra RX680 - $99.95 The Cobra RX680 contains a pair of a rugged, splashproof walkie talkies that are perfect for most outdoor conditions. With up to 38-mile range, Splashproof (IP54) Rating, NOAA Weather Alerts, built-in LED flashlight, and more, the family-friendly RX680 walkie talkies are ideal for outdoor adventures. |
Key Specs
Maximum Radio Range: Up to 38 miles
Number of Channels: 60
Number of Privacy Codes: 121
Features
NOAA / Weather Channels: 10
Weather Alert: Yes
Waterproof: Dustproof and Waterproof IP54
LED Flashlight: Yes
VOX (Steps): Yes (5)
Patented VibrAlert: Yes
Scan: Channel Scan
Power
Battery Life: Up to 18 hours of continuous usage (90% standby / 5% talk / 5% listen)
Charger: No, charging dock and micro USB cable only
Unit Dimensions
Weight: 1.26 lbs
Length: 10.87″
Width: 6.89″
Height: 3.54″
#8 – Cobra HE150
 Cobra HE150 - $29.95 The Cobra HE150 contains a pair of easy-to-use walkie talkies in camo design that are perfect for kids and families. With up to 16-mile range, 2 channels, Call Alert, and Battery/Power Saver, you'll be able to have clear conversations inside or outdoors. |
Key Specs
Maximum Radio Range: Up to 16 miles
Number of Channels: 2
Unit Dimensions
Length: 8.6″
Width: 6.95″
Height: 1.3″
Weight: 5.6 ounces
#9 – Cobra RX100-4
 Cobra RX100-4 - $59.95 The 4-Pack Cobra RX100 are perfect for families and friends to use outdoors. With up to 16-mile range, 22 channels, and Weather Radio, the RX100 walkie talkies provide you and your loved ones with easy-to-use and clear communication on all of your adventures. |
Key Specs
Maximum Radio Range: Up to 16 miles
Number of Channels: 22
Number of Privacy Codes: 121
Features
NOAA / Weather Channels: 10
VOX (Steps): Yes (5)
Scan: Channel Scan
Power
Battery Size: AAA
Number of Batteries Required: 3 AAA alkaline batteries per radio
Batteries Included: No
Unit Dimensions
Weight: 0.82 lbs
Length: 1.5″
Width: 11.5″
Height: 8″
#10 – Cobra PX650-BCH6
 Cobra PX650-BCH6 - $299.95 The 6-Pack Cobra PX650 Pro Business 2-Watt FRS Walkie Talkie Radios are ideal for larger business use and have a range up to 300,000 sq. ft./25 floors. With the Push-To-Talk button, dedicated volume/channel knobs, and Waterproof (IPX4) Rating, you'll always have clear and reliable communication. |
Key Specs
Maximum Radio Range: Up to 42 miles, 300,000 square feet, 25 floors
Number of Channels: 22
Number of Privacy Codes: 38
Features
Waterproof: IP54
VOX (Steps): Yes (5)
Power
Rechargeable Battery: Yes
Battery Type: 2000mAH Li-Polymer Battery
Battery Life: Extended 18 hours of continuous usage (90% standby / 5% talk / 5% listen)
Introducing the BridgeCom Buddy FRS Radio
An easy-to-use handheld radio for every occasion. Whether hiking on a camping trip or keeping tabs on friends and family in crowded areas, the Buddy is a reliable tool you can trust to work when you need it to—no cell service required.
What you Get:
BridgeCom Buddy FRS Radio (4-Pack) ($200 Value)
You’ll receive a pair of BridgeCom Buddy FRS Radios so you can maintain constant contact with your group wherever you go.
Preset with a PL Tone to 67.0 on all channels
DOES NOT COME WITH PROGRAMMING CABLE
Essential Accessories x4
- USB Charger Cable
- USB to AC Charging Brick
- 1200mAh Rechargeable Battery
- Belt Clip + Screws
- Wrist Strap
Easy-to-Read Quickstart Guide
This bundle comes with a quick start guide written in plain English so that you won’t have any trouble getting set up.
1-Year Extended Warranty
This bundle comes with a 1-year extended warranty so that if anything happens to your Buddy radios, you’ll be just fine.
# 12 – Echo GMRS Radio Bundle
Introducing the BridgeCom Systems Echo Series
A modern GMRS radio for the practical user, no experience needed.
Managing a property and organizing your communications has never been easier. With the BridgeCom Echo, you’ll never have to worry about being out of the loop with those you need to maintain contact with. Clear sound quality, long-lasting charge, and powerful range mean that better days are finally here.
This bundle comes with the following items:
- 2 Echo GMRS Handheld Radios
- 2 Security-Style Earpieces
- Essential Accessories
Key Benefits:
- Solid Feel of a Professional Radio
- 3 Watts of Transmit Power
- 8 Repeater Channels
- Simple but Powerful (No Confusing controls)
- PC programmable (Programming Cable Included)
- Pedestal Charger
- Rechargeable Li-ION Battery
- Multiple Available Accessories
- Detachable Belt Clip
Introducing the BridgeCom Buddy FRS Radio, an easy-to-use handheld radio for every occasion. Whether hiking on a camping trip or keeping tabs on friends and family in crowded areas, the Buddy is a reliable tool you can trust to work when you need it to—no cell service required.
What you Get:
BridgeCom Buddy FRS Radio ($50 Value)
You’ll receive a BridgeCom Buddy FRS Radio so you can maintain constant contact with your group wherever you go.
Preset with a PL Tone to 67.0 on all channels
DOES NOT COME WITH PROGRAMMING CABLE
Essential Accessories
- USB Charger Cable
- USB to AC Charging Brick
- 1200mAh Rechargeable Battery
- Belt Clip + Screws
- Wrist Strap
See Below ⇒ 2 Bonus Amateur (Ham Radios) – FCC License Required to Transmit
878UVII Plus Handheld Emergency Preparedness Bundle
The 878 has got to be one of the best HT radios in the world. Match that with great customer service from extremely knowledgeable people and you have the perfect match! Bridgecom has nailed it!! –Daniel KE8RDO
This will be your go-to radio for preparing for Emergencies! Perfect for emergency planning for both groups and individuals!
“The 878UVII is now my favorite radio. They took the best parts of the 878 added a few features and upgraded memory… I like the new feel and look of the updated 878. Highly recommend.” – Ron KB9ZB
This Bundle is PACKED!!
- AnyTone AT-D878UVII Plus ($315 Value) — Packed with all the features you need (see below)!
- Nagoya NA-771 15.6-Inch Whip (144/430Mhz) Female Antenna ($25 Value) — A must for extending the range of your handheld!
- BridgeCom BCS-200 Water-Resistant Speaker Mic ($30 Value)–Built to withstand severe weather conditions.
- BridgeCom University ($97 Value) –Become a Digital Radio Expert! Video training series to take you from Zero to Hero!
Total Value: $470
Your Price: $370 You Save: $110
The AnyTone AT-D878UVII Plus offers:
-
- BridgeCom University Access Beginner-to-expert training that walks you through your new device, answering core questions like, “What is DMR and how do I operate on it?” and “How do I program and use my new radio?”
- Dual band with Analog and DMR capability so you can have one radio for everything
- APRS RX AND TX capability so you can beacon your location and see other operators on your radio too
- 500K contact list capacity so you can have every DMR user in your radio no matter how many there are
- Bluetooth capability for hands-free communication in your vehicle, so you can connect to your favorite Bluetooth audio device or hearing aid for added safety and convenience
- Dedicated support team available for questions about your 878UVII Plus so that you’ll always know how to use your radio.
- BUY NOW and Pay as little as $27/month through Affirm Financing
 Bf-F8Hp Ham Radio By Baofeng Tech – $139.97 This Portable Ham Radio Helps Preppers Communicate in Emergency Communication is critical when it comes to preparedness. That’s why preppers across the country trust Ham Radios to relay essential, life-saving information. This versatile and reliable Ham radio from BaoFeng lets you tap into this critical information network from anywhere. It can access all the channels that ham radio enthusiasts use and even monitor two channels at once – like emergency weather stations and local radio transmissions; ensuring you never miss an urgent alert or important update. Think of it as your post-apocalyptic iPhone or smartphone for when SHTF. It’s built to last and easy to use. Plus, it’s fully compliant with FCC regulations. *See note below Features: Communicate During Emergency Communications: Stay connected with loved ones and receive critical information in a crisis. Cell phones can be unreliable and have spotty reception during emergencies. Ham Radios allow you to communicate over long distances without cell towers, making them a vital survival tool that provides a reliable alternative method of communication. Portable: This pocket-sized, hand-held device is about the size of a walkie talkie. FM Radio: In addition to accessing emergency frequencies, you can also use this ham radio to listen to FM radio for a bit of entertainment and to de-stress while you’re out in the field. Legal for Amateur Frequencies: This radio is compliant with FCC regulations, so it is completely legal to use. Track Two Channels at Once: You can listen to two channels at once to get as much critical info as possible. Hands-Free Use: The “Voice Operated Transmit” feature takes voice commands with the included mic and earpiece. Reliable: It has long-lasting battery life, cranked-up power output of up to 8 watts, and credibility to back it up. BaoFeng’s a highly-respected name in the Ham community. Adjustable & Customizable: Adjustable power levels help you conserve power when you need it or operate at full capacity if you want premium performance. Also features a customizable tri-color display. Includes: Radio Body Lithium-Ion Battery Pack V-85 Antenna Desk Charger (With Wall-Wart) Earpiece Mic Belt Clip Wrist Strap User Manual |
| Note*: FCC regulations state you must have a valid amateur license to legally transmit. It is NOT required to have your Ham license to listen, only to transmit. It is also NOT required to have a license to transmit if you’re suffering a personal emergency and reaching out for help because you’re stranded, injured, stuck, etc. See HamRadioPrep.com for more information if you’re interested in obtaining your FCC license. |
| Low Price Guarantee – 6 Month Any Reason Refund Guarantee – On-Time Shipping – Best Customer Service |
In conclusion, there are many handheld radios on the market but I felt these are some of the best walkie talkies to choose from.
I personally like a radio that can provide effective communication, monitor weather channels, have a rechargeable battery pack, and have a long frequency range.
I would recommend you find a radio that maximizes your survival rate without breaking the bank and provides the best value. Although including all the latest and greatest extra features such as a built-in flashlight, large LED screen, and hands-free operations is always a plus in my book.
Keep in mind when survival situations arise there may not be a power source, clear reception, or the ideal conditions for radio transmissions but having a radio by your side to contact emergency services is always a great survival tool.
From your friend at Out West Survival…
