Best Waterproof Walkie Talkie Reviews

Updated March 17, 2021

You may remember being bought toy walkie-talkies as a kid, however, the modern-day walkie talkies hold way more uses than speaking in funny voices to your friends.

Walkie talkies are awesome devices in themselves but more often than not they are used outdoors in varying climates. The issue with this is that many older models can not hold up in damp climates and in marine environments.

To tackle this issue, manufacturers have designed specific waterproof two-way radios to withstand any conditions and help you on your way.

Our reviews will take you through frank reviews for 7 of the best 2-way radios plus a straight-to-the-point buying guide at the end. Let’s get to it.

Best Waterproof Walkie Talkies

#PREVIEWProduct
1 Motorola - T600 Talkabout Radio
Best For Higher Budgets
Motorola T600 Talkabout Waterproof Radio
Hide other buying options

2 Midland GXT1000VP4 GMRS Two-Way Radio Midland GXT1000VP4 Waterproof Walkie Talkie
Hide other buying options

3 Cobra - ACXT1035R Long Range Floating Walkie Talkie
Best Overall
Cobra ACXT1035R Waterproof Floating Walkie Talkie
Hide other buying options

4 Motorola - MS350R 35-Mile Talkabout Waterproof 2-Way Radio Motorola MS350R Waterproof 2-Way Radio
Hide other buying options

5 Uniden - Atlantis 270 Handheld Floating 2-Way VHF Marine Radio Uniden Atlantis 270 Waterproof Floating Radio
Hide other buying options

6 Standard Horizon - HX150 Handheld VHF Marine Radio Standard Horizon HX150 Waterproof Marine Radio
Hide other buying options

7 Uniden - MHS75 Waterproof Handheld 2-Way VHF Marine radio
Best For Low Budgets
Uniden MHS75 Waterproof Marine Radio
Hide other buying options

1. Motorola T600 Talkabout Waterproof Radio

Highlights
  • iVOX hands-free mode.
  • Compatible with any radio.
  • Includes 121 privacy codes.
  • Super lightweight and comfortable to hold.
Best For Higher Budgets
Motorola - T600 Talkabout Radio

This Motorola walkie talkie excels in both unique and essential features for both land and marine use.

The first of these innovative features are the iVOX function. By sensing that you are talking through the direction of your voice to the radio, the need to hold the device and press a button to speak is removed. This is a handy feature for adventures on kayaks, bikes, or even skiing where you won’t be able to hold your radio.

Furthermore, this radio holds a bunch of design aspects that make it ideal for mariners. Firstly, it has a water-activated flashlight making it easy to see in case you drop it into the ocean or a lake.

Secondly, it floats in water so you don’t have to worry about losing it. It also has an IPX7 rating meaning it survives 1 meter of water for up to 30 minutes.

These features are also perfect for wet climates where you need your radio to survive rainfall.

Safety features of this waterproof walkie talkie include a built-in red LED flashlight. In an emergency, you’ll be able to switch on this light to help others locate you and understand that there is an emergency.

There is also an emergency alert button which will allow you to contact the emergency channels; 16 and 9. In addition to this, there is a belt whistle clip.

This model has access to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) weather channels so you can stay up-to-date with any upcoming weather conditions. Bear in mind that these are not available in all locations and countries.

The most praised feature of this Motorola walkie talkie is its above-average range. It allows for strong, clean communications in most environments when there is no obstruction from trees and other natural factors.

Specifications

Channels:
22
IP Rating:
IP67
Battery Type:
Alkaline or NiMH
Battery Life:
Up to 23 hours

Pros

  • Keypad lock.
  • Long battery life.
  • 11 weather channels.
  • Includes red LED lights for nighttime.

Cons

  • High price point compared to others.
  • Slightly bulky size.

2. Midland GXT1000VP4 Waterproof Walkie Talkie

Highlights
  • NOAA Weather Scan
  • Channel scan feature
  • CTCSS/DCS privacy codes

The GTX1000VP4 is a good all-around walkie talkie with an impressive range. These radios can reach up to 36 miles when used at maximum power, which may be too much for general purposes, but can definitely come in handy during emergencies. Other features include NOAA weather scanning capabilities, a channel scanner, and over 140 different privacy codes. 

This is a great tool to bring along when hunting with a partner or a small group. However, you may want to get a bigger battery or bring a few spares. The radio’s strong output heavily consumes battery power.

Specifications

Range:
All GMRS frequencies Up to 36 miles
Channels:
22 channels / 28 extra privacy code channels
IP Rating:
IPX4/JIS4
Battery Type:
Rechargeable battery pack / AA batteries
Warranty:
3-year limited warranty

Pros

  • Great max range
  • High channel security
  • Convenient weather scanner
  • Waterproof

Cons

  • Not the best out-of-the-box battery

3. Cobra ACXT1035R Waterproof Floating Walkie Talkie

Highlights
  • Very long range compared to others.
  • Built-in NOAA receiver.
  • Rewind-say-again function.
  • Voice-activated transmissions.
Best Overall
Cobra - ACXT1035R Long Range Floating Walkie Talkie

One of the many top features of this Cobra waterproof walkie talkie is its range of 37 miles. This is particularly impressive when you compare it to the range of other models.

Long-range communications are ideal for more remote locations where you may not be so close to other people. This works well for both marine and terrain environments.

Furthermore, a nifty feature of this model its Rewind-Say-Again technology. This automatically records the last 20 seconds of any communications, allowing you to replay them when needed. This is ideal for times when you may accidentally miss calls and parts of the transmission. It

This model includes a built-in LED flashlight to guide you in darker conditions and to help you read maps or see things. It also has a red LED flashlight that works as an S.O.S washing signal. These safety features combined ensure that your walkie talkie will help you out in an emergency.

To try and prevent emergencies, this device is crafted with a built-in National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) receiver giving you access to their channels. The weather channels will provide automatic alerts in advance to advise you of upcoming weather conditions.

This radio gets even better with its Voice Activated Transmission mechanism. The radio will detect your voice and automatically transmit removing the need to press any buttons – super useful for sports or fast-paced adventures. It also has an audible ringtone and vibration system to alert you of incoming transmissions.

Cobra has created this radio to be a durable option wherever you go, in any environment. It has an IPX7 rating to survive in 1 meter of water for up to 30 minutes. Plus, it floats in water so you won’t lose it below the surface.

Lastly, it has been designed with a comfy rubber grip surrounding the radio, preventing any blisters or friction pain. The rubber also helps you to grip the radio well and avoid dropping or losing it!

Specifications

Range:
37 miles
Channels:
22
IP Rating:
IPX7
Battery Type:
NiMH
Warranty:
1 year

Pros

  • 121 privacy codes.
  • Floats in water.
  • LED SOS Flashlight.
  • Caller alert.

Cons

  • The volume could be a little louder.
  • No background noise cancellation.

4. Motorola MS350R Waterproof 2-Way Radio

Highlights
  • Up to a 35-mile range
  • Receives NOA weather alerts
  • Silent vibrating ringer
  • 22 channels and 8 repeater channels

As one of the biggest brands in the industry, Motorola’s MS350R 2-Way Radio is one of the best on the market.

The radio’s durable design and tech-savvy features mean it can both withstand harsh environments and it can be relied on in remote locations. It’s also light enough to carry around without feeling the burden of it in your backpack, or on the handy belt clip that comes with it.

Receiving both FRS and GMRS frequencies, and with 121 privacy codes to choose from, you should have no problem keeping in contact with your group, and with little interference from outsiders.

Supporting both rechargeable NiMH batteries and alkaline AA batteries, this guy will never let you down while you’re out adventuring, and its handy vibrate feature allows you to silence the radio when you need it.

The one drawback to this two-way radio that must be mentioned is that it is not completely waterproof. So, while it will withstand a bit of light rain, it should never be submerged in water.

Specifications

Range:
35 miles
Channels:
30 (FRS and GMRS)
IP Rating:
IP67
Battery Type:
NiMH rechargeable battery pack or 3x AA
Battery Life:
9 to 23 hours
Warranty:
12 months from the date of purchase

Pros

  • USB and battery charging options
  • Silent ringing options for reduced noise interference
  • Hands-free capabilities
  • 121 privacy codes

Cons

  • Only water-resistant, not waterproof
  • Belt clip could be more durable

5. Uniden Atlantis 270 Waterproof Floating Radio

Highlights
  • Selectable power output.
  • Dual and triple watch feature
  • All USA and Canadian channels.
  • Removes background noise.

This is an easy-to-use, powerful radio with a variety of pleasing features for both land-based and marine communications.

Firstly, it has a selectable power output depending on your needs. The radio allows you to alternate between 1 and 2.5 watts for shorter range communications. If you require longer range transmission. You can use the “boost” key to power it up to 6 watts.

Additionally, this Uniden walkie talkie has both a dual and triple watch feature. This allows you to monitor multiple channels at once such as two Coast Guard or emergency channels and one other normal communications channel.

This is an excellent safety feature for marine use, and for more isolated terrains where you’ll need to keep in touch with multiple channels. If you need instant access to channel 16 or 9 for emergencies, you can easily press the designated one-touch key.

The radio also features all Canadian and USA channels plus technology that removes background noise for clear communications. It also includes all NOAA weather channels.

The device includes many well-designed safety features. Firstly, it floats in water meaning you won’t worry about losing it at depth.
Secondly, it has glow-in-the-dark seals making it easy to locate at nighttime. Lastly, it comes with a battery level indicator preventing any sudden low battery surprise. It is rechargeable using the AC and DC adaptors for the charging cradle.

Another safety feature of this radio is its “Weather Alert Watch” mode. When turned on, this will mute the radio and sound an alarm if there are broadcasts on the weather alert channel. This is crucial to help you stay aware of any weather warnings.

Further features of this model include a belt clip to secure it without having to hold it in your hand, and a high-quality backlit LCD allowing you to read the device in the dark with ease.

Specifications

Range:
16 miles
Channels:
22 channels
IP Rating:
IPX7
Battery Type:
Lithium-ion
Battery Life:
10 hours
Warranty:
3 years

Pros

  • Good battery life.
  • Floats in water.
  • Backlit LCD.
  • Includes a belt clip.

Cons

  • Slightly bulky design.
  • No GPS.

6. Standard Horizon HX150 Waterproof Marine Radio

Highlights
  • 1.8-inch LCD.
  • Super compact design. 
  • Includes a charging cradle.
  • All USA, International, and Canadian Marine Channels

The HX150 is compact yet has a generous LCD screen coming in at 1.8 inches. It’s a little larger than other models and is certainly convenient to read without any hassle. The walkie talkie’s easy-to-operate backlit keypad also makes it easy to read in darker times of the day and when you don’t have a flashlight to hand. Plus, it has ample distance between each key to prevent accidentally pressing the wrong key. This is great for those who wear gloves too!

The large screen conveniently displays battery life, squelch level, and battery life. It also has a key lock function meaning no keys will accidentally be pressed while the device is in your pocket or bag.

Like many other models we have covered, the radio has 2 output options depending on which length of communication you require. It allows you to select either 1 watt or 5-watt transmission power output with the latter being suitable for long-range communications.

Furthermore, this model has a great battery life of 10 hours so it should be sure to last you a day trip. The batteries can be recharged, rather than having to be replaced which is far more convenient. It also comes with a charging cradle rather than just a cord.

An appreciable feature of this Standard Horizon model is its inclusion of all USA, Canadian, and International channels making it ideal for users worldwide. It also has access to NOAA weather channels and has a “Weather Alert” function. This will sound an alarm before it informs you of any weaher hazards.

The model itself is designed to be comfortable and practically sized. It easily fits into a pocket or any kind of bag. Lastly, it has a rating of IPX7 plus the ability to float in the water making it hard to lose.

Specifications

Range:
15 miles
IP Rating:
IPX7
Battery Type:
Lithium-ion
Battery Life:
10 hours
Warranty:
3 years

Pros

  • 2 output options.
  • Dual watch option.
  • Key lock.
  • Easy-to-operate menu.

Cons

  • No triple watch option.
  • No iVOX function.

7. Uniden MHS75 Waterproof Marine Radio

Highlights
  • Long battery life.
  • Super lightweight. 0.01 pounds.
  • 3 different output options.
  • Triple channel watch.
Best For Low Budgets
Uniden - MHS75 Waterproof Handheld 2-Way VHF Marine radio

The Uniden MHS75 is an impressively durable walkie talkie with a variety of features making it an ideal companion for both land-based (GMRS) and marine (VHF) communications.

Firstly, it has a generous battery life of 12 hours after one charge, making it ideal for longer day trips where you may not have access to a charger.

For an extra level of comfort, the screen displays a block-style battery level indicator. The device will also sound an alarm and display a flash when the battery level is low so you can be notified when to charge it. You will be able to charge it on board a boat with a cougar lighter or a charging port.

Furthermore, this waterproof radio has 3 different output options to interchange between long and short-range communications. You can select between 1, 2, and 5 watts with the highest wattage for the longest range of communications and vice versa. It also has a power boost key.

In addition to the output, you can also monitor multiple channels at once. This includes channels 16 and 9 for emergencies, plus another communications channel of your choice. This is an excellent safety feature for difficult situations where you need to monitor multiple channels.

Unfortunately, this radio does not float on water like many other models, however, it holds a substantial waterproof rating allowing it to be submersible in 1.5 meters of water for up to 30 minutes. This makes it a safe option for both mariners and land-based operations in damp climates.

This model includes 3 different operation modes which you can change using the keypad. The “scan mode” allows you to keep an eye on all your saved channels while the “normal mode” allows single-channel communications. You can monitor NOAA weather channels on the “weather mode”.

Another useful feature of this radio is its “watch modes” which allow you to observe multiple channels at once as the radio automatically searches for transmissions.

Specifications

IP Rating:
IPX8
Battery Type:
Lithium-ion
Battery Life:
12 hours
Warranty:
3 years

Pros

  • All USA, International, and Canada channels.
  • Glow in the dark seals.
  • Suitable for land and marine use.
  • Loud weather alert signal.

Cons

  • Does not float.
  • No iVOX function.

Waterproof Walkie Talkie Buying Guide

Range

Some walkie talkies only transmit from one to the other, but some also work to transmit to multiple other channels like the ones we have reviewed above. 

The range is defined as the distance that the walkie talkie can transmit. Ranges vary from a few miles to 37 miles on our top radio above! These are classed as long-range communication and short-range communications.

Uses

Waterproof walkie talkies have several designated uses.

Boating

They are often used for marine locations due to their water-resistant designs. Many also can float, and light-up parts to prevent you from losing it underwater. There are even specific marine VHF radios, so you might want to check those as well. 

Skiing

A key feature to look for in a ski walkie talkie would be a belt clip or a neck strap as you probably won’t be able to hold it in your hands all the time. Another useful feature would be hands-free communication.

Fishing & Kayaking

Similar to boating walkie talkies, you’ll want to look out for features such as a good IPX rating and floating in water technology. You might also want to look for a long-range radio if you tend to venture far from the harbor.

Hunting & Camping

Hunting walkie talkies with long battery lives will be ideal companions for hiking and camping. This means you won’t run out of charge and have to turn back on a longer route or overnight camping trip. Models with built-in flashlights are also ideal for this use. There are also specifically made walkie talkies for hiking.

Features

There are a few important, if not essential, features to look for in walkie talkies.

Battery Life

Long battery life is ideal for any model. However, if you will use it for shorter trips then don’t feel obliged to lean towards a longer battery life over other features you like. It is important to look for a walkie talkie with a battery life indicator to ensure you don’t get stuck with a dead device.

Floating

A perfect design feature of walkie talkies is the ability to float when dropped into water. This is perfect for boating of water-based activities where you can be sure your device won’t drown. You’ll find a number of our reviewed products above have this feature!

Durability

Certain materials and seals are more durable than others. Most radio models are crafted from plastic with waterproof casing defining its durability. While they may not withstand being run over, they should survive normal bumps and occasional drops.

GPS

It’s handy to have your communications, safety alerts, and GPS all together in one device. However, only a handful of walkie talkies usually have GPS software installed, and if they do they are sure to cost a lot more.

NOAA Weather Alerts

A radio with access to National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration weather channels is essential no matter where you will be using your weather radio. They provide crucial updates on incoming weather hazards that may affect your plan. You’ll find most walkie talkies include access to these.

Pricing Range

The pricing range for waterproof walkie talkies isn’t as drastic as with some other electronics, however you will find variation in the prices to suit your budget, 

The most important things to check for are the features that you require, then you can consider them alongside the price. You’re likely to find most models come with similar features regardless of their cost and depending on the brand.

Our Verdict

An essential for mariners, adventurers, kayakers, campers and more, a waterproof walkie talkie has more uses than one no matter what your niche.

You may not have realised the amount of features they include – from hands free voice activation to floating on water and built in flashlights. It’s clear to see how modernised the old fun walkie talkies have become and just how helpful they can be.

If you felt a little lost before, hopefully we have been able to put you in touch with some of the top waterproof walkie talkies and easy ways to choose which one to buy!