Finding the best marine radio handheld suitable for your needs isnt easy. With hundreds of choices can distract you. Knowing whats bad and whats good can be something of a minefield. In this article, weve done the hard work for you.
Reviews
1. ICOM IC-M93D Marine VHF Handheld Radio with GPS & DSC, 5W
Feature
Handheld marine VHF radioFive Watts transmit power
Dual/Tri Watch function
Built-in GPS with DSC
Three year warranty
Description
Icom VHF handheld Marine Transceiver, MFG# M93D. The M93 is slender, has a 2-tone body, is feature rich and smart. Enjoy Icom's continued tradition of Float'n Flash, Aqua Quake and Active Noise Cancelling. The M93D will keep you safe with integrated GPS - providing location, bearing and speed. Plus this handheld meets ITU-R M493-13 Class D DSC with a dedicated built-in DSC receiver for CH 70. Icom's new M93D is built for the serious boater. A flat sheet keypad not only makes the radio slim, but also provides positive click feeling. The M93D offers consistent and predictable operation based on Icom's common Marine Family User Interface. You can quickly access the required function by using soft keys. The most often-used 19 functions can be assigned at the bottom of the display and are toggled with the left and right keys. The M93D's large, full dot-matrix display clearly shows information. The large font and identifiable icons make it easy to read. In addition, the display is high contrast and visible under direct sunlight. Integrated GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) receiver provides your location, bearing and speed with fast-setup time and pinpoint accuracy by using information from GPS, GLONASS, QZSS and SBAS (WAAS/EGNOS/MSAS). Features: Built-in Class D DSC. A red rear panel button allows for distress calls Navigation function from current position to the specified waypoint 50 waypoint memories with alphanumeric name for navigation Weather channel receive with alert function Dual/Tri-watch function for monitoring CH16 and/or call channel Battery indicator shows remaining battery power in four levels Favorite channel function for quick access to often used functions Aqua Quake draining function clears water away from the speaker grill Float'n Flash allows the user to see the radio when dropped in the water Active Noise Canceling digitally removes background noise from both transmit and receive audio.2. Standard Horizon HX870 Floating 6W Handheld VHF with Internal GPS
Feature
Floating 6W Handheld VHF with Internal GPSMeets ITU-R M493-13 Class D DSC (Digital Selective Calling)
Separate Receiver for CH70 (Receiving DSC Calls)
Integrated 66 Channel WAAS GPS receiver
Noise-canceling Function for both transmit and receive audio
Description
Handheld VHF, MFG# HX870, 6 Watts transmit power, Integrated GPS, Class D DSC w/ separate receiver, 2.3" display, waypoint navigation, MOB function, submersible, strobe, noise cancelling TX/RX, USB port.3. Icom M36 01 Floating Handheld 6W Marine Radio with Clear Voice Audio
Feature
1.5" diagonal LCD6 Watts output power
8 hour lithium-ion battery
Optional Speaker/Mic
Dual Watch, scan functions
Description
The IC-M36 has Clear Voice and Voice Boost, Which has a sub-microphone on the rear panel that inverts phase and cancels out ambient noise from the main microphone. As a result, the IC-M36 reduces the affect of background noise (particularly trebly noise) from the transmitted signal and makes it easier to catch voice communication. When in an engine room or high noise environment, the sub-microphone detects the ambient noise and the IC-M36 automatically increases the volume output to suit the surrounding environment. When you need an instant "boost" in the volume, a simple push of the "LOUD" button gives you full volume immediately. In addition, holding the "LOUD" button mutes the audio output. The IC-M36 floats back up to the surface if dropped overboard, even if the optional speaker microphone, HM-165, is attached. Although the IC-M36 delivers a high 6W RF output and 700mW audio output, its current saving circuit offers a practical 8 hours of operating time with the supplied 980mAh Lithium-Ion battery pack. (Typical operation: 5% TX, 5% RX, 90% standby.) Thanks to the large, easy-to-operate buttons, the IC-M36 provides intuitive operation. A pinched-waist slender body makes it easy to hold and carry the radio, and is surprisingly compact for a floating radio. The IC-M36 is waterproof to IPX7 standards, has a 4-step battery indicator, NOAA weather and weather alert, 2-step power saver, and full Dual/Tri Watch and scan functions. Includes radio, battery pack, charger, AC adapter, belt clip, and hand strap. Three year warranty.4. Standard Horizon HX300 Standard HX300 Handheld VHF Marine Radio
Feature
Large 1.75" LCD5 or 1 Watts of transmit power
All scanning functions including Programmable, Priority Scan and Dual/Tri Watch
Description
Standard HX300 Handheld VHF Marine Radio. The HX300 is an extremely compact 5W FLOATING handheld VHF. If dropped in the water, a flashing strobe light is activated to help recover the unit. The HX300 comes packaged with a high capacity 1650 mAh 3.7V Lithium-ion non memory rechargeable battery, rugged belt clip, 110/220VAC USB charger. Other key features include programmable scan Priority Scan, Tri-watch and Dual Watch functions, a 10 channel preset key selection, 600 mW internal audio speaker and a new Easy to Operate menu making this the most intuitive yet compact floating handheld on the market today. The HX300 is backed by an industry leading 3-year waterproof warranty. Other features include: submersible IPX-8 1.5M (4.92Ft) for 30 minutes, ergonomic case design, selectable 5 and 1 Watt transmit power output, all USA, International and Canadian marine channels, NOAA Weather channels and Weather Alert, key illumination button, available alkaline battery tray. In the box: HX300 w/ antenna, battery, 110VAC charger, belt clip and wrist strap, owner's manual. 2.3"W x 5"H x 1.4"D; Wt.: 9 oz.5. Uniden MHS75 Handheld Submersible 2-Way 5W VHF Marine Radio - Black
Feature
Up to 12 Hour Battery LifeJIS8 Submersible: IT FLOATS!
Add Up to 100 Favorite Locations
Waterproof handheld marine VHF radio is factory programmed with all U.S., Canadian, and international channels
Supports all NOAA weather channels; emergency/weather alert function alerts you of any emergencies
Simultaneously monitor up to two Coast Guard Distress/Hailing, one weather, and one regular marine channel
Brilliant backlit LCD display and backlit keypad make radio easy to use, day or night
Rapid clip-on DC charger works in any standard 12 volt DC "cigarette lighter" style outlet; 3-year warranty
Description
This compact, well built, rugged handheld Marine radio is rated JIS8/IPX8 submersible and is packed with outstanding features. Included accessories are a rapid clip-on DC charger, and Lithium-Ion rechargeable battery.6. Standard Horizon HX150 Standard HX150 Handheld VHF Marine Radio
Feature
Large 1.8" LCD5 or 1 Watts of transmit power
All scanning functions including Programmable, Priority Scan and Dual Watch
Description
Standard HX150 Handheld VHF Marine Radio. The submersible HX150 is our "best value" handheld floating VHF. With a new slim, form fitting case design, oversized easy to read LCD and backlit keypad, the HX150 looks and feels great at a fraction of the cost of comparable VHF radios. Upgraded with a new Li-Ion battery, this VHF will supply you with more than 10 hours of operating time. Other great features include: Submersible JIS-7 / IPX7 (3.3 feet for 30 minutes), all USA, International and Canadian Marine Channels Programmable Scan, Dual Watch, Ch16 Priority Scan; NOAA weather channels with weather alert, selectable 5 and 1 Watt transmit power, and a battery life indicator. The HX150 comes packaged with 1030mAh non memory rechargeable battery, belt clip, 110 VAC trickle charger and a drop-in charging cradle. The HX150 is backed by an industry leading 3-year waterproof warranty. 2.32"(W) x 5"(H) x 1.34"(D).7. Cobra MRHH350FLT Floating VHF Radio
Feature
Floating - Never lose your radio. Floating design and orange core makes retrieving radio easy if dropped overboard.6 Watt VHF - Select between 1, 3 and 6 Watts for short and long range communication.
Ultra-Compact Design - Ergonomic and compact design is easy to hold and intuitive to operate.
ALL NOAA weather channels - Instant access to national All Hazards and weather information, 24 hours a day.
Noise-canceling microphone - Blocks background noise for clearer conversations.
Description
The best value in our handheld VHF radio line up! Backed by 50 years of Cobra quality, this floating radio has an orange core for higher visibility and is easy to retrieve if dropped overboard. It features 6 Watts of power for longer range communications and full access to all NOAA weather channels and alarm tones for weather emergencies. It also includes all of the core features like Noise canceling microphone, JIS7/IPX7 rated Submersible, Tri-Watch, Memory Channels, Memory Scan and BURP.8. Cobra MR HH350W FLT MR HH350 6 Watt Handheld VHF (White)
Feature
Noise-Cancelling Microphone - Blocks background noise for clearer conversations.7 Watt VHF - Select between 1, 3 and 6 watts for short and long range communication.
USA, Canada & International Channels - Allows operation on any of the three different channel maps established for these areas.
All NOAA Weather Channels and Weather Alert - Instant access to national All Hazards and weather information, 24 hours a day, and alerts if threatening weather is nearby.
Description
MR HH350 6 Watt Handheld VHF, White, MFG# MR HH350W FLT, 6 Watts, floats, all US, Canadian, Intl., & NOAA channels. Noise-cancelling Mic, Tri-watch, scan, memory scan, signal meter, key lock, illuminated keys/LCD.9. Uniden Atlantis 150 Submersible Handheld Two-Way VHF Marine Radio
Feature
SubmersibleFloating, Lightweight Design
1/2.5 Watt TX
US, Canada, and International, Marine Channels
NOAA Weather Alert
Description
Lindy Lwtkm59 Wally Talker 1/4oz. Radio. Atlantis 150 # Atlantis 150. Brand name Uniden. Radios VHF hand held. Item weighs 1.2 pounds.10. Uniden Atlantis 270 Handheld Floating 2-Way 6W VHF Marine Radio - Black
Feature
JIS7/IPX7 Submersible Waterproof level + Designed to Float1/2.5/6W (VHF) + Power Boost PTT Key
10 Hour Battery Life
NOAA Weather Channels
Dual and Triple Watch Operation
Description
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Uniden Atlantis 270
The Uniden Atlantis 270 features all NOAA emergency weather channels, as well as all USA, International, and Canadian marine channels. It meets JIS7/IPX7 submersible waterproof standards, and it floats/ The PowerBoost key ensures longer battery life and extra-long range when needed in an emergency. The Atlantis' brilliant backlit LCD display makes it easy to use, day or night, for the power to go anywhere.
Waterproof specifications
The Atlantis 270 is a submersible radio, complying with floating JIS7/IPX7 water-resistant standards. The radio can be submerged in 1 meter of water for 30 minutes without damage. This radio is great when camping, hiking, or rafting. After the radio is submerged in water, the sound may appear distorted from water still remaining in and around the speaker and microphone. Just shake the radio to clear excess water, and the sound should return to normal. If your radio is exposed to salt water, clean it thoroughly with fresh water and dry it before turning it on. The charger is not waterproof.
All NOAA Weather Channels with Weather Alert
This radio comes pre-programmed with NOAA weather channels. The Emergency/Weather Alert allows it to function as a severe weather warning radio and will also alert you to any local or national emergencies. If the NOAA issues warning while this feature is turned On, the radio sounds an alert tone. You will then hear the emergency/weather broadcast.
Features:
- NEW Floating Design
- IPX7 Submersible Waterproof Level
- 10-Hour Battery Life
- Selectable 1 / 2.5 / 6 watt Transmit Power
- Display Size: 18mm x 37mm
- Large Easy-to Read Backlit LCD
- Power Boost Key
- AC & DC Adapters Included
- Charging Cradle
- Glow Seals
