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When you’re on the hunt for the perfect walkie-talkie, it’s all about understanding how you’ll use it. Walkie-talkies play diverse roles, whether it’s keeping your group together during an outdoor adventure or being a reliable tool in emergency situations. These devices are popular for good reasons – they’re sturdy, dependable, and user-friendly. But let’s delve into what features you should focus on when choosing a walkie-talkie. This guide to choosing walkie talkies is to simplify the process and help you pick the right style and brand for your specific needs.
Let’s start by figuring out how you plan to use your walkie-talkies. These nifty gadgets cater to both short and long-distance communication. Some are designed to navigate through obstacles like doors or trees, while others thrive in open spaces without signal-hindering obstructions. There are also long-range walkie-talkies often seen with emergency response teams, but keep in mind that these usually require licensing, which adds to the overall cost. If your goal is to communicate on a job site or keep tabs on your hiking crew, you might not need the extended range that comes with licensed devices.
Walkie-talkies have different frequencies that they work on. The most common are Ultra high-frequency bands or UHF. This band offers various options such as Industrial/Business radio services (BRS), General Mobile radio service (GMRS), and Family radio service (FRS). These frequencies are a little different. The strength and distance that the radio will work with will depend on the frequency that you are using. Generally, the GMRS radios are more powerful than the FRS radios, but that will also be reflected in the price.
The FRS doesn’t go the distance that you find in the GMRS. However, it also doesn’t require a license.
The life of the battery is something that also should be considered. If you plan to use the walkie-talkies often or for an entire shift, you’ll need a more powerful battery than someone who is simply carrying one for emergencies. The life of the battery will vary depending on the size, how much power the device uses, and the type of battery that the device has.
The durability of the walkie-talkies is another aspect to consider. If you are using them in an outdoor setting, such as for hiking or taking on family vacations, they probably are not going to get as banged up as if they would on a construction job site.
The durability of the walkie-talkie needed will depend on what type of environment it will be used in as well. If the walkie-talkie will be used indoors, then weather isn’t a factor. However, the walkie-talkie will be subjected to the elements for outdoor applications. You’ll want something that can withstand wind, rain, and snow.
The weight of the walkie-talkies is another factor to consider if you are going to have to carry the device on you at all times. While some people have their walkie-talkie riding around in the truck or on the forklift with them, others will have it attached to their belt. If it’s in your backpack or attached to you, you want to consider the weight of the device.
The security of your conversation is also something to consider. While you probably don’t care if others hear you while hiking with your family, you may not want everyone to hear you discussing a medical situation. This will go along with the frequency of the walkie-talkies. The frequencies on some walkie-talkies can be locked down so that you and only those you allow can hear your conversation. However, these models will require special licensing.
Again, noise cancelling is something you probably don’t need on a hike with the family. However, when you are on the side of the road in an emergency situation, you may want to consider looking for noise-cancelling functions. This is also great for those who use walkie-talkies on job sites and other noisy areas.
The budget is another consideration when looking at hand radios. While there are loads of features and options, they all do come at a cost. Basically, you get what you pay for. However, it’s important when using walkie-talkies you have something that will work for your situation.
We hope that you have enjoyed our guide to choosing walkie-talkies. Our goal was to offer you some advice on what to look for when shopping for these types of devices. It’s important that you take the time to really determine what you want for your particular situation.
If you require further guidance on walkies talkies see here.
