We’ve used walkie talkies on our trips abroad a lot before, and we know just how important they can be for both travelers and workers alike. If you’re on a construction job with unreliable service indoors, it’s essential to consider a communication tool that will help you reach others quickly. Whether an accident occurs or you need to relay a task that needs to be done, walkie-talkies for construction are valuable tools that have exceptional service ranges. Here are some of the top walkie talkies for construction we found online and what we have to say about them.
What is the Best Walkie Talkie For Construction?
Below you’ll find the list of the top 12 Best Walkie Talkie For Construction. We compiled this list from walkie talkies for construction we have used, asked others about, and researched further to give you the best possible roundup. With many years of experience with walkie talkies for construction you can be assured that this article will give you what you’re looking for.
We also wrote a buying guide and answered some of the frequently asked questions (FAQs) at the end of this article.
1. Arcshell Rechargeable Long Range Two-Way Radios with Earpiece
| Specs |
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| Price: 💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 0.39 pounds (0.18 kg) Size: 4.5 x 2.4 x 1.3 inches (11.5 x 6 x 3.3 cm) Range: 5 miles Battery Life: 8-96 hours Power Source: 6 Lithium ion batteries |
Arcshell rechargeable walkie talkie is a long range radio that can be used for both indoor and outdoor activities. It can cover a maximum distance of about 5 miles, but it strongly depends on the area you operate it. The two-way radio is powered by 6 lithium ion batteries which can last for about 8-96 hours. The battery can also be fast charged for about 3 hours either by removing it to charge alone or you can charge it with the walkie talkie, it also has an overcharging protection feature. It has the VOX voice function that allows you to send signals without using the button. The radio is made to be water resistant and it also gives you a quality sound when you receive signals because it has a quality in-built speaker. However this radio does not have a display screen.
Pros
- Water resistant,
- Strong and quality battery,
- Clear and quality sounds,
- Provides some automatic battery functions like low battery alert, power saver and overcharging protection,
- Emergency alarm button.
Cons
- No display screen,
- Range is strictly dependent on the type of location.
2. Motorola RDU4100 12.5kHz 4 Watt 10-Channel Business Two-Way Radio
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| Price: 💲💲💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 0.64 pounds (0.29 kg) Size: 1.6 x 2.2 x 4.5 inches (4.1 x 5.6 x 11.4 cm) Range: 0.8km Battery Life: 18 hours Power Source: Lithium ion Batteries |
The Motorola RDU4100 is a water resistant device with a range of upto 30 floors in a building and 350,000 sq. ft on an open area,
It has a very long battery life that varies depending on the type of batteries used. It has a cloning feature,
It also has a hands free operation which is excellent when doing heavy tasks. It also comes with a belt clip to harness it onto your belt. This Walkie Talkie is excellent for use in supermarkets, warehouses for communicating with employees or at a construction site or loading zones that need employees to be in contant communication.
Pros
- Water resistant,
- Has a 2 spring loaded belt clip,
- Has 3 voice scramble settings to improve privacy,
- Long battery life,
- Has 121 interference eliminator codes.
Cons
- It is a one way radio,
- Transmission is not clear with obstruction.
3. ESynic Rechargeable Walkie Talkies with Earpieces
| Specs |
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| Price: 💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 0.4 pounds (0.18 kg) Size: 2.4 x 1.3 x 4.5 inches (6 x 3.3 x 11.5 cm) Range: 3 miles Battery Life: 8-9 hours Power Source: 2 1500mAh lithium ion batteries |
ESynic rechargeable walkie talkies with earpiece are waterproof in nature and they cover a maximum range of about 3 miles, but it strictly depend on the type of location you are using them. They require 2 1500mAh lithium batteries to operate. The batteries can last for about 8-9 hours of use. The radio provides up to 16 channels that you can select from by using the rotary channel switch button. This channels should be programmed to function within the single frequency range of the radio. However, this model does not have a display screen unlike some other similar two way radios models.
Pros
- Presence of LED flashlight,
- 18 months warranty from customer service,
- Water resistant,
- Power saving mode and low battery alerts functions automatically.
Cons
- No display screen,
- Range is strictly dependent on the area of usage.
4. Dewalt DXFRS800 2 Watt Heavy Duty Walkie Talkies
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| Price: 💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 1.85 pounds (0.84 kg) Size: 2.2 x 2.6 x 7.3 inches (5.5 x 6.6 x 18.5 cm) Range: 56 miles Battery Life: 18 hours Power Source: 2 lithium polymer batteries |
Dewalt DXFRS800 walkie talkie is suitable for indoor activities like being used in restautants, hotels and grocery stores. The radio that can cover up to 25 floors of range. The body is made to be anti-slip so that you can grip it easily. It produce a quality sound when you receive signals. The two-way radio is powered by 2 lithium polymer batteries and it automatically saves power when it is not used. It also has an LCD display screen that shows you information about your channel status and other necessary information. However, the radio can not be used for outdoor activities because of its inability to cover a long range and the battery cannot last for more than a day of continuous use.
Pros
- Water resistant,
- An anti-slip body design,
- Shock resistant,
- Produces quality and clear sound,
- An LCD display screen that shows your channel status.
Cons
- Battery can not last for more than 24 hours of use,
- Low range coverage, Limited output of 2 watts.
5. Zastone X6 Rechargeable Two-Way Radios 2 Pack
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| Price: 💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Size: 3.8 x 2.2 x 0.9 inches (9.6 x 5.5 x 2.2 cm) Range: up to 1.8 miles Battery Life: 2-5 days Power Source: 1100mAh rechargeable Li-ion battery Continuous Talktime: more than 3 hours |
The Zastone X6 Rechargeable Two-Way Radios 2 Pack is a great slim alternative to 888’s models from various manufacturers. These radios support the same frequencies that you can program using CHIRP software to pair them with units of different brands. Along with 16 channels, you’ll get VOX, a time-out timer, battery-saving mode, low battery alert, emergency alarm, and voice prompts here. Additionally, the product has a built-in LED flashlight and comes with removable belt clips, earpieces, and chargers.
Although the plastic feels cheap, you don’t have to worry about breaking the antenna as it is short and reliable enough. On top of that, the overall design allows storing this unit even in small pockets.
According to the official product description, each radio boasts up to 3 watts of power, but it’s hard to believe this number as the signal range is quite short. Still, this should be more than enough for many activities and applications.
Pros
- Slim design with a short antenna,
- VOX, TOT, battery saving function, low battery alert, emergency alarm, and voice prompt,
- Built-in LED flashlight and external mic port,
- Programmable via CHIRP,
- Come with chargers, removable belt clips, and earpieces
Cons
- Cheap plastic,
- Short signal range
6. Retevis RT21 Rechargeable Long Range 2-Way Radio
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| Price: 💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 0.39 pounds (0.18 kg) Size: 4.8 x 2.2 x 1.1 inches (12.2 x 5.5 x 2.8 cm) Range: 1-2 miles Battery Life: 72 hours Power Source: 4 1100mAh rechargeable lithium battery Continuous Talktime: 10-12 hours |
Retevis RT21 long range rechargeable walkie talkie is a strong and rugged radio. The radio use 4 1100MAh battery which can last for about 10-12 hours of frequent use. These batteries also has the ability to fast charge when you plug in the charger but still drains easily even when not in use. The hand held radio is portable and that makes it easier for kids to carry it for a long period of time while operating it. It also makes easy for you to select your channel when operating it. However, unlike some other two-way radios this radio does not have a display screen that shows information like your battery percentage and and your current channel.
Pros
- Easy and simple to operate,
- Water, dust and shock resistant,
- Strong and long antenna,
- Low battery alert and other emergency notifications,
- Strong and stable connection regardless of the location.
Cons
- Poor battery quality,
- It does not hava a display screen.
7. Retevis RT29 2-Way Radios
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| Price: 💲💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 0.74 pounds (0.34 kg) Size: 5.9 x 2.6 x 1.5 inches (15 x 6.6 x 3.8 cm) Range: 3.5-5 miles Battery Life: 250 hours Power Source: 3200 mAh lithium-ion batteries Continuous Talktime: 22-25 hours |
The Retevis RT29 2-Way Radios come in a set of four units with individual charging stations, shoulder microphones, and back clips. Thanks to the large antennas, these 10-watt walkie-talkies can transmit their signal for more than 5 miles in open and have a wide variety of channels to prevent interference. Just keep in mind that these won’t fit inside your pocket because of the antenna’s size.
The rugged build prevents dust and dirt from getting inside, and they can easily withstand occasional impacts. You can find them in either black or orange colors depending on your needs, too.
According to multiple customer reviews, the shoulder microphones have a cheap build, so you might want to go for a replacement soon.
Pros
- Drop-resistant design,
- Excellent transmitting range and battery capacity,
- Flexible clips,
- Come with individual charging stations and accessories
Cons
- Very long antennas,
- Cheap shoulder mics build
8. BaoFeng UV-5R High-Power Radio with TIDRADIO-771 Antenna
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| Price: 💲💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Size: 18.8 x 2.1 x 1.2 inches (47.8 x 5.3 x 3 cm) Range: 27 miles Battery Life: 12 hours Power Source: 1800mAh Lithium-polymer batteries Continuous Talktime: 6-8 hours |
When max transmission range is important, it’s hard to beat the BaoFeng UV-5R High-Power Radio with TIDRADIO-771 Antenna. With 8 watts of power, the signal can reach up to 27 miles. These walkie-talkies boast 128-channel storage and 155 sub-codes within 144-148 MHz and 420-450 MHz.
These advanced models have a built-in VOX, scan function, time-out timer, squelch with 9 levels, and emergency alarm. While the radios have LCD screens, beginners may find it difficult to reprogram them and adjust the settings until they check the instructions. Luckily, the radios come with voice prompts, and you won’t need to buy a programming cable separately.
It’s a shame that the included belt clips are too flimsy. On the other hand, flexible antennas and durable housing are ready for heavy use.
Pros
- 128-channel storage and 155 sub-codes,
- Flexible high-gain antennas,
- VOX, scan, TOT, flashlight, and squelch,
- LCD screen and voice prompts
Cons
- Cheap belt clips,
- Can be tricky to program
9. Retevis RT66 Walkie Talkies Long Range Rechargeable 2 Pack
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| Price: 💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 0.47 pounds (0.21 kg) Size: 4.3 x 2 x 1.4 inches (10.9 x 5.2 x 3.6 cm) Range: 2 miles Battery Life: 14+ hours Power Source: 1200mAh Li-ion batteries Continuous Talktime: 12 hours |
Sometimes the most important things about radios are simplicity and reliability, and this is where the Retevis RT66 Walkie Talkies Long Range Rechargeable 2 Pack comes into play. Thanks to the bright design, this model is very easy to find should you drop it. Since it has only two knobs and three buttons, even beginners will find them intuitive. This two-way radio features 16 channels that are compatible with RT22, RT21, RT68, H-777S, and similar models and have the same preprogrammed sub-codes. For hands-free use, there are earphones and microphone ports on its side. The best part here is a lithium-ion battery that offers up to 12 hours of continuous use and provides fast charging.
We didn’t like the large antenna of this model as it makes it harder to tuck it away into a backpack. On top of that, the signal range is only 2 miles.
Pros
- Bright and durable design,
- Fast charging and battery saving function,
- Easy to set up and use,
- Come with belt clips, USB charging bases, adapters, and lanyards
Cons
- Short signal range,
- The antenna is too large
10. SAMCOM FPCN30AA Programmable Two-Way Radios
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| Price: 💲💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Size: 11 x 1.2 x 1.2 inches (27.9 x 3 x 3 cm) Range: 1.5-5 miles Battery Life: 50 hours Power Source: 1500mAh Lithium-Polymer batteries Continuous Talktime: 12 hours |
The SAMCOM FPCN30AA Programmable Two-Way Radios deliver 5 watts of power and offer long antennas for better reception. The best part here is a 1500mAh lithium battery that grants up to 50 hours of operating time. In addition, the product withstands impacts and all weather conditions easily.
With direct and group PTT buttons, you can talk to different people without having to switch the channel. The backlit LCD screen is easy to read and navigate through the menu.
While the product comes with an earpiece, its quality is questionable because you’ll need to press the button multiple times to find out if it works correctly. You also might need to reprogram the radios to improve the transmitting range. Luckily, this process doesn’t take much time.
Pros
- Easy-to-read Backlit LCD display,
- Direct and group PTT buttons,
- Excellent battery capacity,
- 406.1-470MHz UHF frequency range
Cons
- Cheap earpiece,
- Might require reprogramming for max transmitting range
11. Ansoko ZP5BF-888S Long-Range UHF 10-Pack Walkie-Talkies
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| Price: 💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 0.31 pounds (0.14 kg) Size: 4.7 x 2.2 x 1.2 inches (12 x 5.5 x 3 cm) Range: 0.6-3.5 miles Battery Life: up to 24 hours Power Source: 1500mAh Li-ion batteries Continuous Talktime: 8-12 hours |
For those who need to get many radios for each member on a construction site or an outdoor trip, check the Ansoko ZP5BF-888S Long-Range UHF 10-Pack Walkie-Talkies. These feature a lightweight and compact design and offer up to 24 hours of operation per single charge. With the variety of CTCSS/DCS codes, you won’t get interference during your conversations.
The accessories here are belt clips, lanyards, earpieces, and charging stations. Be mindful that the earpieces are not very reliable and fall apart easily.
Our only gripe here is limited distance if you use them indoors. The signal can hardly pass through the walls even if you use the monitor button to amplify it. On the other hand, it transmits the signal for up to 3.5 miles and even more when used in open.
Pros
- Compact and lightweight,
- Charge quickly and have excellent battery capacity,
- Comes with belt clips, hand straps, earpieces, and charging stations,
- VOX-ready and multiple CTCSS/DCS codes
Cons
- Limited distance when used indoors,
- Earpieces fall apart easily
12. SAMCOM FWCN30A FRS NOAA Walkie-Talkies
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| Price: 💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 0.27 pounds (0.12 kg) Size: 7.1 x 2.2 x 1.1 inches (18 x 5.6 x 2.8 cm) Range: 50 miles Battery Life: 24 hours Power Source: 1250mAh Lithium-Polymer batteries Continuous Talktime: 10 hours |
Available in white and black colors, SAMCOM FWCN30A FRS NOAA Walkie-Talkies are compact 2-watt radios with high and low power modes. The backlit screen helps to switch between 22 FRS channels with 154 sub-codes and keep an eye on a battery charge. As for the housing, the radios are compact, and the plastic is impact-resistant.
With the Group button, you can let your crewmates know that they are on a different channel. In addition, these walkie-talkies are VOX-ready and have NOAA weather alerts. The Y-type cable makes it possible to charge two walkie-talkies at the same time.
A few owners didn’t like the weak reception inside of buildings. However, this is not an issue if you use them in open. Also, the earpieces need improvements as the foam padding falls apart quickly.
Pros
- 22 FRS channels and 154 sub-codes,
- Resistant to impacts and wear and tear,
- Backlit LCD screen and led flashlight,
- Group, VOX, and NOAA and Call Alerts functions,
Cons
- Lacks reception inside of buildings,
- Cheap earpiece padding
Verdict
Based on all of our experience with walkie talkies for construction, we found that Arcshell Rechargeable Long Range Two-Way Radios with Earpiece is the best walkie talkie for construction available today.
Our Premium Option is Motorola RDU4100 12.5kHz 4 Watt 10-Channel Business Two-Way Radio with all the best features and high-quality materials, but that’s only if you have more money to spend.
However, if you are on a slightly tighter budget, you can also consider the ESynic Rechargeable Walkie Talkies with Earpieces as an affordable alternative.
Our other reviews you may find useful in your research:
What You Should Know Before Buying walkie talkies for construction
Hands Free Communication
Hands-free communication in a walkie-talkie set is a combination of two features, the VOX and the second one is jacking for the microphone.
A VOX (Voice-activated) feature turns on the microphone whenever you speak towards the radio from an adequate distance. Thus, it lets you operate the walkie-talkie in a hands-free mode. Mountain bikers and hikers found it to be a very useful thing while on a voyage.
Jacks for microphone and headphones are the other feature in a walkie-talkie that enables hand-free communication where you cannot hold the set like while cycling, kayaking, or skiing.
Walkie talkie models with a PPT button placed at an access point is a more convenient option rather than a VOX feature where you cannot fully control voice transmitting.
Sound Quality
Almost all the walkie-talkies for public use comes with a setting for sound adjustment when you experience noisy signal interference and fuzzy sounds. These get omitted automatically and you get to hear a clearer transmission with better sound quality. There is also squelch settings in some models which allows you to hear additional sound waves on a walkie-talkie, however it does not mean you will have better sound quality. A good sound quality mainly depends on the mic and speaker and secondly the distance and obstacles in between the two receivers. All the top premium models do offer enhanced sound quality and features to optimize it.
Questions and Answers About walkie talkies for construction
Do construction workers use walkie-talkies?
Communication between workers on construction sites is an important factor for safety purposes. The construction industry is the most dangerous, exposing workers to hazards from machines and tools injuries. Notably, walkie-talkie as a portable type of two-way radio has been a tool that keeps all workers on-site interacting, not only for communication purposes more but importantly for safety annocuements.
What is VOX mode on a walkie talkie?
VOX, also known as “voice-activated transmission or exchange” allows for users to start transmitting without having the need to press any button. It is made possible because it detects sounds over certain frequency threshold and activates the trasmission, which makes it perfect for hands-free operation of the walkie talkie. Most walkies have both a PTT (push-to-talk) and VOX function.
What does 104 mean on a walkie talkie?
“10-4” is a walkie talkie lingo used by users to affirm or acknowledge something transmitted. It can also used to signify that you understand what the transmittor is talking about. A walkie talkie lingo might be useful if you’re intending to use a walkie to communicate to a big group or simply as fast efficiennt communication in case of emergencies.
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