8 Best Waterproof Walkie Talkies in 2024 | LydiaScapes

Best Waterproof Walkie Talkies

We always bring our walkie talkies on our climbing or hiking trips, and we’ve found its really easy to forget waterproofing on these important tools. Waterproofing is a crucial factor to consider if you want to use your walkie talkies on or near bodies of water. Those of you who love to fish or go boating will especially find this feature important. This is also a useful feature to have for winter sport fun, as your walkies could still become wet from snow and ice. We’ve done some serious research, and below are some of the best waterproof walkie talkies we’ve found on the market to help you pick the right set for you.

Best Waterproof Walkie Talkies

What is the Best Waterproof Walkie Talkies?

Below you’ll find the list of the top 8 Best Waterproof Walkie Talkies. We compiled this list from waterproof walkie talkies 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 water use 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. Gocom G2 FRS IPX4 Waterproof Long Range Two Way Radios

Gocom G2 FRS IPX4 Waterproof Long Range Two Way Radios
Specs
Price: 💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper)
Weight: 0.57 pounds (0.26 kg)
Size: 7.1 x 2.2 x 1.3 inches (18 x 5.5 x 3.2 cm)
Range: Up to 16 miles
Battery Life: 24+ hours
Power Source: AA batteries

The Gocom FRS Long Range Walkie Talkie boasts the ability to automatically scan for 10 weather channels and select one with the most signal to provide you with up-to-date weather updates so that you are able to plan for any undesirable weather events. One handy feature is that this walkie-talkie has a lock feature which prevents the transmission buttons or any other buttons from being pressed accidentally. However, it is worthy to note that the PTT (press to talk) button is placed on the front face of the walkie-talkie instead of the usual placement at the sides. This can make for some awkward angles for one-handed usage. It also uses AAA batteries so unless you’re using rechargable batteries, it’s better to prep additional alkaline batteries to prevent any surprises.

Pros

  • Has 22 channels and 121 sets of CTCSS/CDCSS audio,
  • Automatically scans 10 available weather channels and lock into one with the strongest signal,
  • Flashlight feature to illuminate in the dark,
  • Keypad lock feature to prevent any accidentally trigerring in the outdoors.

Cons

  • Awkward PTT button design (button is on the face instead of the side),
  • Uses AAA batteries which is not rechargable.

2. NOAA Retevis RT49 Walkie Talkies

NOAA Retevis RT49 Walkie Talkies
Specs
Price: 💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper)
Size: 10.3 x 9.1 x 4.9 inches (26.2 x 23.1 x 12.4 cm)
Range: 1.5 kilometers
Battery Life: 5-8 hours
Power Source: AC or AA batteries

The Retevis RT49 Walkie Talkie comes with rechagearble batteries and a lanyard which is great for kids so they dont lose it. They have an LCD display and a big keyboard so it is easy to see and use especially in the dark. It also has a NOAA Weather Scan and Alert feature which is excellent for giving alerts when there’s risk of adverse weather.

It has an IP65 water resistant design which helps protect the device from water and its effects. It however cannot be soaked in water. It is a hands free device which means it is sound and voice activated, it is also hands free therefore it is excellent for when you are having hands on activities.

It has a built in flashlight that is excellent for when you are out in the dark. It is a decent device for the price and the featires it comes with.

This device is best for communicatiuon within the neighborhood or for your children when they are out playing and you want to keep tabs on them.

Pros

  • Has a NOAA Weather Scan and Alert,
  • LCD screen and keyboard,
  • It is hands free,
  • Water and rain proof,
  • Has crystal clear sound.

Cons

  • Poor reception,
  • Short battery life.

3. Retevis RT49P IP67 Floating Portable Walkie Talkie

Retevis RT49P IP67 Floating Portable Walkie Talkie
Specs
Price: 💲💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper)
Weight: 0.3 pounds (0.13 kg)
Size: 8 x 2.4 x 1.5 inches (20.2 x 6.1 x 3.8 cm)
Range: 2 miles
Battery Life: 50 hours
Power Source: 1200mAh NiMH rechargeable or alkaline AA batteries
Continuous Talktime: 5-8 hours

For kayakers, canoers, and surf fishers, the Retevis RT49P IP67 Floating Portable Walkie Talkie can be quite useful. The radio is resistant to rain and withstands a meter-deep submersion for half of an hour. Additionally, there is a water-activated flashlight that helps you find it instantly.

Next, you’ll find built-in NOAA weather radio, VOX for hands-free use, a dual-channel watch, and an SOS alarm. According to a few reviews, channel switching can be somewhat complicated and takes getting used to it. The max signal distance is not that great at just 2 watts of power as well.

The good news is the set includes 4 walkie-talkies with headsets, belt clips, dock stations, USB cables, and adapters. Given the price tag, this is a bargain deal.

Pros

  • Submersible and floating IP67 waterproof housing,
  • LCD screen and water-activated flashlight,
  • NOAA weather radio, VOX, dual watch, and SOS alarm,
  • Come with headsets, belt clips, dual charging stations, USB cables, and adapters

Cons

  • Channel switching is complicated, Short signal range

4. Retevis RT47 Waterproof Two-Way Radios

Retevis RT47 Waterproof Two-Way Radios
Specs
Price: 💲💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper)
Size: 8.9 x 2.3 x 1 inches (22.6 x 5.8 x 2.5 cm)
Range: 2 miles
Battery Life: 10-12 hours
Power Source: 1100mAh Li-ion battery
Continuous Talktime: 12 hours

For those who travel in rainy weather or work near water bodies, we recommend the Retevis RT47 Waterproof Two-Way Radios. The IP67 rating grants maximum protection against water and dust.

Several of the 16 pre-programmed channels work with RT22, RT21, RT68, and H-777 walkie-talkies, so the cross-compatibility is impressive. Next, this model boasts VOX, BCLO, TOT, squelch, and monitor. As for the battery, the product has auto power-saving mode and notifies you when to recharge it. The included external microphone and belt clips provide convenient use. However, you’ll need to tighten the clip screws from time to time. Lastly, the signal range of this unit is a bit shorter if you compare it to different brands.

Pros

  • IP67 waterproof and dustproof housing,
  • VOX, monitor, BCLO, TOT, low battery alert, and squelch,
  • Come with external microphones,
  • Power-saving mode and great battery capacity

Cons

  • Short signal range,
  • Belt clip screws require regular tightening

5. COTRE Swan Outdoor Rechargeable Two Way Radios

COTRE Swan Outdoor Rechargeable Two Way Radios
Specs
Price: 💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper)
Weight: 0.72 pounds (0.33 kg)
Size: 7.8 x 2.4 x 1.5 inches (19.8 x 6.1 x 3.8 cm)
Range: up to 32 miles
Battery Life: 17-20 hours
Power Source: AA NiMH rechargeable batteries

If durability is what matters the most for your needs, go for the COTRE Swan Outdoor Rechargeable Two Way Radios. Thanks to the IP67 waterproof design, you can submerge it, and an automatically activated flashlight will help you spot it instantly. The housing is also drop-resistant, making it a versatile option for anyone.

The 22 FRS channels with 121 sub-codes should be more than enough to keep your conversation private. Next, the built-in functions are dual-channel watch and scan, hi-power mode for max signal range, keypad lock, mute, and VOX. For extra safety, you’ll get an emergency SOS and weather alert.

While the included batteries last 20 hours, it’s better to replace them with lithium-ion ones to reach the max potential of the radio. Another thing to be aware of is a limited signal distance when used among buildings.

Pros

  • LCD screen, flashlight, and headphone jack,
  • IP67 waterproof and floating housing,
  • Dual watch, scan, hi-power mode, VOX, emergency SOS, mute, keypad lock, and weather alert,
  • Come with a dual charging base, USB cable, and belt clips

Cons

  • Limited max range in the urban area,
  • Batteries need an upgrade

6. Midland X-TALKER T31VP Extended Range Two Way Radios

Midland X-TALKER T31VP Extended Range Two Way Radios
Specs
Price: 💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper)
Weight: 0.14 pounds (0.06 kg)
Size: 5.5 x 2 x 1.2 inches (14 x 5.1 x 3 cm)
Range: 26 miles
Battery Life: 10 hours
Power Source: 300mAh rechargeable or AAA alkaline batteries
Continuous Talktime: 4-5 hours

If you are looking for smaller options that can still offer a decent signal range, check the Midland X-TALKER T31VP Extended Range Two Way Radios. The 22 FRS channels have 38 CTCSS privacy codes, and you can use the scan function to check if someone is talking.

The built-in VOX allows hands-free use, while NOAA weather alert makes any trip safer. The walkie-talkies have backlit screens and speaker and mic ports. As for the accessories, you’ll get belt clips and a Y-type micro-USB cable.

Unfortunately, the specified max distance is questionable, and also the batteries require an upgrade. The provided ones don’t last long and take up to 12 hours to recharge.

Pros

  • Water-resistant and compact design,
  • LCD screen and external speaker and microphone ports,
  • NOAA weather alert and VOX,
  • Come with belt clips and a Y-type micro-USB cable

Cons

  • Drain batteries fast and take a lot of time to recharge,
  • Limited max distance

7. Gocom G9 Long Range Waterproof Walkie Talkies

Gocom G9 Long Range Waterproof Walkie Talkies
Specs
Price: 💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper)
Size: 8 x 2.4 x 1.8 inches (20.4 x 6 x 4.5 cm)
Range: 32 miles
Battery Life: 24 hours
Power Source: 1200mAh Ni-MH batteries
Continuous Talktime: 7 hours

For active people who spend a lot of time outside, the Gocom G9 Long Range Waterproof Walkie Talkies are an excellent addition to their gear. First, they provide 22 channels with 121 privacy codes and have NOAA weather alerts. You can also benefit from a led flashlight after the dark, and it comes with a built-in SOS function should anything go wrong. As if it’s not enough, the product is IP67 rated, and the led activates automatically as it comes in contact with water.

The informative display helps to adjust the settings, and the VOX function and an included earpiece offer hands-free communication. In addition, you’ll get belt clips, a micro USB cable, charging station.

It’s a shame that the charging station has no indication, and these radios aren’t the top choice to use inside buildings. Still, they have a decent range in open.

Pros

  • NOAA weather scan and VOX-ready, SOS lamp and led flashlight, LCD screen and low battery alerts, IP67 submersible and floating design

Cons

  • Charging stations have no indicators,
  • Limited range when used inside buildings

8. Retevis RT47V MURS Handheld Rechargeable Radio

Retevis RT47V MURS Handheld Rechargeable Radio
Specs
Price: 💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper)
Size: 8.9 x 2.1 x 1.2 inches (22.6 x 5.3 x 3 cm)
Range: 2 miles
Battery Life: 120 hours
Power Source: 1100mAh Li-ion battery
Continuous Talktime: 8-12 hours

The Retevis RT47V MURS Handheld Rechargeable Radio can be ideal for those who need crisp sound despite the weather. Thanks to IP67 waterproof housing, you can submerge it into meter-deep water without causing any damage. The controls are also intuitive, which looks appealing to non-experienced users.

This model offers 1-9 grade squelch, busy channel lock, TOT, VOX, monitor function, and recharges within 3 hours. The kit includes USB charging bases and external mics. While you can purchase a programming cable for this radio, you can’t alter the channel frequencies.

It’s a shame that the signal range is only about 2 miles. However, unlike the previous version of this model, this one allows antenna replacement to provide up to 4 miles range.

Pros

  • IP67 waterproof and dustproof design,
  • MURS frequencies and quick charging,
  • Squelch, busy channel lock, time-out timer, VOX, and monitor,
  • Come with external microphones and USB charging bases

Cons

  • Short signal range,
  • Non-programmable channels

Verdict

Based on all of our experience with walkie talkies for water use, we found that Gocom G2 FRS IPX4 Waterproof Long Range Two Way Radios is the best waterproof walkie talkie available today.

Our Premium Option is NOAA Retevis RT49 Walkie Talkies 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 Retevis RT49P IP67 Floating Portable Walkie Talkie as an affordable alternative.

Our other reviews you may find useful in your research:

What You Should Know Before Buying waterproof walkie talkies

Impenetrability or Waterproofness

Waterproof walkie talkies are specifically made and valued for their durabilty. They are able to withstand bad weather conditions. They are made water resistant by covering the body with a surface that prevents water from seeping through the inner parts. The ingress protection (IP) rating of a walkie talkie determines if it can resist or how good it can resist water. Walkie talkies with IPX7 ratings have the highest resistance to water and can be submerged in water to about 1 meter depth for 30 minutes. Radios with other types of IP ratings like IPX6, IPX6K and IPX5 are also resistant to considerable amount of water. But IPX4 radios are only resistant to water splashes. This type of radios makes it possible to communicate even in areas where your phone does not have any network connections like villages and other rural areas with poor internet facilities. They are usually good when you go for a camping trip or hiking and any type of long trip because not only range but the durability of a radio matters also.

Floating Feature

All floating walkie talkie are waterproof that are further programmed to float on water. It prevent the water from soaking into it. The slim and light-weight properties of these walkies gives them buoyancy that makes them float when they fall on water, and some products even have flashlights that automatically turns on when it falls into water so that you can find them easily. They have same features with waterproof radios so they do are also used in area that have poor network services and for various specific events like camping and hiking. They also have a considerable range of communication too. Also note that most waterproof and floating radios are also dustproof and there maintenance guidlines are the same and easy to follow.

NOAA Weather Alert

Having a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) enabled walkie-talkie is a must-have while planning outdoor recreational activities like hiking, camping, or going to mountains in order to avoid any unforeseen weather surprises.

A walkie-talkie with the support of the NOAA feature can proactively tell you in advance about emergency weather conditions that may arise in your way ahead. They constantly broadcast weather alerts from your local NOAA stations while roaming around the outskirts. The SAME is the most advanced technology in this regard, by which you can limit the alerts based on your described area and the alert type needed. There are some models that perform well in waters while others are good in forests and mountains.

Questions and Answers About waterproof walkie talkies

What does IP67 waterproof mean?

A walkie talkie that is ip67 waterproof means it is entirely dustproof and waterproof. It means this device can stay 30 minutes in water of up to 1-meter in depth. It is especially useful for outdoor hiking settings or in situations where there is possible rainfall or flooding. In addition, it eases communication underwater for several divers or cavers.

What is difference between IP67 and IP68?

Ip67 and ip68 are almost the same in terms of dust resistance. But when it comes to water resistance, ip67 can only protect your device for around 30 mins or up to 1-meter depth. However, ip68 has no such restrictions. Therefore, Ip68 is preferable for divers, cavers and lifeguards or those exploring underwater.

Do walkie talkies have a distance limit?

Most walkie talkies operate on radio waves which can only travel in a straight line. Thus, any disruptions to the line will affect the reception of the walkie. Most brands/models will advertised a tranmissible distance of up to 25-30 miles and those figures are indeed true but one will have to understand how they arrive at that number. It was measured in a perfect condition that has no obstructions between two of the parties, which most users will never encounter in real life usage.

Can walkie talkies be traced?

Walkie talkies can still be traced albeit it being more challenging and less accurate than locating it with a GPS. Assuming the walkie talkie does not have any GPS functions, one can trace the location of a walkie using triangulation, trilateration and fox hunting methods due to the radio waves released when the device is on.

How to save battery in a walkie talkie?

Saving battery can be very subjective as it will depend heavily on how you use the walkie talkie and how you maintain the battery. Any kind of batteries tend to have a finite lifespan and will usually use more energy when it’s in a hot environment. To preserve it, you should limit your usage and the intensity of your use. Any other additional functions such as VOX, weather alerts, even volume of the walkie talkie will need to be kept to a minimum. Another thing is the charging time. Overcharging it is counter-intuitive as it ends up eating away your battery lifespan when overcharged. On the other hand, you shouldn’t let the battery fully deplete either as this can eventually prevent the battery from holding a charge.

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