Best Waterproof Walkie-Talkies In 2023

Unlike a cell phone which relies on the availability of cell service, a walkie-talkie will allow easy communication with your partner even in the absence of cell service. A waterproof walkie-talkie does more than ease your mind about communicating, but it is built to withstand the elements from Mother Nature.

As their name suggests, waterproof walkie-talkies are not affected by moisture or water and will go a long way at enhancing your adventure by ensuring communication with your party. At the very least, the most basic waterproof walkie-talkie is not affected by rainfall or snowfall, while the advanced radios will survive even underwater of varying depth and still allow you to signal for help in case of any incident.

If you’re in search of the best walkie-talkie, we shall provide you with a list of the top 10 radios in the market, and guide you on how to choose one. Here, we’ve reviewed the 10 of the best waterproof walkie-talkies on the market.

Best Waterproof Walkie Talkies

Waterproof Walkie-Talkie Comparison Table

Walkie-Talkie	Details
COBRA CXT1045R-FLT-CAMO	Range: 37 miles Privacy codes: Yes Weather Channels: Yes Waterproofing: IPX7	Check Price
Midland Consumer Radio GXT1030VP4	Range: 36 miles Privacy codes: Yes Weather channels: Yes Waterproofing: JIS4	Check Price
Midland GXT1000VP4	Range: 36 miles Privacy codes: Yes Weather channels: Yes Waterproofing: JIS4	Check Price
Uniden MHS75	Range: 34 miles Privacy codes: No Weather channels: Yes Waterproofing: JIS8	Check Price
Motorola T600: Perfect For Outdoorsman	Range: 35 miles Privacy codes: Yes Weather channels: Yes Waterproofing: IP67 Waterproof	Check Price
TYT Tytera Upgraded MD-390 DM No products found.	Range: 36 miles Privacy codes: Yes Weather channels: No Waterproofing: IPX7	Check Price
Motorola Ms355r Frs Waterproof Two-Way No products found.	Range: 35 miles Privacy codes: No Weather channels: Yes Waterproofing: IP-67	Check Price
Retevis RT81	Range: 4.5 miles Privacy codes: No Weather channels: No Waterproofing: IP67	Check Price
Standard Horizon HX870 No products found.	Range: Privacy codes: Yes Weather channels: Yes Waterproofing: IPX8	Check Price
DEWALT DXFRS300	Range: 35 miles Privacy codes: No Weather channels: Yes Waterproofing: IP67	Check Price

Though each of the above models is an exceptional performer, there exist distinctive differences between them and how much each model costs. Fortunately, the review below will make it a lot easier for you to pick the ideal waterproof walkie-talkie that you think is best for your next adventure.

 Waterproof Walkie-Talkie Reviews

1. COBRA CXT1045R-FLT-CAMO

Cobra’s electronics are synonymous with rugged quality and performance, and the COBRA CXT1045R-FLT-CAMO is no different. Sporting a rugged construction, this Cobra walkie-talkie will shrug off the drops and knocks that can happen while adventuring.
IP-X7 Waterproofing
The COBRA CXT1045R is an any-weather radio, thanks to the IP-X7 waterproof rating.  The above rating will allow the Cobra to be submerged in water of depth 1-meter for up to a minute without compromising on its structural integrity.

The good thing is that the radio is built to float and this will prevent you from losing it once you accidentally drop it in the water.
37 Mile Range
Whether you’re kayaking, fishing or mountain climbing, this general mobile radio service radio will provide you with 37 miles of range, which is more than enough range to keep in you in contact with your peers.
Weather Updates
Another cools feature with this Cobra radio is that it comes with a built-in NOAA weather and emergency radio receiver. The weather receiver should automatically keep you up to speed with the weather reports in your local surrounding as well as identify your location.
Variety of Channels
The COBRA CXT1045R features 2,662 channel combos, 22 of which can be combined with 121 privacy codes, and this will ensure discreteness in your communication

The most endearing feature regarding communication on this device is the “Rewind-Say-Again” function, a feature that will automatically record the previous 20-seconds of the previous call and this will ensure that you don’t miss out on any important information.

 

2. Midland Consumer Radio GXT1030VP4

Sporting a compact design, the GXT1030VP4 is an ideal choice for the paddlers who are looking space in their kayak or boat.
36-Mile range
The Midland Consumer Radio GXT1030VP4 is a rung lower compared to the 37-mile range of the COBRA CXT1045R we had reviewed above, but still, the Midland will provide you with a sufficient mile range to keep in touch.

The Hands-Free Operation is yet another convenience feature that is quite handy, especially in situations where you need to communicate to your group but cannot take your hands off the paddle.
Weather Updates
Again, like the COBRA CXT1045R, we had reviewed above, this Midland radio features NOAA function that will automatically scan and keep you up to date with the local weather.
JIS4 Waterproof
The JIST Water-resistance is not as powerful as the IP-X7, and it will only withstand a heavy downpour for up to 30 minutes.

Another downside of the water rating of this radio is that it is not designed to float, so you’ll need to be extra cautious not to let it fall overboard.

 

3. Midland GXT1000VP4

Physically, the Midland GXT1000VP4 is a rugged and damaged resistant radio, and it like its cousin the GXT1030VP4, it offers a generous communication range of 36 miles.
36-Mile range
Highly functional equipment, this radio boasts of unrivaled communication clarity, regardless of the terrain.

The Midland GXT1000VP4 is a 2-pack 2-way radio that will provide you with a generous communication range of 36-miles.
Variety of Channels
The Midland radio offers up to 50 GMRS channels auto-searchable with the scan function. In addition to the huge selection of channels, this walkie-talkie includes 142 privacy codes, allowing you to manage your conversation.

And like the best waterproof radios, the Midland Walkie-Talkie features NOAA and Hazard Weather Channels, and this will keep you up to date with the latest weather conditions in your locality.
Splash-Resistant
Though not water-resistant, the JIS4 water rating will resist and protect that radio against light rain or splashing water. However, you should take care not to submerge it in water as its not completely waterproof.
SOS Siren
A feisty feature we admire on the Midland radio is the handy SOS Siren, which will allow you to send out distress and locator signals in the event of an emergency.
Other Features
Regarding power options, the Midland GTX1000VP4 is highly flexible as it comes with two power options. You can either use the rechargeable battery which will provide an excellent runtime of 11 hours on a full charge or the 4 AA alkaline batteries, which are often used as standby power options.

It’s also worth mentioning that the Midland features VOX capabilities for privacy and hands-free operation.

 

4. Uniden MHS75

The Uniden MHS75 is compact submersible marine handheld VHF that has plenty of incredible features. Housed in a rugged die-cast aluminum housing, the Uniden does not skimp on performance and will shrug off any falls or knocks.
JIS8/IPX8 Rating
One of the highest ratings we’ve come across, the Uniden will not only stand up to the water splashing but will allow you to submerge it in water up to five feet for as long as half an hour.

Better yet, the Uniden has floating capabilities, meaning you can easily catch it in case you drop it accidentally into the water.
Quad Watch Operation
The Quad Watch operation is yet another fantastic function on the Uniden that will allow you to monitor four channels simultaneously. Uniden will allow you to monitor two Coast Guard channels, a weather report channel and a direct link to another walkie users or marine channel.
NOOA Weather Channels
The Uniden MHS75 is a two-way marine radio that will allow you to follow weather alerts on all the NOAA channels.

This will keep you up to date with the existing weather conditions, and inclement weather is on the way; the advance warning will help you stay safe. What we like most about this function is that it will even allow you to set up the radio to produce an “alert” noise.
Memory Channel Scan
The MHS75 comes with an automatic search function that will cycle through the available signal’s strength and frequencies in search of the available stations. And once it picks up on a station, it will pause, and give you time to memorize the frequency of transmission before moving on.

 

5. Motorola T600: Perfect For Outdoorsman

Motorola is a household name, especially when it comes to the manufacturing of electronics. This time around, we’re not looking at Motorola phones, but rather Motorola T600, an all-around waterproof walkie-talkie.
IP67 Waterproof Rating
With a waterproof rating of IP67, the Motorola T600 is super waterproof and won’t break if it falls in the water. The manufacturer asserts that the Motorola T600 will survive being submerged under a meter of water without getting compromised.

Better yet, the Motorola T600 feature floating capabilities, and this will allow you to reel it back to your boat once you accidentally knock it in the water.
Variety of Channels
The T600 will allow you to have access to all 22 standard channels. Moreover, it supports 121 privacy codes for each channel, and this will ensure that your group is the only group on the comms. And like all the other best waterproof walkie-talkies on our list, the Motorola T600 include the NOAA weather alerts, which will provide you with instant weather updates and alerts.
Other Features
Motorola T600 has an abundance of desirable features such as the VibraCall, a handy function that silences the tones, and will allow you to maintain the serenity of your adventure.

The surprisingly built-in flashlight is an emergency feature on the Motorola that will allow you to find your way out during darkness.

 

6. TYT Tytera Upgraded MD-390 DM

No products found.

The MD-390 is an awesome digital mobile radio that is a perfect substitute for the traditional GMSR radio. Unlike the GMSR radios which are inhibited by the terrain, the MD-390 is robust and does not face any restriction.
Longer Range
The MD-390 is a digital radio, meaning it uses the digital transmitter, and this helps to transmit the radio signals over a long distance without losing clarity, and this is opposed to the archaic, analog radios. As a DMR, the MD-390 does more than offer the usual radio communication, but will also allow the sending of texts.
Versatile
The MD-390 is both an analog and digital radio transmitter, and the benefit of having a 2-in-1 radio is that it will allow you to switch either between the two modes depending on the location of your transmitter.
IPX7 Waterproofing
Featuring IPX7 waterproofing, you’ll no longer have to worry about accidentally knocking or dropping the MD-390 in water. However, it’s a shame that the MD-390 does not have floating capabilities, and this might make retrieval quite complicated.

 

7. Motorola Ms355r Frs Waterproof Two-Way

No products found.

The Motorola Ms355R is a waterproof long-range two-way radio that will not only allow you to use it on water, and in varied types of weather, but will allow you to communicate over long distances.
Waterproof
If you’re an outdoor aficionado planning to venture in the harsh weather conditions, this Motorola walkie-talkie is perfect for you. The IP-67 water rating on the Motorola FRS will allow this radio to stand up against full water submersion or even heavy downpour.

The waterproof rating on this device means that it can be submerged underwater that is 1 meter deep for up to 30 minutes, and so, if you’re stuck in a downpour, you can have the peace of mind in knowing that you’ll still have your communication device intact. Better yet, this radio comes with floating capabilities, thus allowing for easy retrieval.
 Voice Recognition Technology
With a communication range of 35 miles, the Motorola Frs is surely going to keep you in touch with your peers out in the wild.

While the device does not feature privacy codes, we love the idea of voice recognition technology alongside the radio headset and earpiece that will keep your conversation discreet, while allowing for a hands-free experience.
Weather Predictions
Like all the quality walkie-talkies, the Motorola FRS can similarly be used as a weather radio too, thanks to the seven NOAA channels and emergency alerts that will keep you up to speed with the weather in your locality.

 

8. Retevis RT81

The Retevis is a rechargeable waterproof walkie-talkie is a UHF radio, which uses a higher range of frequencies than your standard VHF radio. Though it offers a limited range of 4.5 miles, which is quite a drastic cut from what we’ve seen with other radios on our list, it offers unmatched clarity.
Private Conversation
The Retevis does not come with private codes, but that that does not stop it from maintaining discreteness in communication. This radio uses four-bit and 32-bit encryption, allowing you to keep your conversation private even when communicating over a standard radio channel.
Enhanced Clarity
Similar to the TYT Tytera Upgraded MD-390 we had reviewed above, Retevis has two modes of communication, both analog and digital, complete with 32 channels, and with this radio, you get amazingly clear & full quieting digital voice communication.
Extended Operation Period
Compared to other lithium-ion battery radios we’ve reviewed, the lithium-ion battery on the Retevis is slightly larger and will provide you with a generous running time of about eight hours.

What users love most about this radio is that it’s easy to use, thanks to the easy and intuitive layout. The side buttons, in particular, can be customized using Retevis’ computer software to allow for more flexible and versatile use.

 

9. Standard Horizon HX870

No products found.

The Standard Horizon HX870 is a step up to the infamous HX851, and it comes with quite a few significant additions.

Like all the Standard Horizon products, the Standard Horizon HX870 is built to withstand the dings and nicks that marine radios endure.
Waterproof
With a water rating of IPX8, THE Standard Horizon HX870 is waterproof certified and can remain functional even when submerged in water or 30 minutes.

Again, the die-cast chassis used on this radio is buoyant and will remain floating in case you accidentally drop the radio in the water.
Built-in DSC and GPS
The GPS alongside the Digital Selecting Calling (DSC) are highly functional features that will serve their purpose during emergencies, allowing sending your relevant information to the rescue authorities.
Other Features
The large screen, with an updated interface on the Standard Horizon HX870, will allow for easier reading of the control metrics, while the NOAA weather updates will keep you aware of the weather conditions in your locality.

 

10. DEWALT DXFRS300

Dewalt is highly regarded in the manufacturing domain, and automatically, you can expect the Dewalt DXFRS to carry on the Dewalt legacy.
Waterproof
A highly functional radio, the Dewalt DXFRS meets IP67 waterproof standards, and this means you can submerge this radio in 1 meter of water for up to 30 minutes and it won’t get compromised.

Beyond the waterproof nature, this Dewalt radio is dustproof and shock-resistant; and as such, the Dewalt can withstand drops of up to 2 meters without getting damaged.
Excellent Transmission
The Dewalt DXFRS is built with an array of exciting features, and according to the manufacturer, this radio has the capability of receiving and transmitting signals in a space that is up to 250,000square feet or 20 floors.

The ability of this device to broadcast and receive signals over such a long-range makes it ideal for the heavy-duty businesses as well as outdoor activities.

While still at networking, this radio comes with up to 22 channels to choose from, and better yet, each of the channels is preset with a privacy code, and this helps in reducing interference while keeping your communication private.
Other Features
The voice-activated transmission will allow for hands-free use, while the power save feature will help to save on the power levels. We like the fact that this radio is easy to use, thanks to the intuitive control, and display.

 

How To Choose the Best Walkie-Talkie-Buyer Guide

If you’re planning to purchase a walkie-talkie, you need to consider several factors. And in the section below, we shall be looking at the five base factors you need to consider.

Range and Clarity

Range and clarity are perhaps the most crucial factors to consider when choosing a walkie-talkie that is at least according to my opinion, as they will determine the range at which you can communicate with your groups.

Clarity, on the other hand, is yet another base function on any walkie-talkie as it determines how clear you hear your message from the other party. Ideally, when choosing a walkie-talkie, you should pick one with a range of 30 to 40 miles, though there’re a few radios with extended mile-range, they’re often used for specialized purposes.

Waterproof

If you love taking your outdoor adventures in the water bodies, having a waterproof walkie-talkie is of the essence. We all know that human is to error and we may accidentally drop our radios in the water. When this happens, having a radio that will stand up to both water and moisture is handy.

Beyond maintaining t structural integrity even when submerged in water, it’s vital that you pick a radio with floating capabilities.

NOOA Weather Alert

Again, if you’re taking your adventure into the water bodies, having an awareness of the existing weather conditions is vital as the weather can at times turn ugly.

A walkie-talkie with NOOA Weather alerts will keep you in the loop of the existing weather conditions and will send you of emergency weather alerts, and this should help to keep you safe.

Compass or GPS

While the NOOA emerge are really a cool feature that will keep in loop of the weather updates, it does not offer navigational services. Therefore, to ensure that you get out of the way of the storm, or any natural phenomena, you’ll need a compass or GPS.

A compass should be a rudimentary piece that will provide you with navigation, even in the event your radio battery dies on you.

Emergency Features

Finally, when purchasing a walkie-talkie, you would want to go with one with a host of emergency features. Beyond communicating with your group, it’s also essential that you are able to connect to emergency weather channels. Better yet, you can pick a radio with emergency features such as the built-in flashlights, sirens, and beacons.

Conclusion

Having a walkie-talkie is handy equipment in any adventure. Fortunately, we’ve provided you with a list of the top 10 walkie-talkies in the market, and choosing any of these should guarantee the perfect adventure you’ve been longing for.

Pick any of the radios from our above list that you feel will address your adventure needs best.