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10 Best Marine Vhf Radios 2025 in the United States
#1
Winner
Cobra MR HH350 FLT Handheld Floating VHF Radio - 6 Watt, Submersible, Noise Cancelling Mic, Backlit LCD Display, NOAA Weather, and Memory Scan, White
The Cobra MR HH350 FLT is a solid choice for a handheld marine VHF radio, especially for boaters who want a dependable, easy-to-use device. It offers adjustable power output up to 6 watts, which is great for both short-range and longer-distance communication on the water. The radio supports USA, Canada, and international channel maps, ensuring wide coverage wherever you go. Its noise-cancelling microphone is a helpful feature that reduces background noise, making conversations clearer even in windy or noisy conditions.
Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,159
Power Output
Channel Selection
DSC (Digital Selective Calling)
Most important from
3075 reviews
#2
Uniden UM385BK 25 Watt Fixed Mount Marine VHF Radio, Waterproof, Noaa Weather Alert, All USA/Intl/Canadian Marine Channels
The Uniden UM385BK is a fixed mount marine VHF radio designed for use on various marine vessels. With a power output of 25 watts, it is capable of providing a long talking range, up to 25 miles, making it suitable for both recreational and professional marine activities. The radio supports all USA, international, and Canadian marine channels, which is a significant advantage for those who travel across different territories, ensuring comprehensive communication options.
Rating
10.0
Channel Selection
DSC (Digital Selective Calling)
Most important from
2671 reviews
#3
Cobra MR HH600FLTBTGPS Handheld Floating VHF Radio – 6 Watt, GPS, Bluetooth, Submersible, Noise Cancelling Mic, Backlit LCD Display, Memory Scan, Grey
The Cobra MR HH600FLTBTGPS Handheld Floating VHF Radio is a versatile and reliable choice for marine communication. It boasts a 6-watt power output, which allows for effective communication over short and long distances by operating on channels in the US, Canada, and internationally. The inclusion of Digital Selective Calling (DSC) with GPS ensures you can send your exact location in emergencies, enhancing safety on the water. Furthermore, the built-in GPS and Bluetooth capabilities are standout features, enabling you to make calls directly from the radio and see your coordinates on screen. This can be particularly useful for keeping your phone safe and dry while out on the water.
Rating
9.8
Channel Selection
DSC (Digital Selective Calling)
Waterproof Rating
Most important from
185 reviews
Top 10 Best Marine Vhf Radios 2025 in the United States
#1
Winner
10.0 score
Cobra MR HH350 FLT Handheld Floating VHF Radio - 6 Watt, Submersible, Noise Cancelling Mic, Backlit LCD Display, NOAA Weather, and Memory Scan, White
Cobra MR HH350 FLT Handheld Floating VHF Radio - 6 Watt, Submersible, Noise Cancelling Mic, Backlit LCD Display, NOAA Weather, and Memory Scan, White
Power Output: up to 6 watts
Channel Selection: USA, Canada, international channels
Waterproof Rating: Waterproof
Size and Weight: 3.2"D x 8.1"W x 10.3"H, 9.9 oz
Display and Interface: bright backlit orange display
Chosen by 1159 this week
Uniden UM385BK 25 Watt Fixed Mount Marine VHF Radio, Waterproof, Noaa Weather Alert, All USA/Intl/Canadian Marine Channels
Uniden UM385BK 25 Watt Fixed Mount Marine VHF Radio, Waterproof, Noaa Weather Alert, All USA/Intl/Canadian Marine Channels
Power Output: 25 watts
Channel Selection: USA, international, Canadian marine channels
DSC (Digital Selective Calling): Full Class D DSC capability
Waterproof Rating: IPX4
Size and Weight: 5x6.3x2.6 inches, 3.34 pounds
Cobra MR HH600FLTBTGPS Handheld Floating VHF Radio – 6 Watt, GPS, Bluetooth, Submersible, Noise Cancelling Mic, Backlit LCD Display, Memory Scan, Grey
Cobra MR HH600FLTBTGPS Handheld Floating VHF Radio – 6 Watt, GPS, Bluetooth, Submersible, Noise Cancelling Mic, Backlit LCD Display, Memory Scan, Grey
Power Output: 6-watt
Channel Selection: US, Canada, International
DSC (Digital Selective Calling): Yes, with GPS
Waterproof Rating: Waterproof, Submersible
Battery Life: Decent
Size and Weight: 5.71 x 2.83 x 1.87 in, 11.6 oz
Display and Interface: Backlit LCD, user-friendly
Uniden UM385 25 Watt Fixed Mount Marine Vhf Radio, Waterproof IPX4 with Triple Watch, Dsc, Emergency/Noaa Weather Alert, All Usa/International/Canadian Marine Channels, Memory Channel Scan, White
Uniden UM385 25 Watt Fixed Mount Marine Vhf Radio, Waterproof IPX4 with Triple Watch, Dsc, Emergency/Noaa Weather Alert, All Usa/International/Canadian Marine Channels, Memory Channel Scan, White
Power Output: 25 watts
Channel Selection: USA/International/Canadian Channels
DSC (Digital Selective Calling): Yes
Waterproof Rating: IPX4
Size and Weight: 2.6 x 5 x 6.3 in, 3.6 lbs
Cobra MR F45-D Fixed Mount VHF Marine Radio – 25 Watt VHF, Submersible, LCD Display, Noise Cancelling Microphone, NOAA Weather Channels, Signal Strength Meter, Scan Channels, White
Cobra MR F45-D Fixed Mount VHF Marine Radio – 25 Watt VHF, Submersible, LCD Display, Noise Cancelling Microphone, NOAA Weather Channels, Signal Strength Meter, Scan Channels, White
Power Output: 25 watts
Channel Selection: 40
DSC (Digital Selective Calling): Yes
Waterproof Rating: Water Resistant
Size and Weight: 9.25 x 12.21 x 2.95 in, 2.6 lbs
Display and Interface: Large illuminated LCD, illuminated keys
Related Products
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FIXED MOUNT VHF/GPS/AIS/NMEA2000
FIXED MOUNT VHF/GPS/AIS/NMEA2000
Waterproof Rating: Weather Resistant
Size and Weight: 6 x 7.1 x 2.6 inches
Display and Interface: 3.5-inch color display, Buttons
Standard Horizon HX890 Black Handheld VHF - Floating 6 Watt Class H DSC Two Way Radio
Standard Horizon HX890 Black Handheld VHF - Floating 6 Watt Class H DSC Two Way Radio
Power Output: 6-watt
Channel Selection: 66 channels
DSC (Digital Selective Calling): Class H DSC
Waterproof Rating: Waterproof
Battery Life: reliable
Size and Weight: 1.5”D x 2.6”W x 5.43”H
Display and Interface: user-friendly
Uniden Atlantis 275 Handheld Two-Way VHF Marine Radio, Floating IPX8 Submersible Waterproof, Large Dual-Color Screen, 6-Watt, All USA/International/Canadian Marine Channels, NOAA Weather Alerts
Uniden Atlantis 275 Handheld Two-Way VHF Marine Radio, Floating IPX8 Submersible Waterproof, Large Dual-Color Screen, 6-Watt, All USA/International/Canadian Marine Channels, NOAA Weather Alerts
Power Output: 6W, 2.5W, 1W
Channel Selection: All USA, International, Canadian channels
Waterproof Rating: IPX8
Size and Weight: 9.6 x 6.6 x 2.9 in, 1.5 lbs
Display and Interface: Large dual-color LCD screen
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Buying Guide for the Best Marine Vhf Radios
Choosing the right marine VHF radio is crucial for ensuring safety and effective communication while out on the water. A VHF radio is an essential tool for boaters, providing a reliable means of communication for both routine and emergency situations. When selecting a marine VHF radio, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you get the best fit for your needs. Understanding these specifications will help you make an informed decision and choose a radio that meets your specific requirements.Power OutputPower output determines the range of your VHF radio. It is usually measured in watts. Higher power output means a longer communication range. Marine VHF radios typically offer 1 watt for short-range communication and 25 watts for long-range communication. If you are mostly boating in coastal areas or near shore, a lower power output may suffice. However, for offshore or long-distance communication, a higher power output is recommended.
Channel SelectionMarine VHF radios operate on specific channels designated for different types of communication, such as distress, hailing, and ship-to-ship communication. It's important to choose a radio that supports all the necessary channels, including international channels if you plan to travel outside your home country. Ensure the radio has access to weather channels for receiving important weather updates. The more channels available, the more versatile your communication options will be.
DSC (Digital Selective Calling)DSC is a feature that allows you to send a distress signal with your GPS location to other vessels and rescue authorities at the push of a button. This feature is crucial for safety, as it can significantly speed up rescue operations in an emergency. When choosing a VHF radio, look for one with DSC capability. Ensure it is connected to a GPS device to provide accurate location information.
Waterproof RatingSince marine VHF radios are used in a wet environment, it's important to choose one with a good waterproof rating. The Ingress Protection (IP) rating indicates the level of water resistance. For marine use, an IPX7 rating (submersible up to 1 meter for 30 minutes) or higher is recommended. This ensures the radio will continue to function even if it gets wet or is accidentally dropped in water.
Battery LifeBattery life is an important consideration, especially for handheld VHF radios. Longer battery life means you can rely on the radio for extended periods without needing to recharge. Look for radios with rechargeable batteries and consider carrying spare batteries for longer trips. If you are using a fixed-mount radio, ensure it is connected to a reliable power source on your vessel.
Size and WeightThe size and weight of the VHF radio can affect its portability and ease of use. Handheld radios should be lightweight and compact for easy carrying and operation. Fixed-mount radios should fit well in the available space on your vessel's console. Consider how and where you will use the radio to determine the best size and weight for your needs.
Display and InterfaceA clear and easy-to-read display is important for quickly accessing information and operating the radio. Look for a radio with a backlit display for visibility in low light conditions. The interface should be user-friendly, with intuitive controls and buttons that are easy to operate, even with wet or gloved hands. A good display and interface can make a significant difference in the ease of use and overall experience.