TOP VHF Radios Comparison Table
1. The Best Portable 6W Switchable WaterProof Handheld Submersible VHF Marine Radio [Uniden]
![Open Portable 6W Switchable WaterProof Handheld Submersible VHF Marine Radio [Uniden] Portable 6W Switchable WaterProof Handheld Submersible VHF Marine Radio [Uniden] Picture](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/71D1SUul1ZL._AC_SL500_.jpg)
- Submersible for up to 30 minutes at five feet.
- Switchable model, a convenient way to save a little battery life.
- Covers all USA, International, and Canadian marine channels.
2. The Best 25W VHF Marine Boat Ship to Shore Radio with GPS [Standart Horizon]
![Open 25W VHF Marine Boat Ship to Shore Radio with GPS [Standart Horizon] 25W VHF Marine Boat Ship to Shore Radio with GPS [Standart Horizon] Picture](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/41YCbQQN3FL._AC_.jpg)
- Second Station RAM Mic compatible
- Easy to Operate menu system
- Submersible Design.
3. The Best 5W Marine Two-Way Portable VHF Handheld Radio with GPS/DSC with Antenna [Icom]
![Open 5W Marine Two-Way Portable VHF Handheld Radio with GPS/DSC with Antenna [Icom] 5W Marine Two-Way Portable VHF Handheld Radio with GPS/DSC with Antenna [Icom] Picture](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/61wZUfPHbwL._AC_SL500_.jpg)
- Built-in GPS with DSC.
- Dual/Tri Watch function.
- Three year warranty.
4. The Best White VHF Marine Ship to Shore Boat Radio (DSC) [Lowrance]
![Open White VHF Marine Ship to Shore Boat Radio (DSC) [Lowrance] White VHF Marine Ship to Shore Boat Radio (DSC) [Lowrance] Picture](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/61STW9wVAmL._AC_SL500_.jpg)
- Intuitive rotary and keypad controls.
- Four-button fist microphone.
- Class D DSC Approved.
5. The Best 6 Wt Submersible Handheld Floating VHF Radio with Noise Cancelling Mic, LCD Display, Memory Scan [Cobra]
![Open 6 Wt Submersible Handheld Floating VHF Radio with Noise Cancelling Mic, LCD Display, Memory Scan [Cobra] 6 Wt Submersible Handheld Floating VHF Radio with Noise Cancelling Mic, LCD Display, Memory Scan [Cobra] Picture](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/31G1bthfioL._AC_.jpg)
- Allows operation of channels in the US, Canada, and internationally at 1, 3, or 6 watts with for short and long range communication, and access to NOAA weather channels.
- Scan channels to find conversations in progress and have instant access to Channel 16 for emergency situations.
6. The Best 6W Floating Handheld Portable VHF with Internal GPS with Antenna [Standart Horizon]
![Open 6W Floating Handheld Portable VHF with Internal GPS with Antenna [Standart Horizon] 6W Floating Handheld Portable VHF with Internal GPS with Antenna [Standart Horizon] Picture](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/71URpXqeB7L._AC_SL500_.jpg)
- Separate Receiver for CH70 (Receiving DSC Calls).
- Integrated 66 Channel WAAS GPS receiver.
- Submersible IPX8 waterproof rating.
7. The Best 25-Wt Two-Way Waterproof Fixed Mount Marine VHF Radio (DSC) [Uniden]
![Open 25-Wt Two-Way Waterproof Fixed Mount Marine VHF Radio (DSC) [Uniden] 25-Wt Two-Way Waterproof Fixed Mount Marine VHF Radio (DSC) [Uniden] Picture](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/716-w7mabJL._AC_SL500_.jpg)
- All USA, International and Canadian marine channels.
- Backlit text display shows channel names, radio menu, DSC features and GPS data.
- Full DSC capability including position send and request.
8. The Best Two-Way Waterproof 25-Wt Fixed Mount Marine Vhf Radio (Dsc) [Uniden]
![Open Two-Way Waterproof 25-Wt Fixed Mount Marine Vhf Radio (Dsc) [Uniden] Two-Way Waterproof 25-Wt Fixed Mount Marine Vhf Radio (Dsc) [Uniden] Picture](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/81EdlY-tc7L._AC_SX500_.jpg)
- Compact design, the triple watch features, DSC capabilities.
- Complies with IPX4 waterproof standards, which means the radio is resistant to damage from rain or splashing water.
- A high-performance transceiver ensures clear communication.
9. The Best ICOM VHF Boat Ship to Shore Marine Radio with Hailer [Icom]
![Open ICOM VHF Boat Ship to Shore Marine Radio with Hailer [Icom] ICOM VHF Boat Ship to Shore Marine Radio with Hailer [Icom] Picture](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/61Xbfw7AGcL._AC_SL500_.jpg)
- Large LCD display, Built-in loudhailer/foghorn.
- Active noise cancelling, Nmea 0183 connectivity.
10. The Best Handheld VHF Marine Radio with Antenna [Standard Horizon]
![Open Handheld VHF Marine Radio with Antenna [Standard Horizon] Handheld VHF Marine Radio with Antenna [Standard Horizon] Picture](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51OWsjhorWL._AC_SL500_.jpg)
- Large 1.75" LCD; 5 or 1 Watts of transmit power.
- All scanning functions including Programmable, Priority Scan and Dual/Tri Watch
The Differences Between Handheld VHFs
Now let's look at some of the differences. Here is your bottom line lowest cost units. It's still IPX rated 7, which is pretty darn good. It has 5 watts of power, which all do with a few exceptions. Some go to 6, but the truth of the matter is the power coming out of a handheld isn't such a huge deal. You're more going to be limited by antenna height than anything else. So most you can get is a couple, few miles of range with these units, so it's not a massive factor. Now what happens if you step up a level? Let's take a look. Here we have a model that's kind of a step up. What does that get you? Well for starters, this one's IPX rating is 8 as opposed to 7. 7 is submersible down to a meter for up to 30 minutes, whereas an IPX 8 unit can actually be submerged deeper than a meter and still keep its seal. This one also has a 12 hour battery life as opposed to a 10 hour battery life in the less expensive model. And although these two units weigh about the same, you will find some of the higher priced handheld VHFs that are significantly lighter. That's often a sign of quality as they take some of the weight out, and it can be a little more comfortable in hand. Now here we have one of the most expensive units in this entire display. This one goes for about 230 dollars, but it has a big advantage over these other units. This one has an integrated GPS. It has an LCD screen. Some of these even allow for some navigation, but more importantly it has DSC. You've got the panic button right there. Which one of these handheld VHFs belongs in your ditch bag? Well that's a call that only you can make, but now you know the major differences between these different categories of units. And of course there are other features that different units have that may be more attractive to you or less attractive to others. Some have built-in strobes, some have noise-canceling features that make it easier to hear or to be heard more clearly.VHF marine radio with bluetooth
You can use the smartphone app to set up the marine radio and text message other VHF text message capable radios.VHF marine radio with built in gps receiver and hailer
Some models of marine radio have built in gps system and hailer.VHF marine radio with remote mic
The remote mics allow complete radio control from the cockpit.VHF marine radio with ais transceiver
Some models of marine vhf radio have AIS transceiver (Automatic Identification Systems) to display on the chartplotter to enhance communication, situational awareness and collision avoidance.VHF marine radio with DSC
VHF-DSC radio enables vessels to quickly transmit a DISTRESS alert and message, digitally alerting other vessels that an URGENCY or SAFETY message is about to be sent, and establish contact with other vessels and coast stations discretely without having to use Channel 16.How to Use a VHF: It Might Save Your Life
Your VHF radio is your lifeline to the outside world in case of emergency, so you've got to make sure you're using it right. The first thing you'll need to do is adjust the squelch - this is pretty simple just turn it until earth this is and then back it off until the hissing stops, that will eliminate all the unnecessary static. Tuned to the channel you want and then take the microphone, hold it at a 90 degree angle to your face and speak slowly and clearly as you key the mic. Make sure the radio is working properly by doing a radio check. First, tune to a station that's an open frequency like 68, then repeat 3 times – “Radio check”, “radio check”, "radio check” in the name of your vessel. In many areas of the nation you can now do an automated radio check as well C2 provides a service and I looked on the internet earlier to find out the channel 28 is the right channel for that. Now you would never do a radio check on channel 16, 16 is reserved for emergencies and emergencies only. In case of emergency go directly to channel 16 and if you have a DSC equipped radio, hit your distress button now remember your radio has to be linked in with your GPS or have an internal GPS in order for DSC to function. In case of a life threatening emergency use the callsign Mayday and repeat it three times to call the Coast Guard.VHF Radio vs Cell Phone for Boating
I've got the latest smartphone, do I really need a VHF radio on my boat? Short answer – yes. Here's a quick look at our top-rated VHF floating handheld radios and an explanation of why having a VHF radio onboard could actually save your life. In an emergency all you have to do is press the red button to switch to channel 16, push the talk button and give your name, state your emergency, stay you'll be listening to channel 16 and your name again. Then release the talk button. Now unlike a cell phone where you have to dial a number and are only heard by one person your distress call will be heard by the coastguard which monitors channel 16 24/7 and every boat for miles around. One of which might be able to assist you before the coastguard can. The VHF radio has a power boost key that provides an instant six watts of transmitting power while cell coverage offshore can be limited or non-existent. Safety features include NOAA emergency weather alerts, a high intensity SOS LED strobe light and scanning of emergency channel 16. Cell phones offer none of those. Marine VHF radio can be submerged to around 5 feet for an hour without damage. Plus it floats if dropped overboard. Does your cell phone flow? Probably not. Does your cell phone battery last 12 hours? VHF radio does, even longer using the battery safe feature. Power is supplied through a rechargeable lithium-ion polymer battery, a charging cradle with AC and DC cables or regular alkaline batteries with the included battery tray. All this and a glow-in-the-dark power key in seals, so you can easily find your radio in low-light situations. Having your cell phone onboard is great for listening to the West marine water life Pandora station and checking in with your significant other, but nothing can take the place of a ruggedly built marine radio like good VHF radio.Best branded vhf radios
The market is dominated by some manufacturers such as: Uniden, Standart Horizon, Icom, Lowrance, Cobra, Standard Horizon.ICOM VHF Boat Ship to Shore Marine Radio with Hailer [Icom]
Large LCD display, Built-in loudhailer/foghorn. Active noise cancelling, Nmea 0183 connectivity.Handheld VHF Marine Radio with Antenna [Standard Horizon]
Large 1. 75" LCD; 5 or 1 Watts of transmit power. All scanning functions including Programmable, Priority Scan and Dual/Tri WatchPortable 6W Switchable WaterProof Handheld Submersible VHF Marine Radio [Uniden]
Submersible for up to 30 minutes at five feet. Switchable model, a convenient way to save a little battery life. Covers all USA, International, and Canadian marine channels.25W VHF Marine Boat Ship to Shore Radio with GPS [Standart Horizon]
Second Station RAM Mic compatible Easy to Operate menu system Submersible Design.5W Marine Two-Way Portable VHF Handheld Radio with GPS/DSC with Antenna [Icom]
Built-in GPS with DSC. Dual/Tri Watch function. Three year warranty.White VHF Marine Ship to Shore Boat Radio (DSC) [Lowrance]
Intuitive rotary and keypad controls. Four-button fist microphone. Class D DSC Approved. NMEA 2000 compatible.6 Wt Submersible Handheld Floating VHF Radio with Noise Cancelling Mic, LCD Display, Memory Scan [Cobra]
Allows operation of channels in the US, Canada, and internationally at 1, 3, or 6 watts with for short and long range communication, and access to NOAA weather channels. Scan channels to find conversations in progress and have instant access to Channel 16 for emergency situations.6W Floating Handheld Portable VHF with Internal GPS with Antenna [Standart Horizon]
Separate Receiver for CH70 (Receiving DSC Calls). Integrated 66 Channel WAAS GPS receiver. Submersible IPX8 waterproof rating.25-Wt Two-Way Waterproof Fixed Mount Marine VHF Radio (DSC) [Uniden]
All USA, International and Canadian marine channels. Backlit text display shows channel names, radio menu, DSC features and GPS data. Full DSC capability including position send and request.Two-Way Waterproof 25-Wt Fixed Mount Marine Vhf Radio (Dsc) [Uniden]
Compact design, the triple watch features, DSC capabilities. Complies with IPX4 waterproof standards, which means the radio is resistant to damage from rain or splashing water. A high-performance transceiver ensures clear communication.ICOM VHF Boat Ship to Shore Marine Radio with Hailer [Icom]
Large LCD display, Built-in loudhailer/foghorn. Active noise cancelling, Nmea 0183 connectivity.Handheld VHF Marine Radio with Antenna [Standard Horizon]
Large 1. 75" LCD; 5 or 1 Watts of transmit power. All scanning functions including Programmable, Priority Scan and Dual/Tri WatchDon’t buy cheap vhf boat marine radio
If you buy cheap products, you will end up buying twice. There are some very cheap vhf radios on the market, but these are the ones made from poor quality material and components, and they can break down after a few months. Buy more quality model as it will be worth price that you pay.FAQ
Let's go over some frequently asked questions about vhf radios.Can a marine VHF radio be used on land?
Marine VHF radios, whether fixed or handheld, may not be used on land for marine band transmission.
How does VHF marine radio work?
Marine VHF radio is a worldwide system of two-way radio transceivers on ships and watercraft used for bidirectional voice communication from ship-to-ship or ship-to-shore.
What fixed and handheld vhf marine radios are good?
Check please our vhf radios comparison table to find appropriate products for center console boat, fishing boat, kayak, pontoon boat, etc.
Where to Buy Cheap Fixed/Two-Way/Ship-to-Shore/Portable/Handheld VHF Boat Marine Radios?
Take a look at this TOP vhf radios reviewed of 2023 and then press the «Check Price» button to check their price and availability.
What is the budget vhf boat marine radio for sale?
The Portable 6W Switchable WaterProof Handheld Submersible VHF Marine Radio [Uniden] is our Editor's Choice as the best model of vhf radios for center console boat, fishing boat, kayak, pontoon boat with its combination of performance, features, quality and price.