10 Best Marine Vhf Radios 2025 in the United States

The Cobra MR HH350 FLT Handheld Floating VHF Radio is a versatile and robust choice for marine communication. One of its standout features is the 6-watt power output, which allows for customizable communication ranges, making it suitable for both short and long-distance use. The radio supports USA, Canada, and international channels, providing broad coverage for various regions. However, it does not seem to support Digital Selective Calling (DSC), which is a significant safety feature in marine radios.

The radio is submersible and has a floating design, ensuring it can be easily retrieved if dropped in water. Additionally, it comes with a noise-cancelling microphone to ensure clear communication even in noisy environments. Its backlit LCD display is designed for high visibility, which is essential for use in different lighting conditions at sea.

The NOAA weather and emergency radio feature is a great addition, providing 24-hour updates on weather conditions and emergencies, which is crucial for safety. The radio has a compact size and is lightweight at 9.6 ounces, making it easy to carry and handle. The included battery saver mode and the lithium polymer battery provide a decent battery life. In summary, the Cobra MR HH350 FLT is an excellent choice for recreational boaters who need reliable communication and weather updates, but professionals who require DSC might need to look for alternatives.

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.

The device's waterproof rating and submersible feature provide reassurance that it can withstand harsh marine environments. The noise-cancelling microphone and the burp feature, which clears water from the speaker, ensure clear communication even in challenging conditions. The backlit LCD display is user-friendly, making it easy to read information even in low light. At 11.6 ounces and compact dimensions, it's lightweight and portable, making it convenient to carry around. The battery life is decent, supported by a lithium polymer battery that comes included, along with various charging options which add to its convenience.

However, there are some drawbacks. While the rewind-say-again feature is useful, it might not always capture every crucial detail in noisy surroundings. Additionally, the radio's range, while adequate for most situations, may not be sufficient in highly remote areas. Another minor issue is the 40 channels, which might be limiting for those who require extensive channel options. Despite these, the Cobra MR HH600FLTBTGPS is a strong contender in the marine VHF radio market and is particularly well-suited for boaters who value safety, clear communication, and added features like Bluetooth and GPS.

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.

A notable feature of this radio is its DSC (Digital Selective Calling) capability, including distress button functionality and position send/request features, which enhance safety by allowing for quick emergency communication. Full Class D DSC capability ensures reliable transmission and reception.

The waterproof rating of IPX4 indicates that the device is resistant to rain and splashes, which is suitable for typical marine environments but might fall short in extreme wet conditions like heavy storms. This is something to consider for users who often find themselves in harsh weather. The Uniden UM385BK has a compact design with dimensions of 5 x 6.3 x 2.6 inches and weighs 3.34 pounds, making it easy to mount without taking up much space. The rugged handheld mic is another practical feature, enabling convenient communication while maintaining focus on navigation.

On the downside, the battery life is not detailed, which could be a concern for users depending on longer operational times without access to power sources. However, the unit operates on 12 volts, typical for marine electronics, hence likely dependent on vessel power. The Uniden UM385BK suits users looking for a reliable, long-range marine radio with excellent communication features and adequate waterproofing in moderate conditions.