10 Best Long Range 2 Way Radios 2025 in the United States

The Midland GXT67 PRO GMRS Radio is a robust choice for those needing reliable long-range communication. With 5 watts of power, it offers an effective talking range of up to 5 miles, which is suitable for both casual users and those in emergency situations. Its repeater capability on 8 GMRS channels is a significant advantage for extending communication distance even further.

In terms of durability, this radio is IP67 rated, making it waterproof and dustproof, which is ideal for outdoor adventures or survival scenarios. The device also boasts active noise canceling, enhancing clarity in noisy environments, and hands-free operation, which is convenient when multitasking.

For battery life, the GXT67 PRO performs adequately with a 16-hour life span and can last up to 4 days on standby. The rapid 4-hour recharge via multiple charging options, including USB-C and a vehicle adapter, adds flexibility. However, a single lithium-ion battery may be a limiting factor during extended trips without access to power.

The radio provides 99 channels and supports privacy codes, allowing users to maintain clear and private communications. Additional features like NOAA weather alerts add safety value by providing critical weather updates.

With its compact dimensions and a weight of just 9.6 ounces, the radio is portable and easy to carry. Despite its strengths, the maximum range may not fulfill those who require communication over significantly larger distances in varied terrains.

In essence, the Midland GXT67 PRO GMRS Radio is a strong contender for those needing a reliable, feature-rich two-way radio with a focus on range and resilience against the elements.

The Retevis RT68 is a set of 10 long-range two-way radios designed mainly for industrial or group use, such as on job sites or events. It offers a maximum talking range of about 2 kilometers, which is suitable for many outdoor or work scenarios but might not cover very large or heavily obstructed areas. These radios operate on the FRS frequency band, meaning they are license-free and easy to use right out of the box without complex setup.

Battery life is strong, with each unit powered by a 1200mAh rechargeable lithium-ion battery that can last up to 30 hours on standby — enough to get through a full workday without recharging. The included 10-way charger is a standout feature, allowing you to charge all radios simultaneously and keep everything organized without messy cables. The compact size and weight are manageable for handheld use, although the full set weighs about 8.6 pounds, which is expected given the number of units and the charger included.

Durability is solid thanks to tough ABS material, and the radios can survive a one-meter drop, plus they have water resistance suitable for light exposure to weather, making them fairly rugged for industrial environments. The 16 channels provide flexibility in communication, and privacy codes help reduce interference, while a 9-level squelch function helps keep noise down for clearer sound. The radios are user-friendly for beginners, though they may lack some advanced features found in higher-end models. The package includes a 3-year warranty and responsive customer support, providing reassurance. This set suits groups needing multiple radios with reliable battery life, decent range, and simple operation, especially in industrial or event settings where charging efficiency and durability matter.

The Cobra Performa 450 is designed as a professional two-way radio suitable for businesses needing reliable long-range communication, such as in hospitality, retail, or dining environments. It offers a strong maximum range of up to 36 miles, which is quite impressive for a device in its class, making it well suited for large workspaces or outdoor sites. Operating on UHF and LMR frequency bands with 6 channels, it ensures secure communication with reduced interference — a key point for business use where privacy and clarity matter.

Battery life is solid, with an 18-hour rechargeable lithium-ion battery that can easily last through a full workday. The included charging dock and USB-C cable add convenience for quick recharging. The radio’s durability stands out too, as it meets IP67 waterproof and dustproof ratings and MIL-SPEC 810H standards, meaning it can handle shock, vibration, and extreme weather conditions. This rugged build makes it a reliable choice for tough environments.

The device is relatively lightweight at just over a pound, with a compact design that’s easy to carry during long shifts. Additional useful features include an LCD screen for clear channel and status viewing, weather alerts to keep users updated on conditions, and over-the-air cloning to sync settings easily across multiple radios. However, the radio offers only 6 channels, which might be limiting for very large teams needing many separate communication groups. While setup is generally straightforward, customizing channels beyond preset frequencies requires programming software, which might be a bit technical for some users. The Cobra Performa 450 suits businesses needing dependable, long-range communication with solid durability and battery life. Its focus on professional-grade UHF/LMR frequencies and rugged design make it particularly valuable for demanding work environments, although users with very large teams might find the limited number of channels a constraint.