10 Best VHF Radios 2025 in the United States

The Cobra MR HH350 FLT Handheld Floating VHF Radio is a solid choice for marine communication. Its key strength is the noise-cancelling microphone, which ensures clear conversations by blocking out background noise. This is particularly useful when you are out on the water where wind and engine noise can be disruptive. Another notable feature is its power output flexibility, allowing you to switch between 1, 3, and 6 watts for short- and long-range communication, making it versatile for different water adventures.

The device is also submersible and floats, which is a huge plus for preventing loss overboard, and the backlit orange display is easy to read in various lighting conditions. The radio supports USA, Canada, and international channels, providing broad coverage for communication wherever you go. Additionally, it includes NOAA weather alerts, which are crucial for staying informed about changing weather conditions and emergencies on the water.

On the downside, the radio does not include GPS integration, which could be a valuable feature for navigation and safety. However, its compact size and lightweight design (9.6 ounces) make it highly portable and easy to handle. Battery life is not explicitly detailed, but it includes a battery saver mode which is likely to enhance usage time. The product includes necessary accessories like a dock charger and belt clip. This VHF radio is well-suited for boating enthusiasts who prioritize clear communication, weather updates, and a durable, floating design.

The Icom IC-A16 is a solid handheld VHF radio designed specifically for aviation use. It offers up to 200 channels, covering a wide frequency range suitable for most aviation communications. The radio includes a full keypad, allowing direct input of channels or frequencies, which is convenient for pilots needing quick access. A dedicated emergency button for the 121.5MHz frequency enhances safety by enabling instant emergency calls. The IPX7 waterproof rating means it can handle being submerged in water for short periods, making it reliable in rough weather. At just 9.1 ounces, it is lightweight and easy to carry, fitting well into the cockpit without adding bulk.

The included 2400mAh Li-ion battery offers a good balance of usage time and recharge speed with its rapid charger, though exact battery life in hours isn’t specified. Noise reduction features help improve clarity over busy radio traffic. However, the IC-A16 lacks built-in GPS integration, which some pilots might miss as this feature can assist with location tracking and emergency services. The side tone function, which lets you hear your own voice through a compatible third-party headset, is a thoughtful addition for clear communication but requires extra equipment.

The display and interface are straightforward, although the clear color may not be ideal for all lighting conditions in the cockpit. This radio is well-suited for pilots who want a dependable, waterproof, and easy-to-use VHF communication device without GPS. It supports routine aviation communication effectively but might not fulfill needs for advanced location features.

The Ray90 VHF and AIS700 Bundle from Raymarine is a solid choice for boaters needing reliable communication and safety features. It includes a VHF radio with 16 channels, which covers basic marine communication well but may feel limited if you need more channel options. The product is submersible with an IP66 waterproof rating, so it can handle harsh marine environments and splashes without worry. It weighs about 4.4 pounds and measures roughly 14 by 6 by 6 inches, making it a bit heavier and larger than some handheld models, so it’s best suited for fixed mounting on boats rather than portable use.

This bundle also includes AIS700, adding GPS integration and vessel tracking, which enhances safety and situational awareness on the water. Raymarine is known for marine-focused designs that usually balance ease of use with functionality. If you need a dependable fixed VHF radio with AIS and good waterproofing for marine use, this bundle fits well, especially for boaters valuing integrated GPS and AIS features.