Rating of the best river and sea radios for 2022

Most modern ships are equipped with devices that allow you to receive and transmit signals on ultra-short waves (VHF, English version - VHF). Despite the fact that river and sea radios have a similar appearance, they cannot be used one instead of the other, as they operate on different frequency bands. All frequencies have their own channels, which have a specific purpose and cannot be picked up by a station that is not adapted for this. Both bands used in shipping operate in accordance with the UHF standard. The main ranges in which river and sea radio stations operate are LPD, PMR, FRS, GMRS. The advantage of a particular model will also support DMR.

Channel types

Most of the walkie-talkies can work in international channels (used to send a distress signal). In addition, channels can be used for communication between specific vessels, as well as between watercraft and shore. It is impossible to use any of them for a long time, a short-term check of the communication level is allowed, as well as negotiations on the case.

There are two types of channels - simplex and duplex. The former imply the transmission of voice at a point in time only unilaterally, the latter make it possible for two users to talk at the same time without having to wait until the interlocutor finishes his speech.

What you need to start using communication on the water

In accordance with the legislation of the Russian Federation, unauthorized use of communication devices on ships is not allowed. To do this, you need to obtain permission (license) from the regulatory authority - Roskomnadzor. After completing the appropriate design steps, you can start using the device. For operation at sea, you will additionally need to purchase a radio operator certificate. You will also need to check the radio in the radio frequency center. In order to obtain certification, it is recommended to study at a yachting school.

Rating of quality river and sea walkie-talkies for 2022

River

ARGUT A-36

The model has the title of "Customers' Choice" on Yandex Market.The popularity of models from a domestic manufacturer is due to a good ratio of price and product quality. According to buyers, Argut-36 is a replica of the Chinese device KYD IP-620UV. Despite the fact that the product is Russian-made, it has not been certified by the Russian River Register. Buyers note the compact size and waterproof housing, thanks to which you can not be afraid of splashes on the device. The manufacturer claims a range of 10 km. It should be borne in mind that the declared parameters will be fulfilled only under ideal conditions, but in reality, river bends, bridges, plants will interfere, reducing the reception range to 5 kilometers.

The portable model can be carried by attaching to a person's belt. According to the recommendations of buyers, this model should be considered for purchase if you have a small amount of money and rare outings on the water. The package includes a walkie-talkie, charger with power supply, user manual, lanyard and belt clips. There is a noise suppressor. The headset can be connected through the connector located on the end of the device. Backlit screen, full size keyboard. The average cost of goods is 8000 rubles.

• long battery life;
• compact dimensions;
• low price;
• waterproof housing;
• a large number of channels.

• often on sale there are defective devices.

Communication R-21

The review continues with another model of the Russian manufacturer, which is a replica of the Wouxun KG-801E YEL and is distinguished by the presence of a keyboard. The body of the device is painted yellow, making it easy to find in the dark.Up to 128 frequencies can be stored in the radio's memory at the same time. Switching between them is carried out using a mechanical lever. The manufacturer claims a signal transmission range of 20 km. As in the case of the previous contender, in reality it is worth counting on a value that is half as much. Switching of power of the transmitter is provided.

To date, there is no river register certificate for the device, which makes its use illegal. However, the manufacturer claims that the product is going through all the necessary stages of registration and will soon receive permission to use. The device supports coding in CTCSS, DCS standards. Users note a long battery life (up to 15 hours), as well as the presence of a built-in flashlight that helps out in the dark. You can connect a headset. The package includes a device, charger, battery, instruction manual. The average price of a product is 6,000 rubles.

• bright color;
• full-size keyboard with direct data entry;
• supports encoding;
• the device is inexpensive;
• compact dimensions.

• the radio is not officially registered;
• case is not waterproof.

Navcom CPC-303/303A

The manufacturer positions the model as non-sinking. This is implemented as follows: when it enters the water, the radio remains afloat, the red diode lights up, which helps to find the device in the dark and send a distress signal. It is produced in two modifications: 303 and 303 A, the second is used for ships that are under the supervision of GIMS.

The body of the device is waterproof, made of yellow plastic, making it easy to find the device in the dark. It also has shock-resistant properties, and can withstand a fall from a height of up to 20 meters. The model has a certificate of the river register, so it can be used on any type of river vessels. The choice of illumination is provided. The average price of a product is 23,000 rubles.

• there is a license of the river register;
• the device supports encoding;
• waterproof and shockproof case;
• does not sink in water;
• bright colors.

• high price.

HIT H6 (G)

The complete set of the model from a foreign manufacturer includes a radio station, a belt mount, a charging cup, a power adapter, an antenna and a user manual. It can be used both for operation on standard waves and in the river range. Unlike previous walkie-talkies, there is a built-in GPS module that allows you to determine the location of the vessel. It not only captures data about the user's location, but can also transfer it to other members of the group. In addition, you can request similar data from group members and receive them on your device.

The device has a color display, a full-size keyboard. The device supports tone coding. The 2800 mAh battery provides long battery life. Battery type - lithium, is considered one of the best. The instruction manual describes in detail the process of assembling and operating the radio, here you can also find tips and tricks to extend battery life.It is possible to manually program the memory channels in which the basic information (frequency, power, bandwidth) will be stored. The average price of a product is 5,500 rubles.

• compact dimensions;
• budget price;
• color screen and full keyboard;
• there is a GPS module;
• can be ordered online at any online electronics store.

• there are complaints about the quality of the device.

NavCom CPC-300

The rating continues with another model of the Russian manufacturer, which has a stationary design. The manufacturer claims that the device implements all the innovations in the field of river radio communication, while the development took into account the recommendations of ship captains.

The radio station is installed on a horizontal surface or can be mounted to walls or ceilings using brackets. Due to the fact that the device is used in rooms that are protected from water splashes, there are no requirements for water resistance, however, the manufacturer has ensured the level of tightness of the front panel - IP55. The package includes a radio station, fasteners, tanget, and a charging cable. Optionally, you can purchase an external speaker that will help interpret the received messages at high noise levels. An antenna-feeder device and a PPP certificate (if necessary) are also sold separately.

The walkie-talkie provides for scanning on one, two, three channels. There is an SOS button. The screen brightness can be adjusted to increase in the sun and decrease at night. The average price of a product with a PPP certificate is 77,000 rubles.

• the device has been certified;
• wide functionality;
• various mounting options.

• high price;
• stationary execution is not always convenient.

Granite 2R-44

The model of the Russian manufacturer can be sold in two versions: simplex and half-duplex. Frequencies are set using the keyboard, or programmed using a computer. The user is given the opportunity to copy information from one frequency to another.

The model in question does not have a full-fledged keyboard, only functional buttons are located on the front panel. Small display with switchable backlight function. The case is made of metal, has shock-resistant properties. The radiation power level is variable, ranging from 0.5 to 5 watts. The manufacturer claims uninterrupted operation from a single charge for a day or more (provided that the energy saving mode is turned on).

The radio station can work both in individual, and in the group mode. Programmable assignment of a specific tone to a specific frequency is possible (up to 38 pieces). Separately from the walkie-talkie, you can purchase a kit for group charging batteries (4 or 8 batteries can be charged at the same time). The adapters included in the delivery set allow you to charge batteries from a network with different voltages (12, 24, 220 V). The average price of a product is 30 thousand rubles.

• wide functionality;
• shock-resistant moisture-resistant case;
• the device has a certificate of conformity, giving the right to use it for all ships and coastal facilities on the territory of the Russian Federation.

• high price.

Technical characteristics of river radios are presented in the comparative table:

Index	ARGUT A-36	Communication R-21	Navcom CPC-303/303A	HIT H6 (G)	NavCom CPC-300	Granite 2R-44
Frequency range	300-339 MHz	300-350 MHz	300.012-300.512 MHz, 336.012-336.512 MHz	65-520 MHz	300.0125…336.5125 MHz	300-337 MHz
Transmitter power	5 W	5 W	2 W	5 W	5 W	5 W
Type of modulation	FM	FM	no information	FM	no information	no information
Number of channels	199	128	177	128	no information	29
Voice activation via headset (VOX)	Yes	Yes	Yes	no information	No	No
Push to Talk (PTT)	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Channel scan	Yes	Yes	yes (1 or 2)	there is	there is	there is
Quick tuning to an emergency channel	No	there is	there is	No	there is	No
Keyboard lock	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	No	Yes
Antenna	removable	removable	removable	removable	built-in	removable
Waterproof standard support	IPX6	No	IPX7	No	IP55	no information
Housing material	plastic	plastic	plastic	plastic	plastic	metal
Number of batteries	1	1	1	1	works from the network	1
Battery capacity	1500 mAh	1500 mAh	1500 mAh	2800 mAh	No	2100 mAh
Noise suppression	there is	yes, threshold setting	yes, threshold setting	yes, adjustable SQ	there is	yes, threshold setting
Loudspeaker power	450 mW	no information	no information	no information	no information	500 mW
Sensitivity	no information	0.16 µV (12 dB SINAD)	no information	0.25 (12dB SINAD)	0.17 uV	0.18 uV
Overall dimensions (length, width, thickness), mm	57x100x35	56x115x30	57x130x49	95x55x35	185 x 180 x 80	64x147x44
Working temperature	-30 - 60 °C	-30 - 60 °C	-20 - 60 °C	-20 - 60 °C	-25 … +55 С	-30 - 50 °C
Weight, kg	0,22	0.22	0,285	0,195	1.8	0,47
Average price, rub.	8000	6000	23000	5500	77000	30000

Marine

Recent RS-36M

The rating of radio stations operating in the maritime range is started by a Chinese-made model popular on the Yandex Market.Its prevalence is connected, first of all, with how much the device costs - it is almost impossible to find a device with similar characteristics for a comparable cost.

The body of the radio is made of plastic, has moisture-proof properties and does not submerge under water, so it can be used in extreme situations. The user can select the power value, which allows you to save the battery level in case a high load is not expected (minimum value - 1 W, maximum - 5 W). The package includes a radio station, charger, battery, detachable antenna, belt clip, technical documentation describing the main characteristics.

The memory of the device is filled with popular frequencies for communication and receiving weather reports. The instrument can operate in simplex or duplex modes. The keypad of the radio station is defective, some buttons are combined to save space. There is a scanning function and the ability to track two channels at the same time. The LCD screen with backlight allows you to view information even in the dark. The device is not intended to be used with a headset, so there is no connector for connection. The average price of the goods is 9900 rubles.

• waterproof housing;
• there is a power adjustment;
• wide functionality.

• combined keyboard;
• headset cannot be connected.

Standard Horizon HX-400

The model in question is designed for use in extreme conditions and has a number of features compared to standard radios that are on sale.The device can operate both at sea and land frequencies, has protection against explosions and splashes 1ExibIIBT3 X. In addition, the body of the device is protected from moisture ingress according to the IPX8 standard. The device reads all popular channels, including those broadcasting the weather forecast.

Since the radio is intended mainly for use by departmental services, it is equipped with a scrambler - a function for encrypting voice messages. Information about the status of the device and about the tasks performed are displayed on the backlit display. A capacious 2400 mAh battery provides long battery life (up to 17 hours of active use). To increase the operating time, an energy saving mode is provided. There is a noise reduction function that improves call quality and reduces background noise when talking.

The radio station has an official certificate of the Maritime Register of Shipping, and you can find a large number of positive reviews about it on the net. The package includes a walkie-talkie, battery, charger, instruction manual, fasteners for carrying on the arm and on the belt. The average price of a product is 30 thousand rubles.

• large battery capacity;
• wide functionality;
• explosion-, spark-, moisture-proof case;
• The device has passed mandatory certification.

• high price.

ICOM IC-M24

The model has a feature that distinguishes it from its competitors, it does not sink into water, but floats to the surface and turns on a light indication that indicates a problem and helps to find the device in the dark. At the same time, the walkie-talkie practically does not protrude above the water level and it is not easy to detect it at high waves.The indicator light is on even if the power has not been turned on. Having this capability is an essential selection criterion for owners of small vessels.

The device is compact in size compared to competitors' products. The delivery set is standard. Separately, you can purchase a cable that allows you to program the device from a computer. Claimed battery life is 10 hours. The battery charge indicator is four-level, so you can track its low level in time. According to buyers, if the radio station works for reception most of the time, one charge will last more than two days. The LCD display contains all the necessary information. Reduced format keyboard, multiple values ​​can be set on one button.

In order to maintain moisture-proof properties, the manufacturer has developed a system that provides for a slow charging speed, but at the same time eliminates the presence of open contacts that can be damaged when interacting with the environment. The device has another interesting feature - the volume control provides the ability to reduce the sound level to the minimum possible and increase to the maximum by double pressing the key, which allows you to quickly adapt the reception to the surrounding noise.

After immersion under water for up to 1 minute, the radio station can operate for at least 30 minutes without loss of consumer properties. To speed up drying, the inclusion of a vibration mode is provided, which will help remove drops from the joints between the body elements. The radio has a RMRS certificate, which allows it to be used on any marine vessels. The average price of a product is 18,000 rubles.

• the package includes fast and slow charging;
• light indication when the radio station enters the water, buoyancy;
• long battery life.

• high price.

Hytera PD785G(MD) VHF 5W (with GPS)

The model appeared on the market in 2017, is digital-analog and works in the DMR standard. Despite the fact that the manufacturer is located in China, the company is considered one of the best manufacturers of communication equipment. The device is configured programmatically using a computer. Before choosing this model, the first thing you need to pay attention to is the lack of setup instructions in Russian, and it is not available on the Internet either. Because of this feature, many refuse to buy the device, since its configuration will have to be entrusted to specialists.

The device can make voice calls at a distance of up to 10 km, it is also possible to send SMS messages, receive and transmit the coordinates of the interlocutor and your own thanks to the built-in GPS module. For full-fledged work, it is recommended to use a stationary repeater. There is an encryption function, and if there is no corresponding module on the receiving device, the speech will be unintelligible.

The case of the device is made of plastic, all joints are sealed to prevent water from entering inside. The clip and antenna are removed. The package includes a strap for carrying the walkie-talkie on the hand. The capacious battery provides work not less than 13 hours in the reception-transmission mode. Fast charging allows you to speed up the process in case of an urgent need to replenish the battery. The device supports roaming. The average price of a product is 53,000 rubles.

• there is a GPS module;
• buyers do not have difficulties with where to buy a product - it is popular and is found on sale everywhere;
• large range;
• wide functionality.

• the main mistake of buyers when choosing a device is that not everyone knows in advance that the device is programmed only through a PC, and instructions in Russian cannot be found;
• high price.

Lowrance Link-2 DSC

The device of the world famous company for the production of marine radio equipment is characterized by the quality of assembly and components, because the manufacturer cares about its reputation. All elements of the case are fitted to each other, the plastic is soft and without defects. The functionality of the device is also at a high level - there is a “man overboard” button, as well as a “digital selective call”.

The first function allows you to fix the position of the vessel in the international coordinate system, after which the radio station begins to pave the way to this point and at the same time sends a distress signal. The second function is used to transfer a call to another radio station, followed by communication via telephone or fax. First of all, it is used to make emergency calls, as well as to send messages over an individual channel. Transmitted messages are encrypted.

The radio has floating properties, and when it enters the water, it does not sink, but remains on the surface. After being removed from the reservoir, it remains in working order. There is a built-in GPS module. Double and triple monitoring is possible. You can listen to frequencies broadcasting the weather. The oversized display contains all the necessary information, is equipped with an orange backlight. In addition to the main equipment, the package also includes a bracelet. The average price of a product is 28 thousand rubles.

• wide functionality;
• quality components;
• there is a GPS module;
• floating properties.

• not detected.

Cobra MR HH350 FLT

The device has a non-standard design and color - the front panel is black, the back is orange. Since the model is floating, the orange color from afar attracts attention and helps to quickly locate the device. The walkie-talkie is equipped with a microphone that has a built-in vibration function to remove drops of water that can get inside when falling overboard.

The device can tune in to channels transmitting the weather forecast, which is important for ships that go to sea for several days or more. When weather conditions worsen, an audible signal is given to attract the user's attention. Among the shortcomings, users note the low capacity of the built-in battery, as well as the low power of the speaker, because of which you can not hear the necessary information at a high noise level. In addition to standard batteries, AAA batteries can be used in the radio.

Backlit display. As in other similar models, it is orange. The scope of delivery includes the device, a belt clip, a cigarette lighter-powered charging cable, a safety line, and a spare battery. An additional loudspeaker can be purchased as an option. The average price of a product is 18,000 rubles.

• compact dimensions;
• can run on batteries;
• bright back cover, which is visible from afar when it gets into the water;
• low cost.

• hard to find for sale.

Comparative table of characteristics of marine stations:

Index	Recent RS-36M	Standard Horizon HX-400	ICOM IC-M24	Hytera PD785G(MD) VHF	Lowrance Link-2 DSC	Cobra MR HH350 FLT
Frequency range	156-161.45 MHz, 156.05-163.425 MHz	156.025-163.275 MHz	156.025-163.275 MHz	210-270 MHz, 400-470 MHz	156.025-163.275 MHz	156.025-157.425 MHz
Transmitter power	5 W	5 W	5 W	5 W	5 W	6 W
Type of modulation	FM	no information	FM	FM	FM	no information
Number of channels	all maritime	all maritime	61	1024	All channels USA, CAN, INT	all maritime
Voice activation via headset (VOX)	No	No	No	Yes	No	No
Push to Talk (PTT)	there is	Yes	there is	there is	there is	there is
Channel scan	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	there is	Yes
Quick tuning to an emergency channel	Yes	Yes	Yes	there is	there is	No
Keyboard lock	there is	there is	there is	there is	Yes	Yes
Antenna	removable	removable	removable	removable	removable	removable
Waterproof standard support	IPX7	IPX8	IPX7	IPX7	IPX7	IPX7
Housing material	plastic	plastic	plastic	plastic	plastic	plastic
Number of batteries	1	1	1	1	1	1
Battery capacity	1500 mAh	2400 mAh	1500 mAh	2000 mAh	1400 mAh	1000 mAh
Noise suppression	yes, threshold setting	yes, threshold setting	yes, threshold setting	there is	there is	Yes
Loudspeaker power	500 mW	700 mW	600 mW	500 mW	250 mW	250 mW
Sensitivity	0.22 µV (12 dB SINAD)	no information	no information	0.22 µV (12 dB SINAD)	0.25 µV (12 dB SINAD)	no information
Overall dimensions (length, width, thickness), mm	63x144x43	57x133x40	59x129x35	55x125x37	no information	67x121x53
Working temperature	-15 - 55 °C	-30 - 60 °C	-20 - 60 °C	-30 - 60 °C	no information	-20 - 50 °C
Weight, kg	0,247	0,35	0,26	0,355	no information	0,272
Average price, rub.	9900	30000	18000	53000	28000	18000

Conclusion

When choosing which walkie-talkie is better to buy, it is recommended to pay attention not only to the price, but also to the presence of functions that are considered basic: battery life, communication range, the presence of a body that is resistant to water splashes. It is better to look for reviews about the selected model on the appropriate forums, where buyers share their opinions about the purchased product.

Most radio stations are sold at prices ranging from 1,000 to 150,000 rubles. The cheapest models can be bought on a well-known Chinese site, but their quality leaves much to be desired. Models worth more than 50,000 rubles are most often bought for use on large liners, and the average buyer cannot afford them.

We recommend that you pay attention to models of well-known brands that have proven themselves over the course of their operation. We hope that our review will help you make the right choice!