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 UM385 25 Watt Fixed Mount Marine VHF Radio is a solid choice for marine communication, especially for those who need a reliable and versatile device on the water. With a power output of 25 watts, it ensures robust and long-range communication, which is crucial for safety and coordination at sea. The radio supports all USA, international, and Canadian marine channels, along with memory channel scan, making it versatile for different regions and user needs.

The inclusion of DSC (Digital Selective Calling) with features like Distress Button, Position Send, and Request is a significant safety advantage, allowing for quick distress calls and position sharing during emergencies. The Uniden UM385 is also equipped with Triple Watch features and NOAA Weather Alerts to keep users informed of weather conditions and potential hazards. The IPX4 waterproof rating means the radio is resistant to rain and splashing water, which is essential for marine environments. However, it is not fully waterproof, so it should not be submerged in water.

The unit weighs 3.6 pounds and measures 2.6 x 5 x 6.3 inches, which is reasonable for a fixed mount radio and should not be cumbersome to install or use. The rugged handheld mic is designed for ease of use, allowing users to transmit without looking away from the waters ahead. Positive customer reviews (4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,580 ratings) indicate general satisfaction with the product's usability and performance. In summary, the Uniden UM385 is a durable, feature-rich marine VHF radio well-suited for boaters seeking reliable communication and enhanced safety features.