10 Best Marine Vhf Radios 2025 in the United States

The Cobra MR HH350 FLT is a solid choice for a handheld marine VHF radio, especially for boaters who want a dependable, easy-to-use device. It offers adjustable power output up to 6 watts, which is great for both short-range and longer-distance communication on the water. The radio supports USA, Canada, and international channel maps, ensuring wide coverage wherever you go. Its noise-cancelling microphone is a helpful feature that reduces background noise, making conversations clearer even in windy or noisy conditions.

This model is fully waterproof and even floats, which adds peace of mind if it accidentally falls overboard. The bright backlit orange display is easy to read in different lighting, including low light or nighttime situations. It also includes NOAA weather channels for real-time weather alerts, an important safety feature for marine use. The radio’s weight is quite light at under 10 ounces, making it comfortable to carry. The size is a bit bulky compared to some compact models but still manageable for handheld use.

The Cobra MR HH350 FLT excels in durability, noise reduction, and essential marine communication features, making it suitable for casual boaters and enthusiasts who need reliable coverage and weather updates. Users who require advanced safety features like DSC might want to explore other options.

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.

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.