10 Best VHF Radios 2025 in the United States

The Icom M94d VHF Marine Radio is designed with several impressive features tailored for marine environments. It offers 6W RF power output, providing clear communication over a maximum range of 5 kilometers. The radio includes DSC for distress signal calling and an AIS receiver, enhancing safety by providing access to vessel traffic information. With a waterproof rating and AquaQuake draining function, it is reliable in wet conditions and even floats and flashes if dropped in water.

The inclusion of a simplified navigation system and a dimmable, back-lit display ensures easy readability in various lighting conditions. The radio also has noise cancellation for clearer audio output and an audio output of 1500mW, making it suitable for noisy marine settings. It is relatively lightweight at 2.2 pounds and compact with dimensions of 2.4 x 5.7 x 1.7 inches, which makes it portable and easy to handle.

The device operates for up to 10 hours on one AAA battery, which might require frequent battery changes for extended use. Additionally, it lacks built-in GPS integration, which could be a downside for users needing precise location tracking. This marine radio is ideal for boaters seeking reliable communication and safety features but may not suit those looking for extensive GPS functionality.

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.

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.