Best handheld vhf marine radio review

Tech Editor Fox Morgan put the DSC equipped Standard Horizon HX890 handheld VHF marine radio through a comprehensive hands-on test - here's how it performed

Product Overview

Overall rating:

Standard Horizon HX890 handheld VHF marine radio

Pros:

• Large easy to read screen, Fully waterproof, High capacity battery with rapid charger, DSC and GPS functionality

Cons:

• higher price than a basic model, bulkier/heavier than a basic model

Product:

Standard Horizon HX890 handheld VHF marine radio review

Standard Horizon HX890E VHF handheld marine radio

Best joint overall handheld VHF marine radio

The Standard Horizon HX890 handheld VHF is a feature-rich, top spec handheld marine radio, with impressive functionality. It features a large screen, which is easy to read but also points to the array of functions available.

The handheld radio floats with a highly visible strobe light activated when in the water and is fully waterproof with an IPX8 rating, which is the highest waterproofing of any of the VHF handheld radios I tested.

The HX890 has a built-in GPS receiver, something you will not find in other models offering less functionality, and is DSC-capable – so you can send a digital message to other DSC-capable receivers, including your GPS coordinates. If you send a distress message, it will automatically activate alarms on all DSC-capable receivers nearby within signal range.

I particularly like the dedicated volume buttons and the squelch is easy to find, falling naturally under the finger next to the push to transmit (PTT) button.

Overall the Standard Horizon HX890 handheld VHF is well laid out and easy to operate. The menu is easy to navigate and the Emergency distress button is easy to locate on the rear and can be activated single handed.

I got 27 hours from this on standby monitoring VTS ch12 in a busy Southampton shipping port and the clarity of the speaker even when turned up to max, though not the loudest in our test group, was excellent.

It comes with an additional battery tray too which can use 5 x AAA standard disposable or rechargeable batteries, in addition to the sets’ main rechargeable battery, so it’s possible to include this in your grab bag inventory for emergency use.

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Enjoying long hours on the water can be a fun and exciting way to spend quality time with your family. In other cases, many have to remain on the water due to work and other commitments. Due to this prolonged state, this can lead to a general sense of disconnection from land – especially when their boat rarely encounters a phone signal. A VHF radio is the only way to keep in touch with your loved ones and get important information about the weather. The portability and high frequency of these VHF radios make them an excellent source of communication. With there being several options available on the market, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. In this article, we’ve curated a list of the top VHF radios 2023 has to offer!

Top Pick

Cobra VHF Radio

Most Budget-Friendly

Uniden VHF Radio

Most Compact

Standard Horizon VHF Radio

Best Battery

BAOFENG VHF Radio

The Finest VHF Radio of 2023

Contents

Cobra VHF Radio – Top Pick

1

The Cobra VHF Radio is a lightweight, two-way radio. Featuring an antenna, wrist strap, spring-loaded belt clip, drop-in battery charger, and AC and DC chargers Cobra excels with its ability to keep a simultaneous eye on a max of three channels.

In addition to its excellent battery life, this device can demonstrate short and long-range communication – allowing further access to various national and international channels with its maximum coverage capacity.

Along with its maximum coverage feature, it can access National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) weather channels.

Pros

• Noise-canceling microphone
• Backlit LCD and excellent battery life
• Retrievable orange core and floating design

Cons

• Does not offer digital selective calling

Uniden VHF Radio – Most Budget-Friendly

2

The Uniden VHF Radio is a submersible marine radio. Featuring the largest LCD screen in its category, it has a paperwhite backlight display for daytime and a red backlight display for nighttime. Coming to you with an IPX8 waterproof rating – meaning, it can remain undamaged if it accidentally drowns – it can resist even the severest of conditions by way of withstanding water submergence for up to 30 minutes. Saving you time, Uniden’s easy accessibility makes for a more beginner-friendly experience.

Pros

• Includes GMRS radio for land-based use
• Three-year waterproof warranty
• Rechargeable battery

Cons

• Does not have GPS capabilities

Standard Horizon VHF Radio – Most Compact

3

The Standard Horizon VHF Radio is a portable handheld marine radio. Also pocket-friendly, this device has an easy-to-operate menu system and a high capacity1850 mAh long-lasting Li-ion battery – which can charge in three hours with its rapid desktop charger!

Featuring 12V DC and 110V AC charging cables, this product also comes with an IPX7 waterproof casing, a three-year warranty, and documentation. You can choose different output power options like 6W, 2.5W, and 1W that receive WX and FM radio bands of 76MHz to 108MHz.

Aside from its high-resolution LCD, programmable function keys, and speaker it also comes with a mic jack.

Pros

• Sleek, compact design
• Features high-resolution LCD
• Built-in FM broadcast band receiver

Cons

• Range may be shorter for some people

BAOFENG VHF Radio – Best Battery

4

The BAOFENG VHF Radio is a two-way radio with a dual-band. Designed to be heavy-duty, the latest model features a 30% larger battery than previous models – allowing it to easily last an entire day with controlled use.

Its wide range radio features a V-85 high gain antenna, offering twice the antenna performance of previous models. The kit also includes a dual-band antenna, a 2100mAh battery, CH-5 charger, CH-5 110V adapter, wrist strap, earpiece kit, and a belt clip.

Another plus? Along with its programming cable, an extensive user guide is also included in the box.

Pros

• Offers one year warranty
• Can hold a charge for up to 20 hours
• In-depth documentation and concierge support
• Customizable tri-color and waterproof display

Cons

• Some people may find it complicated to use

Finding a Quality VHF Radio: Buyer’s Guide

Before purchasing a VHF radio, you should know your requirements so you can invest in the one that yields maximum benefits. With the help of our buying guide, you can identify the right VHF radio for your use.

Contents

What to Keep In Mind When Looking for a VHF Radio?

When purchasing a VHF radio, please keep the following features in mind to ensure you invest in a helpful device:

Battery life

Since VHF radios are mainly used on water, you may not get the sources to charge them often. This naturally makes battery life the first feature to consider before purchasing a VHF radio. Most handheld marine radios run on rechargeable batteries that can last from seven to 20 hours, depending on the battery type and frequency of use. The battery life also depends on the size and power settings of the radio.

Antenna

For a VHF radio to work properly, it needs an antenna. The antenna of a VHF radio determines its signal range. While most handheld radios have built-in antennas, they tend to have a shorter signal range than fixed radios.

Digital Selective Calling (DSC)

The DSC or Digital Selective Calling is also included in the Global Maritime Distress Safety System and allows private communication. You can also use this system for sending coordinates to others. When you push a button, it will transmit a Mayday message to the corresponding channel, allowing for quicker responses.

GPS

Another beneficial feature of the VHF radios is GPS. It improves their usability by allowing them to report accurate locations and navigate precisely. You can use the DSC to send a more accurate coordinate to the USCG for help. Aside from this, you can also save your location or send coordinates to others in non-emergency situations.

Range

To determine its power, you need to look for the correct range on your VHF radio. Most handheld marine radios have a maximum capacity of six watts, and you can use them for covering up to 20 miles. To get the maximum benefit, you should choose the radio with customizable power and wattage settings.

Waterproofing

Since a VHF radio is primarily used on water, it must be water-resistant to avoid any mishaps. A good VHF radio can float on water in case of a fall, which can be a helpful feature. Make sure you invest in the one with maximum waterproofing to make it last longer.

What Are the Types of VHF Radio?

Generally, you can find three types of VHF radios:

Handheld VHF

Think of handheld VHF radios like walkie-talkies that are compact, waterproof, and reliable. With an added capability of buoyancy, handheld VHF radios will not drown or get damaged if dropped in water. Most handheld marine radios have their own battery packs and antenna to avoid any inconvenience during an emergency.

VHF fixed radio

Unlike a handheld radio, a fixed VHF radio is mounted onto the boat or any other marine vessel. These radios use the boat’s power source and come with various additional options like antennas and aux-in jacks. While these radios are waterproof, they need to be shielded against sun and water to increase their lifespan.

HF/SSB (long-range)

The third type of marine radio is less potent, but you can rest assured that it produces a strong signal for better communication. While you will need a certified license to operate these radios, they are excellent for communication with other boats.

Which Channels Are Easiest to Use on a VHF Radio?

Every boater needs to learn about the most valuable channels on VHF radio to improve the experience and stay safe when on water.

Channel 9

The Federal Communications Commission established the VHF-FM Channel 9 for non-commercial vessels. It is a supplementary channel for recreational voyagers, which means if a ship or shore unit wants to get in touch with a boater on the water, they will use Channel 9.

If boaters need to use Channel 16 to call a commercial vessel or a coast guard, they can do that too.

Channel 16

Channel 16 is the standard channel for emergencies and distress calls. A standard VHF radio can easily communicate by way of Channel 16 to inform the coast guard or other boats about an emergency. Due to the nature of this channel, FCC requires boaters to keep it open for communication at all times and to not block it due to unnecessary recreational communication.

Channel 22A

Channel 22A is dedicated to the US Coast Guard marine information broadcast. Boaters can use this channel to stay informed about important information, like weather conditions. Sometimes, Channel 16 is also used for communicating essential information to boaters.

Which Rules Should I Follow for Using VHF Radios?

The VHF radios follow distinct rules according to international standards for handling communications. All these devices are connected to Channel 16, which keeps you in direct contact with the coast guard or law enforcement. Channel 16 is generally used for sending distress signals, so you should only use it for emergency purposes.

According to international marine regulations, all marine vessels are required to keep Channel 16 open at all times. It allows a constant state of radio watchkeeping and handling emergencies, acting as a potential lifesaver in an unfortunate situation.

People Also Ask

Q: Why do I need a VHF radio on board?

A: A VHF radio is mainly used for everyday activities onboard. This includes communicating with different boats or command centers, keeping up with weather forecasts, asking for permission to enter different regions, and contacting coastal radio stations. In the case of an emergency, a marine radio can be a lifesaver and further ensure the safety of all those onboard your boat.

Q: Do I need a license for a handheld VHF radio?

A: Most handheld DSC/VHF radios require a special license for use. This license number is prefixed with the alphabet T (meaning transportable). This allows the operator to use any marine radio that is not permanently fixed to a marine vessel.

Q: How do I send a distress signal with a VHF radio?

A: To send a distress signal, turn your VHF radio to Channel 16 and high power. Then, press the talk button to key the mike. After that, repeat one of the three standard distress phrases thrice, including mayday or pan-pan. You’ll also want to add your position and information regarding your situation.

Q: How far can the average VHF radio reach?

A: Generally speaking, your traditional VHF radio will be able to reach a max of 100 miles. If you’re concerned about being too far out, simple ways you can extend your radio’s reach include elevating the antenna. If this doesn’t work, you can also increase your radio’s power by upgrading all of your older transmission equipment or investing in what’s called a rebroadcast system. While this will evidently cost you a little extra money, the added range can potentially save you (and your guests!) from being stranded out on the sea.

Q: How can I tell if my radio needs replacement?

A: While each radio will vary from the next, you’ll know it’s time for a replacement when you flip through the channels and notice fuzzy-sounding feedback.

SAIL Magazine Review Team reports on best-selling products in sailing and boating. The SAIL Magazine editorial staff is not involved in the creation of this content. SAIL Magazine is reader-supported: When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. The SAIL Review Team is composed of authors, editors, and sailors. Large language models may have been used in the research and creation of the content. To ensure questions about product testing or a specific article are addressed, please contact [email protected]

What is the best hand held VHF?

Best handheld VHF marine radio – hands-on test.

Standard Horizon HX890E VHF handheld marine radio..

Icom IC-M25Euro handheld marine radio..

Icom M37E handheld VHF radio..

Cobra MR HH500 FLT BT Handheld Floating VHF Radio..

ICOM IC-M94DE handheld marine radio..

Standard Horizon HX210..

What is the best VHF marine radio for 2023?

(KIRKLAND, Wash.) – At this year's NMEA 2023 awards banquet, Icom's M510 radio was presented with the Best VHF Radio Product award for the second year in a row, making this the 10th consecutive year that one of Icom's VHF marine radios have received this award.

What is the best small marine VHF radio?

Best small form marine radio. The Icom IC-M330GE is one of the smallest fixed VHF/DSC radios on the market. with a front face so compact that it is roughly the size of your modern smartphone measuring in at 156.5 x 66.5 x 110.1mm and weighing only 730g in total.

How to choose a handheld VHF marine radio?

Look for a waterproof radio or GPS rated to the IPX7 standard. Leave any touted as “water-resistant” on the shelf. The man-overboard implications of nonfloating marine electronics should be obvious. Waterproof is nice — so long as you only drop your handheld VHF or GPS in warm, clear, shallow water.