Best Walkie-Talkie for Emergencies: Expert Reviews & Ultimate Guide to the Best Devices for Crisis Communication

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Mike Roth

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Best Walkie-Talkie for Emergencies

In an emergency, the right walkie-talkie could save your life. Find out how to find the best walkie-talkie for emergencies!

Best Overall
BTECH DMR-6X2

Ideal For Everyone in Any Adventure

  • DMR Tier 1 & 2 compatible
  • Programmable channels
  • 4000 channels
  • 10,000 talk groups
Premium Pick
Garmin GPSMAP 66i

Perfect Reliable Emergency Walkie Talkie

  • 3-inch sunlight-readable color display
  • Satellite network connectivity
  • Two-way messaging
  • Interactive SOS
Best Budget
Midland-EX37VP

Budget Friendly Emergency Preparedness

  • 22 Family Radio Service channels
  • 38 Privacy codes
  • Long range
  • NOAA Weather Alert

We’ve reviewed the best emergency walkie-talkies and compiled a comprehensive list for you.

Here are our top picks for emergency walkie-talkies.

Best Overall Emergency Walkie-Talkie: BTECH DMR-6X2

BTECH DMR-6X2 PRO
Best Overall Emergency Walkie-Talkie: BTECH DMR-6X2
  • DMR Tier 1 & 2 compatible, MOTOTRBO
  • compatible
  • Programmable channels
  • 4000 channels
  • 10,000 talk groups
  • Large color display
  • Long battery life
  • Weatherproof
  • Complexity
  • Size and Weight
  • Regulatory Compliance

With the BTECH DMR-6X2 in hand, you can take on any adventure you can imagine.

Multi-Compatibility

The BTECH DMR-6X2 is compatible with Digital Mobile Radio (DMR) tiers one and two, as well as Motorola’s MOTOTRBO DMR system so that you can connect all your two-way radios.

Dual-Frequency

This survival walkie-talkie uses ultra-high frequency (UHF) and very high frequency (VHF), giving it a large transmission range. Up to 35 miles of coverage means you can contact the right people in an emergency. 

Easily Scan Thousands of Channels

The BTECH DMR-6X2 can store up to 4,000 in the radio and 250 channels in a zone. You’ll also be able to store 10,000 DMR talk groups and 200,000 digital contacts, with the Pro version holding 500,000 digital contacts. 

This walkie-talkie gives you the ability to adjust your scanning bank. You can add or group scanning channels together to customize your scanning preferences. You can scan a single channel list and monitor a high-priority channel, which the device will check periodically. You can also combine lists together to scan multiple lists at once.

Clear Display

The BTECH DMR-6X2’s full-color TFT LCD 1.77-inch display lets you easily see the information you need. 

You can use the onscreen menu to quickly toggle between a vibrant blue daytime display and a contrasting black display for nighttime use. 

Integrated GPS

This walkie-talkie includes GPS-based roaming for analog and digital channels. Set a point; alarms will sound when you stray from your chosen radius.  

The BTECH DMR-6X2 can send and receive analog and digital Automatic Packet Reporting System (APRS) packets so that you can share your location with your team.

Durable and Long-Lasting

The weatherproof BTECH DMR-6X2 includes two rechargeable batteries to power through any situation. The 3100mAh battery can last up to 35 hours on a single charge, while the 2100mAh battery lasts up to 18.5 hours on a single charge.

Constant Firmware Updates

The team behind the BTECH DMR-6X2 continues to release new firmware updates and features throughout the device’s lifecycle. All firmware is designed in the United States, and all products come with a USA warranty and support.

Verdict

The BTECH DMR-6X2 has everything you’ll need for an adventure or emergency. It provides reliable communication support in rescue situations and lets you keep in touch with everyone on your team.

The Pro version is slightly more expensive but includes enhanced features like Bluetooth connectivity.


Premium Walkie-Talkie: Garmin GPSMAP 66i

Garmin GPSMAP 66i
Best Premium Walkie-Talkie: Garmin GPSMAP 66i
  • 3-inch sunlight-readable color display
  • Satellite network connectivity
  • Two-way messaging
  • Interactive SOS
  • Preloaded mapping
  • Multi-GNSS
  • Cellular connectivity
  • Long battery life
  • Price
  • Subscription Cost
  • Complexity

Our premium pick has everything you need for an emergency.

The Garmin GPSMAP 66i offers multiple must-have features that could save your life in a dangerous situation, making it worth every penny. 

Color Display and Multi-GNSS

The GPSMAP 66i communicator comes with a large 3-inch sunlight-readable color display. It has preloaded Garmin TOPO mapping with direct-to-device Birdseye satellite imagery downloads and supports multiple global navigation satellite systems (GNSS) and navigation sensors. 

Two-Way Messaging

This communicator features two-way messaging via the 100% global Iridium satellite network with a subscription, allowing you to trigger an interactive SOS to the GEOS 24/7 search and rescue monitoring center. 

Cellular Connectivity

The device also offers wireless cellular connectivity for accessing weather forecasts and geocaching live. This allows you to plan ahead, ensuring you’re always prepared.

Garmin Explore Compatibility

The GPSMAP 66i is compatible with the Garmin Explore website and app, allowing you to manage waypoints, routes, activities, and collections and review trip data from the field. 

Long Battery Life

Its internal, rechargeable lithium battery provides up to 35 hours of battery life in 10-minute tracking mode and 1-minute tracking mode with the display off and 200 hours in Expedition mode with 30-minute tracking. 

Built for Tough Environments

It is built for demanding treks and is suitable for use in challenging environments. However, users must be aware of and follow all applicable laws in the jurisdictions where the device is intended to be used.

Verdict

The Garmin GPSMAP 66i is far more expensive than any other options on this list, but that price comes with features you won’t find anywhere else. 

If you consistently encounter dangerous situations, this is the best survival walkie-talkie you need.

Every penny is worth it to save your life or the life of someone you love.


Best Budget Walkie-Talkie: Midland-EX37VP

Midland-EX37VP
Best Budget Walkie-Talkie: Midland-EX37VP
  • 22 Family Radio Service channels
  • 38 Privacy codes
  • Long range
  • NOAA Weather Alert
  • Water-resistant
  • Limited Range
  • Battery Life
  • No Charging Options

On a budget? You can still be prepared for emergencies. Our budget pick, the Midland-EX37VP, has all the key features you need to stay safe without the price tag.

Multiple Channels

The Midland-EX37VP offers 22 Family Radio Service (FRS) channels, allowing you to stay connected to everyone in your group. It also includes a channel scan to check for activity and 38 privacy codes.

Extreme Range

This survival walkie-talkie set has a 26-mile range, perfect for long-range communication that’s crisp and clear with little to no obstruction.

Dual Power

The Midland-EX37VP walkie-talkies come with rechargeable nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) batteries but accept three AAA alkaline batteries as well. A battery icon on the screen helps you monitor your battery levels.

Emergency Weather Alerts

Included with these walkie-talkies is Weather Alert technology. When the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) issues an alert for your area, an alarm will sound, and you’ll notice the NOAA weather band icon appears at the top of the screen.

Be Prepared for Any Emergency

The Midland-EX37VP is part of Midland’s Emergency Walkie-Talkie kit, the perfect addition to any emergency preparedness kit. Inside a softshell carrying case, you’ll also find a nine-LED flashlight, whistle with compass and temperature gauge, and micro-USB charging cable.

Verdict

The Midland-EX37VP is an excellent emergency preparedness or car emergency kit option. It’s also a perfect and affordable choice for hiking or camping with the family.

The Midland-EX37VP doesn’t offer a lot of bells and whistles, but it has everything you need to stay safe in an emergency.


Other Excellent Emergency Walkie-Talkies

If none of the above walkie-talkies quite meet your needs, don’t worry. Many outstanding walkie-talkies are on the market, and we’ve listed more of our favorites here.

ImageProductFeaturesPrice
For Disaster Response
MOTOROLA Talkabout T402 Rechargeable Two-Way Radios (2-Pack)

MOTOROLA Talkabout T402 Rechargeable Two-Way Radios (2-Pack)

  • 22 channels and 121 privacy codes
  • 11 weather channels, seven of which are from NOAA
  • Built-in flashlight
  • Micro-USB charging port
  • Range of up to 35 miles
  • Weatherproof
  • Works on rechargeable NiMH batteries or three AA alkaline batteries
Check Price On Amazon
For Emergency Preparedness
Retevis RT87

Retevis RT87

  • 12-hour battery life
  • 128 channels
  • Digital Keyboard
  • Easy-to-operate LCD screen
  • Range of up to 3 miles
  • SOS alarm
  • Waterproof
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For Outdoor Adventures
GOCOM G9 IP67

GOCOM G9 IP67

  • 22 channels and 121 privacy codes
  • Flashlight
  • NOAA weather alerts
  • SOS emergency button
  • USB charging port
  • Waterproof and dustproof
  • Works on rechargeable NiMH batteries or three AA alkaline batteries
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For Remote Areas - Hiking and Camping
Motorola T460

Motorola T460

  • 22 channels with 121 privacy codes
  • Built-in flashlight
  • Emergency alert button
  • Micro-USB charging port
  • NOAA weather channels and alerts
  • Runs for 8.5 hours on the included NiMH rechargeable batteries or 21 hours on three AAA batteries
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For RV Survival Kits and Camping
VOZKOM Long Range NOAA Emergency Survival Walkie-Talkies

VOZKOM Long Range NOAA Emergency Survival Walkie-Talkies

  • 22 channels with 121 privacy codes
  • 24-hour battery life
  • Built-in lamp
  • FM radio
  • NOAA weather scan and alerts
  • Range of up to 38 miles in open areas
  • Runs on built-in, rechargeable lithium batteries
Check Price On Amazon
For Off-Road Adventures and Motorsports Events
Midland GXT1000VP4

Midland GXT1000VP4

  • 50 channels with 142 privacy codes
  • Includes a desktop charger
  • NOAA weather scan and alerts
  • Range of up to 36 miles
  • Runs on a rechargeable NiMH battery or four AA batteries
  • Silent operation
  • SOS siren
  • Waterproof
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For Rugged Environments or Construction Sites
DeWalt DXFRS800

DeWalt DXFRS800

  • 18 hours of battery life
  • 22 preset channels
  • Anti-slip design
  • Durable and shock-resistant
  • Easy-to-view LCD display
  • Enhanced vibrating alert
  • Key lock
  • Power saver
  • Range of up to 300,000 square feet and 25 floors
  • Waterproof and dustproof
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For Event Management and Security Teams
Retevis RT5

Retevis RT5

  • 128 channels with 155 secure tones
  • Built-in flashlight
  • Dual-band- operates on UHF and VHF
  • Emergency alarm
  • FM radio
  • Keypad lock
  • LCD display with four colors
  • Rechargeable lithium battery lasts 10-12 hours
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For Water-Based Recreational Activities
Cobra ACXT645

Cobra ACXT645

  • 22 channels with 121 privacy codes
  • Battery lasts 12 hours
  • Built-in LED flashlight
  • Compact design
  • GPS
  • NOAA Weather Alerts from 10 NOAA weather channels
  • Range of up to 35 miles
  • Strong vibration
  • Waterproof
  • Works with a NiMH rechargeable battery or AA batteries
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For Warehouse and Factory Communication
BaoFeng BF888s Plus

BaoFeng BF888s Plus

  • 16 memory channels
  • Battery saving function allows the battery to last up to 72 hours
  • Built-in flashlight
  • Easy to use for kids and adults
  • Emergency alarm
  • Intelligent power saving
  • Lightweight and compact
  • Low price
  • Programmable by PC
  • Range of up to three miles
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For Large-Scale Emergency Response Efforts
Arcshell Rechargeable Long Range Two-Way Radios

Arcshell Rechargeable Long Range Two-Way Radios

  • 16 channels
  • Battery can last up to 96 hours on a single charge
  • Battery save and low battery alert
  • Built-in LED flashlight
  • Compact size
  • Emergency alert
  • Includes an earpiece
  • Range of up to five miles
  • Works with a rechargeable battery
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Long-Range Communication
Topsung Rechargeable Walkie-Talkies

Topsung Rechargeable Walkie-Talkies

  • 22 channels with 121 privacy codes
  • Auto power saver
  • Durable with drop protection
  • Includes an earpiece
  • Large LCD screen with backlight
  • Low battery alert
  • Multiple color options available
  • NOAA Weather Emergency Alerts with 10 NOAA radio channels
  • Range of up to 20 miles
  • Works with a rechargeable battery
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For Hiking and Backpacking Trips
pxton Rechargeable Long Range Two-Way Radios

pxton Rechargeable Long Range Two-Way Radios

  • 16 preset channels
  • Battery lasts 8-12 hours
  • Built-in flashlight
  • Emergency alarm
  • Hard shell is durable and drop-proof
  • Includes an earpiece
  • Lightweight and compact
  • Low battery alert
  • Range of up to three miles
  • Rainproof
  • Works with a rechargeable battery
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Why You Need a Walkie-Talkie for Emergencies

Whether you work a job responding to emergencies, frequently find yourself in challenging situations, or want something for your emergency kit, walkie-talkies are essential for several reasons:

  • Communication: In an emergency, communication is critical. A survival walkie-talkie can provide reliable communication between individuals, especially when other means of communication, such as cell phones or landlines, are unavailable or overloaded.
  • Portability: Portable and easy to carry, making them ideal for use in an emergency. They can be taken anywhere and used on the go, allowing quick and efficient communication.
  • Durability: Designed to be durable and withstand harsh conditions. They are often built to withstand water, dust, and drops, making them suitable for emergencies.
  • Battery Life: Walkie-talkies usually have long battery life, allowing for extended use in emergencies when access to electricity may be limited.
  • Group communication: Walkie-talkies can allow for group communication, making them ideal for coordinating with a team during an emergency response.

Walkie-talkies provide a reliable, portable, and durable means of communication in emergencies, making them an essential tool for emergency response teams, first responders, and anyone who may find themselves in a crisis.

Buying Guide for Best Walkie-Talkies for Emergencies

Walkie-talkies can come with various features, making it hard to decide which is right for you. Here are some things to consider when choosing a walkie-talkie.

Range

The range of the walkie-talkie is one of the most critical factors to consider. It is essential to choose a walkie-talkie with a range that is suitable for the intended use. You may need a more extended range if you plan to use it in a remote area. Most survival walkie-talkies use VHF, UHF, or both.

VHF

VHF stands for “Very High Frequency” and operates on frequencies between 30 MHz and 300 MHz. VHF signals can travel longer distances, especially over open terrain, and are less likely to be blocked by obstacles such as buildings and trees. 

VHF radios are suitable for outdoor use and commonly used in marine, aviation, land mobile applications, and ham radio communications.

UHF

UHF stands for “Ultra High Frequency,” operating between 300 MHz and 3 GHz frequencies. UHF signals can penetrate through obstacles such as buildings and trees, making them suitable for indoor use. 

UHF radios typically have a shorter range than VHF radios, but they can provide better coverage in urban and suburban areas.

The decision will largely depend on the intended use when choosing between VHF and UHF walkie-talkies. VHF may be the better choice for outdoor use due to its more extended range, and UHF may be a better choice for indoor or urban use due to its ability to penetrate through obstacles. 

If you are still determining what to use your survival walkie-talkie for, the best bet is to find a product that works on both VHF and UHF. 

Durability

In emergencies, your walkie-talkie may be subjected to harsh conditions, so it is essential to choose a rugged and durable model. Look for models that are waterproof, dustproof, and shock-resistant.

Battery Life

When choosing a walkie-talkie for emergencies, battery life is essential. You will want an extended battery life model lasting several hours or even days without recharging.

Ease of Use

In an emergency, you want a walkie-talkie that is easy to use and operate. Look for models with clear and simple controls that you can quickly and easily navigate.

Compatibility

Suppose you are part of a group or emergency response team. In that case, choosing a walkie-talkie compatible with your team’s models is essential. The compatibility will ensure that you can communicate effectively with your team members.

To ensure that walkie-talkies are compatible, you must check that they operate on the same frequency and have the same channel spacing. Here are the steps you can follow to check for compatibility:

  • Check the frequency range: Walkie-talkies can operate on different frequencies, such as VHF or UHF. Make sure that the walkie-talkies you are comparing have the same frequency range.
  • Check the frequency band: Different frequency bands are available within a frequency range. Check that the walkie-talkies are using the same frequency band.
  • Check the channel spacing: The spacing between two adjacent channels on the same frequency. Check that the walkie-talkies have the same channel spacing, usually 12.5 or 25 kHz.
  • Check the mode: Some survival walkie-talkies use different modes, such as analog or digital. Make sure that the walkie-talkies you are comparing use the same mode.
  • Check the CTCSS/DCS codes: These are codes that allow survival walkie-talkies to communicate selectively with each other without interference from other users on the same frequency. Check that the walkie-talkies have the same CTCSS/DCS codes set up.

If the walkie-talkies meet all of the above criteria, they should be compatible with each other. However, it is always best to test them in the field to ensure they can communicate effectively before relying on them for critical communications.

Digital Mobile Radio (DMR)

Digital Mobile Radio is a digital radio standard for professional and commercial communications. An open digital radio standard uses time-division multiplexing (TDM) and frequency-division multiple access (FDMA) to use the available radio spectrum efficiently.

DMR is used by organizations such as emergency services, public safety agencies, utilities, transportation companies, and other businesses that require reliable and secure voice and data communications. 

It provides a range of features and benefits over traditional analog radio systems, including:

  • Improved voice quality: DMR uses digital technology to provide clearer and more reliable voice communications.
  • Greater capacity: DMR allows more users to operate on the same radio spectrum by using time-division multiplexing to divide a single channel into two time slots.
  • Enhanced data capabilities: DMR can transmit data alongside voice communications, allowing for more efficient and effective communication.
  • Security: DMR provides encryption capabilities to ensure secure transmission.
  • Interoperability: DMR is an open standard, meaning radios from different manufacturers can work together on the same network.

Extra Features

Some walkie-talkies may have features like weather alerts, GPS tracking, and emergency communications channels. Consider these features when choosing a model that will best suit your needs.

Top Walkie-Talkie Tips

A few things can make a huge difference in your survival walkie-talkies’ effectiveness. Follow the tips below to make sure you’re using your walkie-talkies right.

Choose the Right Channel

Choose a channel not being used by other groups to prevent interference. In addition, choose a channel appropriate for your location and use.

Speak Clearly

Speak clearly and slowly, and use the microphone close to your mouth to ensure your voice is heard clearly.

Keep It Short

Keep your messages short and to the point. This will reduce the chance of other users talking over you and keep the channel clear for other users.

Listen Before You Speak

Listen to the channel for a few seconds before speaking to ensure that no one else is already using the channel.

Use the Right Language

Use the correct terminology and language for your application, such as military code words or aviation terminology.

Use the Correct Volume

Adjust the volume to a level that is appropriate for your environment. Ensure the volume is not too loud to avoid disturbing others or causing hearing damage.

Hold the Talk Button

Hold the talk button until you finish speaking, and release it to allow other users to respond.

Manage Your Batteries

Keep spare batteries on hand and ensure that the batteries are fully charged before using your walkie-talkie.

Take Care of Your Survival Walkie-Talkie

Keep your survival walkie-talkie clean and dry to prevent damage and ensure that it works properly.

Choose the Best Survival Walkie-Talkie for You

Only you can determine which of our best survival walkie-talkies suits your situation.

Many excellent options are available, with features like weather alerts and GPS. 

Our top pick is the BTECH DMR-6X2. It’s the perfect all-around walkie-talkie that works on UHF and VHF and includes a few extra features like GPS, long battery life, and thousands of channels.

The Pro version offers even more features for a slightly higher price.

If you need something to cover you in the direst of situations, our premium pick is the Garmin GPSMAP 66i. This device offers satellite and mobile connectivity, extensive battery life, and a range of extra features. The only downside is the price tag.

The price of our budget pick, the Midland-EX37VP, can’t be beaten. It’s not as flashy but comes with everything you need in an emergency walkie-talkie.

The right walkie-talkie is the one that meets your needs and falls in your price point. Check out our guides and tips on the best survival walkie-talkies and for more information on how to make it through hard times.

Happy shopping!