Best Walkie Talkie For Long Distance
If you need to communicate with others over a long distance, in areas where mobile phone coverage might not always be guaranteed, you might be wondering what the best walkie talkie for long distance is. Luckily, there are a wide range of two way radios that offer outstanding coverage right across the country, so that you can stay connected no matter where you are.
In this article, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about long distance two way radios, from exactly how they work and what sort of range you can expect, to our favourite long distance two way radios on the market today.
Can Walkie Talkies Work Long Distance?
Whether you’re working in a remote location and need to stay connected to your colleagues, or you’re looking for ways to stay connected during long distance hikes, two way radios are a popular solution. Unlike the walkie talkies that you might remember from your childhood, modern two way radios are able to transmit over long distances, providing you choose the right model.
There are a lot of different factors you’ll need to consider when choosing a long distance two way radio, from whether you require a licence from Ofcom to the frequency that you choose. So, how do you know which type of two way radio you should choose to get the right coverage? Read on to find out.
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How Far Can Two Way Radios Transmit?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to how far a two way radio can transmit. That’s because the range of a two way radio depends on the frequency that it uses, as well as its ERP (Effective Radiated Power).
The distance across which your two way radios can operate may also depend on your location. This is because lower radio frequencies (typically those under 300MHz) may be affected by obstacles such as buildings, dense woodland and hills, which can block radio signals.
Which Two Way Radio Has The Longest Range?
If you need a two way radio that offers long distance range, you might be wondering which two way radio has the longest range.
There are many different options available, but for the best long distance coverage, we’d suggest opting for a two way radio that offers cellular data network coverage, as well as operating on radio frequencies. This type of radio utilises a cellular data card, which allows it to use the mobile data network to provide nationwide coverage.
This is particularly useful for those working in the transport sector, for example when HGV drivers need to remain continuously connected to the control station. Many of these radios also feature in-built GPS tracking, helping to promote safety and wellbeing wherever you are.
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What To Look For In A Long Range Two Way Radio
There are a number of things that you’ll need to consider when choosing the right long range two way radio for your needs. Let’s take a look at some of the things you should look at when choosing a long range radio system.
Licensed Vs Licence Free
The first thing you need to consider is whether you need a licence from Ofcom for your walkie talkie. If you choose a two way radio system which can operate over a long distance, the chances are you’ll need a licence to use it. This is because many of the long range frequencies require a licence for use.
Luckily, applying for a two way radio licence isn’t quite as complicated as it sounds. When you buy your two way radio system through NRC, we’ll be there to guide you through the application process and ensure that it all goes smoothly.
Frequency Band
You’ll also need to consider what frequency band you want your radios to operate within. If you’re looking for long distance operation, you’re likely to need a radio that operates in the very high frequency range (VHF). These frequencies can travel longer distances of up to 100 miles. However, they are not able to permeate buildings, so they’re best used in remote locations such as the marine industry.
If you’ve got obstacles such as buildings, hills or dense woodland to contend with, an ultra-high frequency (UHF) may be more suitable. These waves are better at navigating obstacles, helping you to stay connected even when you’re indoors.
Cellular Data Network Coverage
If you need nationwide coverage, it’s worth considering a two way radio system that incorporates cellular data network coverage. This type of two way radio works in the same way as a traditional two way radio, except that it uses a cellular data card, enabling it to utilise the mobile data network. This allows the radio system to provide nationwide coverage, wherever you are in the country.
Battery Life
There’s nothing worse than running out of battery at a crucial moment. If you’re using your two way radio system to ensure the safety and wellbeing of your workers, a low battery could put you in a dangerous situation.
It’s important to consider the battery life of your chosen two way radio. However, you can always purchase a spare battery as backup, to keep you connected if your radio runs out of battery when you’re out and about.
Our Top Long Range Two Way Radios
It isn’t always easy finding the right long range two way radio to suit your needs. To give you a helping hand, we’ve put together a few of our best selling long range two way radios, giving you a starting point in your search.
DigiX Horizon Mobile
The DigiX Horizon Mobile is one of our most popular two way radio systems for customers who are looking for a long range radio. This system requires a cellular data card, allowing it to communicate over the mobile data network. This gives the DigiX Horizon Mobile nationwide coverage, complete with crystal clear audio.
This Android based radio allows you to remain in constant communication when you need it the most. No matter where you are in the country, you can stay connected with your colleagues 24/7.
Learn more about the DigiX Horizon Mobile here
DigiX Halo
If you’re looking for outstanding reliability at an affordable price tag, you’ll love the DigiX Halo. Able to operate on both the VHF and UHF frequency ranges, this two way radio gives you the flexibility to choose how you want to communicate.
With a 16 hour battery life, you can rely on the DigiX Halo to keep you in contact with others, whether that’s your colleagues or your friends and family. Not only that, but this two way radio is also water and dust protected and has been awarded IP54 status, making it ideal for use in wet or contaminated environments.
As well as providing excellent connectivity, the DigiX Halo also comes with a number of safety features such as an emergency alarm, call identity and the all-important kill/revive function. You can also choose between a half or full keypad, giving you ultimate flexibility over your two way radio system.
DigiX Neo
If you’re looking for a two way radio that offers both UHF and VHF frequencies, along with advanced features such as call identity, group calling and dual mode functionality, the DigiX Neo may be right for you.
This two way radio system offers superior voice quality, along with high performance operation. A single charge will provide you with up to 16 hours of battery life, whilst the IP67 rated water and dust protection will keep you connected even in the wettest of environments.
Despite the high power of DigiX Neo, it features a surprisingly compact design and weighs just 220g. This makes it the perfect two way radio for those who are on the move and don’t want a bulky radio to carry along for the journey. That’s why the DigiX Neo is a favourite amongst construction workers, hikers, campers and security guards alike.
Find out more about the DigiX Neo here
DigiX Link
Compatible with both UHF and VHF frequency ranges, the DigiX Link is a popular choice for those who need to stay in touch anywhere, at any time, thanks to its great value and long range operation. With 21.4 hours of talk time and an IP68 rating for water and dust protection, this two way radio offers superior quality voice communication with a long distance range.
The DigiX Link features an ultra slim design and weighs just 280g, making it highly portable if you’re on the move. It also showcases excellent security features, including encryption, lone worker mode, an emergency alarm, a remote monitor, GPS location tracking and a man down alarm option. This makes the DigiX Link the ideal choice for workers in the security, construction and warehousing industries, amongst many others.
Related Questions
Is It Legal To Use Walkie Talkies In A Car?
Just like using a mobile phone behind the wheel, operating a walkie talkie whilst driving is not allowed in the UK. However, if the radio can be used hands free, it is legal to communicate with others over your two way radio whilst driving. The best way to do this is by using a headset, so that you can clearly hear the person that you are communicating with whilst you are driving. As long as you don’t handle the radio whilst you are driving, allowing for distraction, you are perfectly within the law to use your two way radio during your journey.
Do Walkie Talkies Work Everywhere?
The range of your two way radio will depend on the type of radio you choose, how powerful it is and the frequency band that you select to communicate within. For long distance operation, you’re likely to need a radio which operates within the VHF frequency range. These radios can have a range of up to 100 miles. However, if you will be in a built up area or inside a building, you’ll need a radio which operates on the UHF frequency range, as these are better placed to navigate obstacles.
Unlike mobile phones, you don’t need a signal to use your two way radio. Even in the remotest of locations such as out at sea or up a mountain, your two way radio will work. The only challenges you’ll face are obstacles which interrupt the radio wave.
Find Your Perfect Long Distance Two Way Radio Today
Whether you need to stay in contact with friends during long hikes or you need a stream of constant communication to ensure the safety of your workers, two way radio systems offer an ideal solution. You can choose between UHF frequencies which can permeate buildings and VHF frequencies which can offer up to 100 miles of range. Alternatively, you could consider a two way radio system which uses the cellular data network to provide nationwide radio coverage.
Whatever your requirements, we have two way radio systems to meet your needs and keep you connected with crystal clear audio. If you need help finding the perfect two way radio solution for your needs, our communication experts are on hand to help. Give us a call or fill in our contact form today and we’ll be happy to help you to find the right solution.
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