With the advent of FCC-designated FRS, a new swath of frequency in the United States, around 1996, for handheld, two-way radios, Motorola was reportedly the foremost brand to pounce in the market by coming up with their FRS walkie talkies in 1997.
It was a leading seller for many following years with its iconic T250 model. Since Motorola was the sales leader in the walkie-talkie market segment, they are the most used devices under the FRS/GMRS frequency services.
Whether you are shopping for two-way radios for your family, need, or to fulfill your business objectives, all you need a set of professional radio systems that will solve your defined purpose smoothly and efficiently.
There are various Motorola models on the marketplace catering to different purposes. What you need as a buyer is to consider certain factors before you choose a particular model.
For example, if you are going on a wild adventure trip or road trip, you may need long-range radio sets. If the buying is for indoor kids’ purpose, then a short-range walkie-talkie will be suitable for you.
One should also think about the additional features you may need from your radios, like many of Motorola’s TALKABOUT range, come with an easy pairing button, making set-up a little simple.
Other add-on features that the brands come with are -IP ratings to make them waterproof and dust-proof, and some models even float in water- making them the obvious choice for fishing and kayaking trips.
Top 9 Popular Motorola Two-Way Radios & Their Best Usage
| S. No | Motorola Walkie Talkie | Best Usage |
| 1 | Motorola RDU4100 2-Way Radios | For Business and Offices |
| 2 | Motorola RMU2040 | For Schools and Colleges |
| 3 | Motorola T200TP Talkabout Radio | For Group Travel and Road Trips |
| 4 | Motorola MS355R | For Hunting, Fishing, Kayaking and Skiing |
| 5 | Motorola MH230TPR | For Mountaineering, Trekking, Camping & Outdoor |
| 6 | Motorola T260 | For Indoors, Family and Home Usage |
| 7 | Motorola T600 | For Adventures, Skiing, and Water based activities |
| 8 | Motorola T100 Talkabout | For Kids and Cruise |
| 9 | Motorola Talkabout T460 | For Beginners and Outdoor Activities |
Top 9 Popular Motorola Walkie Talkies
With our intense research and analysis, we have figured out the best five Motorola models catering to different purposes of yours. Let’s discuss each one of them in detail.
1. Motorola RDU4100 2-Way Radios : Best Motorola Business Walkie Talkie
The RDU4100 is a powerful option from the brand Motorola. It has certain top-notch features making it the best among prevailing brands.
The transmission quality over an outstanding long-range coverage despite natural/ city obstacles is superb in these 4 watt Motorola walkie talkies.
With ten channels, this modal enhances audio quality. It had been designed with 89 business-specific UH-frequencies and 121 interference eliminator codes to stay in touch with your workforce.
It boasts an up to 350,000 sq. ft. or 30 floors indoors range with a default factory set to operate at 12.5 Hz.
Other functions include advanced Voice Scramble settings to reduce eavesdropping, Tri-color LED indicator to identity status, speaker magnetic field reduction to tamp down the noise, and a military-specific rugged design.
The set comes with a Lithium-ion rechargeable battery, which lasts up to 19 hrs, and a 5-AA battery option; it can extend up to 26 hrs.
This two-way radio is developed to the IP 55 and MIL specifications with auto switch modes and a dynamic talk-around scan feature. Its weight comes to 10.3 ounces.
Specifications of Motorola RDU4100 2-Way Radios
- 10 channels
- frequency UHF platform
- Range is 350 000 sq.ft / 30 floors
- Repeater Capability,
- 3 Voice Scramble settings
- Water-resistant
- Call Alert Tones
- Channel Scan and key-lock
- Removable Antenna
- Dual power and VOX mode
- FCC License required
Pros and Cons of Motorola RDU4100 2-Way Radios
Pros:
- It provides Business-exclusive frequencies.
- There are various selections for charging.
- Long battery life.
- Two programmable buttons.
- It is durable and water-resistant.
- Sound Clarity
Cons:
- The walkie talkies are water resistant but not completely waterproof.
- No backlight display.
Why is Motorola RDU4100 2-Way Radios the best walkie talkie?
Motorola RDU4100 is a trustworthy walkie-talkie, as it comes with the brand assurance of complete replacement if it has any manufacturing faults. In addition to that, the brand offers long battery life, clear audio, and access to definite frequencies to make it the perfect walkie talkies for your onsite business use. Recommended for hotels, corporate, event etc.
2. Motorola RMU2040 : Best Motorola Walkie Talkie for Schools and Colleges
Walkie talkies facilitate monitoring children, especially in school. The Motorola RMU2040 are those two-way radio sets that are apt for school events like sightseeing or excursions or even handling kids on the bus.
If you are a school teacher or administrator, you need to send instructions or call them to order by pushing a button.
This 2-watt powered device comes with two pre-programmed channels and 2 extra channels, which can be activated by the user when needed. It has an easy, user-friendly interface.
The provision for 219 privacy codes ensures uninterrupted transmission of communication. It’s Antimicrobial Coating with metal die-cast chassis boasts exceptional audio quality and duly meets Military Spec and IP54/55 standards.
The other add-on feature includes VOX Hands-Free, C-shaped earpiece and rechargeable lithium batteries, which are less prone to overcharging damage.
Specifications of Motorola RMU2040
- 2 -4 Channels with 219 Privacy Codes
- 250,000 Sq. Ft / up to 20 Floors
- 89 UHF Selectable Business Frequencies (FCC License Required)
- Hands-Free (VOX) Mode
- Tri-Colored interface
- Easy Cloning
- Channel Scan
- Talk Confirmation Tone
- Two Side Buttons
- Monitor Channel
Pros and Cons of Motorola RMU2040
Pros:
- It is a lightweight unit:8.6 oz
- Long battery life (18+ Hour Lithium Battery)
- Prolonged battery life with the power save and battery save feature.
- It comes with rechargeable batteries and a Drop-In Battery Charger
- It can be configured with a PC
Cons:
- Only 2 Channels are pre-programmed. Rest two can be activated by the user.
- Comes with a Fixed Antenna
What makes Motorola RMU2040 the best Walkie Talkie?
The Motorola RMU2040 radios, along with durable design, can withstand dust, shock, salt fog, rain, humidity, vibration, sand, and temperature. Motorola’s beautiful walkie comes in a pack of six, which makes it perfect for multiple users at a competitive price—recommended for facilitating communication across numerous parties, just like in school or in for college use.
3. Motorola T200TP Talkabout Radio : Best Motorola Walkie Talkie for Group Travel and Road Trips
This Motorola’s walkie talkies are the most popular two-way radio devices to keep in touch with family in the event of low/no cell service- be it at the ski hill, playground, at amusement parks, or camping.
Their outstanding features include NiMH rechargeable batteries, a keypad lock, which requires personalized passcode to make alterations to settings, and a time-out feature of auto-lock in case of inactivity for a specific period.
These Motorola walkie talkies are durable and robust, works for 12 hours of power once it is fully charged, and up to 29 hours with 3 AA batteries.
The Motorola Talkabout walkie-talkie has a long-range coverage of up to 20 miles up-hills and 1 mile in urban settings. So it keeps you connected with your group members wherever you are when traveling.
With 22 FRS/GMRS channels, each one having 121 privacy codes for private communications. The set of 3 also comes with a charging adapter, belt clips, and user manual.
Specifications of Motorola T200TP Talkabout Radio
- No. of channels is 22 with 121 privacy codes.
- Range up to 20 miles in mountain-to-valley and 1 mile in urban outdoor settings
- Dual power capable
- Micro-USB Charging.
- Compatible with Other 2-way Radios.
- Flashing low battery alert
- VOX hands-free
- 20 customized Call Tones.
Pros and Cons of Motorola T200TP Talkabout Radio
Pros:
- It is very reasonably priced
- Prolonged battery life with the power save and battery save feature
- 3 sets of radios
- High sound quality
Cons:
- · No weather scan and alerts
- · range is not very high for city use.
What makes Motorola T200TP Talkabout Radio the best Two-way radio?
The compact, eco-smart, and featherweight design make Motorola Talkabout walkie-talkie the best radio for travel. The Micro-USB port allows recharging using any standard power outlet. Prolonged battery life up to 29 hours with AAA batteries and alert tone lets you reserve the power. So Relax! You are not out of touch with your family members and friends group throughout your adventure with this device.
4. Motorola MS355R : Best Long range Motorola Walkie Talkie for Hunting, Fishing and Kayaking Activities
Motorola’s Realtree AP HD camo version walkie-talkie is an extraordinarily durable and fully featured two-way radio. It is designed for rough or extreme weather conditions.
As an adventure enthusiast, you have access to both FRS channels and 8 GMRS channels, compatible with a built-in 8 repeater channels for long-range viability and communication flexibility.
The MS355R device is equipped with seven NOAA channels and a weather alert system. The IP-67 standards feature for waterproofing is what makes it perfect for hunting and fishing activities.
The gadget has the capability of being submerged for up to a meter for up to thirty minutes. It can also float. Again the silent mode feature helps in stalking the animals without spooking.
This GMRS radio provides an excellent range of up to 35 miles in ideal conditions. The MS355R can be powered with the included rechargeable NiMH battery pack or AA Alkaline batteries.
Other features include hands-free iVox functionality, ten Call Tones, a Quiet Talk filter, and a built-in LED flashlight, making it ready for hiking, hunting, fishing, and other outdoor activities.
Specifications of Motorola MS355R
- The range is about 35 miles
- 22 Channels and 8 Repeater Channels
- NiMH rechargeable batteries
- Water Resistance rating is IP67
- 7FRS/ 8GMRS Compatible channels
- Earbud with PTT
- NOAA weather channels & alerts
- Weather Scan
- LED Flashlight
- 10 Call Alert Tones
- Keypad Lock and Monitor
- Hands-Free (iVOX) Mode
- One Year Manufacturer Warranty
Pros and Cons of Motorola MS355R
Pros:
- Its Waterproof radio is submersible up to 1 meter and can float in the water.
- It comes with a headset jack connector
- Non-slip ridges eliminate annoying hand slips
- The pack includes a dual-pocket desktop charger
Cons:
- · Not easy to use with gloves, especially the PTT button
Why is Motorola MS355R the best Walkie Talkie?
This two-way radio Motorola comes in a camo version and is designed to be a hunting device. That’s because, while most radios focus on communication, the MS355R has several hunting-only features. Its weather alert and NOAA channel help in receiving essential weather updates and preserves safety in the wilderness. The waterproof and submersible feature is of great help during your fishing activities. The Motorola MS355R doesn’t require a GMRS license.
5. Motorola MH230TPR : Best Motorola Walkie Talkie for Mountaineering, Trekking, Camping and other Outdoor activities
Mountaineering and trekking Activity are pretty dangerous affairs. Impassable areas, unexpected weather transformation, rocky cliffs are something you will come across.
In such uncertain surroundings, just remember to add a Motorola two-way radio set to your camping gear. Motorola MH230TPR is the top choice among mountaineers.
With an excellent range up to 23 miles, you can easily keep rocking in your mountain activity. It boasts about 22 channels and 121 privacy codes. So no compromise on disruptive communication.
The model works on both the FRS or GMRS frequencies and has CTCSS and CDCSS codes that help eliminate noise and interference signals. It’s an upgraded version of MH230R.
The walkie talkies have additional features like a backlit display for night activation and a keypad lock to prevent accidental dials.
The handset’s external body is made of rubber and plastic material, making it waterproof, shock-resistant, and sturdy radio to withstand the rigors of the mountain/rough terrain.
The NiMH battery can serve you for 12 hours, along with the option to power it with 3 AAA batteries in case of extended backup.
Specifications of Motorola MH230TPR
- 22 channels
- frequency UHF platform
- The range is 23 miles
- 11 weather channels (NOAA channel with weather alerts)
- Water and shockproof
- iVOX hands-free communication
- Channel Scan and keypad-lock
- Dual power mode
- Earbuds and PTT Microphone
Pros and Cons of Motorola MH230TPR
Pros:
- It is a lightweight unit.
- There are various selections for charging.
- Long battery life (14 hours with AAA batteries & 12 hours with the integrated NiMH battery)
- It is durable and waterproof.
- It’s an IP51 rated product
- It comes with rechargeable batteries
Cons:
- The range is not as good as advertised.
- The charging station can charge only two sets at one time.
What makes Motorola MH230TPR the best Walkie Talkie?
Keep connected with your folks with the Motorola MH230TPR. The transmission range is decent within 23 miles. Hence best deal for mountain-to-mountain-to valley communication. These radios have 22 FRS/GMRS frequencies, and no license is required to operate them. Thus, you can have uninterrupted communication while you are camping.
6. Motorola T260 : The Pocket Friendly Motorola Walkie Talkie for Indoors and Home usage
The Motorola T260 walkie-talkie can be appropriately used as an indoor/home-use device. It is an excellent gadget even for your baby nursery or anywhere in the home and is a no-frills 2-way radio focusing on value.
You can work freely with a range of 25 miles, whether they are in a garden, backyard, garage, at the neighbor’s place, or even in the basement.
The VOX technology used in this device results in an excellent performance as speakerphones. The seamless connectivity and sensitivity alerts through the microphone and display make it the best option for monitoring your home.
The volume level is adjustable, and low battery alerts help parents to timely charge the device. As a parent, you will find this easy to use with the belt clip provided.
Caregivers to the elderly and babies can easily use the navigation setting as per preferences. With 22 channels and privacy options, it is a prudent option for use indoors for quick connectivity.
NiMH batteries offer 10 hrs of power, and 3AA alkaline batteries extend the usage up to 29 hours.
Specifications of Motorola T260
- 22 Channels and 121 Privacy Codes.
- Rechargeable NiMH batteries
- Range up to 25 miles
- iVOX/VOX Hands-Free.
- NOAA Weather Channels and Alerts.
- Dual Power.
- Micro-USB Charging.
- 20 Call Tones.
- Keypad lock
- Scan/monitor
- Belt clip and carrying loop
Pros and Cons of Motorola T260
Pros:
- Dual power options
- The range is suitable for in and around the house
- It has a low battery option.
- Communication is unambiguous
- Value for money
Cons:
- Battery issues have been reported sometimes.
- It’s not waterproof.
- The sound quality is average.
What makes Motorola T260 the best Walkie Talkie?
Given their budgeted price and features, it’s more than any standard two-way radio device. It gives a family member freedom and comfort to carry on his/her chores without losing track and supervision of the elderly, house-staff, and infants. Overall features included in the walkie-talkies make it a worth-buying.
7. Motorola T600 : The Best Motorola Walkie Talkie for Adventure and Water Based Activities
Well, with its IP67 waterproof feature and plastic body Motorola T600 falls gallantly into the list of top-notch waterproof walkie talkies. A waterproof cover protects all the buttons on the gadget.
In fact, it can float comfortably if submerged in water for about half an hour and can still come out fine. Besides being tested to be waterproof, the Motorola T600 is one of the sturdiest and rugged 2-way radios in the market.
From its very easy to operational features like the push-to-talk button, you can even send a message. The radio gives you a choice to broadcast over FRS/GMRS (low-powered/ high-powered) signals.
The T600 H2O Rechargeable Floating 2-Way Radio has a transmission range over an area of 35 miles without any obstructions. But practically, the actual range is below the advertised range.
It has an LCD and comes with a flashlight, which is of great help during night-time. Their battery life is exceptional-lasting up to 23 hours at one use.
It would also be prudent to assume that you also won’t be near a power source to recharge your batteries when you are into water sports. These survival two-way radios have been designed to be both dustproof and weatherproof.
Specifications of Motorola T600
- 22 Channels and 121 Privacy Codes.
- Rechargeable NiMH batteries
- Range up to 36 miles range
- IP67 waterproof feature
- VOX Hands-Free.
- 11 NOAA Weather Channels and Alerts.
- LCD
- PTT power boost
- Built-in flashlight
- Compatible with other radios
- Scan/monitor
- Y Cable charging adapter with Micro-USB connector
Pros and Cons of Motorola T600
Pros:
- Dual power options and excellent battery life.
- Waterproof with IP67 rating
- Easy to use.
- Advantage of an emergency whistle alarm
- Communication is unambiguous
- Good at taking note of weather signal
Cons:
- Performance in an urban setting/city use is not that fine.
- It’s a little heavy to hold
Why do we recommend Motorola T600?
We Highly recommended this Eco smart 2-way radio because it covers a long-range and truly IP67 rated waterproof. The package comes with four sets of radios with four packs of Rechargeable Battery and four Whistle Belt Clips, making our buy well within the range of affordable two-way radios in the market. Furthermore, this radio can send out powerful signals during emergencies.
8. Motorola T100 Talkabout : The Best Motorola Walkie Talkie for Kids, Short Range Usage and Cruising
The Motorola T100 is a part of the “Talkabout” radio series from Motorola, just like Motorola T260. It’s a short-distance communication radio set.
Along with adjustable volume control, the anti-interference, clear sound, and smart design make communication of kids with their parents and friends on a cruise ship seamlessly clean.
The compact size allows for convenient grasping and easy to carry. These walkie-talkies have 22 FRS/GMRS frequency channels.
This kid-friendly 2-way radio includes a tone for closing communication, which guides the children to understand when it’s their turn to speak.
An alert system/ringtone’s presence helps in notifying family and friends when the kid has wandered off on the cruise ship or park.
Features like a built-in flashlight, VOX function, calm exterior scanner, keypad lock, low battery alert, etc. – everything is present on this device.
The ergonomically designed walkie-talkie is easy to operate and needs 3 AAA batteries to run up to 18 hours.
It’s a no-frills device that allows kids to explore their environment and gain self-confidence and social skills. There is a belt clip for users to tuck it away while not in use.
Specifications of Motorola T100 Talkabout
- 22 Channels with no privacy codes
- The range is up to 16 miles from the mountain to valley and up to 0.5 miles in the neighborhood
- Compatible frequency-FRS/GMRS
- Flashing Low Battery Alert.
- Dual charging option
- 1 Call Tone.
- Keypad Tone.
- Talk Confirmation Tone.
- Auto Squelch
- Belt clip and user manual included
Pros and Cons of Motorola T100 Talkabout
Pros:
- Easy to operate
- Compact and lightweight: 4 Ounces
- Good return for money
- Decent sound quality
Cons:
- Lack of privacy codes
- Difficult to take the back off and replace batteries
- To avail of the given 8 GMRS channels, an FCC license is required.
Why is Motorola T100 Talkabout the best Walkie Talkie?
Bottom line- Overall, if you are looking for a small and straightforward handheld radio that doesn’t need a big range and battery life, then, in my opinion, pick up this sturdy device for cruising too. Again with just a few buttons and no knobs, it’s easy to use by kids. The Motorola Talkabout T100’s small size and cost make it a good option as birthday gifts for young kids.
9. Motorola Talkabout T460 : The Best Durable Motorola Walkie Talkie for Beginners and Outdoor Activities
Motorola T460 is one more winning model, both functionally and in terms of durability. Again the cherry on the cake is the price range under which it comes.
With the ability to reach over 35 miles in an ideal environment, this unit is practical and easy to use. Moreover, even at the furthest range possible, audio clarity for the reception and high-power PTT button, the transmission is excellent.
Its stable battery life with dual power options separates it from many similar walkie-talkies. The device uses rechargeable NiMH batteries, which last up to 10 hours, and further using extra 3 AA batteries, extends 26 hours of its use.
The NOAA and weather scan alerts one from flash floods to extreme emergencies.
If we talk about additional features, then this gadget will surely surprise you. Features like 22 channels with enough privacy codes, low/High power, Keypad lock, VibraCall, Roger tones, etc., are all present in the 2-way radio.
The T460 is a small, light, and rugged radio you will definitely use for many outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, fishing, camping, etc.
Specifications of Motorola T100 Talkabout
- 22 Channels with 121 Privacy Codes
- The range is up to 35 miles
- Flashing Low Battery Alert
- Dual charging option
- Emergency alert
- Keypad lock
- NOAA Weather Channels and Alerts
- Built-in Flashlight
- IP54 Weatherproof
- iVOX/VOX Hands-free
- Micro USB Charging Port
- 20 caller tones
Pros and Cons of Motorola T100 Talkabout
Pros:
- Easy to operate and durable
- Compact and lightweight: 6.72 Ounces
- Good return for money
- Decent sound quality
- Low power consumption in a static state
- Compatible with other radios(cross-brand)
Cons:
- Noisy interruption sound during channel scanning
- Poor audio modulation
What Makes Motorola T100 Talkabout the best Walkie Talkie?
Although the design of the Motorola T460 is basic, but there is no compromise in features and performance. Its high-end features are highly recommended for active radio communication for beginners and experienced users -interested in outdoor adventures.
Final Words:
This write-up comprises of best walkie talkies from the most dependable brand Motorola. Numerous radios are selling in the market, designed for different uses. Our research had shown that the Motorola radios had dominated the 2-way radio market, especially when it comes to reliability and range.
As a buyer, you should just know the right features that can help you achieve your purpose. Each model comes with an assortment of functionalities and designs, ensuring your conversations smoother during your journey. Just use our review as a guide, and we ensure that you will get an excellent two-way radio that will match your needs perfectly.
