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10 Best Marine Radios 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

10.0 score

Cobra MR HH600WFLTBTGPS Handheld Floating VHF Radio 6 Watt, GPS, Bluetooth, Submersible, Noise Cancelling Mic, Backlit LCD Display, MemoryScan, White

The Cobra MR HH600WFLTBTGPS is a handheld marine radio that stands out with its impressive features. As a handheld device, it's portable and convenient for various marine activities. Its power output ranges from 1 to 6 watts, allowing for both short and long-range communication. This radio covers essential frequency bands (156-174 MHz) and supports US, Canada, and international channels, providing broad coverage options. Its waterproof rating ensures it can withstand submersion, a critical factor for marine equipment. Additionally, the radio floats, making retrieval easy if dropped in water. The built-in GPS is a significant advantage, allowing users to view their coordinates and send their location during emergencies.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,339
Waterproof Rating
Battery Life
GPS Integration

Most important from
286 reviews

Waterproof Rating
The radio's ability to float and its high visibility colors provide added security, though it's crucial to ensure proper sealing for waterproof functionality.
Battery Life
The radio's battery life generally supports extensive use, though it might not suffice for very long outings without recharging opportunities.
GPS Integration
The built-in GPS and DSC make this radio indispensable for safety, especially when power outages render other radios unusable.
Display and Interface
The Distress Button, which sends crucial location and identification information without needing radio knowledge, is considered a life-saving feature.
#3
9.9 score

Garmin Fusion Apollo MS-RA770 Marine Stereo, With Built-in Wi-Fi, A Garmin Brand

The Garmin Fusion Apollo MS-RA770 is a fixed marine stereo with an impressive set of features that make it suitable for users seeking high-quality audio on their boats. One of its standout features is the brilliant 4.3” touchscreen LCD, which supports touch swipe commands for an intuitive user experience. This stereo is the world's first to offer built-in Wi-Fi and Apple AirPlay 2, making it easier to stream high-quality audio from compatible devices. Additionally, the built-in Digital Signal Processing (DSP) technology ensures superior audio quality with custom audio profiles.

Rating
9.9
Display and Interface

Most important from
80 reviews

Display and Interface
The 4.3” capacitive touch LCD display is bright and responsive, doing a good job of resisting fingerprint grime, while the interface is highly intuitive and the initial setup is a breeze.

Top 10 Best Marine Radios 2025 in the United States

Garmin Fusion Apollo MS-RA770 Marine Stereo, With Built-in Wi-Fi, A Garmin Brand

Type (Fixed or Handheld): Fixed
Frequency Bands: 108 MHz
Waterproof Rating: IPX6, IPX7
GPS Integration: No
Display and Interface: 4.3” touchscreen LCD

STANDARD HORIZON HX890BK VHF-HH, 6 Watt, w/GPS&FM Rcvr

Type (Fixed or Handheld): Handheld
Power Output: 6-watt
Frequency Bands: VHF (156 MHz - 174 MHz)
Waterproof Rating: Waterproof and submersible
Battery Life: Long-lasting
GPS Integration: Yes
Display and Interface: User-friendly, clear visibility
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Buying Guide for the Best Marine Radios

Choosing the right marine radio is crucial for ensuring safety and effective communication while out on the water. Marine radios are essential for staying in touch with other vessels, marinas, and emergency services. When selecting a marine radio, it's important to consider various specifications to ensure it meets your needs and provides reliable performance in marine environments.
Type (Fixed or Handheld)Marine radios come in two main types: fixed and handheld. Fixed radios are mounted on your boat and typically offer more power and range, making them suitable for larger vessels and longer trips. Handheld radios are portable and can be carried around, which is ideal for smaller boats or as a backup. Choose a fixed radio if you need consistent, long-range communication, and a handheld radio if you need flexibility and portability.
Power OutputPower output, measured in watts, determines the range of your marine radio. Higher power output means a greater communication range. Fixed radios usually offer 25 watts, providing a range of up to 20 miles, while handheld radios typically offer 5-6 watts, with a range of up to 5 miles. If you frequently travel far from shore, a higher power output is essential. For nearshore activities, a lower power output may suffice.
Frequency BandsMarine radios operate on VHF (Very High Frequency) bands, which are standard for marine communication. Some radios also offer additional frequency bands like DSC (Digital Selective Calling) for enhanced safety features. VHF is sufficient for most recreational boaters, but if you want advanced safety features, look for radios with DSC capabilities.
Waterproof RatingThe waterproof rating indicates how well the radio can withstand exposure to water. Ratings like IPX7 mean the radio can be submerged in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes, while IPX8 offers even greater protection. For marine environments, a high waterproof rating is crucial to ensure the radio remains functional even if it gets wet. Choose a radio with at least an IPX7 rating for reliable performance.
Battery LifeBattery life is especially important for handheld marine radios. Longer battery life means you can rely on the radio for extended periods without needing to recharge. Look for radios with battery life that matches your typical usage patterns. For day trips, a radio with 8-10 hours of battery life may be sufficient, while longer trips may require a radio with 20+ hours of battery life or the ability to use replaceable batteries.
GPS IntegrationSome marine radios come with built-in GPS, which can be extremely useful for navigation and emergency situations. GPS integration allows the radio to transmit your exact location during distress calls, improving the chances of a quick rescue. If you often venture into unfamiliar waters or prioritize safety, a radio with GPS integration is a valuable feature.
Display and InterfaceThe display and interface of a marine radio affect how easy it is to use. A clear, backlit display is important for visibility in various lighting conditions, and an intuitive interface makes it easier to operate the radio, especially in emergencies. Consider radios with large, easy-to-read screens and simple controls to ensure you can use the radio effectively when needed.

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