Best Two-Way Radios Under $250

As a land surveyor, your profession takes you all over the place. Whether you are working with a partner or as part of a larger crew, communication is key. In remote locations and areas of varied terrain, you may not always have visual contact with your crew – that is where two-way radios come in handy.

Two-way radios are a practical and affordable alternative to satellite phones, and, in most cases, they are perfectly adequate for a land surveyor’s needs. It is important, however, to consider the options when choosing a radio to make sure it is the best fit for your needs. Here is what to look for in a two-way radio along with some recommendations for radios priced under $250.

How to Choose the Best Two-Way Radio

Though they may be a bit old-fashioned, two-way radios are a tried and true method for communication out in the field. Modern technology has extended their range, improved signal clarity, and added a variety of useful features. There are hundreds of models to choose from, however, so it is important to know what you are looking for before you start shopping.

Here are some features to look for when shopping for a two-way radio:

• Size and weight – A lightweight radio is ideal but it should also have an ergonomic shape for use with gloves and an antenna length similar to the length of the unit for compact convenience.
• Wattage and range – In optimal conditions, most two-way radios have a range up to 25 miles. FRS-only models may have lower wattage and shorter range while GMRS increase your range but adds to the wattage as well.
• Privacy codes – A continuous tone coded squelch system (CTCSS) uses privacy codes to allow you to use a busy main channel without having to worry about interference.
• Calling and paging – Avoid the hassle of having to repeat a message by choosing a radio with a calling or paging feature to alert other users before you start talking.
• Radio/GPS combo – Knowing exact locations is important in land surveying, so consider a radio/GPS combo so you can broadcast coordinates to fellow users.
• Keypad lock – Being able to lock your settings with a keypad lock ensures that you will not accidentally change them as you do your work.
• Battery power – Your radio will not do you much good if it goes dead, so choose carefully between a rechargeable battery or a radio that takes disposable batteries.

Two-way radios do a decent job transmitting short-range signals, but there are some factors that may impede optimal performance. Topography and weather can interrupt signal, as can obstructions like structures and large metal surfaces. Even electromagnetic interference can pose an obstacle. To optimize your range, be sure to maintain a direct line of sight between yourself and the operator at the other end of your connection.

Whenever possible, try to find a high point in the area to increase your range and keep the radio attached to your pack instead of clipped to your belt to boost incoming signals. Simply plug in a speaker/microphone and clip it to your belt for easy access or wear an earpiece.

Recommended Two-Way Radios Under $250

Knowing what to look for when shopping for a two-way radio will help you make the choice that is the best fit for you and your crew. In addition to the factors mentioned above, you should also consider compatibility with your other equipment. Choose a radio that broadcasts on the same frequency as any other radios you use with similar features so you can fully utilize both.

When you’re ready to start shopping, price will understandably be a factor. For the ideal combination of quality and affordability, consider our recommendations for two-way radios under $250:

• Motorola DLR Series Digital Business Radio ($209) – With multiple call options and 2 channels, this radio features digital technology for louder, clearer communication across an extended range. It is license-free and offers a Private Reply feature for one-to-one communication.
• Motorola RM Series Radio UHF ($239) – This two-watt radio offers 8 channels, making it the perfect option for on-site two-way communication. It operates on 89 UHF business exclusive frequencies and offers enhanced audio quality and HTML-based programming software.
• Motorola Talkabout T800 Two-Way Radio ($109) – Sold in a convenient two-pack, these radios have an IPX4 rating and a range up to 35 miles. Paired with the Talkabout app, you can connect to your phone’s Bluetooth to enable communication options beyond simple push-to-talk.
• Motorola RM Series MURS FCC License-Free ($189) – This license-free radio operates on 5 MURS business-exclusive frequencies and delivers crisp, clear audio with exceptional durability. With advanced features like customized channel announcement, you can keep your hands free.

In addition to finding the best two-way radio for your needs, consider additional accessories like chargers, headsets, and speakers.

Motorola offers replacement standard li-ion batteries as well as clip-on speaker/microphones that deliver push-to-talk convenience. Charge multiple devices at once with the Motorola RDX Series Multi-Unit Charger and keep your USB CPS programming cables on-hand so you can connect to your PC to make adjustments to your settings using CPS software.