Eight picks for eight different jobs — from the do-everything handheld to the budget hero and the marine VHF for the boat. Independent, with the trade-offs spelled out. Want to filter yourself? Use the comparison tool →
If you want one handheld to do everything, this is it. The XRS-660 pairs a rugged IP67 Australian build with Bluetooth, the GME XRS app and location sharing — genuinely useful on a convoy or a remote work site. Receive audio is excellent and the 2200 mAh battery lasts. It’s pricey, and overkill if you just want chatter on the school run, but nothing else handheld feels as complete.
Handheld · 5 W · 80 CH · IP67 · ~$329
The tourer’s mount. A tiny hide-away body tucks behind the dash, while Bluetooth and ScanSuite give you app control and the slickest scanning we’ve used. With a decent antenna it comfortably out-ranges any handheld. Installation takes a bit of effort and it costs more than the old favourite TX3500S — but for a permanent 4WD setup it’s superb.
Vehicle mount · 5 W · 80 CH · IP67 · ~$349
The default 4WD mount for years, and still a smart buy. It’s compact, dependable, has ScanSuite and 80 channels, and costs noticeably less than the Connect models. You miss out on Bluetooth and the display is basic — but on performance where it counts, it gives little away. If you want a mount that just works without the premium, start here.
Vehicle mount · 5 W · 80 CH · ~$249
Uniden’s value champion. You get a full 5 W, IP67 rating, long battery life and smart-key channel shortcuts for well under $200. It’s a touch bulkier than the GME handhelds and the menu takes a moment to learn, but for most tourers and farmers it’s all the radio you actually need at a price that’s hard to argue with.
Handheld · 5 W · 80 CH · IP67 · ~$159
When the radio has to survive the site, tradies and councils reach for Icom. The IC-41PRO is built like a tank, shrugs off dust and drops, and delivers clear, punchy audio that cuts through machinery noise. It’s plain-looking and light on consumer features, but for fleet reliability and durability it’s in a class of its own.
Handheld · 5 W · 80 CH · IP67 · ~$259
Farms and worksites rarely need one radio — they need several. Oricom’s twin pack gives you two IP67-rated 5 W handhelds for the price others charge for one premium unit. The audio isn’t as refined and range is what you’d expect for the class, but for keeping a property or an events crew in touch, the value is unbeatable.
Handheld · 5 W · 80 CH · IP67 · ~$179 / pair
If you just want reliable short-range comms without spending much, the compact 2 W TX677 is a cracker. It’s pocketable, light and dead simple — ideal for hikes, the snow, events or keeping the kids in the loop around camp. The 2 W output limits range, so it’s not for serious touring, but as a cheap, trustworthy starter it’s excellent.
Handheld · 2 W · 80 CH · ~$99
For the boat, UHF CB isn’t the right tool — you want marine VHF with its dedicated distress and working channels. The fixed-mount GX700 is a clean, IPX7-waterproof 25 W set that’s ideal for coastal and offshore use. Note that marine VHF comes with operating rules and knowledge requirements, so read up before you transmit.
Marine VHF · 25 W · IPX7 · ~$199
There’s no single “best” two-way radio — only the best one for your situation. A grey-nomad touring the outback, a farmer covering a property, a chippie on a high-rise and a weekend boatie all need different things. Match the type (handheld vs vehicle-mount vs marine) to how you’ll use it first, then weigh power, water rating and features. If you’re still deciding, our buying guide walks you through it, and the comparison tool lets you filter every model side by side.
Filter by 4WD, farming, work, marine or budget — and sort by power, range, water rating or price.