Which Two-way Radio is Best for My Business?

Today’s businesses have discovered an easy and inexpensive method for increasing their bottom line. They’ve added two-way radios to their communication systems. Decreased operational costs and increased productivity are two big reasons for those additional profits.

Two-way radios are cost-effective tools. They’re used to communicate between departments or out in the field, decreasing the time spent on many tasks. Response time is quicker and projects can be tracked more efficiently using 2-way radios. They’re practical, reliable, durable, and less expensive than cellular phones.

But Which Two-Way Radio To Choose…

There are many 2-way radio models to choose from, depending on the needs and requirements of your business. Before purchasing any walkie-talkies, consider these four features: frequency, power, channels, and the durability of the handsets.

Frequency—UHF or VHF?

Consider your environment when choosing which frequency you’ll need. If you’re communicating inside a building or where there are obstructions between radios, then a UHF 2-way radio is best. These radios work well for businesses such as restaurants, hotels, health care facilities and schools.

VHF two-way radios work well when used outside on open land or rolling hills with few trees. Businesses such as farms and ranches, golf courses, and survey crews appreciate the reliability of VHF radios.

Power—How Much Do I Need?

Business radios vary in power from 1 watt to 5 watts. While the more powerful radios will communicate at the higher distances, often that power isn’t necessary. If your business communication area is under 200,000 square feet or less than one mile in distance, then a 1-watt radio will work well for you.

If the range is among multiple buildings, up to 250,000 square feet in an area, or up to 2 miles in distance, then a 2-watt radio will work. When communicating up to 300,000 square feet and up to a 3-mile distance, a 3-watt radio will do the job. Always consider the range or distance you’ll be using the radios to determine the power you actually need.

Channels—How Many Are Really Necessary?

The number of channels available on 2-way radios varies with each model. If all your employees need to communicate with each other, then one channel works well. However, if you operate a business such as a hotel, you’ll want multiple channels. Then your kitchen/wait staff, housekeeping, and valet service each can stay in touch on their own channel.

Determine how many different departments will be communicating among themselves and across departments when deciding how many channels your radios need.

Durability—How Sturdy Must My 2-Way Radio Handsets Be?

How and where the two-way radios will be used determines the ruggedness needed in handsets. If you’ll be using the radios outside where they could get knocked around a bit, then you’ll need a sturdy model. If the two-way radios will be used inside an office building to communicate from floor to floor, then a less rugged model will work well.

Assess your needs—determine which features you must have in your walkie-talkie. Then check the specifications of each model to decide which set will work best for you.