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Walkie-Talkies
Call them what you want, walkie-talkies,  two-way radios, group communication devices, these little gadgets are useful in more ways than one might think. Depending on the model, they can be used in theme parks, skiing resorts, hiking or camping trips, or even just around the house as an easy-to-use intercom. They're also great for kids. Some are even designed specifically for smaller hands. With so many choices, it can be hard to decide on the right walkie-talkie for you. Here are a few suggestions to help you shop.
Range- One of the most important things to know about a walkie-talkie is its range.
- If you just want an intercom for use around the house, you probably don't need a model with a significant range.
- If you plan on using your walkie-talkies for outdoor sports like hiking or skiing, a large range is very important. Some models have ranges up to 5 miles or more in open areas without a lot of buildings (ski mountains, hiking trails, etc.).
Ease of Use- Not all walkie-talkies are created alike.
- Some models are as simple as can be, with just an on/off switch and a push-to-talk button.
- More advanced models may have any or all of the following:
- Volume control
- Channel selection/lock
- Multi-user compatibility
- Alternative signalling systems (morse code, personal signal sounds, etc.)
- Some models are hands-free and consist entirely of headsets. Or, another hands-free option is a set of wrist walkie talkies.
- Some of these models have push-to-talk buttons, while others are voice-activated.
Number of Users/Expandibility
How many people do you need to talk to at once? If the answer is "Just one," you'll be able to find plenty of sets that will meet your needs. However, two walkie-talkies might not be enough for a family of four at a large ski resort or to act as an intercom between several rooms in your house. One feature that is extremely important if you want to communicate with several people at once is the expandibility of a walkie-talkie system. These systems tend to be more expensive, but they are also more versatile and tend to be higher quality.
Batteries
One aspect of shopping for walkie-talkies that you might overlook is the type of battery used by the device.
- Some have built-in, rechargeable battery packs that require a special base station to charge.
- Others operate on regular batteries, usually AA or AAA.
- For these models, rechargeable AA or AAA batteries are available.
- One advantage of using batteries as opposed to built-in battery packs is that if you are planning to be away from an electrical outlet for a long time, you can carry extra batteries (conventional or rechargeable) with you in case you run out of power.
Recommendations
Some of the best walkie talkies available are made by Motorola. These models tend to be geared towards adults as their prices are quite a bit higher than a kids play set of walkie talkies with minimal range. Motorola's Talkabout line has a number of different models for different uses.
Talkabout Features - Easy to hold rubberized bodies for comfortable use.
- Very easy to use, with large "push to talk" buttons.
- Many can be accessorized with a variety of holsters, belt clips, and headsets.
- Excellent over long distances.
- A variety of channels and codes ensure that even in a crowded resort there are plenty of frequencies to go around.
- Rugged design is built to last. Many are weather-resistant and impact-resistant, with short, sturdy antennas.
- Click here for complete list of Motorola Talkabout models.
- Then search ShopWiki for the best price on Motorola Talkabouts
Cobra FR 315WX
The Cobra FR 315WX isn't just a walkie-talkie. It also packs a great 10-channel weather band and a Weather Alert mode to keep you up-to-speed when out camping or hiking. It also has a nearly 2-mile radius, making it one of the best hybrid two-way radio devices available.
Accessories
There are many accessories available to make your walkie-talkie even easier to use. Many are made by Motorola for Talkabouts, but there are others available as well. - Headsets
- Headsets for hands-free use are compatible with many models of walkie-talkie.
- Frequently able to be clipped onto clothing or the ear for easy use.
- Some have PTT (push to talk) buttons built in, so the actual walkie-talkie can be inside a backpack or under your coat.
- Carrying accessories
Related Products
External Links- Wikipedia: Information on the history of walkie-talkies.
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