10 Best VHF Radios 2025 in the United States

The Simrad RS40-B VHF radio offers valuable features for boaters needing reliable communication on the water. It includes integrated AIS (Automatic Identification System) and GPS receivers, which help with navigation and tracking nearby vessels — a plus for safety. The radio operates within the standard 156-174 MHz VHF frequency range and supports 8 channels, which is fewer compared to many VHF radios that often have 16 or more channels for wider communication options.

It has a water resistance rating of IP67, meaning it can handle being briefly submerged in water, making it suitable for marine environments. Weighing about 5.5 pounds and measuring 18 by 10 by 6 inches, it’s somewhat bulky but comes with useful mounting kits and a suncover to protect the display from glare. The maximum talking range is listed as 23 miles, which is typical for VHF radios under ideal conditions.

This radio represents a solid choice if you want integrated GPS and AIS with decent waterproofing. However, if you need more channels or a lighter device, you might want to consider other options.

The Cobra MR HH350 FLT is a solid choice for anyone needing a reliable handheld VHF radio for marine use. It offers flexible power output options (1, 3, and 6 watts) which helps you communicate effectively whether you’re close to shore or further out on the water. Its waterproof, submersible design means you don’t have to worry about it getting damaged if it falls overboard, plus it floats and has an easy-to-see orange display that stays visible in different lighting conditions. The noise-cancelling microphone is a helpful feature that improves call clarity in windy or noisy environments. While it supports USA, Canada, and international channels, the total number of channels is limited to three channel maps rather than a large channel count, which might restrict some users looking for broader frequency options.

It does not have GPS integration, so location tracking or emergency positioning services are not built in. Another plus is the built-in NOAA weather and emergency alerts, which keep you informed about changing conditions on the water—a critical safety feature. The unit is reasonably lightweight and compact for handheld use, making it comfortable to carry on long trips. It uses a rechargeable lithium polymer battery, which tends to offer good endurance.

This radio is best suited for boaters or marine adventurers who want a rugged, easy-to-use device with essential safety features, but it may be less ideal if you need advanced navigation or a very wide channel selection.

The Raymarine E70517 VHF radio is a compact and solid choice for marine communication, especially if you're looking for a unit with built-in GPS. It weighs about 5 pounds and has a small form factor, making it fairly easy to install on most boats. One of its strong points is the GPS integration, which is useful for location tracking and enhanced safety at sea. It also offers wireless functionality and supports connections for a second station, which adds flexibility for larger vessels or multiple users.

However, the radio has only 8 channels, which is quite limited compared to many marine VHF radios that commonly support 16 or more channels. This may restrict communication options in busy marine environments. The waterproof rating is simply listed as water resistant rather than fully waterproof, so it should be protected from splashes but might not withstand heavy exposure to water or submersion. Since it runs on 12 volts DC, it will need a suitable power source on your boat. The inclusion of front and rear connections, as well as a hailer option, suggests it has practical features for easy communication.

The Raymarine E70517 is best suited for boaters who value GPS and wireless capability in a compact package. Those expecting tougher conditions or requiring broader communication options may want to consider models with more channels and higher waterproof ratings.