Best Marine Radio in 2020 – Top Rated Selections By Expert!

There are a small number of things more pleasurable and relaxing than having a boat and taking it out for a ride. Most boat owners go on about how calming being out on the water can be and how it lowers their stress levels after a long day’s work. You need a best marine radio for your tension free fishing ride.

What most of these individuals do not understand is that all this can be taken a step further. Nearly all boats come with simple sound systems but just like when renovating the stereo system in a car, the marine radio and speakers can be purchased at a fair price. Is it really worth it to renovate the marine stereo system in your boat?

For most folks, the answer to that question is a definite yes, particularly if you use your boat frequently for cruising and recreational boating. You most certainly would want to have the best marine radio for the money in a larger boat that you sometimes entertain borders on too. So there are a lot of good reasons as to why you would want to get the best marine VHF radio.

Comparison of 10 Best Marine Radios in 2020

IMAGE	NAME	FEATURES	PRICE
	Standard HX870 VHF Marine Radio	Weight: 2 pound Display Type: Dot matrix Dimension: 9.5 x 3.5 x 7.5 inch Warranty: Limited warranty	Check Price
	Midland 50 Channel GMRS Radio	Weight: 4.8 ounces Display Type: Dot matrix Dimension: 4 x 2.4 x 1.4 inches Warranty: Limited warranty	Check Price
	Uniden UM380 VHF Marine Radio	Weight: 3.97 pound Display Type: Dot matrix Dimension: 11 x 9 x 4 inch Warranty: 1-year limited warranty	Check Price
	Uniden MHS75 VHF Marine Radio	Weight: 0.95 pound Dimension: 5.9 x 3.2 x 6.1 inch Warranty: 3-year limited warranty	Check Price
	Standard GX1700W Marine Radio	Weight: 5 pound Display Type: LCD Dimension: 9 x 4 x 9 inch Warranty: 3-year waterproof warranty	Check Price
	Cobra MRHH125 VHF Radio	Weight: 2 pound Display Type: Bright LCD Dimension: 1.1 x 2 x 3.8 inch	Check Price
	Cobra MR F45-D Radio Marine	Weight: 2.7 pounds Display Type: LCD Dimension: 12.2 x 9.2 x 3 inches Warranty: Standard warranty	Check Price
	Standard Horizon Marine Radio	Weight: 1.2 pounds Display Type: LCD Dimension: 9 x 3 x 6 inches	Check Price
	Icom M36 01 Marine Radio	Weight: 1.75 pound Display Type: LCD Dimension: 9 x 3 x 8 inch Warranty: 3-year warranty	Check Price
	Fusion MS-RA205 Marine Stereo	Weight: 2.7 pound Display Type: LCD Dimension: 9.2 x 7 x 3.8 inch Warranty: 3-year limited consumer warranty	Check Price

Top 10 Best Marine Radio Reviews in 2020

1. Standard Horizon HX870 VHF Marine Radio

The Standard Horizon Floating Marine Radio combines the efficiency of an outstanding marine radio with a functional navigation device to give you the best portable marine radio possible. The handset comes with an internally built 66-channel WAAS GPS receiver.

With the device in hand, you can navigate through unknown waters effortlessly. The device meets ITU-R M493-13 Class D digital selective calling (DSC). It has a separate receiver for channel 70 which is exclusively meant for DSC calls.

The device ensures that you have an exclusive channel that you can use during emergencies without interruption from other users. The microphone is fitted with noise canceling ability for both outgoing and incoming calls. You continually send and receive powerful and clear messages. Noises from the sea and engines will not deter your ability to communicate effectively.

Not only is the marine radio waterproof, but it also floats on water. If by accident you happen to drop the device in water, it will simply float. You can then proceed to retrieve it ready for use. It has a 2.3 inches display screen which is easy to read. The operating buttons are strategically positioned near the screen for easy manipulation.

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2. Midland 50 Channel GMRS Two-Way Radio

Durable and reliable two-way marine radio that has been in used by hunters, fishermen and outdoors lovers for decades around the world. This Midland 50 channel best marine radio’s walkie talkies come with over 50 channels on the International GMRS channel line.

Plus it has an option for scanning additional channels which can be very useful in case you travel in new spots and will need to quickly and efficiently communicate with other individuals or nearby boats and ships. The outer body of this marine radio is covered in patented waterproof material that will protect the inside electronics from getting wet thus becoming inoperable and useless.

Moreover, the waterproof material on the outside will protect the marine radio from rusting and corroding especially if you’re planning on using them in salty water that can speed up the corrosion process. In addition to all of these features, these Midland marine radios are available in several colors including yellow and green camouflage variant plus it comes with a 36 mile range communication.

However, only in open areas with little to no destruction such as rocks, mountains and other obstructions that could lead to the radio signal getting distorted. Lastly, these marine radios comes with a NOAA weather scan plus alert report thus you can always be sure that the radio band channel will notify you of drastic changes in weather close to you.

3. Uniden UM380 VHF Marine Radio

The Uniden VHF marine radio is packed with all the features that one will require when heading out on a marine excursion. The device receives virtually all the marine radio stations in the United States, Canada and from other countries around the globe.

With the device’s internally built DSC position send and receive technology, you can keep in touch with those around you. The device enables you to keep track of your companions and they, in turn, can keep track of your location.

The device has an integrated NOAA emergency weather alert system enabling you to determine the weather in advance. The marine radio’s rugged construction makes it versatile enough to endure different weather and environmental conditions.

All this data is displayed on the device’s full dot matrix display. You can easily retrieve channel names, frequencies, DSC data and GPS features on the go. With fixed mounting structures, the device is the best portable marine radio for a fishing expedition.

The device has a rubber grip microphone complimented by NMEA input and output system making the device the best handheld marine radio that you can take out into the sea. With 0.27uV sensitivity and 70 dB rejection, you can be sure that you will not miss a signal.

4. Uniden MHS75 VHF Best Marine Radio

The marine radio is designed to withstand whatever sea weather has to offer and still offer premium service. The device is rated JIS8 waterproof level. It can be immersed in water and still perform as desired. It is equipped with all marine channels across the United States, Canada, and other international countries.

You can keep follow all the latest marine news on the go. The marine radio automatically checks channel 9 and 16 every 2 seconds so that you do not miss anything. The device has an integrated memory scan chip that automatically scans for signals.

The device will go through all frequencies available until it acquires a transmission. With a rechargeable internal battery that can last for 12 hours, you remain in the know all day. The marine radio enables you to switch from 1 to 2.5 to 5 watts depending on the range you want to scan.

Using 1 watt saves your battery while at 5 watts it consumes more energy but has a wider range. It has a large LED display and a LED lit keyboard making it usable even at night. When going out to sea, this is the best handheld marine radio that you can hope to tag along.

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5. Standard GX1700W GPS VHF Marine Radio

The Standard Explorer combines the functions of a marine radio and a navigation device in a single gadget. This is the best portable marine radio that will help you navigate through unknown waters and still give you all the services that you would expect from a marine radio.

It comes with an internally built 12 channel GPS. You can save up to 100 previously used waypoints. You can then use the device to navigate through one of the waypoints if you desire to return to previously explored waters.

Unlike other ordinary marine radios, with the device, you are not limited to send and receive operations. You can send out your position to colleagues, send out distress calls, and share waypoints all from a single device.

It receives a total of 12 NOAA weather alert channels. You are always in the know, and you can plan in advance depending on forecasted weather conditions. The device is waterproof. If by accident you throw it overboard, you can retrieve it intact and ready for work. It has a large 3-inch display screen. The control buttons are strategically placed next to the screen for easy manipulation.

6. Cobra MRHH125 VHF Radio

When on the hunt for the best VHF marine radio, look no further than the Cobra 3 Watt Waterproof VHF Radio. It comes with a rugged compact design and is perfect for an outdoor marine excursion or as a backup in larger marine vessels.

The device is equipped with all marine radio stations in the United States, Canada and other countries in the world. Additionally, it has a total of 10 NOAA stations and NOAA weather alert. You automatically get any marine news and weather data any time it develops.

It is powered using long lasting rechargeable NiMH batteries. Also, the device can be powered using 5 AAA alkaline batteries during emergencies. The device has a large LED lit display that is easy to read. The keypad is also LED lit. You can use the device even at very low illumination levels.

The keypad turns off automatically when not in use to save on power. The marine radio is waterproof up to JIS4 standards. You can throw the device overboard and retrieve it intact ready for use. It is the best portable marine radio one can tag along during a marine recreational outing.

7. Cobra Electronics Corporation Radio Marine

World renowned submersible marine radio from Cobra Electronics Corporation, it comes with easy to touch buttons thus you can always be sure that you can easily and quickly send distress signal if needed at the touch of your finger.

Plus, quickly and easily signal for help or share location with your fellow fishermen anytime wherever you will be. This Cobra radio marine works with short and long ranges so that you could communicate with either 1 or 25 volt output therefore you can be sure that you will never be alone on the water whether you are just sailing or fishing.

Moreover, this marine radio comes with three fully uploaded maps so that you will be able to easily navigate through the American, Canadian and International Waters with confidence.

Furthermore, it comes with 1000 AAA weather channels that will enable you to be the first to know of any incoming weather hazards such as storms or heavy rains. The outer body of this marine radio is made is made from coastguard approved waterproof material that can be submerged stop to 3 feet underwater for 30-minutes.

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8. Standard Horizon Handheld Marine Radio

A very compact radio from Standard Horizon, that comes with a large 2 inch LCD screen as well as 125 watts of transmitted cover range.

Moreover, it comes with scanning functions that are already programmed right into the radio so that you can scan for weather reports or any weather hazards in nearby locations as well as easily communicate with nearby boats and ships.

The Marine Radio comes with headset and belt clips so that you can immediately use it right out of the box plus it comes with a standard charger that is also included.

However, lots of customers have reported that it would be better to change the charger as the one provided by the manufacturer tends to break very quickly. Lastly, keep in mind that the standard horizon hx300 model does not come with warranty and lots of individuals that have bought this marine radio have reported that the customer service is not helpful.

9. Icom M36 01 Marine Radio

The Icom floating handheld marine radio is fitted with a voice boost to ensure that the messages you send and receive are clear. The device cancels out ambient noise from the main speaker and the sea to deliver clear and precise messages.

The device is waterproof to IPX7 standards. This means that even if the device is thrown overboard, it will not get damaged. It simply floats on the surface of the water, and if you can retrieve it, it will work perfectly.

It has integrated NOAA weather and weather alert technology. The technology enables you to determine the weather conditions that are likely to be present at sea in advance. This is the best handheld marine radio that you can get to ensure that your marine excursion is hustle free and enjoyable.

Although the device produces high-quality sound at all times, its internal battery is very long lasting. You can use the marine radio for 8 hours straight without recharging the device. It has large operating buttons that are easy to use. The design of the appliance makes it easy to hold and carry. For a device that floats on water, it is surprisingly very compact.

10. Fusion MS-RA205 Marine Stereo

The Fusion Handheld Marine stereo combines the brilliance of a fully-fledged marine radio with an entertainment center. You will get all the services that you would expect from a high-class marine radio and entertainment from a single device.

This is the best portable marine radio that will give you powerful, dynamic and clear sound. You can communicate with clarity even in rough seas and noisy surroundings. The device is powered using the ARM-9 processor that guarantees fast and intuitive audio control.

Unlike most marine radios, the device combines VHF frequency with AM/FM frequencies. USB ports allow you to connect your iPod and select songs to listen through the device’s powerful speakers. It has a large LED display that is easy to read.

You can play videos from your iPhone on the LED screen. The operating buttons are positioned next to the display screen for easy manipulation. It has an integrated multi-zone technology which enables it to acquire data at any spot in the sea. With the device, you are always in the know.

Best Marine Radio Step by Step Buying Guide

Just like no pair of jeans fits two individuals the same way, the same goes for marine audio systems. What works great for you may be a terrible fit for someone else. This is the reason why you just can’t buy the first marine VHF radio system you come across when shopping online or in the store.

You need to get the best marine VHF radio system that is custom made for your requirements and the way your boat is set up. That being said, here are some of the main factors that ought to consider when you’re shopping for the best marine radio and speakers:

1 Price Range

Just a small number of us can shop for goods without price being a factor. Luckily the best marine speakers and radio can be obtained in a variety of price ranges. This makes it fitting for every shopper to be able to find something that they can afford. An important thing to do before going shopping for the best marine VHF radio is to set a budget for yourself. This budget should include what you’re willing and able to invest.

2 What Your Boat is Used for

Another crucial criterion that you ought to consider as far as what best marine VHF radio you’ll buy is the type of use your boat usually gets. If you’re a fisher, you need the best portable marine radio. You do need the best marine band in a boat that is used just for entertainment purposes though.

3 How Frequently You Use Your Boat

How often you use your boat is a critical decision in the best marine VHF radio buying process too. It would be difficult to rationalize investing in a $300 plus radio system in a boat that you only get to use once in a blue moon.

On the flip side, it is very easy justifying investing that much money in the best marine VHF radio system on a boat that is used more than a few times a week. Try matching the price of the best marine radio you’ll buy with the amount of use you’ll get out of it.

4 Blue Tooth Capability

Gone are the days of inserting CDs into stereo players. In the modern age, music is listened to by downloading that music on a smart device like a tablet. That means any marine radio you buy really must have Bluetooth capability. Go for the best marine radio with Bluetooth to handle the playback of the various music storage devices that you own.

5 Controls

Let’s face it; nobody wants to read a thick manual to learn everything about their new best marine handheld VHF radio. Go for one that the controls are laid out in such a way that it makes it easy to operate.

6 Durability/Warranty

You need the best marine radio VHF unit that is built as watertight as possible and can withstand the harsh elements like moisture and other corrosive substances.

Conclusion

After reading this comprehensive review and guide, we hope that you now have a good idea about the marine VHF radio review. If there is still some confusion on which is the best VHF marine radio for you, you’ve to find the answer to your question.

All the radios reviewed in this article have wonderful features and customer reviews. But you have to pick one according to your need and budget. So now it is time to choose the best marine radio. Just follow this article, think about your needs, and consider about your budget and then buy the right one!

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