If you’re looking for the best marine two-way radios of 2023, then look no further! In this guide, we’ll provide you with 10 of the best options on the market today.
Table of Contents
AIS800 Automatic Identification System (AIS) Transponder
The AIS800 Automatic Identification System (AIS) Transponder is a great product that has many features. It is very user friendly with its large display and keyboard. The unit is very rugged and can withstand the elements. It has an internal GPS receiver and an external antenna for better reception. The AIS800 also has an emergency position-indicating radio beacon (EPIRB) that can be activated in case of distress. We have used the AIS800 on our boat for two years and it has worked flawlessly.
Digital Yacht iAIS2 Advanced Intelligent AIS Receiver
The iAIS2 from Digital Yacht is an advanced intelligent AIS receiver with a host of features designed to make it the most user-friendly and capable AIS receiver on the market. At its heart is a powerful 32-bit processor which enables it to handle the huge volume of data that is transmitted by AIS equipped vessels – up to 1000 messages per minute. This data is displayed on the integrated 2.8” sunlight viewable TFT display which also shows vital vessel information including Course Over Ground, Speed Over Ground, Closest Point of Approach and much more.
The iAIS2 has been designed as a flexible solution for both standalone and networked installations. When used in standalone mode, the unit will store up to 30,000 AIS messages internally allowing you to review vessel traffic movements at a later date. Alternatively, the iAIS2 can be connected to a PC or Mac via USB for live tracking or to download saved AIS data for further analysis. The iAIS2 can also be networked using NMEA 0183 or Ethernet connectivity allowing it to interface with popular chart plotters, PCs, Macs, iPads, tablets and smartphones.
Digital Yacht have also developed a unique iOS and Android app called ‘Shipmate’ which enables the iAIS2 to be connected wirelessly to these devices using Bluetooth. This gives you complete freedom to move around your boat whilst still being able to view live AIS data and vessel information on your compatible device.
The iAIS2 is supplied with a comprehensive set of accessories including an external GPS antenna, 3m power/data cable, USB lead and PC software CD. An optional Wi-Fi module is also available which plugs into the side of the unit and creates its own wireless network onboard your vessel – perfect for connecting multiple devices simultaneously.
Raymarine Ray60 VHF Radio
Raymarine Ray60 VHF Radio
The Raymarine Ray60 is a VHF radio that is perfect for any size vessel. This radio is packed with features that include 60 watts of power, a large easy-to-read LCD display, and a powerful 32 channel DSC (Digital Selective Calling) receiver. The Raymarine Ray60 also has an integrated GPS receiver that allows you to send and receive position information using the DSC functions. The radio also has an emergency channel 9/16 button that will automatically switch the radio to the emergency channel in the event of an incident. The Raymarine Ray60 is a great choice for any boater who wants a high-quality VHF radio with all the bells and whistles.
Icom IC-M506GE 65W VHF/FM Marine Transceiver with DSC
The Icom IC-M506GE 65W VHF/FM Marine Transceiver with DSC is one of the most popular marine transceivers on the market, and for good reason. It offers 65 watts of power, making it one of the most powerful transceivers available, and it also features a built-in digital selective calling (DSC) system. This allows you to send and receive distress signals and other digital data, making it an essential piece of equipment for any serious boater. The M506 also includes a host of other features, such as weather alerts, a built-in GPS receiver, and even an integrated PA system. In short, the M506 is a top-of-the-line marine transceiver that offers everything you could want in a radio.
The Icom IC-M506GE 65W VHF/FM Marine Transceiver with DSC is one of the most popular marine transceivers on the market, and for good reason. It offers 65 watts of power, making it one of the most powerful transceivers available. Additionally, it features a built-in digital selective calling (DSC) system which allows you to send and receive distress signals and other digital data. The M506 also comes equipped with a variety of other features including weather alerts, a built-in GPS receiver, and even an integrated PA system. In short, the Icom IC-M506GE 65W VHF/FM Marine Transceiver with DSC is a top-of-the-line marine transceiver that offers everything you could want in a radio.
Cobra MR HH600 WX Floating 6 Watt VHF/GMRS
The Cobra MR HH600 is a great radio for anyone who needs a reliable and affordable way to stay in touch while out on the water. It has a floating design that makes it perfect for use around water, and the six-watt output provides enough power to keep you connected even in the most remote areas. The radio also features a built-in GPS receiver, so you can always know your exact location, and the NOAA weather alert function ensures that you can stay up-to-date on the latest weather conditions.
Standard Horizon GX2000 Matrix AIS/GPS
The GX2000 Matrix AIS/GPS from Standard Horizon is a top-of-the-line AIS receiver with integrated GPS, allowing you to see and be seen on the water. The large, bright color display is easy to read in any light conditions, and the unit is packed with features like NMEA 2000 and 0183 compatibility, DSC calling, position polling, waypoint navigation, and more. The GX2000 also has an integrated 66-channel WAAS/EGNOS/MSAS GPS receiver for improved accuracy. With all of these features, the GX2000 is an excellent choice for any boater looking for a top-of-the-line AIS receiver.
Furuno FS2570 25W Fixed Mount VHF Radio
Furuno’s FS2570 is a slim, compact and powerful fixed mount VHF radio. It’s packed with features including 25 watts of power, a large LCD display, DSC (Digital Selective Calling) and an integrated GPS receiver. The FS2570 is also NMEA 2000 compliant for easy integration with Furuno’s NavNet TZtouch and TZtouch2 multifunction displays.
The FS2570 has a sleek, modern design that will complement any helm station. The large LCD display is easy to read, even in direct sunlight. The menu system is intuitive and easy to use. The front panel controls are ergonomically laid out for ease of use.
The FS2570 has 25 watts of transmit power for extended range communications. It also has a loud, clear audio output so you can be heard over engine noise and other onboard noise sources.
The FS2570 is equipped with an integrated GPS receiver. This allows you to send your position to another vessel or shore station in the event of an emergency. It also allows you to receive position information from other vessels equipped with DSC-capable radios.
The FS2570 is NMEA 2000 compliant for easy integration with Furuno’s NavNet TZtouch and TZtouch2 multifunction displays. It can also be interfaced with Furuno’s SCU-17 steering compass unit for heading information.
The Furuno FS2570 is a great choice for anyone looking for a powerful, yet compact and affordable fixed mount VHF radio.
Uniden Atlantis 275 Handheld VHF Marine Radio
The Uniden Atlantis 275 is a handheld VHF marine radio that is waterproof and submersible. It has a bright, backlit LCD display and keypad that is easy to read, even in low-light conditions. The radio also has a built-in GPS receiver that allows you to send your location to other radios in your group, as well as receive distress calls and navigate to safety. The Atlantis 275 also includes other features such as NOAA weather alerts, an emergency strobe light, and a hands-free VOX mode for hands-free operation.
Midland MXT115 15 Watt MicroMobile GMRS Two-Way Radio
The Midland MXT115 is a 15-watt micro mobile two-way radio that operates on both the GMRS and FRS frequencies. The radio has eight pre-programmed channels and one emergency channel, as well as 142 privacy codes to help block out other conversations. The radio also features a keypad lock to prevent accidental dialing, and a backlit display for easy viewing in low-light conditions. The MXT115 also includes a hands-free headset jack and an integrated microphone, so you can keep your hands free while you’re talking.
The Midland MXT115 is a great choice for anyone who needs a reliable two-way radio for their car or truck. The radio is easy to use and set up, and it has all the features you need to stay connected while on the road. The radio’s small size makes it easy to store in your glove box or center console, and its rugged construction can withstand the bumps and jolts of everyday driving. If you’re looking for a quality two-way radio for your vehicle, the Midland MXT115 is a great option.
Garmin VHF 300 Black Box
The Garmin VHF 300 is a great value black box marine radio. It has all the features you need in a marine radio, including DSC (Digital Selective Calling), which allows you to send a distress call with your GPS position to other DSC-equipped radios or the Coast Guard. It also has an integrated GPS receiver, so you can see your position on the radio’s display. The radio has a large, easy-to-read display and is simple to operate. The only downside is that it does not have an internal speaker, so you’ll need to connect an external speaker to hear the radio. Overall, the Garmin VHF 300 is a great value marine radio that will keep you safe on the water.