Often, drivers diving underwater find it difficult to communicate due to radio waves. Sometimes, the divers use sign language with each other for communication. But with the introduction of underwater walkie-talkies, divers can communicate underwater over long distances by sending radio messages along the water surfaces. A good quality walkie-talkie can work efficiently underwater for about 10 ft for almost 30 minutes. It is used for communicating with co-divers or for any rescue operations in case of an emergency. An underwater walkie-talkie has features similar to regular walkie-talkie. The only difference is that regular radios cannot work underwater whereas radios used in underwater walkie-talkie are waterproof . It must also have a transducer that can convert electric energy to sound.
Underwater walkie-talkies are categorized as :
- Passive underwater walkie-talkie that does not require any power to operate and,
- Active underwater walkie-talkie that works on batteries
So, if you are planning an underwater adventure, go for our Top 10 recommendations for underwater walkie-talkies.
1. Motorola T600 H20 Talkabout Radio
The Motorola T600 H20 Talkabout walkie-talkie is ideal for a water-sports adventure with a rating of IP67. To enable smooth communication, it offers 22 channels and 121 privacy codes. You don’t need a license to use it except for high-watt GMRS channels. It offers a coverage of up to 35 miles below water. It also provides weather updates. With an emergency alert button, it transmits an alert alarm in case of an emergency.
2. Retevis RT47/467 Waterproof Two-Way Radios
The Retevis RT47/467 waterproof walkie-talkie is ideal for hiking, climbing, and kayaking. With an IP67 rating, it offers 22 and 16 channels for communication. You can also use it in construction sites and seaports as a professional device. It features low battery alert and auto-power saving mode to save the battery. If the transceiver transmits too long, you can stop it with a time-out timer.
3. Motorola T605 Talkabout
The Motorola T605 Talkabout is an expensive but high-quality walkie-talkie that can easily float in the water. It can easily track you underwater by activating the LED flashlight. It can float in water for long distances up to 35 miles. It’s a two-way radio device with 22 channels and 121 privacy codes to minimize inference risk. With the Voice-activated transmission(VOX) feature, your device will stay active while speaking.
4. Gocom G2 FRS Long Range
The Gocom G2 FRS Long Range walkie-talkie can automatically check for ten weather channels and provide the latest weather updates. It has a lock feature to prevent accidental pressing of the transmission button. It has a press-to-talk button on its front face. The flashlight feature offers illumination in low-light conditions.
5. NOAA Retevis RT49
The Retevis RT49 is designed with IP65 water resistance to protect the device in the water. It is a hand-free device with voice valuable activation that is useful for hands-on activities. With an advanced LCD flashlight display, you can go for a deep water adventure without worrying about getting lost in the dark. It also alerts you about adverse weather conditions using the NOAA Weather Scan and Alert feature.
6. Retevis RT49P/469P IP67
The Retevis RT49P/469P is a floating walkie-talkie suitable for water sports. With its floating feature, you can be assured about your device underwater. The NOAA weather alert feature keeps you updated about the changing weather conditions. It also has a water-activated flashlight to help you track the device underwater. Using an SOS emergency alarm, you can send distress signals in emergencies. One notable feature is a dual watch, that helps you put two channels on standby at the same time, so that you do not miss any transmissions from the channel.
7. Midland X-TALKER T31VP
The Midland X-Talker T31VP endures water splashes from all directions. It has a range of 26 miles below the surface. You can easily access 22 channels and 38 privacy codes through the transceiver. It is a hands-free device. You can even use headphones for clear communication with fellow divers. For added safety, the device is equipped with NOAA weather channels to send an alert alarm in emergencies.
8. COTRE Swan Outdoor Rechargeable Two-Way Radios
The COTRE Swan Outdoor Rechargeable Two-Way Radios is one of the most durable waterproof walkie-talkies available in the market. With a rating of IP67, you can be ensured about your device’s safety in the water. It has an automatic flashlight to track your radio in the deep water. It uses 22FRS channels combined with 121 sub-codes to safeguard your conversations. Some of the critical features of this walkie-talkie are a dual watch, a hi-power mode for enhanced signal, keypad lock, and SOS weather alert.
9. RT47V IP67 Rechargeable MURS Two-Way Radio
The RT47V IP67 MURS walkie-talkie is designed especially for outdoor use. It uses 5 MURS frequencies on the VHF band. With an IP67 rating, it is safe to use in underwater. This two-way radio does not require any license. It also features a battery-saving function to alert when the battery is low. You can activate the radio with your voice using the VOX function. Using a busy channel lock, you can easily lock other users during the transmission.
10. Gocom G9 Long Range
The Gocom G9 Long range walkie-talkie offers 22 channels combined with 121 privacy codes for underwater diving. It has a built-in SOS feature to send alert signals in case of emergencies. With an LED flashlight, you can track your device easily in the water. It has a user-friendly interface, you can easily adjust the settings. You also get an earphone with the device for hands-free communication. Other items included in the package are belt chips, a USB cable, and a charging station.