Top 10 VHF Radios Deals Right Now

The Standard Horizon GX2410GPS is a solid choice if you're looking for a fixed mount VHF radio that combines reliable communication with built-in GPS and AIS features. It comes with a clear 3.5-inch color display and uses button controls, which keeps things straightforward to operate. Its size and weight (about 5 pounds and compact dimensions) make it suitable for panel or dashboard mounting on boats.

The unit supports NMEA2000 connectivity, allowing it to integrate well with other marine electronics. It’s weather resistant, making it durable enough to handle typical marine environments, so it is best used in sheltered or covered settings. The product includes useful extras like a dust cover, mounting bracket, and a three-year warranty, giving you some peace of mind.

This radio is suited for boaters who want a dependable, fixed installation with GPS and AIS capabilities but might want to verify its waterproof level depending on their specific needs.

The Garmin 0100209800 VHF 215 AIS is a robust marine VHF radio with several notable features. It offers a power output suitable for marine communications and has a speaking range of up to 36 miles, which is impressive for many maritime needs. The radio includes 10 channels, covering a frequency range of 156.050 MHz to 163.275 MHz, including weather channels, making it versatile for various communication needs on the water.

The water resistance rating ensures it will withstand exposure to water, although it is not fully waterproof. Users should be cautious in extremely wet conditions. It includes an anti-glare screen, which can be beneficial for clear visibility in bright sunlight, an essential feature for marine environments. However, the radio lacks integrated GPS, which may be a drawback for those needing precise location tracking.

The product is relatively heavy, weighing 5.3 pounds, which might be cumbersome for users seeking a more portable option. Its medium size and sturdy plastic construction are suitable for installation in a fixed position on a boat. Despite these limitations, the Garmin 0100209800 VHF 215 AIS is ideal for marine enthusiasts who need a reliable communication device and do not mind the absence of GPS or a heavier unit.

The Icom M94d VHF Marine Radio is designed with several impressive features tailored for marine environments. It offers 6W RF power output, providing clear communication over a maximum range of 5 kilometers. The radio includes DSC for distress signal calling and an AIS receiver, enhancing safety by providing access to vessel traffic information. With a waterproof rating and AquaQuake draining function, it is reliable in wet conditions and even floats and flashes if dropped in water.

The inclusion of a simplified navigation system and a dimmable, back-lit display ensures easy readability in various lighting conditions. The radio also has noise cancellation for clearer audio output and an audio output of 1500mW, making it suitable for noisy marine settings. It is relatively lightweight at 2.2 pounds and compact with dimensions of 2.4 x 5.7 x 1.7 inches, which makes it portable and easy to handle.

The device operates for up to 10 hours on one AAA battery, which might require frequent battery changes for extended use. Additionally, it lacks built-in GPS integration, which could be a downside for users needing precise location tracking. This marine radio is ideal for boaters seeking reliable communication and safety features but may not suit those looking for extensive GPS functionality.