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Technology

How Do I Choose the Best Handheld Transceiver?

Nicole Madison
By
Updated Feb 24, 2024
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Among the most important considerations when you are trying to choose the best handheld transceiver are durability and range. You will most likely want a handheld transceiver that will last for a long period of time and have the farthest possible range for communications. As you compare devices, you might also consider frequency options and prices. Additionally, you may find handheld transceiver reviews to be helpful when it comes to comparing models.

The first step in choosing the best handheld transceiver is comparing models based on your unique needs. For example, you might need a waterproof model or a transceiver that has the longest possible range. If you will use the handheld transceiver most days of the week, durability and longevity will likely be high priorities for you. If you will only need to use a handheld transceiver on an occasional basis, you might be more concerned with issues such as antennas and amplifiers instead.

Online reviews may prove helpful when you are trying to choose the best handheld receiver. By reading reviews, you can gain insight into things, such as durability and expected life, that you may have a difficult time gauging if you only read advertisements for the models you are considering. Online reviews may also prove helpful for understanding what you can expect from a model in terms of reception and range.

It is also important to consider whether a very high frequency (VHF) or ultra high frequency (UHF) handheld transceiver is right for you. VHF transceivers tend to be better for traveling across open areas and through vegetation; they are not as good for going through the walls of buildings, however. For indoor use or outdoor-to-indoor usage, a UHF transceiver typically is the best option. If you will have to use a handheld transceiver in a variety of environments, you might prefer a model that has both modes.

You will likely find a wide range of prices during your search for the best handheld transceiver. While some of the higher-priced models might offer better range, durability, and reception, this isn't always the case. Rather than shopping based on price, you will probably be better served by searching for the models that are most likely to meet your needs, and once you've compiled a list of suitable handheld transceivers, you can then narrow down the list to just one that includes what you are looking for in a transceiver at the lowest possible price.

WiseGeek is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.
Nicole Madison
By Nicole Madison , Writer
Nicole Madison's love for learning inspires her work as a WiseGeek writer, where she focuses on topics like homeschooling, parenting, health, science, and business. Her passion for knowledge is evident in the well-researched and informative articles she authors. As a mother of four, Nicole balances work with quality family time activities such as reading, camping, and beach trips.
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Discussion Comments

By geekish — On Nov 02, 2011

There is really a lot be wary of when researching a certain product and then purchasing that product. For instance, when researching the best handheld transceiver, like this article said, there is a lot of aspects to think about.

It really does matter how far of a distance your workers and you typically are.

Also, another important thing to consider is how often will you and your employee's need to use these handheld transceivers? The more you use them, the more you can usually bet on spending one them.

There are a lot more questions to ask, but they are all relative to the person purchasing the product, so I honestly can not rattle off all the different questions.

After you have established all the questions, you should write them down. This way you can keep track of which questions you have answers to an which you still needs answers too.

Once you have all your answers, try to pick the best handheld transceiver that meets all your expected criteria. Like one of the posters said, usually going for a mid-range priced product, to get the best bang for your buck. Good luck!

By MrMoody — On Nov 01, 2011

@miriam98 - I hear what you’re saying, but I don’t think I need an MP3 player or FM radio on my hand held receiver. I’m not into ham radio either.

I’d recommend that most consumers stay away from the cheap walkie-talkies that you can get from a consumer electronics store. Somehow I don’t think they would do the job for durability, and I believe that they would be more susceptible to static transmission from other wireless signals like cell phones or things like that.

Do the research, and find a “middle” unit – not to cheap, not too expensive, and preferably by a name brand that’s been in the business for awhile. That’s my two cents, but I think you can’t go wrong if you do that.

By miriam98 — On Oct 31, 2011

Handheld receivers have come a long way since the old toy walkie-talkies of yesteryear, although you can still get walkie-talkies if that’s what you want.

However, nowadays you can also get hand held radios that have GPS technology, wideband signals, scanning capabilities, the whole nine yards. So you can go very basic with the models you want or you can get something that is quite sophisticated, comparable to the technology that is used by law enforcement personnel.

However, as the article says, first define what you are going to use it for. Then decide if you need the additional bells and whistles. Otherwise just stay with a very basic unit.

By lighth0se33 — On Oct 31, 2011

I think the best way to choose any product that you have no experience with is to read several online reviews. Sites that sell handheld transceivers will likely have reviews.

Additionally, some sites exist for the sole purpose of gathering customer reviews on products. You could visit one of these to see what people are saying about certain handheld transceivers.

Be wary of testimonials and reviews that sound too good to be true. They could have been posted by someone who works for the company. Most honest reviews will have at least one negative aspect in them.

Nicole Madison

Nicole Madison

Writer

Nicole Madison's love for learning inspires her work as a WiseGeek writer, where she focuses on topics like...
Learn more
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