10 Best VHF Radios 2025 in the United States

The Uniden UM385 is a solid choice if you're looking for a fixed-mount VHF marine radio designed for boating safety and communication. It offers a strong 25-watt power output, which helps ensure clear communication up to about 40 miles under good conditions—this is reliable enough for most coastal and offshore use. It supports all USA, international, and Canadian marine channels, giving you access to a wide range of frequencies, and has 40 channels to choose from.

One of its standout features is the Digital Selective Calling (DSC) with a distress button, which can send your location quickly in emergencies, adding an important safety layer. The triple watch feature lets you monitor multiple channels simultaneously, which is practical while on the move. The radio is IPX4 waterproof, meaning it can handle splashes and rain but is not fully submersible, so it’s best suited for protected use rather than heavy immersion. With a weight of about 3.5 pounds and compact size, it’s easy to install on a boat without taking too much space or adding bulk.

The user interface is straightforward with a rugged handheld mic, designed to be operated easily from the helm, which is helpful for safety and convenience. The UM385 provides dependable marine radio performance with good power, channel coverage, and safety features, making it ideal for boaters who want solid communication and emergency options without too much complexity.

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.