Best Handheld VHF Radio for 2025

Best Handheld VHF Radios for UK Usage (2025)

When you're out on the water, a reliable handheld VHF radio can be an essential piece of equipment for communication and safety. Whether you're a seasoned sailor or new to boating, selecting the right device can feel daunting.

In this guide, I’ve put together some things to know about investing in the right VHF radio, as well as a quick rundown of some of the best handheld VHF radios available in the UK right now.

What Are the Different Types of VHF?

There are two main types of VHF radio: fixed mount and handheld. A fixed mount VHF is usually the main VHF for the vessel. It typically includes a base station and a separate corded microphone.

As these are wired into a boat’s main power source and have antennas placed at the highest possible point, they are capable of broadcasting over a considerable distance.

A handheld VHF is what we’ll be focusing on in this article. These are single-piece radios, often resembling a ‘walkie-talkie.’ They provide very similar functionality to a fixed mount VHF but have both the microphone and antenna built in, along with a rechargeable battery.

Key Features of a Handheld VHF Radio

Waterproof Rating

Most handheld VHF radios will have some kind of waterproof rating. Whilst you don't need to understand all the details on these ratings, it’s important to at least understand some of the basics.

For example, IPX4 simply means the handset is splash-proof, whereas an IPX7 rating means it’s waterproof when submerged to certain depths for a period of time. It’s recommended you look at at least IPX7 or IPX8 when choosing your handheld radio.

Floating/Buoyancy

One of the more recent developments for handheld radios is their ability to float. This is a pretty important feature if you’ve accidentally dropped it into the water, making it easy to retrieve.

More importantly, if you’re thrown into the water, it also means it won’t sink at a time when you may need it most.

DSC (Digital Selective Calling)

For those who have completed their VHF operator's course, this will be a familiar feature. Digital Selective Calling is a way of sending an individual 'digital' call to other VHF users.

The most important part of this functionality, however, is the dedicated distress button that automatically broadcasts a distress signal to vessels in the area. This is a more advanced feature, so it may not be essential for casual sailors.

Wattage (Transmit Power)

The maximum power VHF radios are allowed to have in the UK is 25 watts. Handheld radios usually don’t reach this level, as it’s typically seen in fixed mount devices.

Handheld radios generally have a high and low setting ranging between 1W and 6W. This flexibility helps save power and prevents interference with other users further away, who don't need to hear your transmition.

Do You Need a License to Use a Handheld VHF Radio?

Yes! Any device that broadcasts over a high frequency, which includes VHF radios, requires an operator's license. This ensures radios are used correctly and competently to avoid any interference with other communications.

In the UK, you can obtain your license by completing a course in person or online, followed by a practical and theory exam.

Don't let the idea of an exam put you off though! I took this online course which gives you access to the offical RYA interactive course and the official VHF handbook.

You then have to pay a separate fee to a registered training center in order to take the exam. The exam itself combines some theory, mainly multiple choice questions, followed by an in-person practical where you are asked to complete a couple of scenarios. e.g A mayday scenario with various details about what has happened.

Top Handheld VHF Radios in the UK

1. Icom IC-M94DE

• Top Features: Built-in AIS, GPS, DSC (Digital Selective Calling).
• Battery Life: 16 hours.
• Waterproof Rating: IPX7.
• Why It’s Great: The first handheld VHF to integrate AIS (Automatic Identification System), making it a standout choice for safety and navigation. It’s perfect if you need advanced features for identifying nearby vessels.
• Drawbacks: Slightly heavier and quite pricey compared to others.
• Ideal For: The Icom IC-M94DE handheld VHF radio is ideal for boaters and marine professionals who need reliable communication with built-in AIS, DSC, and GPS for enhanced safety and navigation.

Summary: The Icom M94DE is the first-ever handheld VHF radio with built-in AIS, making it a game-changer for safety and navigation. It combines DSC, GPS, and AIS in a buoyant, waterproof (IPX7) design with a 16-hour battery life. The large screen enhances readability, and while its advanced features require some learning, it’s an excellent choice for boaters navigating busy waters.

Buy from Amazon.co.uk - Around £330

2. Cobra MR HH600

• Top Features: Bluetooth connectivity, GPS, DSC, and floating design.
• Battery Life: 10 hours.
• Waterproof Rating: IPX8.
• Why It’s Great: Allows hands-free mobile phone use via Bluetooth and includes a rewind-say-again feature to replay transmissions. It’s robust and has a strobe light for emergencies.
• Drawbacks: Shorter battery life compared to others.
• Ideal For: The Cobra MR HH600 handheld VHF radio is perfect for boaters who need a rugged, floating radio with built-in GPS, DSC, and Bluetooth for enhanced safety and hands-free communication on the water.

Summary: The Cobra HH600 is a feature-packed floating handheld VHF with built-in GPS and Bluetooth, making it a versatile choice for mariners. It includes DSC for distress calls, a Man Overboard (MOB) function, and Tri-Watch monitoring for added safety.

The noise-cancelling microphone, large backlit display, and Rewind-Say-Again® feature enhance communication clarity. With an IPX8 waterproof rating, it’s fully submersible and designed to float with a bright orange core for easy retrieval. Ideal for those who want robust navigation, emergency readiness, and seamless connectivity in a handheld marine radio.

Buy from Amazon.co.uk - Around £220

3. Standard Horizon HX210

• Top Features: FM radio, floating design, user-friendly interface.
• Battery Life: Up to 29 hours.
• Waterproof Rating: IPX7.
• Why It’s Great: Lightweight, easy to use, and packed with all the basics, this is an excellent choice for general recreational use. It also floats and has a built-in strobe.
• Drawbacks: Lacks GPS and DSC features.
• Ideal For: The Standard Horizon HX210 handheld VHF radio is ideal for recreational boaters looking for a compact, floating, and budget-friendly radio with reliable communication and waterproof durability.

Summary: The Standard Horizon HX210 is a reliable, floating handheld VHF radio designed for mariners who prioritize functionality and ease of use. Its compact, lightweight design features a powerful Lithium-ion battery and FM broadcast receiver for entertainment while out on the water. The user-friendly display ensures clear readability, even in low light.

The radio also boasts a water-activated emergency strobe light for added safety and customizable transmit power for efficient communication. Ideal for those who want a dependable, easy-to-use radio with safety features and entertainment options onboard.

Buy from Amazon.co.uk - Around £100

4. Icom M25EURO

• Top Features: Slim, lightweight design with USB charging.
• Battery Life: 11 hours.
• Waterproof Rating: IPX7.
• Why It’s Great: Extremely portable with a clear, illuminated screen and Float’n’Flash technology to help locate it if dropped in water.
• Drawbacks: Limited in features compared to higher-end models.
• Ideal For: The Icom M25EURO handheld VHF radio is perfect for casual and recreational boaters who need a simple, lightweight, floating, and easy-to-use communication device with great battery life.

Summary: The Icom IC-M25EURO is a slim, lightweight, and buoyant VHF marine radio designed for reliable communication on the water. Weighing just 220g, it features a large LCD screen, easy-to-use interface, and flashing red LED for easy retrieval if dropped in the water. With 11 hours of battery life and USB charging, it’s perfect for long trips.

The radio offers 5W output and 550mW audio for clear communication, with the option to add a waterproof speaker microphone for extra convenience. Ideal for those seeking a compact, practical, and stylish radio for their maritime adventures.

Buy from Amazon.co.uk - Around £150

5. Cobra MR HH500

• Top Features: Bluetooth, waterproof, floating.
• Battery Life: 10 hours.
• Waterproof Rating: IPX7.
• Why It’s Great: Reliable and well-built, this unit also connects to your smartphone via Bluetooth for phone calls.
• Drawbacks: Shorter battery life compared to other models.
• Ideal For: The Cobra MR HH500 handheld VHF radio is ideal for boaters who want a floating, waterproof radio with Bluetooth connectivity and DSC for added safety and hands-free communication.

Summary: The Cobra HH500 VHF Marine Radio is a compact, lightweight, and versatile handheld radio, perfect for boaters needing Bluetooth connectivity for mobile phone calls on the water. Its waterproof design ensures reliable communication even in harsh conditions, and the Rewind-Say-Again feature lets you replay the last 20 seconds of a transmission for clarity.

Ideal for tenders, kayaks, or grab bags, it also includes a drop-in charging cradle with both 12V and 240V charging options, making it a practical choice for emergency situations or everyday use.

Buy from Amazon.co.uk - Around £170

6. Standard Horizon HX890E

• Top Features: Built-in GPS, DSC, and emergency strobe.
• Battery Life: 12-14 hours.
• Waterproof Rating: IPX8.
• Why It’s Great: Rugged and feature-packed, it includes all essential safety features while maintaining a clear display and intuitive controls.
• Drawbacks: Heavier than simpler models and moderately priced.
• Ideal For: The Standard Horizon HX890E handheld VHF radio is perfect for serious boaters and marine professionals, offering a rugged, floating design with DSC, GPS, and a large display for enhanced safety and navigation.

Buy from Amazon.co.uk - Around £230

Conclusion

There are many more models available, but you can’t go too wrong choosing one of the above. These handheld VHFs offer a mix of simplicity, advanced features, and value. Whether you're an occasional sailor or a regular mariner, there should be a suitable option for you here. Happy boating!