Handheld VHF radios: which one should you buy?

Many boats sold in the UK come with a fixed VHF. So why also carry a less powerful handheld unit? 

Convenience is a clear factor. A portable radio allows you to maintain a listening watch wherever you are onboard. That matters when you are not at the helm; few situations are more frustrating than leaning over the driver to access the radio, or finding yourself out of communications while on the tender or a paddleboard. 

More significantly, a handheld VHF provides critical redundancy. Fixed sets are not immune to failure. Water ingress past external seals is a common issue on wetter boats, while river users will be familiar with the ever-present risk of damaging an antenna under a low bridge. A handheld unit provides a reliable backup, particularly in a worst-case scenario such as falling overboard, where a fixed radio becomes immediately inaccessible.

A fixed VHF, powered by the vessel’s battery, will always outperform a handheld in raw transmission capability. Operating at up to 25W, and paired with a well-positioned antenna, it can achieve ranges of tens of miles.

By contrast, handheld units typically transmit at 5-6W. Combined with a much lower antenna height (height-of-user), range is significantly reduced. Double-digit miles may be achievable in ideal conditions, but in practice, considerably less is typical.

Line-of-sight is a good principle. For most users, this is sufficient for communication, but offshore use may expose the limitations of a handheld unit when attempting to reach the shore. 

Digital Selective Calling (DSC) complicates this picture slightly. Unlike voice transmissions, DSC sends a short, structured digital alert on VHF Channel 70, including information such as the vessel’s identity and, when connected to GPS, its position. Because DSC alerts are brief digital transmissions monitored automatically by DSC receivers, their functional range is often quoted as being up to around 25% greater than VHF voice, with the Transportation Safety Board of Canada attributing this mainly to the elimination of squelch on the receiving radio.

More importantly, DSC enables digital distress alerts (in situations involving grave and imminent danger) as well as routine hailing and position-sharing. Once limited to fixed sets, DSC functionality is now increasingly common in handheld units, making it a feature worth considering. 

In the UK, handheld VHFs can be purchased without restriction. However, transmitting (outside of an emergency) requires a Marine VHF Short Range Certificate, obtained through instruction and a short assessment. For DSC-enabled radios, an MMSI number must also be obtained from Ofcom; this is free and straightforward. 

When selecting a unit, assess it against your intended use: 

• Transmission power: Lower-powered sets may suffice for inland or sheltered waters, but are less suitable offshore. 
• Size and ergonomics: Smaller units are easier to carry, but larger designs often accommodate more features and larger controls.
• Cost: Prices vary widely; assess value relative to your actual requirements, and consider browsing the used market for occasional bargains. 
• Battery life: Typically measured on a 90% standby, 5% transmit, 5% receive cycle. Real-world performance may vary considerably. 

For those seeking a premium handheld with near-fixed-set capability, the IC-M94D sits at the top end of the market. It incorporates DSC, GPS, and, unusually for a handheld, an AIS receiver, allowing users to track nearby vessels directly on-screen and identify targets for DSC calls.

The distress function is well executed, including automatic man-overboard classification if the unit is submerged during activation. Navigation features are also comprehensive, supporting up to fifty waypoints.

Performance is strong across the board. With 6W transmission power, a noise-cancelling microphone, and a powerful speaker, audio clarity is excellent. Battery life is rated at around 10 hours: reasonable given the feature set, though lower than many units.

The trade-offs are size and cost. The unit is noticeably bulkier than most handhelds, and the price reflects its positioning. Whether the additional functionality justifies both will depend on how actively those features are used.

Price from £309.95 

Standard Horizon’s flagship handheld, the HX891BT, offers a comparable high-end package. DSC and GPS are standard, with support for route navigation and up to 200 waypoints. 

Audio performance is strong, and the unit includes an FM receiver. Its distinguishing feature is Bluetooth connectivity, allowing pairing with a compatible headset. This is particularly useful during close-quarters manoeuvring, where hands-free communication may improve safety and efficiency.

While it lacks AIS, the unit can track up to seven vessels via DSC position exchange, useful for group operations after some initial setup. 

Like the IC-M94D, it is on the larger side, though ergonomic shaping and larger buttons make it easier to handle, especially in cold conditions. 

Price from £210.00 

Cobra’s HH600 introduces DSC functionality to their handheld range, paired with an integrated GPS for basic navigation and alerting. 

Bluetooth connectivity allows the radio to act as an interface for a mobile phone, enabling calls while keeping the handset protected. The Rewind-Say-Again feature, which replays the last 20 seconds of received audio, is a practical addition in busy or noisy environments. 

Battery life is limited to around 10 hours, placing it at the lower end of the market. A backup AA battery tray provides contingency, but overall endurance is less competitive. 

Price from £179.95 

The ICOM M73E prioritises compactness without sacrificing performance. Smaller than most competitors, it is easy to carry and fits comfortably into pockets or under outer layers.

Controls are well considered, with large buttons, programmable favourite channels, and a combined volume/power knob that supports quick adjustments. Battery life is a standout feature at up to 18 hours, though this will reduce in high-traffic environments.

Compromises include lower speaker volume and the absence of buoyancy. It is also relatively expensive given its limited feature set compared to larger alternatives, which may affect its appeal.

Price from £239.95

A more balanced option, the IC-M37E retains similar core performance while addressing some practical concerns. It is buoyant, adding a layer of security if dropped overboard, and features an automatic strobe light for recovery. 

Transmission power remains at 6W, with good waterproofing and solid audio output. Battery life is slightly reduced at around 12 hours, but still adequate for most users. 

Charging via Micro-USB is a useful addition, particularly for those who prefer not to rely on a dedicated charging cradle. The lower price point makes it a practical choice, especially if purchasing multiple units. 

Price from £179.99 

Widely used in sailing clubs and training centres, the HX210E is a cost-effective, straightforward, and durable unit designed for reliability. It offers 6W transmission, clear audio, and intuitive operation.

The radio is buoyant and waterproof, with high-visibility colouring and an integrated strobe light to aid recovery if dropped. In standby/receive mode, with no transmissions, battery life can last up to 21 hours.

The trade-off is size; the unit is relatively bulky and will be noticeable when worn. For many users, however, the battery life and robustness outweigh this drawback.

Price from £89.99