Two-way radios are handheld devices that let a team talk without a mobile network: on a building site, in a warehouse, at an event, in a hotel or on a security post. Our range has more than 30 models, mostly from Hytera, along with Kenwood, Albrecht, Motorola and JVC.
How to choose a two-way radio
Frequency band and licensing. For simple needs, PMR446 radios are enough: they can be used across the EU without a licence, although their power is limited. More powerful VHF or UHF radios usually need frequencies assigned to you, so find out whether you need a licence before buying.
Analogue or digital. Analogue radios are simpler and usually work with older equipment. Digital ones, such as those using the DMR standard, tend to keep speech clearer near the edge of their range, often save battery and allow group calls and text messages.
Range. Range depends on power, antenna and surroundings: it is far greater in open country than inside a building with reinforced concrete walls. For a large site or a multi-storey building, choose more powerful radios or consider a repeater system.
Durability and battery. For outdoor and industrial work, look for dust and water protection (an IP rating) and a battery that lasts a full shift. In an office or at an event, a light body and easy charging matter more.
Accessories. A headset with a microphone or a wired speaker microphone helps when a radio is worn all day or used in a noisy place. Check that an accessory fits your chosen model, as connectors can differ between manufacturers.
Brands in our range
- Hytera: a maker of professional communication systems, best known for digital DMR radios, and the brand with the most models in our range.
- Kenwood and JVC: both belong to the JVC Kenwood group, and Kenwood radios are widely used in professional and amateur radio communication.
- Albrecht: a German manufacturer known for CB and PMR radios designed for simple everyday use without complicated setup.
- Motorola: one of the pioneers of two-way radio equipment, with professional radios used in security services, industry and logistics.
Frequently asked questions about two-way radios
Do I need a licence for a two-way radio?
PMR446 radios can be used in the European Union without a licence, provided they follow the set power and frequency rules. Other VHF or UHF radios usually need frequencies assigned to you, so check the requirements of your national communications regulator first.
What is the range of a two-way radio?
There is no single figure, because range depends on power, antenna and surroundings. In open country it can reach several kilometres, while inside buildings or in dense urban areas it is much shorter. Larger sites use more powerful models or repeaters.
What is the difference between analogue and digital radios?
An analogue radio transmits speech as a continuous signal, while a digital radio converts it into data. As a result, digital radios, such as those using DMR, often give clearer audio and add group calls and messages. Analogue radios are simpler and often work more easily with older equipment.
Can radios from different brands work together?
Often they can, if they use the same frequency band and the same standard, such as analogue PMR446 or DMR. Extra features like encryption or special signalling may not work across brands. If you plan a mixed fleet, check the model specifications before buying.
