10 Best VHF Radios 2025 in the United States

The Simrad RS40-B VHF radio offers valuable features for boaters needing reliable communication on the water. It includes integrated AIS (Automatic Identification System) and GPS receivers, which help with navigation and tracking nearby vessels — a plus for safety. The radio operates within the standard 156-174 MHz VHF frequency range and supports 8 channels, which is fewer compared to many VHF radios that often have 16 or more channels for wider communication options.

It has a water resistance rating of IP67, meaning it can handle being briefly submerged in water, making it suitable for marine environments. Weighing about 5.5 pounds and measuring 18 by 10 by 6 inches, it’s somewhat bulky but comes with useful mounting kits and a suncover to protect the display from glare. The maximum talking range is listed as 23 miles, which is typical for VHF radios under ideal conditions.

This radio represents a solid choice if you want integrated GPS and AIS with decent waterproofing. However, if you need more channels or a lighter device, you might want to consider other options.

The Standard Horizon GX2410GPS is a solid choice if you're looking for a fixed mount VHF radio that combines reliable communication with built-in GPS and AIS features. It comes with a clear 3.5-inch color display and uses button controls, which keeps things straightforward to operate. Its size and weight (about 5 pounds and compact dimensions) make it suitable for panel or dashboard mounting on boats.

The unit supports NMEA2000 connectivity, allowing it to integrate well with other marine electronics. It’s weather resistant, making it durable enough to handle typical marine environments, so it is best used in sheltered or covered settings. The product includes useful extras like a dust cover, mounting bracket, and a three-year warranty, giving you some peace of mind.

This radio is suited for boaters who want a dependable, fixed installation with GPS and AIS capabilities but might want to verify its waterproof level depending on their specific needs.

The Garmin 0100204701 VHF 315 is a solid marine VHF radio designed for boaters needing reliable communication on the water. Its 25-watt power output is strong enough for clear communication over typical marine distances, and with 40 channels available, it covers the essential marine frequencies. The radio includes a GHS 11 handset and a remote speaker, allowing some flexibility in setup, and supports up to three handsets for convenience. It features Class D DSC (digital selective calling), which is important for emergency alerts and direct calling to other vessels.

The built-in GPS support, requiring an external antenna, is a handy addition for location tracking and distress signaling. The radio is water resistant, which is crucial for marine environments, but it does not have a specific waterproof rating like IPX7, so it may not withstand heavy soaking or submersion. Weighing around 9 pounds with medium size dimensions, it is a bit bulky compared to handheld radios but acceptable for fixed installation on boats.

This unit is likely intended to be used with the boat’s power supply rather than as a portable device. The interface is standard and should be straightforward for typical marine users, though it does not stand out for extra ease of use or advanced display features. This radio represents a dependable choice for those seeking a modular VHF radio with decent power, GPS integration, and robust emergency features, best suited for fixed installation rather than handheld use.