To choose the best walkie talkie set to suit your needs, you must take a few things into consideration. What you plan on using the walkie talkie set for and what features you would like it to have are important. The range and distance the walkie talkie set provides will differ with various models, so that is another option to consider. Comparison shopping for the best selection and prices will be helpful as well.
A hand-held transceiver may offer many features, some of which may be useful and others you may not require. Before selecting your new walkie talkie set, determine which options you need and whether you are willing to pay extra for features you may not use. For instance, some of the newer models feature global positioning system (GPS) technology. This may be useful if you plan on using the set for hiking or walking adventures and camping. If, however, you will simply use the walkie talkie set to communicate with another person in a stationary setting, you may not need this upgrade.
Consider the range and distance you may need, and compare the costs. If your other contact will be at a greater distance than the model allows, it will be useless. It may be wise to spend a few more dollars to get the greater distance that will allow more flexibility.
Choose a model that has some type of noise-filtering device. This is necessary to get the best reception with minimal distortion and crackling. By the same token, if you plan on using the walkie talkie set for business purposes, you'll do best to obtain a licensed system that will not be subject to interference from other users. If you want to keep conversations private, sharing a frequency will prohibit this. For simple leisure time activities it generally won't make much of a difference.
There are other options available for a two-way transceiver, including weather-resistant models. Depending upon the weather conditions you may be subject to, you may want to upgrade for the all-weather model. If you live in a warm and dry climate, you probably won't need the upgrade.
Another consideration is whether you prefer UHF or VHF. There are advantages and disadvantages to each. VHF typically has a greater range, although it may not be the ideal choice for use inside buildings and other structures. UHF is probably the better choice for using outdoors, although you may not obtain as great a distance.
Lastly, do not neglect to consider warranties. It's a good idea to choose a model that comes with a decent warranty coverage. Repairs can be costly, so you might also wish to consider whether to choose the purchase of an extended manufacturer's warranty as well.
