10 Best VHF Radios 2025 in the United States

The Ray90 VHF and AIS700 Bundle from Raymarine is a solid choice for boaters needing reliable communication and safety features. It includes a VHF radio with 16 channels, which covers basic marine communication well but may feel limited if you need more channel options. The product is submersible with an IP66 waterproof rating, so it can handle harsh marine environments and splashes without worry. It weighs about 4.4 pounds and measures roughly 14 by 6 by 6 inches, making it a bit heavier and larger than some handheld models, so it’s best suited for fixed mounting on boats rather than portable use.

This bundle also includes AIS700, adding GPS integration and vessel tracking, which enhances safety and situational awareness on the water. Raymarine is known for marine-focused designs that usually balance ease of use with functionality. If you need a dependable fixed VHF radio with AIS and good waterproofing for marine use, this bundle fits well, especially for boaters valuing integrated GPS and AIS features.

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 Garmin 0100209800 VHF 215 AIS is a robust marine VHF radio with several notable features. It offers a power output suitable for marine communications and has a speaking range of up to 36 miles, which is impressive for many maritime needs. The radio includes 10 channels, covering a frequency range of 156.050 MHz to 163.275 MHz, including weather channels, making it versatile for various communication needs on the water.

The water resistance rating ensures it will withstand exposure to water, although it is not fully waterproof. Users should be cautious in extremely wet conditions. It includes an anti-glare screen, which can be beneficial for clear visibility in bright sunlight, an essential feature for marine environments. However, the radio lacks integrated GPS, which may be a drawback for those needing precise location tracking.

The product is relatively heavy, weighing 5.3 pounds, which might be cumbersome for users seeking a more portable option. Its medium size and sturdy plastic construction are suitable for installation in a fixed position on a boat. Despite these limitations, the Garmin 0100209800 VHF 215 AIS is ideal for marine enthusiasts who need a reliable communication device and do not mind the absence of GPS or a heavier unit.