- The optimal channel for a walkie talkie, and for maximum power, use channels 1-7 or 15-22 (Source)
- Popular consumer radios employ 2 or more power modes. To get the most walkie talkie range, be sure that you are operating on high power mode on the channels that permit it.
- Lower power modes will not take advantage of your radio’s potential output power and will decrease the range (learn about walkie talkie lingo)
The best walkie-talkies can be used to communicate in many ways, whether outside in the open while hiking with friends or families or within buildings. It is most reasonable wayto stay connected with your team if you are separated or in an emergency.
What walkie-talkie channel to use is a common question once you decide to purchase one. These gadgets are user-friendly, but they importantly thrive on a good channel depending on the situation you are in.
There are different radio channels serving different objectives. In this article, we will look at the most popular channels you can use depending on various scenarios.
What Are Walkie-Talkie Channels?
Walkie talkies have multiple users, and the channels are a way to partition the radio frequencies promoting minimal interruptions when conversing with your friends.
These two-way radios receive and transmit signals on different channels and frequency bands denoted by Hertz (Hz).
For effective communication, both devices must be set on the same channel. In the US, there are two frequencies available to the public; The Family Radio Service (FRS) and General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS).
With a specific power output to communicate, these two frequencies use 22 channels. Buying a walkie-talkie with various channels means that your chances of having a private conversation with friends with no interruption are improved.
These two-way radio gadgets work in the Very High-Frequency Band (VHF) and Ultra-High Frequency (UHF). The soundest channel will depend on your situation or need.
Communicating While Indoors
In this situation, you will need a frequency that can penetrate obstructions. UHF walkie-talkies are the better option when communicating indoors. For crystal clear transitions, UHF radios can penetrate walls better than VHF.
However, considering these are shorter radio waves, using them outside while running errands in the open may fail to work. UHF radios work at 400 to 512 Megahertz (MHz), making it easier for them to go through solid surfaces.
Remember you can use your smartphone as a walkie talkie with apps! Or use your Apple Watch’s Walkie Talkie!
Communicating While Outdoors
A VHF band is suited when communicating outside as they work better in large open areas will minimal obstructions. It is the most suitable kind to carry around on your outdoor adventures. Adding an antenna improves the signal.
A standard VHF radio has eight channels and operates at 136-174 MHz and large distances. However, these walkie-talkies can be problematic in forests or on hilly terrains. It is advised that you switch to a UHF band when in such places.
Check out the longest-range walkie talkies if you want to really communicate at a distance!
Communicating Both Indoors and Outdoors
With walkie-talkies, you can get a bit of both. You can purchase one with a dual-band offering various VHF and UHF bands. All you have to do is tune in on the band that suits your situation, whether outside or in a mall.
While buying a dual-band walkie-talkie, ensure it offers both FRS and GMRS radio channels for better communication and the ability to use it from anywhere.
Using Your Walkie Talkie in an Emergency
Unlike CB radios, walkie-talkies have no specific emergency channel. If you find yourself in an emergency, tune in to any available channel and call out in SOS. Anyone on the same track will be able to help. Avoid using private codes for better chances of reaching someone. Are walkie talkies illegal? You might be surprised…
I’m a tech enthusiast and I grew up playing with walkie talkies. They were fun when I was a kid and they’re even more fun, and even useful, as an adult. My family uses them when we go camping to stay connected on hikes.