I felt like my son was disappearing into the digital world. I couldn’t hear him laugh anymore and all he wanted to do was play with his iPad.
I wanted to get my son something special for Christmas this year. He’s always wanted a walkie talkie, so I decided to buy him one.
I decided to buy my kid a walkie talkie so we could stay in contact as we began playing outside more.
I’ve had a lot of fun bonding with my son outdoors, and I feel like I’m just as much his friend as his father these days.
We’ve had so much fun playing with it, and it’s made our relationship even stronger than before. The one we settled on was the Retevis RT628:
Cons
- Limited use compared to other versatile kid’s toys
- A bit expensive if replacing a unit
- The range may drop in obstructed places
The Retevis RT628 is one of the best walkie-talkies in the market. Apart from the VOX functionality, it offers 22 channels, a keyboard lock, camo color, and enough range for a kid-sized unit.
Video Overview
Who Is It For?
Every parent wants to see their child gain confidence and independence. However, when they go out to play, you can be constantly worried if you don’t have a means of communicating with them. Thankfully, kids walkie talkies ensure peace of mind as parents can get hold of their children when playing outside.
The Retevis two-way radio is among the leading walkie-talkies for kids. Although there are various competitor brands in the market, this unit remains among the top-selling on Amazon due to its durable construction and incredible functionality.
While it is designed for kids, adults can also use it. It comes with several features and buttons that the young ones can easily operate. However, for ease of use, it is recommended for children above three years old.
This unit allows parents to track their little ones outside and gives kids the freedom to walk and explore new locations while remaining connected to their parents.
What’s in The Box?
Here is what’s included when you buy this product:
• 2 x Retevis RT628 Walkie Talkies
• 2 x Belt Clip
• 1 User Manual
Since batteries aren’t included, you are going to buy 6 AA batteries for the walkie-talkies. Again, the product doesn’t come with wrist wraps. So you may have to purchase them separately if your child doesn’t want to use the belt clips.
After unboxing, you will need to insert the AA batteries in each walkie-talkie. Then, long-press the PTT button to transmit and release it once that’s done. Hold the menu for about three seconds to lock the settings. Note that the keypad lock feature is crucial as it ensures that the parent and kid are on the same channel.
Design & Features
The unit has a design of full-size walkie-talkie. It comes with a push-talk (PPT) button, auto squelch, receiver sensitivity, channels, etc. What we love about the design is that it is small, only measures 6.2 x 2.1 x 1.1 each. As such, it can fit into little hands easily.
The unit is available in three colors; red, silver, and black. While this can seem like a limitation, it is a good thing as it will not look too childish. Therefore, your little one can enjoy using it even when they are in their teens.
Let’s look at what makes this unit unique:
Multi-Channel Walkie Talkie Communications- you can use it for a one-to-one talk or communicate with more than one person. As such, it is a great model for a larger group when you need to keep track of everyone.
Small Size and Lightweight Body- its ergonomic design features rounded corners that make it more comfortable and minimize scratches. The model uses strong plastic that can last for many years.
VOX and 2.5mm Headphone Connection- your kids can speak to you directly without using the PPT button, thanks to the VOX function. The device also allows a headphone connection. But note that headphones aren’t included in the package.
Adjustable Volume and High Sound Quality- when we tested this product, we found that we could hear each other clearly within its distance range. Clear sound means you can communicate well with your children to know their whereabouts. Also, this unit comes with a belt clip on the back, allowing kids to attach it to their clothing.
Generally, we think this walkie-talkie is a great gift for your kids. Other than keeping you worry-free when your children are playing outside, it will stimulate their interest in communication. So with time, they will learn to communicate well, and your family can enjoy outdoor adventures safely.
Retevis RT628 Performance
Retevis RT628 offers excellent performance within a great distance range. But we should mention that the range depends on geographical conditions or light of sight as with other radio units. Averagely, you can expect the sound range to reach ten miles from a hilltop. But on flat land, the range is approximately 2-3 miles. And the transit range within a residential area can be 1 mile or lower. This means that you can use the walkie-talkie to talk to your kids from different floors of your house or at the park.
If your child experiences trouble using the push-to-talk button, you can use voice activation instead. However, you’ll have to check the manual on how to do this. Otherwise, you may end up activating the channel scan functionality.
The functioning of this model is beyond the level of kids’ toys. The battery holds up well, meaning you can use it for many days. And the keyboard lock prevents kids from changing the frequencies when not necessary.
In terms of entertainment value, this device is outstanding. Kids can use this walkie-talkie in their playtime to enjoy role-play activities. Additionally, the unit will spur their imagination and can be used indoors as well as outdoors.
We also tested the safety and security of this device. You can change the CTCSS settings to block strangers from interfering. But, also remember to warn your kids against talking to strangers.
Lastly, we loved the rubberized grip, which makes it great for a three-year-old. It can handle being dropped without any damage to the exterior.
Overall, Retevis RT628 is easy to use and operate. But, you need to offer some level of training to your child. So they can use it better.
Specs
- PMR446 Frequency Range
- 22 Channel
- 0.5W Output Power
- 90g/piece Weight
- 3 x AA batteries
- 160 x 55 x 28 mm Size
Summing Up
Not knowing where your child is can be devastating. But since most parents aren’t comfortable giving smartphones to children, a walkie-talkie offers an excellent alternative. The Retevis RT628 offers both fun and functionality. It’s reasonably priced and has the right range needed for indoor and outdoor usage. We recommend this device to parents with 3-year-old and above kids who want some level of independence.
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.