As another soon-to-be buyer, I know that it is not easy to choose the right one with so many walkie-talkies offered in the market. Of course, I want my money’s worth, making it difficult to tell what makes one device more apt than the other.
What matters to me is that I got what I needed, a simple walkie-talkie device that will help me communicate during my other outdoor activities without costing me a fortune. This is precisely why I got with the Midland LXT630VP3 FRS Radio. It is reliable, well designed, and user-friendly, plus sturdy range and battery life.
Specs
- Brand: Midland
- Range: 30 miles
- Power output: 2 watts
- Frequency ranges: 462-467 MHz (FRS)
- Battery: NiMH rechargeable battery or 3 AAA Alkaline batteries
- Size: 6.09 x 2.19 x 1.27 inches
- Weight: around 0.3 lb
- Waterproof: no
- License needed: no, FRS only
Scope of Delivery
The package I received looks like a gift box, which is 11.5″ x 10.7″ x 10.4″ and weighs around 8 lbs. Inside the box includes two radios, two belt clips, two rechargeable battery packs, one desktop charger or cable, one AC Adapter, and Owner’s Manual, which is also available online.
Setup
Incredibly, Midland LXT630VP3 is easy to set up. I didn’t need to be a pro. Here are the three easy steps on how I did it before I started using my radios.
- Install the battery.
I prepared my NiMH battery pack or 3 AAA alkaline batteries, then removed the belt clip by pressing the top centre and gliding it down from the radios. I then removed the battery cover. I inserted the batteries spotting the polarity of the guide rails. Return the battery cover making sure it locks into place.
Just a reminder that batteries’ improper installations will prevent the radios from properly working or, worst, can damage the radios. - Install the belt clip back.
On the back of the walkie-talkie, slip the hook down into the slot until you hear the belt clip latch with a click sound. - Initially, charge the walkie-talkies for 24 hours.
Waterproof
In my research, Midland LXT630VP3 does not have any International Protection IP or Japan Industrial Standards (JIS) numbered rating. Those are the ratings to measure radios’ waterproofing levels. Nevertheless, like most other handheld radios, I trust that it is water-resistant. Meaning, this walkie-talkie can resist water penetration to some degree.
Power Source
One of the features I like most with the Midland LXT630VP3 radio is that compared to traditional lithium batteries of other walkie-talkies, it comes with a rechargeable battery and base. I can use three AAA rechargeable batteries that last up to six hours, and recharging is effortless.
Range
Based on my experience, they are true to their words. The Midland LXT630VP3 radios work meets FRS standards. We tried it on a building rooftop with no obstructions like buildings, and the radios can give clean sound within 30 miles of line of sight, ours was around 25 miles though.
The rule is that the more interference, the less the range. We did other tests where site conditions are different. The handheld radios can reach the ridge between 0.5 miles to 2 miles. We tried on a mostly open area with only trees blocking the line of sight using channel 5, and we got 1.6 miles away.
Frequencies
As per September 2017 FCC updated rules, radios with no more than 2 watts effective radiated power, may be used on channels 1 through 7 and 15 through 22 without needing a license. Since Midland LXT630VP3 walkie talkie meets that requirement, it is therefore classified as an FRS or Family Radio Service unit. Many countries globally do not require a license for FRS radios as well, so it can also be used in other countries.
As an FRS, it can use public frequency bands or channels 8 to14 without needing a license. It also supports two types of privacy channels, Continuous Tone Coded Squelch System (CTCSS) and Digital Coded Squelch (DCS). The 38 CTCSS keeps the radio silent and gives a unique tone when it receives a transmission. While its 83 DCS transmits digital code at a lower rate which sounds like a pulse rate.
Features
Midland LXT630VP3 offers got so much on its bucket.
It has an NOAA weather alert feature that updates me on weather conditions, 24/7, directly from weather broadcasting companies—allowing me to keep posted for a possible threat to my planned activity. Together with that is the All Hazard Alert feature which keeps me up to date with emergencies such as earthquakes, power plant warnings, fire or landslide issues, and so on.
The radio can transmit using 22 GMRS/FRS Channels with 14 extra channels for a total of 36 tracks. Along with it is a total of 121 Privacy Codes that can forbid interference.
The unit has many useful physical features and a backlit screen display for optimal visibility at any time of the day. Its cover is water-resistant, protecting my units from rainfall or accidental splashes. It has a dual power setting, high and low giving me the power to conserve its battery life when I’m not using it. Also, the radio has KeyPad Lock, so it can stay in lock mode when I’m not using it, which is good because it is additional security.
It comes with an eVOX feature which allows me to use it hands-free using my voice for easy activation. This feature actually comes only with high-end radios.
The two-way radio uses an Auto Squelch mechanism so it can instantaneously silence noise and interference. A game hunter appreciates this feature as they usually need immediate silence while at play.
Another notable feature is its Roger Beep or a beeping sound when the other person is done talking because, with that, I’m prompted that the other party is done talking, and I can respond. This feature makes communication between parties even more effective.
It also uses Drop-In Charger, like most radios in the market, which makes charging the unit as easy as dropping it and in an instant.
Price
As for the price, I think this walkie-talkie is reasonably priced compared to other radios which have more or less the same features with it. Given all its features and performance, I can also say that it is a good buy for a less than $50 pair of radio.
Pros
- The NOAA weather and All Hazard Alert warn users like me of probable threats near me.
- Unit physical features, such as backlit display, Hi-Lo power setting, Keypad Lock feature, and water-resistant outer shell for easy use and additional unit protection.
- Extreme range of up to 30 miles of coverage
- License-free use of FRS Channels with 14 extra channels for a total of 36 tracks and 121 privacy codes to hinder interference
- eVOX or hands-free operation feature using voice for activation
- Roger Beep sound for effective communication between parties
- Auto Squelch mechanism for instantaneous silencing of noise and interference
Cons
- Transmitting more than 2 watts of output power requires a license
- It comes in various colors and sizes, so a buyer must check which one best fits them.
- CTCSS and DCS sound almost the same, which can create confusion
Conclusion – Midland LXT600VP3 Review
I can say the radio is worth buying. It’s valued relatively. I like every feature because they are practical, even for beginners. The license requirement for transmitting more than 2 watts is the same for all radios. The various colors and sizes can be good if the buyer knows his preference and palm-size well. At the same time, the sounds of privacy codes may be addressed with practice. Thus, the best buy. There you have it folks, hope this helps you choose!
View on Amazon*FAQ
Where can I find a manual for the Midland LXT600VP3?
The box comes with a manual. Also, you can fin it on this link: https://www.manualsearcher.com/midland/lxt600vp3/manual.
Best Lists with this Walkie Talkie
excellent review thank you! do these 2 ways come with a background light for night operation?
Yes, the LCD displays have a background light for use at night.