Motorola T260 vs T402

Suppose you think of buying a gadget that can help you get in touch with people on an upcoming trip.

If that is the case, then consider Motorola T260 and T402 among your trip essentials because these devices can help you stay connected and reach out to others.

These walkie-talkie units are durable and reliable, especially during emergencies or in times of disaster.

In case you are confused about which you should select, I am reviewing the two products to help you decide.

Motorola T260 is a preferred walkie-talkie device for emergencies, but you can also use it with your loved ones for your indoor and outdoor activities. Motorola T260 is a fun device to have when you or your friends go out on a beach or have a picnic in the park. You can also use it when you and your office mates go on a road bike.

For others, Motorola T260 is the first walkie-talkie on their checklist.

Do not mistake into thinking that the Motorola Talkabout T460 is not fun either. This device allows you and your loved ones to enjoy adventures just a touch away.

Whether you are out on a hike or stroll, camping in nature’s garden, or following a mountain trail, staying connected with your group is possible with Motorola T460. It is sturdy and reliable, making the device qualify in anyone’s must-have list.

Comparison – Motorola T260 vs. T402

Setup

The Motorola T260 setup is more or less the same specifications for all units under the T200 series.

First, installing a battery is fairly easy since you need to take out the belt clip before finally taking out the battery cover. Then, you need to turn on the unit to start.

Motorola T260 has a user manual that contains everything users want to know. The unit actually does have many controls, and it will be easy for you to familiarize yourself with the instructions as soon as you finished reading the manual. You have to make sure you learn everything about the product before you use it.

The setup for Motorola T402 is also quite easy. You can use the unit by either recharging its battery or using three AA (alkaline) batteries. I strongly suggest you read thoroughly read the product’s instructions (included in the box) to learn more about it.

Of course, you should also check if all of the unit’s accessories are there.

Install the unit’s rechargeable battery to see if it has extended battery life. Otherwise, it is high time to charge.

 

Waterproof

Motorola T260, unfortunately, is not known to be waterproof. The item is advertised as an ideal device for outdoor adventures such as beach, family outings, and emergencies.

My piece of advice? Refrain from using the unit for your water-related activities as it might impair the radio when you accidentally drop it in the water.

Motorola T402, on the other hand, is waterproof.  It can withstand not only water but also dust, rain, and various weather conditions. You just have to check the unit’s battery compartments are completely covered so that its insides would not be damaged.

 

Power Source

Motorola T260 offers a dual battery capability. The unit uses a NiMH rechargeable battery. It also uses a 3AA Alkaline Battery. You can use the unit using a rechargeable NiMH battery that can stay as long as 12 hours if you want.

Having said that, it has a little bit short battery life, especially for a walkie-talkie. That is why you should always bring a charger with you and if the area you are in has a charger unit since the battery might run out quicker.

But if you forgot to do so or do not want to bring one with you, you can use the 3AA Alkaline Battery. With this battery, the radio stays up to as long as 29 hours, ideal if you and your companions stay overnight somewhere, even if it is a remote one. However, you should do note that the 3AA Alkaline Battery is disposable. Once this battery runs out, there is no chance you would be able to utilize this again.

The Motorola T402 has a rechargeable NiMH battery and a USB cable that you can use for charging and may stay up to 10 hours of usage. I can also advise keeping 3 AA alkaline batteries for the unit if there is no power in the area. The battery life may last up to 21 hours of use and is expected to stay for a few days since they are only used occasionally.

 

Range

The Motorola T260 ranges as far as 25 miles, say, in an open area or even in a mountain or valley setting. If you use it on open water, the unit can reach as high as six miles.

If you plan to use the walkie-techie device within a neighborhood, its reach can be up to one mile. The area’s terrain, obstructions, and weather can affect the range, particularly in real-life situations.

The maximum power output this unit can transmit is estimated to be around 1.5 watts, which is fairly average.

The Motorola T402’s range is about 35 miles, making it especially helpful for outdoor activities. But the range calculation may differ in various conditions.

 

Frequencies

The Motorola T260 unit broadcasts the General Mobile Radio Service (or GMRS) channel and Family Radio Service (or FRS) channel. You will need a license if you intend to use GMRS and FRS, especially when using GMRS.

In the Ultra High Frequency (UHF) band, the device’s frequency range is 462-467. The unit has a wide frequency, making it an ideal device for outdoor events.

The unit has 22 channels each as well as 121 privacy codes that offer 2,662 combinations. Thus, it is quite easy for you to look for a vacant channel if you and your buddy want to communicate privately.

The Motorola T402 uses GMRS and FMR, offers some 22 channels as well as 121 privacy codes. The product is chiefly used in the United States and Canada. According to the manufacturer, the product has a license issued by America’s Federal Communications Commission (FCC).

Another good feature of the product is that it can provide you with real-time weather as it has 11 weather channels. These include seven channels from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) with an alert feature.

 

Features

Some of Motorola T260’s features:

• Dual-battery feature
• NOAA weather alerts
• Scanning feature for the channel
• Radio compatibility
• The radio is kept silent when there is no signal
• Low-battery display
• Backlit display
• Keypad lock feature
• iVOX/VOX function: Have worry-free communication without the need to touch the device

 

Some of Motorola T402’s features:

• Weather alert system
• Wide range of channel frequency
• Comes in yellow color, making it is helpful to look in the dark
• Dual-battery feature
• Built-in flashlight
• Sleek design
• Portable
• Water-resistant
• Keypad lock
• VoX/iVoX function: Hands-free setting using earphones or earpieces

 

Price

The Motorola T260 is sold for as low as $52.42 on Amazon, which, if you think about it, is quite cheap for the features it provides. If you compare the unit with its other competitors, the price of the unit is a steal, particularly if you are thinking of using the device for your family as well as outdoor activities.

Compared with the Motorola T260, Motorola T402 is slightly more expensive: on Amazon, the walkie-talkie price starts at $59.70 and beyond. If you are price-conscious, consider the unit’s price a good option already considering the features it has and compared with some of the high-level types out in the market.

Looking at its feature as well as durability, the unit is already a good buy.

 

Conclusion – Motorola T260 vs T402

The Motorola T260 is easy to use, affordable, compact, and lightweight. It also offers various specifications, such as the Dual battery and iVOX/VOX features. The device is handy, and with only a few buttons to use, it can be an ideal product for light packers.

This walkie-talkie is an amazing choice if you are planning to get your first unit. The project has basic functions that would get you ready not only for outdoor activities but also for sudden weather changes and emergencies.

However, the product may not be a good choice when you intend to do extreme water activities. As I said earlier, the product is not waterproof, and therefore not safe when you plan to use it in, say, water sports or activities. Chances are, such activities may damage your walkie-talking.

For its NiMH battery, the Motorola T260 also has relatively low battery life. It also does not have a battery saver feature. This is why you should always have an extra set of batteries at hand for a possible back-up in case you need it.

Overall, the Motorola T260 is your average walkie-talkie that offers the functions you and your companions need. The unit is also quite a steal for its price.

I also have no problem getting the Motorola T402. It is durable, has a sleek design, and like the Motorola T260, is also very affordable. Without a doubt, the device offers essential functions with no qualms or issues whatsoever.

It is an excellent walkie-talkie for families who like hanging out together and doing many outdoor activities.

But I think compared with the Motorola T260, the Motorola T402’s greatness really lies in its capacity to provide services during emergencies and disasters. Although it does not have emergency alerts, you can still get real-time weather alerts. It is also waterproof, so you would not have any problems if you use it during disasters. You just need to check the device’s battery compartments are sufficiently covered so their insides would not be affected by water.

So, let us go back to the question: “Which of these walkie-talkies should I buy?”

I think that would depend on where you are planning to use the product. Are you buying one for an outdoor picnic with your family or a mountain trip with your office colleagues? Then you might like Motorola T260 better. Think of the unit as your first walkie-talkie: no frills, and just give the features you want.

If you plan to use one for emergency measures or want to prepare for a storm coming your way, you might want to buy Motorola T402. Think of the Motorola T402 as your go-to walkie-talkie when it comes to disaster preparations and emergencies.

Either product, you would not go wrong, no matter your reason for buying one. Motorola products have always been impressive, given their cheap prices, portability, and features that give the most bang for your buck.

View the Motorola T260 on Amazon* View the Motorola T402 on Amazon*