Nowadays, the boost of technology in all aspects of our lives is inevitable. Innovations keep on coming that contribute to our convenience and favor. For people like me who love outdoor activities, using a walkie-talkie will help us have better, more comfortable, and faster communication. Apart from mobile smartphones, a walkie-talkie is a must and helpful. Motorola offers fantastic features and sleek designs that come with a justifiable amount from mobile phones, walkie-talkies, and other technological innovations that are available nowadays. Most importantly, it is cost-effective, and it comes with excellent quality and durability.
But today, I am going to compare two of the leading models of Motorola Walkie Talkies. The first one is the Motorola T402, and the second one is the Motorola T600. Without further delay, let us begin!
Motorola T402 | Motorola T600 | |
Brand | ||
Range | 35 miles | 36 miles |
Power Output | no information | 0.5-2 watts |
Frequency Ranges | 462-467 MHz (FRS/GMRS) | 462-467 MHz (FRS/GMRS) |
License needed | yes, if GMRS channels will be used (FCC license) | yes, if GMRS channels will be used (FCC license) |
Waterproof | ||
Emergency Alert | ||
Auto Squelch | ||
LED Flashlight | ||
Keypad Lock | ||
Low Battery Alert | ||
Weather Channels | ||
Call Tones | 20 | 20 |
Power Source | NiMH rechargeable battery or 3 AA Alkaline batteries | NiMH rechargeable battery or 3 AA Alkaline batteries |
Size | 7.54 x 2.26 x 1.37 inches | 7.78 x 2.4 x 1.5 inches |
Weight | 0.43 lb | 0.4 lb (without battery) |
Scope of Delivery |
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My Rating | ||
Comparison – Motorola T402 vs. T600
Setup
Let me begin this one with the Motorola T402, one thing I look for in radio is how simple it is to set up, and this walkie-talkie is no exception. The battery hatch is simple to open and close, but it can be a little difficult the first time, but one thing is for sure, once you get the hang of it, it will become as easy as one to three. But after you’ve done so, all you have to do now is insert the batteries and turn the unit on by pressing the necessary button.
As a result, if you’re considering purchasing the Motorola T600, I suggest that you practice using it and familiarize yourself with all of its features before taking it out with you. Because, once you are already thoroughly acquainted with how it works and how it transmits, Motorola T600 will meet all your needs and expectations.
After enlisting the whole setup of Motorola T600, I will now tackle the structure of Motorola T402. First off, using Motorola T402 is easier than it seems. I’m surprised that I can use it after recharging the battery or replacing it with three AA (alkaline) batteries. For more details about how to do it for the first time, I recommend reading the product instructions (also included in the box). Also, I double-check if all of the appropriate accessories are there. And in terms of charging, install the rechargeable battery first to see if there is an increase in battery life. If this isn’t the case, it’s time to charge the battery.
Waterproof
The Motorola T600 has an IP67 rating, which can withstand a 30-minute submersion in water and still work. Since the walkie-talkie’s whole body is made up of dense neon-green rubber, all of the buttons in the walkie-talkie are waterproof!
In reality, the radio’s water resistance is its most vital feature. Most radios will cease operating if they are submerged in water, but this one will not.
On the other hand, The Motorola T402 is only weatherproof and meets IP-54 requirements, but it’s waterproof! Heat, dust, thunder, and different environmental patterns are not a problem for it. Only make sure the battery compartments are sealed to prevent the insides of the walkie-talkie from being damaged.
Power Source
Since the Motorola T600 has a dual battery capability, you may use either the 2 NiMH rechargeable batteries that come with the pack or 3 AA disposable alkaline batteries.
You should get a battery life of around 9 hours if you use rechargeable batteries. After that, you must charge these batteries for approximately 8 hours before using them again.
You will get around 23 hours of use if you convert to disposable batteries. So, if you’re going off the grid and won’t have access to a power supply, my suggestion is to always bring extra alkaline batteries with you.
Meanwhile, the Motorola T402 comes with a rechargeable NiMH battery and a USB charging cord, with a battery life of up to 10 hours. If there is no electricity in the field, I can also use three AA alkaline batteries. Given sporadic use, the battery life could last up to 21 hours and last for a few days.
Range
The Motorola T600 has an official range of 36 miles. But it is in ideal circumstances, which most of us would not have. I got a clear signal in hilly terrain for a couple of miles when I used this radio. In the open, I was able to cover up to 6 miles, which is very impressive.
On the contrary, according to Motorola T402, the range of it is about 35 miles. It comes in handy when I’m out, mainly when I’m biking around the neighborhood, camping, or hiking. However, depending on the circumstances, the range measurement can differ. We must ensure that the radios are not more than five feet apart for optimal performance when using the product.
Frequencies
The Motorola T600, like all Walkabout radios, is compatible with both FRS and GMRS frequencies. 462MHz to 467MHz is the frequency spectrum. You don’t need a license if you’re using the FRS channels; but, if you want to use the GMRS frequencies, you’ll need to get a permit from the FCC (Federal Communications Commission).
Moreover, there is one more thing you should remember about frequencies. The 0.5Watt power button can be used while using FRS frequencies. You won’t get a power boost even though you click the 2Watt high-power button. You’ll kill the battery’s life. The GMRS frequencies are given a 2Watt power boost.
On the other hand, The Motorola T402 employs FMR / GMRS technology which provides approximately 22 networks with 121 privacy codes. It is mostly found in the United States and Canada, and the product description indicates that it is FCC licensed. It has 11 weather channels, including 7 NOAA channels with a warning button, which allows it to provide real-time alerts on weather conditions.
Features
For Motorola T600, some of this radio’s features are truly amazing! If you drop it in water, it floats face-up, and the flashlight instantly illuminates, making it easy to locate – particularly in the dark. Both white and red LEDs are present in the flashlight (the red is supposed to help with night vision). The Motorola T600 also has an emergency warning function that, when enabled, can produce a loud siren sound followed by a 20-second transmission.
There are 22 channels available, 11 of which are weather channels. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is represented on seven of the eleven weather channels (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration). You may also set a warning if bad weather is forecasted for your region.
There are also 20 different call tones to choose from, all of which can be personalized – a commendable function! A dual watch, backlit monitor, battery meter, priority check, Auto Squelch to avoid interruption, a keypad lock, a time-out timer, and a Nuisance uninstall button are among the other features.
However, the Motorola T402 has a weather warning system, which I believe would be beneficial in the long term because it has 11 weather channels and 7 NOAA channels. FMR / GMRS has a wide variety of channel frequencies with a total of 22 tracks. It’s a bright yellow hue that’s easy to see in the morning.
Also, Motorola T402 has a rechargeable battery that can last up to 10 hours and use 2 AA alkaline batteries in a power failure or an emergency. It can also last for a few days with intermittent use. It also has a built-in flashlight that can be used at night and, in most situations, in emergencies where illumination is needed, making it ideal for the outdoors.
I would state that Motorola T402 is designed to assist in emergencies and as a general outdoor kit. It is incredibly convenient due to its streamlined architecture and portability. It meets the IP54 standard for water resistance. It provides us with a range of up to 35 miles.
Price
To begin with, Motorola T600 is currently available for $82.50 on Amazon and $119.95 at REI. It has a suggested retail price of $120.
The Motorola T600 is a little expensive than other brands, but the value you get for your money is justified by the number of features you get.
However, the Motorola T402 costs about $ 49.99 on Amazon. For those that are price-aware, such as me, this is already a decent choice because it can be compared to high-level styles and performs admirably. Based on the features and reliability, the price is mid-range instead of other high-end brands with similar characteristics.
Conclusion – Motorola T402 vs T600
To sum it up, I believe the Motorola T402 is a good buy, mainly because it is a well-known brand. We’ve been loyal Motorola customers for a long time. Aside from its reliability, design, and affordability, the product performs essential functions to me. Unfortunately, despite T402’s great features, I also met some inabilities. While using it outdoors, we were unable to communicate freely with this product. We may use it for other essential purposes, such as an accident that might arise along the way. It’s also important to note that if you are looking for an affordable walkie-talkie with great features already, T402 is a good buy.
On the contrary, the Motorola T600 has a lot of cool features compared to T402. It has a healthy battery life and a long-range. The built-in encryption codes and the various weather and daily outlets are also a big bonus. The separated frequencies are also extremely beneficial. Also, for those who spend a lot of time on the water, T600 is ideal for you. However, compared to T402, T600 is way more expensive but rest assured, it comes with great features and potentialities.
Considering everything, if I were to buy a walkie-talkie of my choice, I would choose the Motorola T600.
View the Motorola T402 on Amazon* View the Motorola T600 on Amazon*