Do you need a walkie-talkie with silent or stealth features, so that loud crackling sounds from unexpected incoming calls do not disrupt your hunting game plan? Or maybe you are looking for a walkie-talkie with additional emergency features to make you feel secure and safe when you go on your outdoor trips?
I think that the Motorola Talkabout Two-Way Radio T465 might be just what you are looking for. Below is my review of this model.
Specs
- Brand: Motorola
- Range: 35 miles
- Power output: no information
- Frequency ranges: 462-467 MHz (FRS/GMRS)
- Battery: NiMH rechargeable battery or 3 AA Alkaline batteries
- Size: 7.54 x 2.26 x 1.37 inches
- Weight: 0.43 lb
- Waterproof: yes (IP54)
- License needed: yes, if GMRS channels will be used (FCC license)
Scope of Delivery
The Motorola T465 can come with two or four two-way radios handsets per package, depending on the seller. The package also includes belt clips for each handset; two earphones with PTT microphones; two micro-USB wall charging cables; two NiMH rechargeable battery sets; a carry case; a user’s guide manual; an accessory brochure; and a one-year warranty card.
Setup
Once you have installed the batteries and turned the handset on successfully, you will have to set the handsets to the same channel and interference elimination code. You can find a list of channels and frequencies in the enclosed user’s manual. After that, the handsets are ready for use.
Waterproof
The Motorola T465 can certainly stand the test of harsh weather conditions because it is waterproof. The weatherproof design of this model has an IP54 rating according to the Ingress Protection (IP) Code.
Power Source
The Motorola T465 has two power options. This means that you can use either rechargeable batteries or alkaline batteries to power it. The package includes NiMH rechargeable batteries, and operating the handsets on these batteries will make it last up to 10 hours.
The package also includes a micro USB Battery Charging Adapter that you can use to recharge the NiMH batteries. Another battery option is to use 3 AA alkaline batteries that will make handset use last up to 26 hours but are not included in the package.
Range
According to the manufacturer, the maximum range for the Motorola T465 can reach up to 35 miles. This is if the walkie-talkies are used in ideal conditions. Ideal conditions include several factors, such as the walkie-talkies being used within a clear line of sight or with the least amount of obstructions, and in the best weather conditions.
Frequencies
The Motorola T465 allows for operation under the Family Radio Service (FRS) and General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS) frequency ranges. This range — from 462 to 467 MHz — covers 22 channels, all of which have Privacy Codes totaling 121.
When looking for a walkie-talkie that does not require a license, then the Motorola T465 fits this need, as long as you do not use the GMRS channels. According to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), operating FRS radios in the US does not require a license.
The channels that are exclusive to FRS operations are channels 8 to 14 so just use these. The rest of the channels are shared with the GMRS system.
To know more about the FCC rules and regulations that cover FRS and GMRS, you can read it here.
Features
Aside from the standard physical knobs and buttons, the Motorola T465 has an emergency alert button and a flashlight button. Its Push-To-Talk (PTT) button has a power boost option so you can increase the range of your transmission. However, use this feature wisely as this might contribute to decreasing battery life since boosting transmission means increasing the power output. Its LCD is backlit so you can use these even at night.
The Motorola T465 has iVOX/VOX hands-free feature and the brand’s signature Quiet Talk (QT) feature. The iVOX/VOX allows you to operate the handset using your voice rather than your hands even without using accessories. QT allows you to filter out noise from other sources while you are communicating with compatible Motorola radios. It also has a VibraCall Alert which, when activated, silently alerts you by vibrating for incoming calls. However, even though these “stealth” features exist, the handsets create a loud noise when scanning for channels and before its squelch feature kicks in to contain background noise that it detects.
Its emergency features include the LED flashlight that is built-in will certainly come in handy during unforeseen emergency situations or sudden power outages. Another feature is the Emergency Alert Button which, when pressed, will transmit a distress signal. To help you further in ensuring your safety for outdoor trips, the Motorola T465 includes access to 11 NOAA weather channels to keep you updated on weather conditions. It also has an emergency alert for weather-related matters such as flash floods, thunderstorms, tornadoes, and emergency evacuations.
The Motorola T465 is Eco Smart. It will not use up much power when you are not actively using it. It also has a time-out timer that locks the handset when it is on idle mode.
Price
The Motorola T465 is not as cheap as other two-way radios in the market. However, given its many built-in features and its dependability, this walkie-talkie is still a good deal for its price.
Pros
- has an emergency alert button and flashlight
- has access to NOAA weather channels and reports
- has silent features like VibraCall and QT
- has VOX/iVOX hands-free
- wide range
- weatherproof
Cons
- belt clip does not hold very well
- antenna is fixed
- not as cheap as other similar or more simple radios
Conclusion – Motorola T465
The Motorola Talkabout Two-Way Radio T465 is a walkie-talkie that is packed with dependable features. It has hands-free features that will not restrict movement due to the need to hold a radio handset in one hand or to have earphones wires that can get in the way. This walkie-talkie model also has emergency features that can certainly add to your peace of mind when you set out on your outdoor trips. Plus, this radio is weatherproof and durable.
However, some of the features it offers contradicts their purpose. It does have silent features like the VibraCall and the QT. However, the handsets emit a loud sound when these are scanning for channels and frequencies. These also make noise before the squelch feature kicks in and fulfills its function of reducing background noise during transmissions. So, although this was “made for hunters” as the manufacturer advertised, these features may get in the way of a good hunting trip.
View on Amazon*FAQ
Where can I get a copy of the manual for the Motorola T465?
You can get a copy of the user’s manual for the Motorola Talkabout T100 online in this link:
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