Whenever looking for the perfect walkie-talkies, it is crucial to consider the durability features of every model and whether these make the price affordable. Unfortunately, you may wind up buying a costly walkie-talkie with a slew of functions that you do not require for the tasks over which you want to use it.
Both Two-Way radios of the Talkabout series, Motorola T465, and Motorola T600, are featured in this review. Although both offer friendly built-in functions, one will undoubtedly suit you fine than another depending on the type of tasks in which your demands meet.
Motorola T465 | 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 batterie or 3 AA Alkaline batteries | NiMH rechargeable batterie 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 T465 vs. T600
Setup
Since both are handheld radios, the T465 and T600 had good results for ease of setup and usage. You’re good to go after learning how to unlock the back panel and attach its battery pack.
When compared to Motorola T600, the Motorola T465 is easier to install and operate. After inserting the charged battery packs and safely turning on the devices, you must configure it to your favorite channel and frequency. Hit the push-to-talk switch, and you’re ready to go.
The Motorola T600’s battery latch is a little more difficult to open the first time. Because the Motorola T600 has so many additional functions, it is a little less simple to operate on the first try than the Motorola T465. You will need to review the user’s handbook for all this and rehearse operating it until you’re satisfied you would use it before venturing out.
You will not have to purchase any extra products before both Motorola T465 and Motorola T600 will operate the very first time you make them ready. Most of the supplies you’ll need for this are all in the package, which is a great advantage.
Waterproof
If you’d like to go on water escapades, you’ll feel glad to hear how both versions feature waterproof. This functionality is among the factors of how these walkie-talkie versions are superior to other walkie-talkie variants.
The Motorola T465 and T600 are both weatherproof and waterproof. The Motorola T600, on the other hand, receives a better rating from Ingress Protection (IP) Code, with such an IP67 classification. This rating implies that if anyone dips a Motorola T600 into the water by mistake, this can remain underwater within 30 minutes in down to 1 meter of water depth and can still work normally after you get it. Moreover, Motorola T465 has an IP54 rating, which means it can endure severe rain.
Power source
The Motorola T465 and Motorola T600 both offer dual power choices. This implies that you may use both rechargeable and single-use batteries to power your walkie-talkies. NiMH battery packs and a charger are included in the set. You’ll need to buy ‘AA’ alkaline batteries when you wish to utilize single-use batteries.
On a fully charged battery, the Motorola T465 may run, lasting 10 hours using NiMH batteries. Using an ‘AA’ battery for both the T465 can extend the battery life to approximately 26 hours. In contrast, the Motorola T600 can run for up to 9 hours using NiMH batteries or 23 hours using ‘AA’ battery packs.
Range
According to the makers, the Motorola T465 has a potential range of up to 35 miles on ideal conditions. The Motorola T600 has an effective range of 36 miles. You must, however, control your demands. The fact is that, once again, these figures are based on the best-case scenario. Both have ranges of up to six miles with little impediments and widely open water.
The Motorola T600 has a noticeable drawback in that its range declines when used over wide water bodies. This seems to be in considerable contrast with its design, intended for usage across open water. Nonetheless, the Motorola T600 is a mile greater in range than the Motorola T465.
Frequencies
The Motorola T465 and Motorola T600 can broadcast on GMRS (General Mobile Radio Radio Service), including FRS (Family Radio Service) channels over 462MHz and 467MHz. Each device frequency band has 22 channels, with 121 privacy codes.
If you’re searching for the walkie-talkie, which doesn’t require a license, both Motorola models will suffice as long as you simply avoid using the GMRS channels. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) states that using FRS channels over the U.S. doesn’t demand special licenses.
Channels 8 – 14 are reserved for FRS operations only, while the remaining are for the GMRS network.
Features
There are several similarities between the Motorola T465 and the Motorola T600. They both offer adjustable ring and button tones, including a keypad lock, which prevents your options from being quickly overridden if you accidentally hit any button.
Both versions also include the VibraCall feature, which suppresses ring tones and allows the phones to vibrate rather than alert tone for incoming calls. These devices also offer an iVOX/VOX hands-free functionality that allows users to access the radio using voice commands.
These both include a LED flashlight and backlight features so that you can use them even at night, in dimly lit areas, or during power outages. The two versions also include auto-squelch with Motorola’s unique Quiet Talk (QT) technology, which reduces interference over conversations.
The Auto Squelch function can eliminate interference, allowing you to receive clear signals. These versions have a nuisance erase feature to guarantee no interruptions when delivering your communications to the other user. There’s really no excuse why one can’t recognize the user on the other end of the line.
Both radios’ PTT buttons provide a power boost feature to aid extended range. Unfortunately, it should be noted, PTT only applies when you are communicating on the GMRS channel. However, it will not make a real difference. You should avoid utilizing this feature because it will only reduce battery life.
Since we’re on the matter of battery capacity, these models have battery-saving capabilities, as well as dual power alternatives. If you’re not using the radios, it will go into time-out status and will notify you when the battery is getting low.
The Motorola T600 flashlight offers a red light LED mode, which would also aid for night vision. Both Motorola T465 and the Motorola T600 incorporate an alarm notification button which, once pressed, throws out a blaring distress sound that lasts around 22 seconds to facilitate others in locating you in the event of a disaster.
Hence, Motorola T465 and Motorola T600 both provide emergency functions. They contain a built-in LED flashlight, which is useful while utilizing two-way radios at night or in an emergency.
They also could check National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) channels of weather.
The Motorola T600 has a significant advantage over the Motorola T465. T600 has fully weatherproof and waterproof capabilities. It can be immersed in water lasting up to 30 minutes and not deteriorate when you extract it. T600 is a long-lasting handset built out of lighter weight, which keeps it out from falling deep underwater.
Furthermore, getting into touch with any open body of water triggers the device’s LED lighting, allowing you to readily discover and grab it if it falls on the water.
Considering its IP Code classification and build quality, the Motorola T465 and Motorola T600 can both be reasonably durable devices. The Motorola T600, on the other hand, is larger and heavier than the Motorola T465.
Price
The Motorola T465 costs $104.99, which is more expensive than comparable two-way transmitters on the market. Nonetheless, considering its many built-in functions and durability, this walkie-talkie remains a great buy at its price.
The Motorola T600, on the other hand, costs $119.99. This has far more built-in functions compared to the Motorola T465. Hence it is slightly more expensive. The prices shown above are all from Amazon.
However, it is crucial to remember that just because another walkie-talkie variant has significantly more functions than the other does not immediately mean it is better for the cheaper type. Based on the nature of such tasks wherein the walkie-talkies could be used, one model may be a preferable, more premium pick than another and, depending on the number of advantages available.
If you require a walkie-talkie that won’t become worthless if it unintentionally gets drenched or plunged in water, the Motorola T600 is a great bargain though it is a little more expensive. The T600 can help you explore outdoor activities or camping near a body of water.
Conclusion – Motorola T465 vs T600
Before determining which one of these two handheld radio models seems to be the best buy for you, analyze the implications of the activities you would be operating the walkie-talkies for. There are very few built-in functions on the Motorola two-way radio T465 compared to the Motorola two-way radio T600.
Nevertheless, it is salient to note that the Motorola T600’s extra features are largely more advanced watertight and water-activated functions. The emergency features on both versions differ slightly, but they will both accomplish their job adequately.
If you don’t want to continually worry whether a walkie-talkie would still operate after being submerged in water, just go for the Motorola Talkabout T600. It’s useful if you really need to pack and utilize these walkie-talkies when participating in water activities such as canoeing, water rafting, sailing, and camping near water bodies.
Furthermore, keep in mind that the Motorola T600’s range declines significantly when used above open water. To be honest, that appears to contradict its very waterproof build. But, compared to the Motorola T465, the overall coverage of the Motorola T600 is kind of superior.
If there seems to be little chance that your walkie-talkie would be completely submerged, go for the Motorola Talkabout T465. Consider this when you are going hiking or backpacking in areas not very close to open water.
Also, because Motorola T465 can be sufficiently waterproof and weatherproof, you may use it in adverse weather situations such as rain and thunderstorms. It’s also way better in setting up and function than the Motorola T600 because it has fewer characteristics.
The bottom line is that every aspect of the walkie-talkie works as it should be. Both didn’t come with any significant shocks or disappointments. It is a standard hiker communicator, which is also appropriate for many other outdoor activities such as hunting, climbing, snowboarding, and event planning.
View the Motorola T465 on Amazon* View the Motorola T600 on Amazon*