Retevis RT21 vs RT22

Choosing the best walkie-talkie based on your needs requires careful research on specifications, usage, and functionality. Whatever you’re looking for, there are certainly many options in the market to watch out for.

That’s why we will be checking out these two outstanding devices from Retevis, perfect for clear communication, indoor and outdoor use, namely – RT21 and RT22. Read on to know which one is best suited for you.

Comparison – Retevis RT21 vs. RT22

Setup

Both Retevis RT21 and RT22 are easy to set up.

Retevis RT21 only needs to plug in the battery and turn the knob to switch it on. After, you can set up the channels for the device in software. Make sure that the handsets have the same frequency to allow for two-way communication.

Once you switch it on, press the PTT button to turn on the receiver while turning off the transmitter. Since Retevis RT21 has only a few buttons, it’s easy to familiarize yourself with.

On the other hand, Retevis RT22 has the same set up as RT21. To use it, press the PTT button to start communicating. Place it one inch away from the lips or nose for maximum clarity.

To make use of other features for both devices, you can refer to the manual. The manual is relatively easy to understand, so it’s easy to get used to the functionalities. Moreover, all the information you need is in the user guide.

 

Waterproof

Retevis RT21 is not waterproof because it’s exclusively used for security and business.

However, because of its solid shell, it is drop- and heat-resistant. This means you don’t have to worry about dropping it accidentally because it won’t get damaged. Thus, you can trust this device for durability.

Retevis RT22 is not waterproof as well. But, it’s dustproof and has an anti-fall feature, making it a durable device. It is perfect for biking, skiing, cruise, and other outdoor activities because of its compact size.

Therefore, both devices don’t have waterproof features. However, both can handle drop excellently, which is a useful feature to have for a two-way radio.

 

Power source

This is where the difference shows between the two devices. The Retevis RT21 uses a 1,100 mAh Li-ion battery, which is said to last you for about 10 to 12 hours when used regularly. To recharge it, it can take up to 4 hours to complete.

On the other hand, Retevis RT22 has 1000 mAh, which you can use for 8 to 12 hours. Sharing a similar battery type to its competition, the Retevis RT22 is rechargeable and has a multi-charging feature. The charger allows you to simultaneously charge multiple handsets, taking about 3 to 4 hours to complete.

Both devices last much longer if it’s not in operation all the time. When comparing the two, Retevis RT21 allows you more time to use it compared to its competition. However, it is because Retevis RT21 has a more demanding job than RT22. You can use the former for security and business purposes while using the latter for simple indoor and outdoor activities.

 

Range

Retevis RT21 can reach its range between 0.5 miles to 2.5 miles depending on various conditions such as terrain, weather, and obstructions based on the product information. You can achieve an extended range in an open field and few obstructions with Retevis RT21. Also, you can communicate even when used between buildings with the device. However, the range might be affected.

With Retevis RT22, it can reach up to 2 miles when used in ideal conditions such as an open field with minimal obstructions. Moreover, if you use it in a building, the range may fall short of the declared maximum range.

 

Frequencies

The frequency band for both devices is Ultra High Frequency with 400 to 480 Mhz. UHF means the walkie-talkie can transmit a message even with obstructions in the line of sight. Hence, this is why both are recommended to use indoors with walls and buildings as the main obstructions.

Both can transmit 16 channels with some privacy codes to prevent interrupting the communication. Moreover, it is compatible with other radio models if set to the same frequency, allowing for smooth two-way communication.

Both have similar frequency features, no matter where you look at it. Also, it uses an FRS channel, which you do not require an FCC license to operate.

 

Features

A walkie talkie with excellent features is much preferable. Besides, we want to buy that is worth it while not sacrificing the quality. Let’s go over both devices’ main features to compare, which has more features and better suits your needs.

For Retevis RT21, it has the following features such as:

• Sturdy and portable walkie talkies:
  It is a drop and heat resistant device. If you drop it many times, it won’t easily break, making it a durable walkie talkie. It also comes with an aluminum shell and belt clip. These accessories won’t damage easily.
• Long-range and stable signal:
  It has an integrated antenna perfect for long-range transmission. It allows you to stay in line when used in buildings and underground for a range of up to 2.5 miles.
• Long battery life:
  With better life extending up to a maximum of 12 hours, you can enjoy longer communication with your friends and family. Once the mAh battery runs out, you can recharge it for 4 hours.
• Power-saving mode:
  When the battery is about to run out, it alarms you right away. It has a power-saving feature as well to turn off the device when not in use.
• Software configuration:
  With minimal buttons visible on the radio, you can tweak the software’s configuration, including channels and voice commands. It’s also ideal for hands-free communication.
• Secure line of communication:
  Aside from having private encryption, it secures your communication by shielding other people’s chatter or noisy environment through an earpiece. It reduces background noise in your surroundings. In this way, you and your friends can have smooth and undisturbed communication. It also has a channel lock feature to search available channels and prevent third-party interruptions.
• Bi-lingual:
  The device responds to voice commands in two languages, namely, Chinese and English.

On the other hand, Retevis RT22 is perfect for family and business use. Moreover, it offers the following features:

• Long-range communication:
  The range is up to 2 miles under ideal conditions, with a reasonable number of obstructions, such as buildings.
• Power-saving feature:
  This feature activates when the device is almost running out of battery life or not used within 10 seconds. With this, you can use the walkie talkie for an extended time.
• Channel-lock feature:
  It allows for uninterrupted communication. It sets the walkie talkie to one channel and prevents interruptions from other channels.
• Auto-squelch:
  It lessens the background noise during communication.
• Integrated antenna:
  The integrated antenna provides clear and uninterrupted communication. It penetrates through walls and other obstructions to ensure the message is transmitted.
• VOX feature:
  It allows for hands-free communication with just a simple talk over the device and pressing the PTT button.
• Low-battery indicator:
  The device starts blinking whenever the battery is about to run out. Don’t worry about rushing into a charging station because it alerts you ahead of time.
• Multiple-charging:
  It comes with a safe multi-charging feature that lets you charge multiple batteries all at once. This charger protects the device from overcharging, over-voltage, and short circuits.
• Adjustable Audio Quality:
  You can adjust the Voice Activated Transmit from level 0 to 9 to get the best audio quality.
• Compact and durable size:
  With its compact size of 4×2.1×0.78 inches, you can easily place it in your pocket wherever you go. It is also durable because of its sturdy material, and it comes with sturdy belt clips.
• Emergency alerts:
  The device alarms to inform you if there’s an emergency from the other line. It’s ideal for people who value security and safety above else.

 

Price

On Amazon, Retevis RT21 is priced at $59.99 for a pack of four. On the other hand, it costs $109.99 for a pack of six for Retevis R22. Compared to other walkie-talkies, both devices are budget-friendly for what it offers.

In terms of price to performance ratio, Retevis RT21 is a game-changer. As an exclusive FRS channel device, it’s reasonable that it is affordable. Designed to use indoors and transmit a message through walls and doors, Retevis RT21 is a go-to buy if you want to use it for security and in establishments.

Retevis R22 does not fall behind in affordability and features because it’s suitable for indoor and outdoor activities. The features do not compromise despite its compact size.

Both devices have almost the same features, with slight differences in the purpose of usage. You can also buy a package of two or four when buying both devices, depending on where you buy it.

 

Conclusion – Retevis RT21 vs RT22

So, which do you prefer, Retevis RT21 or Retevis RT22? Both offer affordability with high-quality performance, which is worth every penny. You should consider where you want to use it and what specific features you want in a walkie-talkie.

If you want to use a walkie-talkie for security purposes, you can vouch for Retevis RT21 to do the work for you during events, in business, school, or in church. Depending on the obstructions, the range can vary between 0.5 to 2.5 miles. Regardless of the range, it can still break through fewer obstacles to transmit the message.

It also comes with a secret earpiece to reduce background noise and enhance seamless communication. Hence, It prioritizes clear and safe communication.

However, if you intend to use a walkie-talkie for office use, simple outdoor activity, or on a cruise, you can rely on Retevis RT22. If you ever run out of battery, it has a multiple-capacity charger to charge many walkie talkies all at once. It also alerts you if there’s an emergency from the other line.

A word of caution, make sure not to expose both devices to water as it does not have a waterproof feature. Regardless, both devices do not compromise on price compared to what it offers.

Personally, I highly recommend both devices. Both have excellent communication range and provide features that a walkie-talkie should have.  But it’s up to you to decide which one you prefer.

View the Retevis RT21 on Amazon* View the Retevis RT22 on Amazon*