I always wanted to experience communicating with colleagues, workmates, and leisure buddies in the best possible manner. Often, signal strength is very poor and unstable in status, and it stresses me out all the time, especially when I do the thing I love most—hiking. Such a matter encouraged me to try something new—something cool and well suited to my purpose. Thus, I decided to buy the Retevis RT81 walkie-talkie. Indeed, I was not wrong in choosing their brand because they offer the best walkie-talkies in town, meeting my standards in terms of overall quality. Here are some facts to know more about Retevis RT81 and why should you—like I did—choose this product.
Specs
- Brand: Retevis
- Range: not stated
- Power output: 10 watts
- Frequency ranges: 400-470MHz
- Battery: Lithium-ion Rechargeable battery
- Size: 4.72 x 2.28 x 1.5 inches
- Weight: 0.58 lb
- Waterproof: yes (IP67)
- License needed: yes (FCC License)
Scope of Delivery
The Retevis RT81 gets delivered in a package of two radios. It comes with Lithium-ion batteries and charging stations. The package also includes 2 antennas, 2 adapter, 2 chargers, 2 belt clips, 2 slings, and an English user manual.
Waterproof
Retevis RT81 is an IP67 waterproof radio, which means that it can last one meter under freshwater for half an hour, while it can stay submerged one and a half meter under saltwater for half an hour as well. It assured me because I always go to humid areas during hiking. Moreover, this walkie-talkie also has a dust-proof feature, making it appear well even after going through sandy and dusty terrains every time I spend leisure with my friends. I believe that this type of protection makes Retevis RT81 perfect for other purposes, too, such as farming, foresting, camping, Island hopping, long road trips, and even outreach programs.
Power Source
I used a rechargeable 2200mAh Lithium-ion battery—a type of battery that many electronic devices use today. It is popular and very widely patronized nowadays, especially for military and aerospace practices. This battery takes 2-3 hours to charge fully, yet it lasts 24-hours of straight usage. It is one thing that I like about this product; it allowed me to do the stuff I want without any interruptions because of the power shortage. In terms of charging, I followed the manual instruction, which indicates a three-step process of plugging the adaptor, inserting the battery or the device, and ensuring a good charging contact. Retevis RT81 comes with a complete set of charging equipment, which is also available on the Retevis main web page and other sites such as Amazon, eBay, etc.
Range and Frequencies
Retevis RT81 walkie-talkie has a 400-470mHz frequency range, a UHF, or an Ultra High Frequency. This frequency allows the device to transmit messages to each other in a wider range than VHF or Very High Frequency, which uses a 136-174mHz frequency range. I searched about the usual ranges of other walkie-talkies, and I discovered that they commonly work at a limit of 500 meters in the city. But since RT81 uses an Ultra High Frequency, the transmission is supported even at longer distances. Moreover, Retevis RT81 walkie-talkie allows users to talk even at a 2-3 miles distance. It works with 32 channels in two modes: digital and analog; however, using these would require an FCC license following FCC Code Part 95 on GMRS bands. Retevis RT81 functions in foreign countries, too, such as Canada, Australia, etc.
Features
What I love most about the Retevis RT81 walkie-talkie are its high-end features. It has a 10 watts high power capacity, which enables it to function in long-distance transmission. However, since it uses frequency signals, it can be affected by the setting, environment, weather, and frequencies. I also find it one of the best walkie-talkies because it uses an Ultra High Frequency, which perfectly suits outdoor purposes, whether in the city or outside. Moreover, this model by Retevis can function in 32 channels, two zones with 16 channels each. I would also testify about this product’s convenience as it provides a VOX function, making me capable of operating it single-handedly, simultaneous with other tasks that I need to manage.
Retevis RT81 comes with multiple communication methods, including private radio calls, group calls, and digital calls. Thus, transactions and transferring information become a lot easier for users on both ends. Furthermore, transfer delay is never a problem because of RT81’s ToT or Timeout Timer, which prevents other users from overstaying in the channel. Regarding the device’s physical condition, Retevis designed RT81 with a level 6 dust protection, performing complete prevention from dust to damage the inside system; and IP67 waterproof protection, making it versatile in all types of weather conditions. Thus, maintaining it in good condition would not be stressful anymore. Retevis RT81 walkie-talkie features an encrypted system that secures all communication, considering public safety and privacy. These are the things that make Retevis RT81 one of the best walkie-talkies in terms of functionality.
Other RT81’s external features are keypad tones, call tones, and auto squelch. It does not produce pitches that irritate the user whenever the keys are pressed. Instead, each keypad has a unique sound; hence, these do not use equal temperament. In terms of call tones, I believe that both ends of the two-way walkie-talkie use a uniform fashion, regardless of whether it processes a private call, digital call, or group call. Furthermore, Retevis RT81’s auto squelch is one of my personal favorites among the device’s features. Auto squelch is a feature that prevents transmitting devices, usually two-way radios, from making noises when there is no signal present. In general, Retevis RT81’s elements have the best technicalities in terms of the transmission process through its frequency range and protective features.
Price
An $89.99 for a two-way UHF walkie-talkie is a big win, considering its features, package inclusions, function, and overall quality! Retevis RT81 has a medium price concerning other walkie-talkies in the market—it is very justifiable, though. It has a 4.7 out of 5.0 rating in the market, showing the customers’ satisfaction rate. This high-end walkie-talkie has an excellent performance, which perfectly matches its price in the market. Moreover, since it has a high protection feature, purchasing protective accessories would be unnecessary; thus, maintenance is no longer a problem.
Pros
- Self-maintaining
- Has a wide frequency range
- Supports long-distance transmissions inside the city
- Versatile with any type of weather
- Capable of standing different types of environment
- Has a lasting battery
- Perfect for any purpose
Cons
- Requires FCC license
- Has a bit higher price
- Can be interrupted by extreme weather conditions
Conclusion – Retevis RT81 Review
I have always been a fan of outdoor activities, and I enjoy it most with a company. So, I decided to purchase Retevis RT81 to make my hobby a lot better—fortunately, it was a great decision! This walkie-talkie has a great built-up, starting from its Lithium-ion batteries that last up to 25 hours with only 2-3 hours charging time, down to its wide frequency range that enables the transmission to occur in wider distances. Moreover, Retevis has designed RT81 to last in any weather condition, along with its IP67 waterproof and dust-proof protective components. On the other hand, this walkie-talkie has a higher price than other walkie-talkies, which comes with an FCC license requirement; however, I would say that this is pretty reasonable because of its reputation for highly-rated functionality. Nevertheless, Retevis RT81 is one of the best walkie-talkies that I have ever used. Certainly, I would continue using it for a better experience in leisure and smoother communication with colleagues.
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