Honestly, when we were trying to track down commercial two-way radios and long-range radios to share with you, it was pretty difficult. It was tough to find something that was a good balance between price and functionality. Yeah. There were a lot of commercial radios on the market, but some of them commanded thousands of dollars for a basic set-up. Luckily we stumbled across the Midland GXT1000, and we can’t wait to tell you about it!
What To Look For in Commercial Two Way Radios with Long Range
Before we talk about the features in a bit more depth, let’s give you a quick overview of them. Do bear in mind that we are reviewing the four-pack of radios on this page. However, you can also purchase the Midland GXT1000 in 6, 8, and 10 packs. This is why this radio is so fantastic for commercial use. We don’t think there is a single product out there that has made it as affordable to buy in bulk.
- Access to 50 GMRS channels
- Channel scanning
- 36-mile range
- Privacy features
- Waterproof
- Weather scanning features
Now, we do want to point out that this is a GMRS radio. This means that if you want to use the full functionality of the radio, you will need to obtain a license from the FCC. In fact, everybody that uses these radios will need a license. Thankfully, the cost isn’t that high. For a 10-year license, you are looking at $70 a go. However, this can quite quickly add up if you have a lot of staff that want to operate these radios. So, while the radios are cheap, the licensing may not be.
You get everything that you need to ‘get started’ in the box, so don’t worry about needing to pick up any additional equipment!
Who is This Radio For?
In our opinion, these radios work best for people outdoors. This is due to the massive range. We have yet to encounter a building that is 20-miles big, after all. Of course, this doesn’t mean that the radio can’t be used indoors, but it really seems to be in its element outside.
This is a radio that is suitable for anybody outdoors. We see a lot of value in using this in camping or hiking expeditions. We see it as useful for jobs, particularly security in a town or city. It is even great for an odd cycling adventure, although if you are using radio for that, you should probably pick up something that gives you more hands-free options.
The Range
Let’s start by talking about the range. After all, this is probably one of the most important elements of a two-way radio unit.
The range on the Midland GXT1000 is quoted as being at 36-miles. However, as with all radios, this is just marketing speak. While it is likely that the range is 36-miles, you are never going to be able to hit it. The only way in which you will come close to this range is if you found a random desert without a tree or obstacle in sight. You can then place somebody on the other side of the desert. 36 miles away and then, and only then, will you be able to communicate.
The problem is that there will always be obstacles regardless of the two radio vs walkie talkie debate. These will slow the radio waves down, and this will make it harder for them to reach their destination. We would say that, in most cases, you will be able to get 20 to 25 miles at a push with the Midland GXT1000. This is considerably further than most other similar handheld radios.
Privacy Features
You have several channels available for speaking in private, which is great. Although, to be honest, most people are not going to be butting into GMRS radio systems. Although, it is always wise to lock your conversations down wherever possible. After all, while it is unlikely that a lot of people will be listening in, there is still a chance!
You can connect a limitless number of radios to the same system. All of them will have access to these private channels. You can use most GMRS radios with this system. However, we recommend always buying the Midland GXT1000. It just makes everything that much easier to set-up.
The Battery
If there is one improvement we could make to this commercial two-way radio, it is that it needs a better battery.. Yes. The battery will last a day. This is about standard for two-way radios. However, this isn’t the point. The point is that a lot of people have reported that standard AA batteries in the unit will last a lot longer. So, if you do pick these radios up, we suggest getting some rechargeable AA batteries at the same time. It will make everything run a lot better for you.
Build Quality
You would think that with a product priced this low, the build quality would be abysmal. It isn’t. In fact, these are well-built radios. The buttons feel smooth. The audio quality is fantastic. They are even waterproof (well, technically splash-proof). On the off-chance that something does go wrong with your units, they are affordable to replace. Although, to be honest, we have rarely seen any issues with them.
The only real issue that you may have with the radio is that it doesn’t put up with knocks all that well. Sure, it may be able to be dropped from a small height onto a soft surface, but nothing more than that. It will crack. It may still be functional for a while, but it will eventually break. So, while this radio is great for most commercial environments, it is probably going to be best if you didn’t use this on a construction site or doing any sort of extreme sports. Your radio won’t last for long.
Conclusion
If you need a lot of radios for your commercial operations, then look at the Midland GXT1000. They are incredibly affordable. It really helps that they have a massive range too!
