Walkie-talkies and satellite phones: how to choose and buy well
The job decides the type of communication
A walkie-talkie is not simply “long range”: the real range depends on the terrain, the antenna and the power. In a city, between buildings, it is usually much shorter than in an open field or on water. So first describe where and what for you will use it: security, a construction site, hunting, events, outdoor work. Think separately about whether you need a satellite phone: it works where there is no mobile network.
What to put in your request
- model - brand and name, for example Baofeng UV-5R;
- specifications - analogue or digital (DMR), VHF/UHF band, power in watts, encryption (AES);
- what for - security, industry, hunting, events, and the range you need;
- quantity - single radios or a set;
- what is included - headsets, chargers, spare batteries, programming;
- new or used;
- warranty, delivery with your city and budget.
Example: “I need a set of 4 digital DMR radios, 5 W, with encryption, for guarding a warehouse, range up to 3 km. With headsets, spare batteries and programming. Courier delivery to Durban, budget up to R 3,100.”
Analogue, digital and programming
Analogue radios are cheaper and work across different makers if the frequencies match. Digital (DMR) gives cleaner sound at the edge of the range and more features, but all devices in the network must support the same standard. Encryption helps when your conversations should not be heard by outsiders.
Important: rules on the use of radio frequencies may apply to certain frequencies and power levels. If you plan professional or regular use, ask the seller whether any permissions are needed, and do not rely on assumptions. When they offer a set, sellers often programme the channels in advance, so ask whether that is in the price.
Satellite phones
They are chosen by network coverage in your region and by the cost of minutes and the plan. Besides the handset you need a SIM or a plan from an operator, so ask what is included in the offer. Do not confuse them with satellite internet: those are different devices. Also think about power: in the field a spare battery or a power bank is important, as is a case or a mount for your belt or vest.
How it works through BlaBlaPrice
You write your request on BlaBlaPrice as one text, and sellers reply in a chat with the model, what is included, the price and delivery. They see where their offer stands and can improve their terms. The best offer by content is shown first, with reviews of the seller next to it. Contacts are hidden and opened only to the seller you choose. More on the “How it works” page.
Radios often need extras such as power banks, see phone accessories. For ordinary calls look at mobile phones.
