Why can the cost of VHF marine radio vary so much

The low cost VHF Marine Radios, whether they are fixed or handheld, provide you with basic functionality. This means, that they will provide basic communications well, but will not likely to have additional features. The performance of the radio will be quite adequate and help keep you safe while on the water.

Additional features and functions that more expensive radios may have may include…

• ·         Level of waterproofness – This is obviously important when dealing with a handheld radio but is less important for a fixed radio if mounted inside a cabin where it is kept dry.
• ·         Capacity to Float – This relates to handheld radios which are more likely to be used over and in the water. A Floatable handheld radio will cost more but enables the radio to be retrievable if dropped over the side.
• ·         GPS Receiver – GPS receivers maybe found in fixed or handheld radios these days which enables you to display your current position. This function allows you to relay your position to rescue authorities without having to rely on another electrical piece of kit such as a Chartplotter.
• ·         Remote Controls – Some models of VHF Radios offer additional controls on the microphones to provide better ease of changing channel and/or volume. In addition, some radios have the main brain of the radio in a black box that can be hidden behind a dash, or under a seat out of harm’s way, and the only visible sign of the radio is a remote speaker microphone.
• ·         Digital Selective Calling – More and more radio models on the New Zealand market have Digital Selective Calling, often known as DSC. This is simply the ability for a radio to transmit an emergency signal to all other radios in its locality as well as transmitting its coordinates. This system is widely used in the USA, however to-date, New Zealand operators have primarily used voice on channel 16 in emergencies. Please note that the DSC transmissions from VHF Radios in New Zealand are not currently monitored by emergency services.
• ·         Quality of Build – As you would expect, paying more for a piece of electronic equipment for your vessel should mean a better build quality and level of performance. In my experience, this is generally the case. You can expect a better voice sound quality and better background noise filtration with higher end radios.  This is usually backed up by a lengthier warranty period also and one would assume a longer life expectancy.

Having mentioned the reasons why you could expect to pay more for your VHF Marine Radio, you are definitely better to have a low end radio fitted to your vessel than have none at all!

Wishing you all safe boating!