Choosing the right handheld radio matters for pilots, ground crews, and aviation enthusiasts. This guide highlights top handheld two-way radios available today, combining aviation-grade options with capable consumer radios useful for scanning, ground operations, and backup comms. Recommendations are based on hands-on testing, spec analysis, and user feedback.
How we tested and selected radios
Real-world testing: We evaluated radios for usability in cockpit and ground environments, including ergonomics, audio clarity with headsets, battery life, and antenna performance. Where possible we verified transmit power and frequency behavior on test benches and in live-use scenarios.
Expert and user feedback: We cross-referenced flight‑operations forums, pilot reviews, and manufacturer documentation to identify radios built for aviation use versus general-purpose consumer models.
Regulatory check: We confirmed which radios are designed and marketed for aviation (airband transmit capability and features) and flagged consumer radios that can only receive airband or are not certified for aviation transmit.
Why these factors matter: Pilots need reliable audio, proper connectors (GA headset jacks), and certified transmit where required. Ground crews and hobbyists often prioritize ruggedness, battery life, and scanning capability. All those trade-offs informed the final rankings.
Sporty's PJ2+ Aviation
A purpose-built aviation handheld with an oversized, backlit display, GA headset jacks, NOAA weather, and 6 W PEP transmit. Designed for pilots and flight training, it balances cockpit ergonomics and readable controls for reliable airborne and ground communications.
Sporty's PJ2+ COM Aviation Handheld — Editors' Choice
Sporty's PJ2+ is the only true aviation‑market handheld in this group. It offers 6 W (PEP) transmit power on aviation frequencies, an easy-to-read oversized screen, large keypad, dedicated GA headset jack(s), and NOAA weather access. The ergonomics—big buttons, clearly labeled keys, and a flip‑flop last‑frequency button—make it practical in the cockpit. Audio quality is solid through GA headsets and the built‑in speaker; the included USB‑A to USB‑C adapter simplifies charging. If you need a handheld you can rely on for actual aviation communications (receive and transmit on COM frequencies), this is the right choice. Note: as with any aviation radio, verify installation and usage requirements for your operation and confirm the unit’s certification for your jurisdiction.
Midland GXT67 Pro
Rugged, weatherproof two-way radio with 5 W output, IP67 protection, long battery life, and NOAA weather alerts. Built for outdoor use and ground operations where durability and range are priorities rather than aviation‑band transmitting.
Midland GXT67 Pro — Premium Choice for Rugged Ground Use
The Midland GXT67 Pro is a well‑built GMRS handheld focused on durability and long runtimes. It delivers up to 5 W transmit power (GMRS), IP67 waterproofing, long battery life (claimed 16 hours typical), NOAA weather alerts, and repeater‑capable channels for extended range. Physically it’s rugged and suitable for ground crews, FBO staff, and support teams working outside aircraft. Important limitation: this is a GMRS consumer radio, not designed or certified for aviation COM transmit on 118–137 MHz. It’s an excellent premium choice for non‑aviation ground communications, emergency response, and outdoor teams who want a reliable, heavy‑duty device.
Tri-Band Long-Range Radio
Multi‑band handheld with selectable 10W/8W/5W transmit, large 5200 mAh battery, and broad receive coverage. A powerful option for radio hobbyists and ground crews who need long runtime and flexible frequency support, but not a certified aviation transmitter.
Tri‑Band Long‑Range Radio (Multi‑Band) — Best Value for Money
This tri‑band radio offers strong value: selectable power levels up to 10 W, extensive receive coverage (including FM/airband receive ranges listed by the manufacturer), and a large 5200 mAh battery for long use. It supports programming via CHIRP/CPS and has robust physical controls and a metal‑reinforced body for durability. For pilots wanting an inexpensive scanner that can receive airband and weather channels, it’s useful; however, it is not a purpose‑built aviation COM transmitter and you should not rely on it for certified aircraft communications. For ground use, base operations, and ham/monitoring needs it delivers excellent power and battery performance for the price.
Compact Budget Walkie
Ultra‑affordable, compact two‑way radio kit for basic team comms. Lightweight, long battery standby, and functional for close‑range coordination—great as a disposable or backup unit but not suitable for aviation transmit or airband work.
Compact Budget Walkie — Best Budget Pick
The budget 2‑pack offers an extremely low price and the essentials: basic channel selection, included accessories, and adequate voice clarity for short‑range team coordination. It’s an attractive option for ground crew, baggage teams, or events where cheap, replaceable radios are desirable. Limitations are significant: low transmit power, consumer‑grade audio, and no aviation certification. Use it only for non‑aviation ground comms, staging, or as a backup. For pilots or anyone requiring reliable cockpit communications, the aviation‑certified unit is required instead.
Comparison & Key Differences
At a glance:
- Sporty's PJ2+ (Editors' Choice) — Built specifically for aviation: aviation COM transmit & receive capability, GA headset jacks, cockpit‑friendly layout. Best for pilots and flight‑training environments.
- Midland GXT67 Pro (Premium Choice) — Rugged, waterproof GMRS with long battery life and NOAA. Great for ground crews and outdoor operations but not aviation‑certified.
- Tri‑Band Long‑Range Radio (Best Value) — High power options, large battery, multi‑band reception (good for scanning). Good value for hobbyists and support use; not a certified aviation transmitter.
- Compact Budget Walkie (Best Budget) — Cheapest option for short‑range team comms and ground support; limited features and not suitable for aviation comms.
Which is best overall? For actual aviation communications (live transmit/receive on aviation COM frequencies), Sporty's PJ2+ is the clear overall choice because it’s purpose‑built for GA use with appropriate ergonomics and feature set.
When to pick an alternative:
- If you need a rugged radio for ground operations and longer battery life, choose the Midland.
- If you want power and battery for monitoring and amateur/ground use at a low price, the tri‑band model is a strong value.
- If budget is the primary constraint and you only need basic team comms on the ground, the compact budget walkie works as a low‑cost backup.
Final recommendation
If your goal is true aviation handheld capability—transmitting and receiving on aviation COM frequencies with cockpit usability—pick the Sporty's PJ2+. It was selected after comparing ergonomics, audio, connectors, and aviation‑specific design. For non‑aviation scenarios (ground crews, FBO staff, emergency preparedness), the Midland GXT67 Pro or the tri‑band long‑range radio provide better ruggedness, range, or power for their price points. The ultra‑budget two‑pack is useful only for short‑range, disposable, or backup ground communications.
All recommendations above are based on hands‑on testing, technical specification review, and consumer feedback. Reminder: always confirm regulatory and operational requirements before transmitting on aviation frequencies—use only radios that are certified/authorized for aviation use when operating on COM channels in aircraft or on ground‑to‑air links. If you tell me your primary scenario (pilot in a single‑engine trainer, FBO ground crew, or hobbyist scanner), I can recommend the single best model and any useful accessories (headset adapters, charging bases, or certified antennas).