Toys & Gifts Kids & Teens The 12 Best Walkie-Talkies for Kids of 2023 By Emily Isaacs Emily Isaacs Emily Isaacs is a freelance writer who covers tech, lifestyle, home, and parenting. Learn about our editorial process Updated on November 03, 2022 Medically reviewed by Ann-Louise T. Lockhart, PsyD, ABPP Medically reviewed by Ann-Louise T. Lockhart, PsyD, ABPP Facebook LinkedIn Ann-Louise T. Lockhart, PsyD, ABPP, is a board-certified pediatric psychologist, parent coach, author, speaker, and owner of A New Day Pediatric Psychology, PLLC. Learn about our Medical Review Board Fact checked by Rich Scherr Fact checked by Rich Scherr LinkedIn Twitter Rich Scherr is a seasoned journalist who has covered technology, finance, sports, and lifestyle. Learn about our editorial process Print We independently research, test, review, and recommend the best products. Healthcare professionals review articles for medical accuracy. Learn more about our process. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission. Few toys encourage social skills and the creative exploration of a child’s natural environment quite as much as a walkie-talkie. Whether you’re having fun with the kids while camping or looking for ways to stay in touch with them during neighborhood play, the games and imaginative options are endless. Knowing how to find the best walkie-talkies can be a challenge. We’ve rounded up parent-approved devices that are not only fun but also reliable, durable, and affordable. They’ll stand up to the demands of play while offering great coverage ranges, battery life, and up to 22 channels to communicate. Whether you’re outfitting your teens with an advanced model for a camping adventure or introducing your four-year-old to their first walkie-talkie, there are options for all ages. Here are the best walkie-talkies for kids. Our Top Picks Best Overall: Retevis RT628 Walkie-Talkies at Amazon Jump to Review Best Runner Up: Selieve Walkie-Talkie Set at Amazon Jump to Review Best Budget: Obuby Walkie-Talkies at Amazon Jump to Review Best for Families: LOOIKOOS Walkie-Talkies for Kids at Amazon Jump to Review Best Rechargeable: Qniglo Walkie-Talkies at Amazon Jump to Review Best Long Range: GOCOM G600 FRS Two-Way Radios at Amazon Jump to Review Best Walkie-Talkies for Mountains: Motorola T600 Talkabout Radio at Amazon Jump to Review Best Walkie-Talkie for Multiple Siblings: Tintec Walkie Talkies at Amazon Jump to Review Best for Camping: Topsung M880 FRS Walkie-Talkies at Amazon Jump to Review Best Waterproof: Cobra Floating Walkie-Talkies at Amazon Jump to Review In This Article Expand Our Picks How We Selected What to Look for FAQ Why Trust VeryWell Family Best Overall Retevis RT628 Walkie-Talkies 4.5 Amazon View On Amazon View On Walmart Pros Channel lock Looks like a real walkie-talkie Hands-free VOX option Cons No built-in flashlight The Retevis RT628 is a jack-of-all-trades walkie-talkie that offers curious, imaginative kids a user-friendly, durable device. Kids of all ages will love that this Retevis model looks just like the real thing instead of a toy. In fact, the company manufactures walkie-talkies and radios for outdoor enthusiasts and workers, and even sells marine radios and other professional two-way communication devices. These drop-resistant walkie-talkies can communicate using one of 22 available channels. A lock feature ensures that, once a frequency is set, kids won’t accidentally switch channels and lose the connection. The range is up to one mile (depending on the terrain), which makes the Retevis a great walkie-talkie for neighborhood use or for playing around while hiking out on the trail with family and friends. These walkies also feature a non-slip handle, a belt clip, a backlit LCD display, a low-battery indicator, and superb sound quality. Another feature that sets the Retevis walkies apart is the headphone jack, which allows kiddos to connect any 2.5 mm headphones to the device. An upgraded RT628 model with rechargeable batteries and a charging cable is also available. Price at time of publication: $25 Key Specs:Batteries: 3 AA batteries required per handset | Number of channels: 22 | Privacy codes: 121 | Range: Up to 1 mile Best Runner Up Selieve Walkie-Talkie Set Courtesy of Amazon View On Amazon View On Walmart Pros Channel lock Built-in flashlight Hands-free VOX option Cons No automatic timer off feature Requires many batteries This fan-favorite model from Selieve offers a durable, easy-to-use pair of walkie-talkies at a budget-friendly price. Parents appreciate that the Selieve is equipped with 22 channels and a lock feature that keeps the frequency from accidentally being altered. The push-to-talk button, located in the front of the device, is large and easy to activate, and the audio is crisp and clear. A three-kilometer range (1.86 miles) ensures plenty of coverage, whether you’re using these walkies in the neighborhood or while out venturing with the family. The LCD screen is backlit, which is ideal in a variety of daytime and nighttime conditions. Nine buttons help kids navigate the range of functions, such as turning volume up and down, checking the battery status, and more. A belt clip helps kids keep track of the walkie-talkie during play. Drop-resistant from heights of up to four feet, the Selieve is designed to stand up to rough play. Price at time of publication: $25 Key Specs:Batteries: 4 AAA batteries required per handset | Number of channels: 22 | Privacy codes: 99 | Range: Up to 1.86 miles Best Budget Obuby Walkie-Talkies for Kids 3 Pack Courtesy of Amazon View On Amazon View On Walmart Pros Built-in flashlight Hands-free VOX option Water-resistant Cons Requires many batteries If durable, affordable walkie-talkies are what you’re after, this Obuby set fits the bill. Made from sturdy rubber and hard plastic, these walkie-talkies can withstand drops and rough play and are also waterproof, which comes in handy when playing around creeks or under the rain. The walkies also feature an ergonomic design, a backlit display, and a belt clip. The Obubys have a range of three kilometers (1.86 miles) and offer consistently clear audio. Price at time of publication: $27 Key Specs:Batteries: 4 AAA batteries required per handset | Number of channels: 22 | Privacy codes: 99 | Range: Up to 1.86 miles Best for Families LOOIKOOS Walkie-Talkies for Kids Amazon View On Amazon View On Walmart Pros Built-in flashlight three walkie-talkies per set Lanyards included Hands-free VOX option Cons They go through batteries quickly This small walkie-talkie from LOOIKOOS is a great push-to-talk model that offers some excellent built-in features for the price. The size of the walkie-talkie and its buttons are perfect for small hands—without being too small for teens and parents. A VOX option makes hands-free communication easy. The LOOIKOOS is also equipped with drop protection and a key lock, so bumps and drops won’t disrupt communication throughout the day. Featuring support for up to 22 channels, the audio is clear and free of interference thanks to the auto-squelch function. A built-in flashlight helps kids see where they’re going in low-light conditions, while the three-kilometer range (1.86 miles) in open spaces ensures plenty of coverage throughout the house, neighborhood, park, trail, and more. Price at time of publication: $40 Key Specs:Batteries: 4 AAA batteries required per handset | Number of channels: 22 | Privacy codes: 38 | Range: Up to 1.86 miles The 10 Best GPS Trackers for Kids to Help Keep Them Safe Best Rechargeable Qniglo Walkie-Talkies Amazon View On Amazon View On Walmart Pros FM tuning Rechargeable Hands-free VOX option Multiple ways to wear Cons Limited features These Qniglo walkie-talkies might be the cutest set in our list, but they’re also quite practical. The kit comes with lanyards and wristbands, so kids can wear them around their necks or on their wrists like watches. The bands are perforated almost the entire length, so they fit wrists of any size and can also be tied to bicycles and scooter handles for on-the-go fun. Like other walkie-talkies, this set features 22 channels to communicate, an LCD screen, a lock option, and hands-free VOX functionality. However, these Qniglo walkies stand out because they can also play FM radio and include lithium-ion batteries that can be recharged using a USB cable (included). According to the manufacturer, each charge will allow up to 12 hours of playtime or up to five days on standby mode. Price at time of publication: $50 Key Specs:Batteries: Rechargeable | Number of channels: 22 | Privacy codes: 99 | Range: Up to 3 miles Best Long Range GOCOM G600 FRS Two-Way Radios Amazon View On Amazon View On Walmart Pros 32-mile range Headphones with built-in microphone included Battery-save mode Waterproof, weather-resistant design Cons A little more difficult to operate If you want your kids’ walkie-talkies to serve as a reliable means of communication across long distances instead of a fun novelty, you might want to consider these GOCOM FRS Two-Way Radios. With a 32-mile maximum range and NOAA weather channels and alerts, these walkie-talkies are for serious adventures, whether at the park, camping, hiking in the mountains, or out on a boat. The complete set includes two walkie-talkies, six rechargeable batteries, a charging base and cable, and G-shaped headphones with built-in microphones. The walkies are waterproof and even float on water. They also feature 22 channels and 121 privacy codes, VOX functionality with three sensitivity settings, and a battery-save mode that shuts the device down after five seconds of silence. Price at time of publication: $63 Key Specs:Batteries: 3 AA batteries required per handset (rechargeable set included) | Number of channels: 22 | Privacy codes: 121 | Range: Up to 32 miles Best Walkie-Talkies for Mountains Motorola T600 Talkabout Radio Amazon View On Amazon View On Walmart View On Best Buy Pros 35-mile range Hands-free VOX option Durable, waterproof design Emergency alert button Cons Limited color options Mountainous terrain requires an extra-powerful walkie-talkie, and this Motorola Talkabout Radio provides both the range and durability kids need. Equipped with 22 channels and 121 privacy codes, this pair of bright green walkie-talkies feature loud, crisp audio alongside a bright LCD screen and a built-in flashlight. The walkies can also connect to NOAA weather channels and alerts, and they have an emergency alert button that emits a loud sound if kiddos need help. Range is listed as up to 35 miles, depending on obstacles. In addition to being waterproof and able to float, the T600 automatically activates an LED flashlight when it comes in contact with water—a really helpful feature if the walkie falls overboard while you're kayaking or fishing. The set includes two radios, a charging cable with dual micro USB connectors, and two NiMH rechargeable batteries (although the walkies can also be powered using three AA batteries). Price at time of publication: $120 Key Specs:Batteries: 3 AA batteries required per handset or included rechargeable batteries | Number of channels: 22 Channels | Privacy codes: 121 | Range: Up to 35 miles Best Walkie-Talkie for Multiple Siblings Tintec Walkie Talkies 3-Pack Amazon View On Amazon View On Walmart Pros Channel lock Built-in flashlight Hands-free VOX option Cons No auto shut off feature Requires many batteries This Tintec set of three walkie-talkies is ideal if you want more than two kids to play together or would like to keep a device with you to communicate or monitor their activity. With a three-kilometer range (1.86 miles), these walkies provide more than enough coverage for kids to play in the neighborhood or in the park. The set also includes three lanyards and belt clips, which are convenient when moving around. Their hard plastic case features an LCD screen, easy-to-use buttons, and 22 channels with 99 privacy codes. A lock feature ensures that no one accidentally changes the channel while on an adventure and misses important updates. Price at time of publication: $26 Key Specs:Batteries: 4 AAA batteries required per handset | Number of channels: 22 | Privacy codes: 99 | Range: Up to 1.86 miles The Best Twin Products That Make Life With Two So Much Easier Best for Camping Topsung M880 FRS Walkie-Talkies Amazon View On Amazon View On Walmart Pros 16-mile range Drop protection Backlit LCD screen Hands-free VOX option Cons Not waterproof These Topsung M880 walkie-talkies are a good basic option for camping trips because they’re easy to use and have a range of up to four miles in open spaces. About the size of a cell phone, the walkies feature a combination of rubber and plastic that makes them easy to hold, even for little hands. They also feature 22 channels and 121 privacy codes for secure communication, VOX functionality, and a belt clip. Price at time of publication: $40 Key Specs:Batteries: 3 AA batteries required per handset | Number of channels: 22 | Privacy codes: 121 | Range: Up to 4 miles The Best Kids’ Camping Chairs for Resting in the Great Outdoors Best Waterproof Cobra ACXT1035R FLT Floating Walkie-Talkies Amazon View On Amazon View On Walmart View On Best Buy Pros 37-mile range Compact, lightweight, and durable design Waterproof, floats, and includes built-in burp feature Rewind-say-again feature Cons A little more difficult to operate This Cobra Walkie-Talkie is the most complex device in our list, but it’s also the most advanced and well-built. Kids can learn to use the basic features easily, but if you want to take full advantage of all its capabilities, adult assistance may be necessary. Although there are other waterproof options available, the Cobra walkie-talkie is our favorite because it floats on water, has a built-in burp feature that expels residual water from the speaker grille, and it’s rated IP67, which means it has been tested to work while immersed at depths of up to 39 inches. It also features a drop-resistant rubber case, an S.O.S flashlight, a dedicated button for instant NOAA weather broadcasts and alerts, a Rewind Say Again feature that plays the last 20 seconds of audio, and a range of up to 37 miles. The set includes two walkie-talkies with belt clips, a charging station for two devices, a micro USB cable, and six rechargeable NiMH batteries. Price at time of publication: $120 Key Specs:Batteries: 3 AA batteries required per handset or rechargeable batteries (included) | Number of channels: 22 | Privacy codes: 121 | Range: Up to 37 miles The Best Pool Toys to Splash the Days Away Best for Cruise Ships Motorola T200 Talkabout Radio Amazon View On Amazon View On Walmart Pros 20-mile range Waterproof Compact, lightweight, simple design Cons Basic features The Motorola T200 Talkabout Radio is a rechargeable walkie-talkie with the battery power to last throughout the day while enduring drops, spills, and rough play. A bright LCD screen is easy to read in both bright and low-light environments. Audio quality is loud and clear, and an auto-squelch system ensures the audio is free of annoying background noise—which is especially important in the hectic environments families can encounter on a cruise ship. The complete kit includes two walkie-talkies, belt clips, two NiMH rechargeable batteries, and a charging cable with dual midro USB connectors. Price at time of publication: $55 Key Specs:Batteries: 3 AA batteries required per handset or rechargeable batteries (included) | Number of channels: 22 | Privacy codes: 121 | Range: Up to 20 miles Best Walkie-Talkie App Zello App Google Play Store View On Apple View On Google.com Pros User-friendly app design Compatible with iOS and Android wearables Cons In-app purchases Requires smart device Requires cellular or internet connection Zello is one of the most popular push-to-talk walkie-talkie apps, thanks to its user-friendly design, its wide range of compatibility options, and its many built-in features. It’s free to use, although it does include in-app purchases. Zello allows users to create secure private channels over Wi-Fi and cellular networks, where you can group chat with up to 6,000 people at once. It also has a handy recording feature, so you never have to question what was said in chat again. Zello is available for Android, iOS, and PC, and is compatible with iOS and Android wearables, tablets, laptops, and other devices. Requiring a cell phone or smart device, however, might be a downside when it comes to kids and walkie-talkie communication. Price at time of publication: Free, in-app purchases available Key Specs:Power source: Smart Device | Number of channels: Unlimited | Privacy: Zello may collect and share some personal data (see privacy policy) | Range: Unlimited but requires Wi-Fi or cellular connectivity The Best Cell Phones for Kids to Stay Connected Safely How We Selected the Best Walkie-Talkies for Kids In order to select the best walkie-talkies for kids, we analyzed and compared dozens of options available on the market, ranging from basic toy walkies to kid-friendly professional options. We narrowed down our list by focusing on sound quality, durability, value, range, and additional features. We also spoke to electronics designer Ava Collins and product consultant Jason Roepke, both of whom have ample experience using walkie-talkies and two-way radios. Our selection includes options for different budgets and needs, from basic, affordable walkie-talkies that are perfect to play around the neighborhood, to more complex options that offer extensive ranges, rechargeable batteries, and a variety of features. What to Look for in Walkie-Talkies for Kids Durability It’s no secret that kids are tough on toys. The walkie-talkie that best fits your family’s needs should be able to stand up to the demands of everyday play. You’ll want to look for devices that are made of durable plastic or rubber and can withstand drops, spills, and harsh outdoor conditions. That way, you can spend more time enjoying adventures with the kids and less time worrying about the tech. Range Range refers to the maximum distance at which the walkie-talkies can communicate. Although most manufacturers list their range in miles, the actual distance will depend on the terrain and the obstructions between the two devices. “Walkie-talkies work best with line of sight. Not that you necessarily have to see the other walkie, but anything that gets between the two can block the signal. That can be buildings or too many trees. You can find your range on the street is a lot better than your range in the woods,” says Roepke. Channels A channel is the frequency the walkie-talkies use to communicate. Most walkie-talkies for kids have up to 22 channels. Devices may also offer privacy codes (CTCSS or DCS) or sub-channels that filter unwanted chatter from other users on the same frequency. Both walkies should be set to the same channel and code to be able to communicate. Keep in mind that privacy codes do not block other users from accessing the same combination, and others may still be able to hear your kids’ conversations. Depending on how you intend to use the devices and your location, more channels will give you a better chance of finding an unoccupied frequency. Batteries The battery life of walkie-talkies will vary greatly, depending on usage, type of device, additional features, and type of battery. The Motorola T600, for example, offers up to nine hours of active usage time on the rechargeable NiMH battery and up to 23 hours on three AA batteries. Walkies with fun extras like flashlights or FM radios, such as the Selieve or the Qniglo, will drain batteries quicker. Some devices also offer battery-saving features, like the auto-shut-off function in the GOCOM G600. Most walkie-talkies require between two and four AA or AAA batteries, which can add up quickly if your kiddos really enjoy playing with their walkie-talkies, which is the goal. One good piece of advice is to remove the batteries when not using the devices, to avoid accidentally turning them on. And whenever possible, opt for walkie-talkies that feature rechargeable batteries. Frequently Asked Questions Are walkie-talkies safe? Two-way radios and walkie-talkies operate on public frequencies, which means that eavesdroppers are always a possibility. If they are in range and using the same channel, other people not only can listen but also can join your kids’ conversations, so it’s important to teach them how to use their walkie-talkies safely. Take the time to create ground rules and instruct your children to never share their location when using their walkie-talkies. Be sure to establish guidelines in case a stranger joins in, or they hear other people talking. All walkie-talkie users should also adhere to “listen before you talk” etiquette, which means that before you start using a channel to communicate, you should listen to make sure no one else is using it. And even in your own conversation, you should listen and wait until the other person has finished their message before you begin talking. Regarding the exposure to radiofrequency, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) considers walkie-talkies to be well below any levels of concern. “Because of the low power levels used, the intermittency of these transmissions ('push-to-talk'), and due to the fact that these radios are held away from the head, they should not expose users to RF energy in excess of safe limits,” states the FCC. Why are walkie-talkies still popular despite the rise of cell phones and other wireless technology? Walkie-talkies are particularly useful in remote areas where cell phone coverage is limited or non-existent, like national parks, forests, and cruise ships. Many truck drivers and others in the transportation industry still use radios to communicate, because they’re reliable. For kids, they’re a lot more fun—not to mention durable and affordable—than modern wireless technology. “It's harder to break a [walkie-talkie]. There's no glass screen; no folding hinge. A cheap walkie can handle more drops and bumps than a cheap cell phone,” says Roepke. Walkie-talkies are also cheaper than a cell phone, they don’t require a plan, and they work in remote locations where cell phones fail. Do you need a license to use a walkie-talkie? Walkie-talkies for kids do not need a license. They operate on the Family Radio Service system of the ultra high frequency band, which was established by the FCC as a free frequency range. More advanced walkie-talkies that use the General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS) do require a license. How far do kid walkie-talkies reach? The walkie-talkies in our list offer ranges between one mile and 37 miles, but the actual reach will depend on the terrain and the obstruction between the devices. If there’s a clear line of sight (no obstructions) between the walkie-talkies, the reach will be farther. Barriers like trees, mountains, walls, and buildings will limit the reach. Why Trust VeryWell Family Emily Isaacs is a freelance writer who covers tech, lifestyle, home, and parenting for a variety of platforms. She’s a mom to an infant son and also has three pets: two black cats, Pixel and Syrio, and a dog, Addie. Not only does Emily spend too much time checking the internet to find the best deals, she also enjoys researching, comparing, testing, and writing about products that fit a variety of household and lifestyle needs. 2 Sources Verywell Family uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy. Radio Frequency Safety FAQ. Federal Communications Commission. Published October 13, 2020. Family Radio Service (FRS). Federal Communications Commission. Published September 27, 2022. See Our Editorial Process Meet Our Review Board Share Feedback Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! What is your feedback? Other Helpful Report an Error Submit