Hard helmets, concrete, cranes, and steel beams, to name a few items, appear to be present on every construction site around the world. However, one item that is present on all construction sites and is easy to overlook, despite being critical for worker safety, is the walkie-talkie.
Walkie-talkies, possibly the first genuinely person-to-person communication technology, have been around for centuries. Unsurprisingly, they’re popular on construction sites because they’re easy to use, hard to damage, and time-tested.
Table of Contents
The Best Walkie-Talkies for Construction Sites
Communication between employees on a construction site is critical for everyone’s safety and ensuring that projects are completed on time. Several challenges to overcome regarding two-way communication on construction sites include uninterrupted signal coverage, the adequate range for ground-to-crane operators, and connecting subcontractors and security personnel.
1. DeWalt DXFRS300
If you need a low-cost, on-site business radio that doesn’t require any licenses or equipment, the DeWalt DXFRS300 is an excellent choice. This basic and simple-to-use business radio comes in a six-pack with impressive features. It is cheap, especially if you are on a tight budget and only require a radio with no setup, licensing, or monthly fees. The best places to use it are restaurants, retail stores, hotel front desks, and grocery stores.
The radio has an antenna, a belt clip, and a hand strap. It was easy to transport and fit comfortably in my hand. This walkie-talkie, which includes surveillance earbuds, speakers, and microphones, allows for hands-free operation. They recommend that users limit the time they use the earphone at high volume settings. The bundle, however, does not include microphones. A user manual is included for easy reference.
Each walkie-talkie is powered by a 1,000 mAH rechargeable Lithium Polymer Battery. Batteries can be recharged using rechargers. Simply plug the cable into the charging jack on the left side to charge the radio. A fully charged battery can last up to 12 to 18 hours under normal working conditions.
2. Midland LXT500VP3
The Midland LXT500VP3 review that follows will look at the item’s model, features, strengths, and weaknesses to help us learn more about it. If you’re on a tight budget, this $40 gadget might be just what you need. Continue reading to find out if this is the long-awaited two-way radio.
Coveralls are available in black, black-mossy oak, and black-blue. It’s small, sleek, easy to carry in your pocket, and designed for mobility. It has a pleasant feel in hand and a comfortable grip. Even in direct sunlight, the LCD panel’s basic black-and-white screen is strikingly visible. On the other hand, the monitor is made of plastic and easily scratched. The moment you opened the package, you could tell this radio was cheaply made. Because there is no tactile feedback, the buttons are difficult to use. Furthermore, determining whether you pushed them is difficult. This appears to be most pronounced on the PTT (Push To Talk) key.
If you’re chatting while wearing gloves, this setup is extremely inconvenient. Another distinction is the absence of a traditional on/off switch on the Midland LXT500VP3. Its power button is in the center of the keys, directly beneath the screen. Some users may be perplexed by this function, especially if they are used to doing things in a different way.
3. Motorola T631
It has two robust yellow radio devices ideal for outdoor sports and handling. With its Push-To-Talk (PTT) Power Boost function, you can extend the range of your phone without losing battery life. It comes with NiMH rechargeable batteries lasting up to 9 hours of radio use. It also comes with two belt clips with whistles, which you may use in an emergency. A user handbook, accessory brochure, and carry case round out the remainder of the package.
The Motorola T631 comes with two NiMH rechargeable batteries with 9-hour battery life. If the battery dies, you may have to charge it for up to 8 hours before using it again. If your site has a charging device, bringing NiMH rechargeable batteries is a good idea.
The Motorola T631 appeals to me because it is easy to set up, like the other Motorola T600 series. To begin with, battery installation, raise the battery cover, close it, and turn on the device. The Motorola T631 has a small number of controls, making it easy to use.
A 3AA Alkaline Battery will suffice if you do not have access to a charging device. With this disposable battery, you won’t have to worry about running out of power because it lasts up to 23 hours.
4. Retevis RT29
There are numerous inexpensive walkie-talkies on the market nowadays, but it is difficult to find a truly inexpensive and dependable radio. Before finding an inexpensive, two-way radio that fits your tight budget, you must consider several factors.
The Retevis RT29 is an excellent choice if you want a low-cost solution. The Retevis brand is known for producing high-quality radios for various industries. Depending on your needs and goals, there is a Retevis radio that is right for you.
The Retevis RT29 model is available in a variety of packages. You can purchase it individually or in groups of two or more. Nonetheless, the box’s contents are nearly identical.
5. Arcshell Rechargeable Long Range Two-Way Radios
Arcshell has been in the game for quite some time, for a good reason. The long-range two-way radios are rechargeable and small in size. It also has a variety of user-friendly functions.
Each bundle includes two Archell radios and two 1500mAh high-capacity Li-ion batteries. It comes with two chargers and two SMA-female antennas. A set of belt clips is included, which I recommend attaching with a screwdriver. There are also two hand straps and earbuds included. Finally, each order includes a set of instructions.
The battery pack is made up of 1500mAh Lithium-ion batteries. It is important to note that the fresh or stored (for more than 2 months) pack will not be able to reach the full charging capacity of the first charge. After two or three charging and draining cycles, the battery pack can be fully charged. Plug the adapter into an electrical outlet and place the battery or transceiver in the charging tray (a drop-in design). The light will initially glow red, and the LED indicator should turn green after three hours.
All the data presented above explains why this particular set of two-way radios is ideal for construction sites.
