Rubberized grips can help prevent units from slipping out of hands, and soften the blow when they do fall. Look for rugged handsets that can survive bumps, scrapes, and drops. To get the most for your money, you’ll want a set that can withstand use and abuse. Walkie-talkies practically invite adventure. Consider which type will work best for your budget and circumstances. Rechargeable batteries will save you money, but once they’re discharged, they’re out of commission until you have a power source and time for recharging. Disposable batteries will cost more over time, but they can be replaced quickly. Some use internal batteries that are recharged from an external source, while others run on disposable batteries.

Since they’re designed specifically to be portable, walkie-talkies require batteries. Handsets with backlighting can be helpful for nighttime use. Since two-way radios only work if you’re on the same channel, look for simple displays with large numbers that are easy for children to read. You’ll need to decide whether having a variety of channels or easier operation is more important for your child. Some offer two or three channels, while others can handle as many as 22. Look for walkie-talkies that work on multiple channels. If someone is already using a specific channel within your range, you’ll need to select another channel. Walkie-talkie users must be on the same channel in order to communicate between handsets. Be sure the set you choose provides high-quality, low-static transmissions. Others focus on protecting your child’s hearing.

Some walkie-talkies offer crystal-clear high-fidelity sound quality. Audio qualityĪ longer range doesn’t matter if you can’t understand the person at the other end. Think about where your child is likely to use the walkie-talkies – across the park or across the campground? Walkie-talkies with a longer range can even be useful on family hikes or between cars during road trips. Most walkie-talkies appropriate for children have a range between one and five miles. Consider when and where your children are likely to use the walkie-talkies when deciding which features are worthwhile. Once you’ve decided to invest in something better than a toy, you’ll need to consider which options are worth your money. If you’re buying for children that are in higher elementary grades or middle school, we recommend spending a few extra dollars and buying something a little higher in quality. If you must get them, go into the purchase with realistic expectations. However, toy walkie-talkies have their place with younger children. They’re nearly impossible to use in situations where a child would actually need a walkie-talkie. These are usually poorly made, have a very short range, and break easily. Unless you are shopping for young children, we recommend avoiding toy walkie-talkies.

When push comes to shove, any walkie-talkies that are used by children can be classified as “kids’ walkie-talkies.” So the first question to answer is, are you looking for toy walkie-talkies designed for children or real walkie-talkies that happen to be used by children? Many families use walkie-talkies to keep in touch with their children at amusement parks or aboard cruise ships.

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