Motorola Talkabout T800 Series review

The Talkabout T800 Series is the only license-free radio here that does more than voice. Once paired over Bluetooth, Motorola's Talkabout app uses the radio as a modem to send messages and locations over the radio frequencies to other T800 users, so a group can find a campsite or share a position with no cell service. Locations use what3words, which splits the world into 10 ft squares with three-word addresses. The current T802 and T803 models also connect to Bluetooth audio accessories and let you change radio settings from the app. On the radio side you get FRS with 22 channels and 121 privacy codes, NOAA weather alerts, a flashlight, iVOX and VOX hands-free talk, USB-C charging and IP54 weatherproofing. Motorola rates range at up to 35 miles mountain to valley and up to 2 miles in a neighborhood. Motorola's site sends buyers to retailers, so we have no vendor price to cite.

Who it is for

Families and hiking groups who want text messages and location sharing on top of voice.

Price

See vendor pricing (USD check pending).

US price check pending. See the vendor pricing page.

Key features

• Talkabout app sends messages and locations over the radio
• what3words location sharing in 10 ft squares
• Bluetooth audio accessory support on T802 and T803
• 22 channels and 121 privacy codes on FRS
• IP54 weatherproofing, USB-C charging and an emergency alert button

Strengths and weaknesses

• Strength: Location sharing and group messaging without cell service
• Strength: No license or subscription
• Strength: Emergency button sounds an alarm and opens hands-free transmit
• Weakness: The best features need a paired smartphone
• Weakness: IP54 is splash resistant only
• Weakness: Motorola sells through retailers, so we could not confirm a vendor price

Key facts

• Radio service: FRS, no license
• Channels: 22 plus 121 privacy codes
• Rated range: Up to 35 miles mountain to valley
• Water protection: IP54
• Price: Retail only, USD check pending

Where it ranks

Motorola Talkabout T800 Series is No. 9 in our Best Two Way Radios verdict.