Embedded Files
THE HARDWARE
Spaceman's
Network Radio Picks
Mobiles...
Walkies...
PTT Kits...
...and honorable mentions
There are so many Network Radios out there... Which ones are good? Which ones are relevant?
This is a guide that I will try to keep updated going forward. We will list the best radios that are currently out there, and we'll also give you our 2 cents on each of them.
But what is a Network Radio anyway?
Network radio is a device, usually with an Android operating system (although, we're starting to see Linux here and there), which relies on the internet. Whether it be through WiFi, Cellular, or tethered via Bluetooth, it needs the internet to survive. Then you are also relying on the services you communicate through, such as TeamSpeak, Zello, EchoLink, etc.
Is it really a "radio"?
Some "old school" Hams and CBers say no. But what is at the very core of radio? RF. Guess what. Network Radios are using RF to connect to Wi-Fi or the nearest cell tower.
Is it a form of Ham radio?
No, you do not need a ham license to use a network radio UNLESS you are using something like Echolink to connect to ham repeaters around the world. If you're using something like Zello or TeamSpeak, there is no license required (UNLESS the channel you're speaking on is linked to Ham frequencies by the channel owner.
What if the Internet Goes Bye Bye in a catastrophe of some sort?
Well keep in mind most big cities will bring in mobile cell towers in such an event. If you are in the middle of a catastrophic event, and you don't have a cell signal at first, keep checking. Also, Starlink is a thing now. Yet another way to connect to the internet on a global scale.
Is it really worth having a Network Radio?
....We interrult this program to bring you this important message:
This page was originally written in 2017, and maintained through 2020. I've added THIS part in May of 2025.
Sadly, there hasn't been much else to write about these radios since 2017. Even at the time, these network radios were coming out with older versions of Android. I don't think there's a network radio out there in 2025 with Android 9 or higher yet. So as you can imagine, the radios are less secure, and SLOW as hell to boot up and navigate. You can speed them up a little bit if you know how to flash custom firmware onto them. But hardly worth it in 2025. I do still have the W2 N60 in my Jeep and I use it pretty often just cause it's there and I haven't felt like uninstalling it yet.
I guess what I'm trying to say is: If you want to be a radio nerd (like me) and be able to talk on Zello in style, with the feel of a 2-way radio, then yes - these can be fun. But don't expect anything remotely close to top of the line tech.
My honest opinion in 2025: These radios are basically trash. My advice in 2025: Get yourself a phone with a PTT button, or get a bluetooth speaker mic and pair with your phone.
....we now return you to your regularly scheduled bs:
So that all being said - below are a list of radios I've put together. Some of which I've used, other that have caught my eye:
Telo M5 (mobile unit)
Spaceman's 2 cents:
I don't personally own this radio, but I have to say, it looks to have a slight edge on the N60 because of it's sleek design and on board camera. I may have gotten this one just because of that if it were out when I made my purchase.
Pros:
* It's probably the best mobile network radio out there as I write this.* External Antenna to help with a boosted signal
Cons:
* Android 7
I don't personally own this radio, but I have to say, it looks to have a slight edge on the N60 because of it's sleek design and on board camera. I may have gotten this one just because of that if it were out when I made my purchase.
Pros:
* It's probably the best mobile network radio out there as I write this.* External Antenna to help with a boosted signal
Cons:
* Android 7
Specifications:
Frequency Band:
Global version:GSM: B2 / B3 / B5 / B8WCDMA: B1 / B2 / B5 / B8TD-SCDMA: B34 / B39FDD-LTE: B1 / B3 / B5 / B7 / B8 / B20 / B28TDD-LTE: B38 / B39 / B40 / B41America Version:GSM: B2 / B5WCDMA: B1 / B2 / B4 / B5 / B19FDD-LTE: B1 / B2 / B4 / B5 / B7 / B12 / B17 / B19 / B28Wifi:
IEEE802.11a/b/g/n(2.4G)Bluetooth:
BT v4.0 with BLE/ BT2.1+EDR(Enhanced Data Rate)GPS:
GPS/GLONASS/AGPSCPU:
MTK6737MMemory:
RAM+ROM: 1GB+8GBDisplay:
4.0” IPS Touch ScreenCamera
2MP Front CameraSpeaker
Output: 2.0WUSB Ports
USB2.0Interface
RJ45Sensors
G-Sensor & Acceleration Sensor, Gyroscope, CompassOperating Systems
Android 7.0Working Temperature
-20o C ~ 80o CStorage Temperature
-30o C ~ 90o CAnysecu W2 N60 (mobile unit)
Spaceman's 2 cents:
I actually have this radio. I've yet to get a sim card for it, but I do piggy back off of my verizon cell phone hot spot via WiFi, and it works great on the road..It also boots up pretty fast.
I also have Pluto TV on it as well as Netflix if I ever need to catch the news, weather, or watch a movie on the road. Great thing is Zello can be set to run in the background so if I hear some activity, I can quickly reply if I need to.
DON'T ACCIDENTALLY BUY THE OLD VERSION. The old version looks IDENTICAL with the exception of the mic. The mic's buttons light up orange on the old version. While that part might appeal to some people, the old radio had Android 4, only supported 3G, and had a much slower processor..
Note: if you really like the old mic, you can order one and it will work with the new radio.
Pros:
* This is the most popular mobile radio that Inroco currently has to offer. * Great audio all the way around. * External Antenna to help with a boosted signal
Cons:
* Android 7
I actually have this radio. I've yet to get a sim card for it, but I do piggy back off of my verizon cell phone hot spot via WiFi, and it works great on the road..It also boots up pretty fast.
I also have Pluto TV on it as well as Netflix if I ever need to catch the news, weather, or watch a movie on the road. Great thing is Zello can be set to run in the background so if I hear some activity, I can quickly reply if I need to.
DON'T ACCIDENTALLY BUY THE OLD VERSION. The old version looks IDENTICAL with the exception of the mic. The mic's buttons light up orange on the old version. While that part might appeal to some people, the old radio had Android 4, only supported 3G, and had a much slower processor..
Note: if you really like the old mic, you can order one and it will work with the new radio.
Pros:
* This is the most popular mobile radio that Inroco currently has to offer. * Great audio all the way around. * External Antenna to help with a boosted signal
Cons:
* Android 7
Specifications:
Frequency Band:
EU version :TDD-LTE: Band38/40/41FDD-LTE: Band1/3/5/7/8/20WCDMA: Band 1/2/5/8GSM/GPRS/EDGE: Band2/3/5/8US version :FDD-LTE:Band1/2/4/5/7/12/13/17/28a/28bWCDMA: Band 1/2/4/5GSM/GPRS/EDGE: Band2/5
Android system
Android 7.0CPU
MT6572V/X,Dual core1.0GRAM+ROM
1GB+8GBInput Power
10-24VDimension
170*80*85mmWeight
380gLTE Power Output
3 (0.25W)GSM/GPRS Power Output
EGSM900: 4 (2W)DCS1800: 1 (1W)EDGE Power Output
DGSM900: E2 (0.5W)DCS1800: E1 (0.4W)CDMA 1X Power Output
3 (0.25W)UMTS Power Output
WCDMA: 3 (0.25W)EVDO: 3 (0.25W)TD-SCDMA: 2 (0.25W)Inrico TM-7 Plus (mobile unit)
Spaceman's 2 cents:
This was the first 4g Network Radio released by Inrico. I've also seen it under the Radio-Tone name. It's been around for over a year, but it's still worth mentioning as it's still a great little "radio".
Pros:
* Great sound all the way around! The mic will give YOU a great sound to others, and the speaker provides a nice loud clean sound. It cuts through any road noise you may have.
Cons:
* Android 7* VERY small screen. You'll need a stylus or mouse when you're setting this thing up!
This was the first 4g Network Radio released by Inrico. I've also seen it under the Radio-Tone name. It's been around for over a year, but it's still worth mentioning as it's still a great little "radio".
Pros:
* Great sound all the way around! The mic will give YOU a great sound to others, and the speaker provides a nice loud clean sound. It cuts through any road noise you may have.
Cons:
* Android 7* VERY small screen. You'll need a stylus or mouse when you're setting this thing up!
4G/WiFi Mobile Network Radio
Supports WiFi & Bluetooth
Precise navigation and positioning
Military quality
Specs:
Screen TP display
IPS2.45” 240×432GPS
YesInput Power
12-24VSpeaker
3558 Watts 4WBT，WIFI
YesUSB
Micro 5pin data cableMedia player
Support MP3/MP4Hand microphone
Yes（Optional full keyboard Mic）External Camera
Optional；external cameraExternal Speaker
YesDimension（Standard battery，without antenna）
H*W*D:188×58×68(mm)Inrico T320 4G/LTE (walkie talkie)
Spaceman's 2 Cents:
This is Inrico's most favorited radio. In my opinion, for quality, and the $$$, this is the best network walkie talkie out there. Many other T320 users will agree (and there are in a lot)
Pros: * Built well* Every button can be mapped with Button Mapper - you can assign channels to the number keys if desired. * External Antenna to help with a boosted signal
Cons: * Android 8.1* Micro USB
This is Inrico's most favorited radio. In my opinion, for quality, and the $$$, this is the best network walkie talkie out there. Many other T320 users will agree (and there are in a lot)
Pros: * Built well* Every button can be mapped with Button Mapper - you can assign channels to the number keys if desired. * External Antenna to help with a boosted signal
Cons: * Android 8.1* Micro USB
EU Version's Frequency
GSM: B2/B3/B5/B8WCDMA: B1/B2/B5/B8TDD-LTE: B38/B39/B40/B41FDD-LTE: B1/B3/B5/B7/B8/B20/B28a/B28bUS Version's frequency:
GSM: B2/B3/B5/B8WCDMA: B1/B2/B5/B8TDD-LTE: B1/B2/B4/B5/B8FDD-LTE: B2/B4/B5/B7/B12/B13/B17/B26/B28a/B28b/B66ASIA Version's Frequency
GSM: B3/B8WCDMA: B1/B8TDD-LTE: B38/B40FDD-LTE: B1/B3/B7/B8/B20/B28A/B28BWi-Fi
IEEE 802.11 /b/g/n（2.4G & 5G）, ASIA version doesn't support 5GhzNFC
Bluetooth
BT4.0 & BLENavigation
GPS, GLONASS, AGPS，BeidouOS
Android 8.1CPU
MT6739RAM+ROM
1GB+ 8GBExpand Memory
Optional, up to 128GCard Slot
Standard SIM card + Micro SIM card + TF cardUSB
Micro USB 2.0Interface
M6Screen Size
2.4 inches, G + F single touch，240*320Camera
Front Camera 2.0MP，Rear Camera 8.0MPSpeaker
Ø36mm，8Ω 2WMicrophone
Main Mic + Aux Mic，Dual mic noise reductionBattery
3500mAhWorking Times
9 Hours（5/5/90 standard test）Standby Times
40 HoursDimension (H*W*D)
140 x 64 x 28mm(Without Antenna and Belt clip)Weight
≈257gWorking Temperature
-10°C ~ 60°CStorage Temperature
-20°C ~ 70°CRfinder B1 Dual Band DMR 4G/LTE (walkie talkie)
Spaceman's 2 Cents:
Pros: * This particular model can talk on Zello, as well as VHF/UHF/DMR. Not all radios offer both VHR **AND ** UHF on the same unit. * 13MP Camera* Android 8.1 (which is only one version behind as of when this was written)
Cons: * It's FREAKIN' HUGE* It's FREAKIN' EXPENSIVE - currently going for right around $1100.00* Not crazy about the screen's resolution specs* No USB Type-C ?!?!?
Pros: * This particular model can talk on Zello, as well as VHF/UHF/DMR. Not all radios offer both VHR **AND ** UHF on the same unit. * 13MP Camera* Android 8.1 (which is only one version behind as of when this was written)
Cons: * It's FREAKIN' HUGE* It's FREAKIN' EXPENSIVE - currently going for right around $1100.00* Not crazy about the screen's resolution specs* No USB Type-C ?!?!?
Walkie talkie
4 Watts DMR+Analog, UHF/VHF
LTE 4G smartphone
IP67 rugged,
PTT:DMR+UHF/DMR+VHF(optional)
Specifications:
Display
4.0 inch5 points capacitive screen,support rainwater operation,IPS.Glove wearing touch Support640*1136 pixels TFT LCMSim
Dual SIM,Dual standby ,the third SIM card for private network(Optional)Network
GSM, WCDMA, EVDO,TD-SCDMA,TDD/FDD-LTEBand
2G: GSM850/900/1800/1900;3G:WCDMA850/900/1900/2100LTE-FDD:B1/B2/B3/B4/B5/B7/B8/B17/B20LTE-TDD:B38/B39/B40/B41OS
Android 8.1CPU
MTK6763,Octa core,2.0GHzMemory
4GB RAM +64GB ROMMicro SD card
Support up to 128GBBattery
2500mAh@7.4V(Standard)Color
BlackSize
148x64x30.3mm,Weight
430gSOS
YesChannel knob
yes,easy to operatePTT
Optional,Push-to-Talk over two way radioGNSS
GPS/BEIDOU/GLONASSCharging dock
YesQuick Charge
Supports 2A quick chargeBelt Clip
YesMicphone
Dual mic to anti noiseSensors
Gravity,Gyro,Distance sensor,Light sensor,3D accelerator,Pressure sensor.FM
YesNFC
Optional, 13.56MHZSpeaker
2 WattsCamera
Front camera：5mega pixels rear camera：13mega pixelsPicture size up to 4096*3072 pixelsFlash LED/Torch 1 flash led, 200 luminaVideo record
1920*1080 recording，30fpsExternal camera support
optionalExternal palm mic
Supported, OptionalWLAN
WIFI 802.11 a/b/g/n, 2.4G/5.8GData Port
USB 2.0USB port
20pin multiple port,2A charge,support OTG.Bluetooth
BT4.0Dual Band:
136-174 MHz / 400-480 MhzBoxchip S700A (walkie talkie)
Spaceman's 2 cents:
PROs:
This is one of the only "Network Radios" that comes with the current version of Android.
4G compatible
Battery capacity is good
You can also have VHF (137-174 MHz) *or* UHF (400-470 MHz) capability for local (non-IP) communications
CONs:
The Screen Size/Resolution, Memory and Camera is a little lacking, so I wouldn't use this as a device that will replace your main phone.
Overall: the addition of the conventional VHF or UHF capabilities makes this device worth buying in my opinion. There are other models out there that offer the same type of features, but this one seems to be the best one out there right now.
PROs:
This is one of the only "Network Radios" that comes with the current version of Android.
4G compatible
Battery capacity is good
You can also have VHF (137-174 MHz) *or* UHF (400-470 MHz) capability for local (non-IP) communications
CONs:
The Screen Size/Resolution, Memory and Camera is a little lacking, so I wouldn't use this as a device that will replace your main phone.
Overall: the addition of the conventional VHF or UHF capabilities makes this device worth buying in my opinion. There are other models out there that offer the same type of features, but this one seems to be the best one out there right now.
Professional LTE/4G radio
DMR and PoC smart button
IP65 waterproof, dustproof, shock resistant
HD camera
4500mAh battery
Specifications:
Processor
CPU 1.5GHzAndroid
Android 9.0+Memory
2GB /16GBLCD touch
Gorilla® Glass 3LCD touch feature
Web touch/ Glove touch/ Solar visibilityLCD Size
4.0inch,800*480 PixelsCamera
8MP+ 5MP camera;Optional 13MP+8MPFlash light
Highlight flash LEDSIM Card
Support Dual Nano SimWCDMA
B1 B2 B5 B8FDD-LTE(EU Version)
B1 B3 B5 B7 B8 B20 B26 B28A/BFDD-LTE(US Version)
B1 B2 B4 B5 B7 B8 B12 B13 B17 B26 B28A/BTDD-LTE
B38 B39 B40 B41Bluetooth
Dual Bluetooth 4.2NFC
Support or OptionalBattery capacity
4500 mAhWi-Fi (WLAN)
2.4G /5.8GGPS navigation
GPS/AGPS/GLONASSSensor
Acceleration,Proximity Sensor,Light Sensor,Gyro Sensor,Compass SensorExternal Port
Motorola M6Operating Temperature
-15℃ ~ 60℃Storage Temperature
-40℃ ~ 80℃Humidity
20% ~ 90%USB type
USB2.0, Type C USB PortExternal Accessories
Support Remote micro speaker, Eearbud, Body cameraDimension
69mm*143mm*26mmTerminal weight
375GWith Standard Package Weight
800GInner Package Size
19.5cm*18.4cm*3.6cmOuter Package
20pcs/Carton, 16kg/CartonCarton Size (L*W*H)
39cm*37cm*18cmStandard Accessories
Type C USB cable, Charger, Back Clip, Antenna, Antenna HatCertification
CE,MSDS,UN38.3Inrico S200 (walkie talkie)
I REALLY comb though this radio.
For a full review - follow this link:
TELO PTT TE590 (walkie talkie)
Spaceman's 2 cents:
Pros:
* Good size - should fit in the palm nicely.* Good size PTT button - not super skinny like the Kyocera Dual Force phones* Good battery capacity* Decent Cam!
Cons:
* Android 6* Low Memory
Pros:
* Good size - should fit in the palm nicely.* Good size PTT button - not super skinny like the Kyocera Dual Force phones* Good battery capacity* Decent Cam!
Cons:
* Android 6* Low Memory
Frequency band:
INT Version:GSM: B2 / B3 / B8 WCDMA: B1 / B2 / B8 TDSCDMA: B34 / B39 FDD-LTE: B1 / B3 / B7 / B8 / B20 / B28 TDD-LTE: B38 / B39 / B40 / B41America Version:
GSM: B2 / B5 WCDMA: B1 / B2 / B5 TDSCDMA: B34 / B39 FDD-LTE: B1 / B2 / B4 / B5 / B7 / B12 / B17 / B28 TDD-LTE: B38 / B39 / B40 / B41WiFi
WiFi IEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n(5.8GHz and 2.4GHz)Bluetooth
BT4.0 and BLENFC
SupportedGPS
GPS/GLONASS/AGPSCPU
MTK6753 1.3GHz Octa Core ProcessorMemory RAM + ROM
2GB+16GB DDR3Display
3.5˝ Touch ScreenCamera
Rear Camera 13MP, Auto Focus, Flash LED Front Camera: 2MPSpeaker
2.0W, ∅30mm Waterproof SpeakerBattery
4,200mAhUSB Ports
USB Type-CInterface
M6 interface for Remote Speaker Microphone, Earpiece, External CameraSensors
G-Sensor & Acceleration Sensor, Proximity Sensor, Light Sensor, Light Sensor, E-CompassOperating Systems
Android 6.0Dimensions(H * W * D)
134.6*63.5*24.5mmWeight
288gWorking Temperature
-20o C to +60o CStorage Temperature
-40o C to +85o CProtection Rating
IP68 & MIL810GVOX
SupportedKyocera DuraForce PRO - Push To Talk (PTT) Car Speaker Kit W/ Universal Phone Cradle
Spaceman's 2 cents:
I first saw this and said "woah! what's that?!?!?" It definitely caught my eye. I don't know much about this thing, but it does leave me with questions..
What I do know is:
* there seems to only be one website that carries this.
* it's WAY overpriced. The website lists it at $249.90 - which leaves you thinking you can simply get a decent network radio for a fraction of that price.
* the site specifically says it's made for the Kyocera Duo Force Pro (1).
The questions I now have are:
* Will it work for the Duo Force Pro 2?
* Will it work for any phone with a 3.5 audio jack?
* Why is it so #!@#$% expensive? I feel like I can piece something like this together for 80 bucks.
I first saw this and said "woah! what's that?!?!?" It definitely caught my eye. I don't know much about this thing, but it does leave me with questions..
What I do know is:
* there seems to only be one website that carries this.
* it's WAY overpriced. The website lists it at $249.90 - which leaves you thinking you can simply get a decent network radio for a fraction of that price.
* the site specifically says it's made for the Kyocera Duo Force Pro (1).
The questions I now have are:
* Will it work for the Duo Force Pro 2?
* Will it work for any phone with a 3.5 audio jack?
* Why is it so #!@#$% expensive? I feel like I can piece something like this together for 80 bucks.
Features:
Connects to phone with 3.5mm PTT headset jack.
Amplified speaker so calls can be heard over vehicle noise.
Includes palm mic for simple one touch communication with dispatch and DC groups.
Separate volume control so drivers don’t have to adjust phone settings while driving.
Includes charger so phone can charge while in cradle.
Driver can easily disconnect phone and use outside vehicle.
Pre-assembled for easy installation.
Includes:
10 Watt Amplifier/Palm Mic Adapter
Palm microphone
Loud Speaker
Arkon® 4" pedestal (6" pedestal optional)
Arkon® universal phone holder
Custom mounting bracket
Hardwire kit or CLA Power Adapter & Cables
Pre-assembled
Kyocera Dual Force Pro II (4G Phone with PTT button)
Spaceman's 2 Cents:
I actually own this phone. I got it specifically for the designated PTT button and the fact that you can drop this phone in a creek, and it should be fine. This phone was built like a protective case with a phone inside.
What I like: * a designated PTT button. * Good "walkie talkie" sound* built like a tank* Screen and Camera isn't bad at all. Not quite samsung quality, but still very nice* Very affordable phone* Love how the finger print scanner is part of the power button. * There's actually a barometer built into the phone. What's great about this is you can use it to be able to tell how far above sea level you are without the use of the internet.
What I DON'T like:* Wish the PTT button was a tad wider
I actually own this phone. I got it specifically for the designated PTT button and the fact that you can drop this phone in a creek, and it should be fine. This phone was built like a protective case with a phone inside.
What I like: * a designated PTT button. * Good "walkie talkie" sound* built like a tank* Screen and Camera isn't bad at all. Not quite samsung quality, but still very nice* Very affordable phone* Love how the finger print scanner is part of the power button. * There's actually a barometer built into the phone. What's great about this is you can use it to be able to tell how far above sea level you are without the use of the internet.
What I DON'T like:* Wish the PTT button was a tad wider
Device Type – Android 4G Smartphone
CPU – Octa-Core 4x 2.2 GHz ARM Cortex-A53 4x 1.8 GHz ARM Cortex-A53
Chipset – Qualcomm Snapdragon 630, 64-bit Processor
GPU – Qualcomm Adreno 508
Camera – 13MP f/2.0 with LED Flash and AF Dual Rear Camera | 5 Megapixel Front camera
Memory – RAM- 4GB LPDDR4, 1333MHz | ROM 64GB, External Memory Support Up to 512GB
Display – Screen size 5.0-inches IPS Display FHD (1080 x 1920 Pixels)
Battery – Non-Removable 3,240mAh Lithium-ion
SIM – Single SIM (Nano-SIM)
Sensors – Proximity Sensor, Accelerometer, Compass, Ambient Light, Gyroscope, Fingerprint ID (Rear Mounted)
Color – Black
Operating System – Android 8.1 Oreo
I/O Interface – 1 x Nano SIM Card Slot, microSD/TF Card Slot, Type-C USB 2.0 Port, 3.5mm Audio Out Port, Power Button, Volume Button, Microphone, Speaker
Dimensions – 73.4 mm x 150.1 mm x 12.9 mm
Weight – 230 Grams (With Battery)
Versions – Single 4GB RAM/64GB ROM
More Feature – IP68 Dust and Water Resistant, MIL-STD-810G Certification, LTE Cat 9 450 Mbps Download, LTE Cat 9 50 Mbps Upload, HSPA+, NFC, Computer Sync, OTA Sync, Tethering, FM Radio, Wi-Fi, GPS, Bluetooth, HAC (M3/T4) Hearing Aid Compatibility, Fingerprint Sensor, Wireless Charging, Qualcomm Quick Charge 2.0 Technology, Fast Charging Technology, 5V/1.5A, 9V/1.8A Charger OutputPower, Push to Talk Feature.
Kyocera DuraForce Ultra 5G UW (5G Phone with PTT Button)
Never did update to this one as I went back to Samsung
What I like: * a designated PTT button. * Good "walkie talkie" sound* built like a tank* Screen and Camera isn't bad at all. Not quite samsung quality, but still very nice* Very affordable phone* Love how the finger print scanner is part of the power button. * There's actually a barometer built into the phone. What's great about this is you can use it to be able to tell how far above sea level you are without the use of the internet.
What I DON'T like:* Wish the PTT button was a tad wider
What I like: * a designated PTT button. * Good "walkie talkie" sound* built like a tank* Screen and Camera isn't bad at all. Not quite samsung quality, but still very nice* Very affordable phone* Love how the finger print scanner is part of the power button. * There's actually a barometer built into the phone. What's great about this is you can use it to be able to tell how far above sea level you are without the use of the internet.
What I DON'T like:* Wish the PTT button was a tad wider
Google Sites
Report abuse