Welcome to Two Way Direct’s Two-Way Radio Buyers Guide! Whether you’re outfitting a team of construction workers, event staff, or healthcare professionals, we’re here to help you find the best two-way radios and accessories for your needs. With a wide range of brands like Motorola, Hytera, Two Way Direct, Kenwood, and Icom, we offer solutions for every budget and industry.
Below, we break down the key factors to consider, the best options across low, mid, and high tiers, and why Two Way Direct is your trusted partner for communications solutions.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Two-Way Radio
1. Power Output
• 1–2 Watts: Ideal for short-range communication indoors, such as retail stores.
• 4–5 Watts: Better for large buildings, outdoor or long-range needs, such as hotels and school campuses.
2. Frequency Band
• UHF (Ultra High Frequency): Best for indoor use, as it penetrates walls and obstacles.
• VHF (Very High Frequency): Better for outdoor environments with open spaces, like farms or parks.
3. Technology
• Analog: Budget-friendly and simple but lacks advanced features.
• Digital: Offers superior clarity, extended range, and enhanced features like text messaging. Common digital technologies include:
• TDMA / DMR (e.g., Motorola, Hytera, Two Way Direct)
• IDAS (e.g., Icom)
• NXDN (e.g., Kenwood)
4. Battery Life
• Look for 8–12 hours of talk time for all-day use. Extended batteries are available for high-demand environments.
5. Accessories & Connectors
• Be aware of your radio's accessory connector for compatibility with earpieces, shoulder microphones, and headsets.
• Two Way Direct-branded accessories offer unbeatable quality and pricing.
Low, Mid, and High-Tier Options
Low-Tier Options
Ideal for small businesses, retail, and schools.
Recommended Models:
• Two Way Direct XTR50U
• Hytera TC-320
Key Features:
• Affordable pricing.
• Basic functionality with analog and entry-level digital options.
Example Industries:
• Retail, hospitality, and small event management.
Mid-Tier Options:
• Perfect for construction, warehousing, and hospitality.
Recommended Models:
• Two Way Direct XTR300U
• Hytera BD502 (no display) or BD552 (display)
Key Features:
• Advanced digital technologies compatible with Motorola's digital technology.
• Extended battery life.
• Durable build quality.
Example Industries:
• Construction, manufacturing, and schools with larger campuses.
High-Tier Options
Built for mission-critical communications in industries like public safety and transportation.
Recommended Models:
• Motorola SL300
• Hytera TC-320 (no keypad) and HP682 (full keypad)
Key Features:
• Superior audio clarity and advanced encryption.
• Robust construction for extreme conditions.
Example Industries:
• Emergency response and large-scale logistics.
Our Programming Process
If you already own radios, we can match the programming for seamless integration:
1. Send us a working radio.
2. We pull the frequency information and save it to your customer record.
3. Your existing radio is returned same-day, along with your new, pre-programmed radios.
No programming charges apply when you purchase from Two Way Direct.
Push-to-Talk Smartphone Integration
With the Two Way Direct's Push-to-Talk Application, turn your smartphone into a two-way radio!
• Communicate over WiFi or cellular networks across cities, states, and even countries.
• Pair with our broadband radios for a hybrid solution.
• Compare to Motorola’s Wave Solution, which is limited to Verizon coverage.
Accessories You Need to Stay Connected
Enhance your team’s performance with Two Way Direct accessories:
• Earpieces: Stay discreet and hands-free.
• Shoulder Microphones: Perfect for loud environments.
• Multi-Unit Chargers: Charge multiple radios efficiently.
• Replacement Batteries: Ensure uninterrupted communication.
Our accessories are designed for quality, durability, and unbeatable prices.
Industry Solutions
Explore our Industry Solutions section for tailored recommendations. Common applications include:
• Education: Stay discreet and hands-free.
• Healthcare: Perfect for loud environments.
• Hospitality: Charge multiple radios efficiently.
Product Videos
Click below for our most popular two-way radio models and view our coverage tests here :
• Motorola
• Hytera
• Kenwood
• Two Way Direct
Why Choose Two Way Direct?
• Wide selection of top brands and accessories.
• Expert programming and support at no additional cost.
• Affordable alternatives like Hytera and our own Two Way Direct brand.
• Exclusive smartphone push-to-talk solutions.
Ready to find your perfect two-way radio solution? Contact us today at (888) 742-5893 and speak with one of our knowledgeable product experts!
