It’s easy to wonder what is the difference between a two-way radio and a walkie talkie when the two terms are used so interchangeably. The reason for this “swappability,” you might call it, is that the two bear a number of similarities.
In the following article, we will be exploring the ways they line up, as well as what makes each unique. First, however, it helps to understand how these technologies are used in everyday life. Here are the three biggest.
Transportation
Exploring the CB radio vs walkie talkie, there aren’t many differences, and the ones that do exist are largely presentational. A CB radio, like a two-way and a walkie talkie, can send and receive messages.
It largely is used in the world of transportation, particularly by truck drivers. They use it for basic communication, traffic updates, and situational awareness.
Recreation
Another use of two-way and walkie talkie radios is recreational. These types of radios are sold commercially, often as toys, and do not have quite the same broadcast frequencies as you might see with military-grade radios.
First Response
EMTs, Police Officers, Firefighters, and Dispatchers all live by the two-way radio for communicating sensitive information in a timely and dependable manner. In these instances, radios are vital to service delivery and the saving of lives.
Now that we’ve covered why and how you might use them, let’s dive further into the features of both two-way and walkie talkies, noting key differences along the way. Let’s continue!
- Frequencies
Two-way radio communication comes in a variety of frequencies, measured through megahertz (or MHz). The two-way radio used by public agencies such as rural Fire and Police will clock in at the VHF (136-174 MHz) level, while cities may need UHF (403-470 MHz). Onsite walkie talkies generally broadcast at 900 MHz.
- Marketing
A major difference with the walkie talkie vs two-way radio comparison is marketing. Walkie talkies are often mentioned when discussing children’s toys. Two-way radios, on the other hand, are the marketing verbiage reserved for radio sales to public and private agencies.
- Licensing
Owning a low-frequency child’s walkie talkie will not require you to have an FCC license, but for most forms of two-way radio use, you’ll need to obtain one. You can access licensing information online through the agency’s website.
- Mobility
The last thing you need to know about key differences between two-way and walkie talkie radios is this. Some two-way radios are not built for mobility. They stay in one location, while walkie talkies are designed to be carried along by the user.
What Is the Difference Between a Two-Way Radio and a Walkie Talkie?
There are very few differences you’ll uncover when exploring the question of what is the difference between a two-way radio and a walkie talkie. They are both used to send and receive messages, but variances can arise when getting into frequencies, marketing, mobility, and required licensing.
