Walkie-Talkies versus Two-Way Radios: What’s the Difference?
Many of our customers use the term walkie-talkie and two-way radio interchangeably. But did you know that while all walkie-talkies are two-way radios, not all two-way radios are walkie-talkies? While both radio products have value, they have their differences as well as advantages and disadvantages.
When you hear “walkie-talkie,” many may think of a brightly-colored children’s toy. They are often marketed as such, found in more casual settings and chain retail stores. A walkie-talkie is a portable device with push-to-talk technology that only transmits one radio on the channel at a time without the use of towers. During that time, any number of people listen and remain on the receive mode. The device is portable – hence the name “walkie-talkie.” However, they can be limited in range, often have fewer features and are license-free.
Two-way radios send and receive two-way signals and are often mounted in a vehicle or on a desk. There are two different types: full and half duplex. The half-duplex sends and receives signals one by one, while the full duplex sends and receives simultaneously. These radios allow calling and receiving at the same time using two different frequencies. Unlike walkie-talkies where you have to remain on receive mode while someone is talking, two-way radios allow you to deliver your message at the same time. Similar to walkie-talkies, they do not require towers and can be used without electricity. Two-way radios are mostly used for commercial purposes, like construction and public safety, because of their additional features and high quality.
Overall, both walkie-talkies and two-way radios are valuable and have their uses. At General Communications, we have a vast selection of two-way radios that can help you save lives, protect your community and communicate well across your organization whether that is in Public Safety, Business & Operations, Schools & Transportation, Medical & Hospitals or Hospitality & Special Events.