Retevis RT648 - IP67 Waterproof Walkie-Talkie Review
INTRODUCTION
The RT648 is the European and UK PMR446 version of the FRS (US) RT48. As usual from Retevis, this is a solid bit of kit. It's not without its niggles though so here are a list of the pros and cons.You can check out the full specs for the RT648 radio on the Retevis website.
AFFILIATE LINKS
PROS
• Great price & value for money for an IP67 radio• Genuinely waterproof. I tested it for 30 minutes underwater. I wouldn't recommend this but it's good to know!
It floats (good job really)
Solid construction. Very nicely built
Clear volume and channel buttons which provide enough feedback
USB charging
Battery can be charged in the base when not attached to the device
Supports scrambling function
Very loud speaker (see cons also)
Voice announcement is off when the speaker volume is down
Large size means it's easy to operate with protective gloves on
CONS
Battery capacity is a mere 1500mAh. The battery life is fine but a unit of this size could easily contain a bigger cell
Speaker audio is a little harsh and tinny• Some may find the unit too big. It's pretty bulky but this depends what you're after
PTT physical feedback could be a little more obvious
IP67 rating means it uses a multi-pin programming cable. Yet another cable to buy (yes it's different from some other Retevis products)
Another piece of programming software to install. Why can't Retevis consolidate all of them into one (like Chirp).
SHOULD YOU BUY THE RT648?
Yes, there are a few cons but really this is great value for money. I contacted Retevis and asked them about the battery capacity. This is primarily to keep the unit within a certain budget. Personally, I would happily pay a premium to get a top notch 2,500mAh battery. This would put it way ahead of the Motorola XT420 business alternative.If you need that extra level of ruggedness, this is not a bad radio at all. I can imagine these being perfect if you're working on a construction site or maybe organising parking for an event. You need something that simply doesn't care about the rain and is a good size in the hand and loud enough to hear in an environment with a bit of noise.The RT648 isn't really a radio for kids or family. It's overkill for that and there are much better alternatives such as the Retevis RT22 or the Motorola T82.