The "best" Icom device heavily depends on your needs when it comes to band, durability, and compatibility. For most businesses, this means a mid-range device with a balanced set of Icom radio features, but you should look into a site survey to confirm coverage before you buy.

Many amateur blogs online speak extremely well of the modern Icom 2-way radios, with their wide range of features. However, choosing which one you might want is not an easy task, as everyone has different needs, and a few key details can significantly influence their behavior.

Below, we discuss the options for Icom radios and how to select a model that meets as many of your needs as possible. By the end of the article, you should be able to compare various model families before reaching out to an authorized dealer for the device itself.

What Are the Best Icom 2-Way Radios?

There are several options to choose from when it comes to the "best" device, as what you might consider the best can vary depending on your needs.

For any entry-level use, consider the IC-F1100D or Icom F2100D radio. It's a good all-rounder, with competent audio and a battery that will last long enough for most uses. 

For more advanced users, the IC-F62D is a more compact option that offers Bluetooth connectivity and both safety and security features.

If you are instead working in vehicles, the IC-F5400D is the mobile transceiver for trucks and buildings, helping you stay in touch clearly while also pairing with repeaters and handhelds for more far-reaching capabilities.

So, consider speaking with us about your specific needs. We can help you find the perfect two-way radio for you.

What is the Range of Icom Radios Near me?

The range of all radios is limited based on the power and frequency they use. Handhelds connecting over rough terrain, such as hills or forests, may experience interference from the environment, potentially causing difficulties.

However, there are ways around this.

The most effective way to extend your distance is to use a device that can connect to a 3G or 4G network. You then have range all across the world, anywhere you have access to a 3G or 4G tower.

Aside from that, you will want to consider whether you are using the device indoors or outdoors. If indoors, consider using an ultra-high frequency (UHF) radio rather than a very-high frequency (VHF) option.

VHF works better in more expansive, open areas, and Icom UHF radios are best suited to penetrate the material used in building construction. However, many devices can toggle between being an Icom VHF radio and an Icom UHF radio at any time.

How to Make a Comparison of Icom Models

You will also want to look at a wide range of other factors before you make your final decision, including:

Durability

While ingress protection (IP) ratings generally translate to higher numbers being more hardy and robust, this is not always the case. While an item may be protected if it has a number, the second numeral is not a spectrum.

Passing a higher number doesn't always mean passing a lower one.

Compliance

Many Icom devices use the MIL-STD rating to test their ability to live up to specific standards. If you expect to use these radios in a demanding environment, such as extreme heat or cold, you should ensure that they pass these tests.

Battery Power

Ensure the device's longevity aligns with your expected usage time in a single extended period. If, for example, users are likely to be on the radio throughout a work shift and need to be transmitting during that period, they will need a much larger battery than someone who only needs to turn it on to transmit.

Accessory compatibility

Icom devices have a wide range of accessories, such as:

• Chargers
• Antennas
• Spare batteries
• Mounting kits
• Speakers

Ensure that your device has the accessories for its user's role. If not, you may need to select one that is more compatible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who Manufactures Icom Radios?

Icom Inc. both designs and manufactures Icom digital radios. They are based out of Japan but are a global company, with several divisions worldwide to appeal to different demographics.

In America, Icom America supports products in that area and will service any devices that start to show signs of fault. However, they are not manufactured in the U.S.

Icom has long been a top manufacturer of global products, and it looks like they will continue to create high-quality devices long into the future.

Are Icom Two-Way Radios Made in China?

Icom states that their radios are all created at company facilities in Japan. However, be aware that counterfeits do exist, some even bearing holograms or other capabilities that only Icom radios should have.

If a model does not display itself as from Japan, then check with the retailer from whom you purchased it. The country of origin should be on the packaging or the invoices if you want to investigate further.

Is Icom a Good VHF Radio Manufacturer?

Icom VHF portable radios and mobile radios are both well-respected by their users, earning extremely positive Icom radio reviews on both land and water.

While Icom VHF devices are designed for outdoor use with line-of-sight, they are competent pieces of kitthat are often used by many for a variety of purposes.

If you work in heavy construction or indoor venues, an Icom VHF radio may not be as effective. However, Icom has other devices that perfectly match this need.

So, confirm which radios you need, then purchase the ones that suit your unique requirements.

Confidently Choose Your Next Icom Radio

Decide on your needs when it comes to bands and coverage, then start to shortlist a few options among the Icom line. By knowing more about what you want, you can make a better decision with confidence.

If you need advice, our veteran-owned small business has made sure to know as much about these devices as possible. As an authorized Icom dealer, you can have the assurance that you always receive the highest-quality Icom 2-way radios from us, too. 

Explore our Icom range to find the perfect device for your needs, and buy Icom radios for your business today.