VHF vs UHF Two Way Radios

Businesses looking to implement the use of two way radios have a lot to consider when searching for their solution. With licence free and licenced radios available for users, the number one factor to consider is the location they will be used in.

Two way radios are used in a wide variety of settings and by many different sectors. So the level of performance required for the user will differ depending on the requirements and location of operation.

Choosing a Walkie Talkie For My Business

Licence free walkie talkies operate over PMR446 frequencies which are free to transmit over. They are great for small businesses, schools and leisure use. If they are being used in a busy environment, there can be a risk of interference from users nearby. Range on licence free walkie talkies can also be more restricting compared to licenced options.

For those looking for increased range, dedicated channels and additional security, licenced radios will be the best option.

Now the type of radio has been determined, there will be two frequency options available being VHF or UHF for licenced radios.

But what exactly are VHF and UHF frequencies and why does it affect my decision when purchasing licenced walkie talkies?

The following guide will detail what frequency band will best suit your working environment.

What You Need to Know About Frequency Bands

Knowing the differences between VHF and UHF is crucial in the decision making when purchasing two way radios. One incorrectly chosen for the environment will struggle to perform efficiently.

The key decision maker for this is what location will they be used in? Will it be across open land or a built up area? This is because each of the frequency bands is more suited to one environment than the other.

Is One Better Than The Other?

Out of the two frequency bands there isn’t one that is overall better than the other. They both perform well in the environments they are supposed to be used in. So what environments are each of them more suited to?

• VHF (Very High Frequency)

With a long range, VHF frequencies are designed for use in ‘line of sight’ locations. The signal from VHF can be blocked by any obstacles in the way such as large buildings, or large wooded areas. So this frequency performs at its best across open areas.

Recommended uses for VHF radios;

• Events across open land
• Farming
• Marine

• UHF (Ultra High Frequency)

A UHF frequency has a wider frequency spectrum compared to VHF so will be less affective for use in open areas. However it has shorter wavelength compared to VHF, which means that it’s less affected by potential obstacles, like built up and wooded areas.

Because UHF operates over a higher frequency, this makes them more efficient for use in busier areas such as cities. This frequency band will penetrate through the nearby obstacles and deliver the required level of communication for people using the radios in these environments.

Recommended uses for UHF radios;

• Manufacturing
• Factory floors/ warehousing
• Construction sites
• Hotels
• Hospitality and retail
• Schools
• Hospitals

One thing to keep in mind is, if you decide to purchase additional two way radios to add to an existing fleet. They must be on the same frequency band to work with each other.

Where Can I Get These Radios?

Both VHF and UHF versions of licenced radios are available to purchase from Radio Solutions. If you’re unsure which radios would work best for your location, our expert team are at hand to provide assistance. Give the team a call on 01745 335811 to discuss your requirements.