Motorola T605 H2O Review: Durable but Limited Range
The bold claim from Motorola Talkabout T605_H2O Waterproof Two Way Radios is a 35-mile range with rugged IP67 waterproofing, but digging deeper into hundreds of user reviews, the real-world reach is far shorter – often between 0.3 and 5 miles depending on terrain and conditions. Still, its durability, floatable design, and emergency-ready features earn it a strong 8/10 rating among outdoor enthusiasts.
Quick Verdict: Conditional – Strong buy for boaters, hikers, and emergency-prep users who value waterproofing and safety features over long-range communication in built-up areas.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| IP67 waterproof, floats, water-activated flashlight | Real-world range falls far short of 35 miles |
| Solid build quality, withstands drops | Mixed battery performance; poor NIMH pack longevity |
| NOAA weather alerts, emergency siren | Bulky for small-handed users |
| Dual power options (AA or NIMH) | Requires original micro-USB for charging |
| Clear audio in optimal conditions | Some users report low speaker volume due to waterproof seal |
| Easy-to-use controls, bright backlit LCD | Charging requires screwdriver to access battery compartment |
| Includes carry case and car charger | Instructions are vague for new users |
Claims vs Reality
The marketing promise of a “35-mile range” is a headline feature, but Trustpilot and Reddit users consistently temper expectations. A verified buyer wrote: “I am dissatisfied with the range… expected at least 1 mile, but it only worked for 0.3 miles.” Others found it usable over 2-5 miles in open landscapes. While officially rated for mountain-to-valley or open water conditions, urban or wooded areas severely limit performance.
Motorola highlights “fully waterproof, floatable IP67 design” as a differentiator. Here, user evidence matches the claim. Reddit user experiences include radios falling into pools or being left out in rain with “no problem.” One eBay seller noted the unit “floats face up if dropped overboard” with water-activated flashlight aiding retrieval – a lifesaver for boaters.
Battery life is officially listed as “up to 23 hours” with AA batteries or “up to 9 hours” with NIMH rechargeable packs, but customer reports diverge. While some, like a Trustpilot reviewer, enjoyed “two days of continuous use” without recharge, others complain the included rechargeable “went from full charge to dead in just 6 hours.”
Cross-Platform Consensus
Universally Praised
Outdoor specialists and water sport enthusiasts flock to the T605_H2O for its lifesaving safety tools. The integrated white/red LED flashlight, water-activated recovery light, and whistle belt clips resonate with boat crews, hikers, and off-road drivers. A Trustpilot reviewer noted during an overheating engine incident, “instantly everyone was hearing me loud and clear,” crediting the Motorola unit for avoiding further danger.
NOAA weather alerts are widely valued: “Helped us communicate safely… driving through busy cities we had no issues” said a buyer who used them on a cross-country road trip. The carry case wins praise for securely holding all accessories, making it convenient for preparedness kits.
Audio clarity also earns acclaim. BestViewsReviews aggregates 74% positive voice clarity ratings, with one owner stating, “the sound is clear and the range is reasonable, even in mountain curve runs.”
For durability, Reddit and Trustpilot users describe drops onto “concrete, asphalt, desert playa, rock, and tile floors” with only minor abrasions – reinforcing the rugged outdoor branding.
Common Complaints
Range limitations dominate disappointment threads. “Range is about a half mile” writes an Amazon user, finding it unsuitable for large beach areas. Delay in transmission (3-5 seconds) frustrates sports coaches and caravan drivers.
Battery complaints are equally prominent. Issues include packs failing after minimal use, poor standby endurance, and the inconvenience of needing a screwdriver to change batteries due to waterproof sealing. One Trustpilot reviewer lamented: “All but one battery pack were completely dead the same day.”
Bulk and ergonomics are a minor but notable gripe – especially for smaller hands. A verified Amazon buyer noted, “For a woman or anyone with small hands, they might be too big.”
Charging constraints irritate tech-minded users. Several warn that non-original micro-USB cables won’t work, which becomes critical in emergencies if the provided cable is lost.
Divisive Features
The waterproof seal and floating design split opinion on audio loudness; one buyer reported “poor hearing...due to pressure from waterproof seal” but fixed it by venting the battery compartment.
The dual power option (AA or NIMH) earns praise for flexibility but criticism for poor rechargeable performance. Many recommend carrying spare AA batteries rather than trusting the included packs.
Outdoor adventurers love the “PTT Power Boost” option to extend range temporarily, while others found the gain negligible in wooded terrain.
Trust & Reliability
Trustpilot data shows a generally positive reliability record – 70% overall satisfaction – but reveals early battery failures as the biggest quality control concern. Long-term Reddit posts describe months of heavy outdoor use without structural or waterproof failure, even after immersion events, aligning with Motorola’s IP67 promise.
No scam patterns emerge in verified purchases, and sellers on eBay consistently describe radios as “used but work fine,” suggesting that resale units retain full functionality over time.
Alternatives
Some frustrated range-seekers compare the T605_H2O to Baofeng GM-15 or Radioddity models, which offer higher transmit power but require licensing. Users who prioritize compact size and longer range sometimes opt for non-waterproof models like Motorola T470, sacrificing floating ability for more portability.
Within Motorola’s own lineup, the T600 shares most features with the T605, but user comparisons suggest the T605 bundle’s extras (carry case, car charger) make it better suited for extended adventure travel.
Price & Value
Recent eBay listings price new two-packs between $148.49 and $162, while used sets sell for $70–$80, indicating solid resale value. Amazon listings occasionally dip below $90 for lime editions, making them competitive in the waterproof two-way category.
Community tips for maximizing value:
- Buy in pairs or bundles for group compatibility
- Keep spare AA batteries for emergencies
- Store in carry case to extend lifespan
FAQ
Q: Does the T605_H2O really have a 35-mile range?
A: Only under perfect conditions like mountain-to-valley or open water. Users generally report 1–5 miles, sometimes less in urban or wooded areas.
Q: How waterproof is it?
A: Rated IP67 – can be submerged in 1 meter of water for 30 minutes and floats. Users confirm it survives rain, pool drops, and brief immersion.
Q: Can I charge with any micro-USB cable?
A: No – several buyers report only the original cable works reliably, so keep it in the carry case.
Q: What’s the best battery option for all-day use?
A: Many suggest using AA batteries for long trips, as the included NIMH packs can deplete faster than advertised.
Q: Is it compatible with other brands?
A: Yes – works with any FRS/GMRS radios on the same channel and privacy code settings.
Final Verdict: Buy if you’re a boater, hiker, or off-grid traveler needing waterproof durability, floating recovery, and NOAA alerts. Avoid if your primary need is extended urban range or compact portability. Pro tip from the community: always carry spare AA batteries — they’ll keep you talking long after the rechargeable packs quit.
