Local 2 years warranty !!

The Motorola TLKR T80 Extreme is the latest high-spec walkie talkies to be released in the popular TLKR range. If you’re thinking about purchasing a set of Two-Way Radios it’s important to consider: what they are primarily going to be used for, where they are going to be used, over what distances, and certain features you might require (such as hands-free). The TLKR T80 Extreme is a full package with the whole kit coming in a handy carry case for convenient storage and transportation. The bright yellow design serves to make the handsets easier to see, and they boast a durable build for use in more demanding environments. .

Pros: Robust build, long range, excellent battery life, convenient carry case
Cons: Long charge time

Set-up

The handsets are easy to set up and start using straight out the box. Those with less than 20-20 vision might need to dig out their glasses in order to read the print in the user manual, but will find the instructions to be straightforward and clear.

It is recommended to charge the handsets for 14 hours before using them for the first time, so this is definitely something to consider if you’re planning to use them straight away. However, you can also use 4x AAA batteries in each handset and charge the battery packs independently from the handsets using the dual-top cradle and included dividers, which can come in handy.

Ease-of-use

The handsets are extremely user-friendly and have nice weight and feel to them. Included with the pack are two belt-clips, which attaches the handset to your belt (or bag strap, or clothing…) quite well. Selecting channels and sub-codes is straightforward whether you’re familiar with Two-Way Radios or new to them. Setting up a group does require a little programming, but is simple enough when following the guide.

Battery life

When it came to performance of the handsets in terms of battery life, the T80 Extreme fared well. The handsets lasted a full days worth of testing (over 8 hours) and was still going strong when we more or less collapsed exhaustedly into the car to drive home. It does take 14 hours to fully charge the handsets, but (as I pointed out at the start of the review) you can charge the batteries separately.

Features

The TLKR T80 Extreme comes with all the features you would expect to find from a set of two-way radios for this kind of price. The hands-free VOX function works well and you can adjust the sensitivity depending on how loud the environment your in; there’s a lag of maybe half a second between when you start to speak and the handset transmitting, but overall we found the performance to be pretty good. There are two headsets included with the kit, and whilst not the most attractive or comfortable to wear (the build is a lot more flimsy than the handsets) they are not uncomfortable, are lightweight, and work well in conjunction with the VOX setting so would be ideal for skiing (or any other activity you need to keep your hands-free). The handsets benefits from a IPx2 rating, which means that they are effectively weatherproof.

Verdict

The Motorola TLKR T80 Extreme may be on the expensive side for a set of Two-Way radios but if you’re looking for robust handsets, these are as solid as they come. The T80 Extreme are also likely to give you the longest range you’re going to get (without incurring the costs of a license and compatible handset) and provide an impressive battery life. And if you like the look of the handset but don’t require something quite so sophisticated, you can check out the some of the other models in the TLKR range.