Reliable communication can make or break a small business. Whether you’re running a hotel in Seattle, a construction crew in Eugene, or a security team in Spokane, choosing the right two-way radio helps your team stay connected, productive, and safe.
But with so many options available, from analog walkie-talkies to advanced digital LTE systems, how do you know which one fits your needs?
1. Identify How You’ll Use the Radios
Start by thinking about your daily operations. Are your employees working indoors, outdoors, or across multiple sites?
- Indoor or short-range use: Choose UHF radios, which perform better through walls and obstacles, perfect for hotels, warehouses, and schools.
- Outdoor or long-range use: Go for VHF radios, which transmit further in open spaces like farms, construction sites, and event venues.
2. Consider Range and Coverage
If your business operates across large areas or multiple cities, consider wide-area trunking or LTE-based radio systems. Whisler Communications offers FleetNet™ coverage and private trunking systems that give you crystal-clear communication across Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and beyond.
3. Choose the Right Features
Modern radios go far beyond basic push-to-talk functions. Depending on your industry, look for:
- Waterproof or dust-resistant designs for outdoor work.
- Emergency alerts and lone-worker features for safety.
- Noise-canceling mics for loud environments.
- GPS tracking and text messaging for fleet operations.
We carry a full range of options, from Kenwood NEXEDGE®, Icom, and Digatalk+, to the powerful Viking series, all designed to meet the needs of small businesses across the Pacific Northwest.
4. Think About Scalability
As your business grows, your communication system should grow with you.
Digital and LTE radios can be integrated into larger networks, allowing you to add users, departments, or new locations without replacing your entire setup.
5. Test Before You Buy
Every building, terrain, and worksite is different. That’s why it’s worth scheduling a demo with a local dealer. At Whisler Communications, we help you test equipment before you commit, ensuring you get the coverage and clarity your business needs.
Ready to find the perfect radio system for your team? Contact Whisler Communications today for a free consultation and local coverage review.