Icom IC-M25 Floating Handheld VHF Radio, Blue
- Brand:
- Icom
- Part no:
- IC-M25 21
Where to buy
Specifications
- Transmit power
- 5 W
- Waterproof
- IPX7
- Floats
- Yes
- Battery life
- 11 h
- Charging
- Micro-USB
- Battery
- 1500 mAh
The Icom IC-M25 is a handheld VHF radio that floats, and a red LED flashes if it ends up in the water. It transmits at 5 watts with a 1 watt setting, and is rated IPX7 for 1m of water for 30 minutes. A 1500mAh lithium-ion battery gives about 11 hours of typical use and charges through a Micro-B USB connector. The radio weighs 7.76 ounces and has a 550mW audio output.
Our take
With IPX7 construction and a float-and-flash LED, the IC-M25 is built for a drop over the side: it floats and a red light flashes so you can find it. The 1500mAh battery is quoted at about 11 hours, charged by Micro-B USB.
From our buying guide
Standard Horizon says range depends far more on the antenna than on transmit power, and that a handheld on its stock antenna at sea level may only reach a mile or two. It has its own battery and antenna, so it keeps working if the boat's power fails.
Check before you buy:
- It has DSC and GPS if you want a distress button that sends your position, since handhelds are not required to have DSC.
- The waterproof rating comes with the maker's depth and time, since IPX8 has no fixed depth or time.
- The maker says it floats on its own, since some float only in an optional case.