Cobra MR HH350 FLT Review: Best Handheld VHF Radio?

By: Jeremy Neisser

If you're in the market for a reliable VHF radio that can handle any situation, look no further than the Cobra MR HH350 FLT. This handheld radio is submersible and floats, making it perfect for boating and water activities.

I've had the pleasure of using this radio during my own boating adventures, and I can confidently say that it's a great choice. The noise-cancelling microphone ensures clear communication, while the backlit LCD display makes it easy to read in any lighting conditions. Plus, the NOAA weather alerts and memory scan function are extremely useful features.

One of the standout features of this radio is the 6 watt power output, which provides a strong signal even in remote areas. And, with a battery life of up to 12 hours, you won't have to worry about running out of power during a long day on the water.

Bottom Line

Overall, I highly recommend the Cobra MR HH350 FLT for anyone in need of a reliable VHF radio. Its submersible design, noise-cancelling microphone, and advanced features make it a great choice for boaters and outdoor enthusiasts alike. 

Cobra MR HH350 FLT Handheld Floating VHF Radio - Overview

As someone who loves spending time on the water, I understand the importance of having a reliable communication device that can keep me safe. The Cobra MR HH350 FLT Handheld Floating VHF Radio is a great option for those who need a marine radio that can withstand the elements.

This radio features a noise-cancelling microphone that blocks out background noise for clear conversations, and provides the ability to customize your conversations with 1, 3, and 6 watts of power. The backlit orange display makes it easy to read in any conditions, and the radio floats in case it gets dropped overboard.

With access to USA, Canada, and International channels, you can stay connected no matter where your adventures take you. The built-in NOAA Weather radio channel provides 24-hour updates on weather conditions, emergencies, and incoming hazards, so you can always be prepared.

Overall, the Cobra MR HH350 FLT Handheld Floating VHF Radio is a reliable and durable choice for anyone who spends time on the water.

Key Features

When it comes to marine adventures, communication and safety are of utmost importance. That is why I am excited to share my experience with the Cobra MR HH350 FLT Handheld Floating VHF Radio. This radio is packed with features that make it an excellent choice for anyone who wants to stay connected and safe on the water. Below are some of the key features that make this radio stand out.

Noise-Cancelling Microphone

One of the most impressive features of the Cobra MR HH350 FLT is its noise-cancelling microphone. This feature blocks out background noise for crystal-clear conversations, even in noisy environments. I found this feature to be incredibly helpful when communicating with other boaters or when trying to get help in an emergency situation.

6 Watt VHF

The 6 Watt VHF capability of this radio is another standout feature. It allows you to customize your conversations based on your location and the distance you are from shore. You can choose between 1, 3, and 6 watts for short- and long-range communication. This feature gives you more control over your communication and helps you stay connected even when you are far from shore.

Backlit and Floats

The Cobra MR HH350 FLT is also designed to be easy to use in all conditions. Its backlit LCD display is easy to read, even in low light conditions. The orange core floating design makes it easier to retrieve your radio if it is dropped overboard. This feature is especially important for anyone who spends a lot of time on the water and wants to ensure that their radio is always within reach.

USA, Canada & International Channels

Another great feature of the Cobra MR HH350 FLT is its maximum coverage. This VHF marine radio allows operation on any of the three different channel maps established for USA, Canada, and International areas. This feature ensures that you can stay connected no matter where you are on the water.

NOAA Weather & Emergency Radio

Finally, the built-in NOAA Weather radio channel is a must-have feature for anyone who spends time on the water. The Cobra MR HH350 FLT provides 24-hour updates on threatening weather conditions, emergencies, and incoming hazards. This feature helps you stay prepared and never surprised when it comes to changes on the water.

Overall, the Cobra MR HH350 FLT Handheld Floating VHF Radio is an excellent choice for anyone who wants to stay connected and safe on the water. Its noise-cancelling microphone, 6 Watt VHF, backlit and floats design, USA, Canada & International channels, and NOAA Weather & Emergency Radio make it a standout product in its category.

Pros and Cons

When it comes to purchasing a VHF radio, it's important to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision. Here are some of the advantages and drawbacks of the Cobra MR HH350 FLT Handheld Floating VHF Radio.

Pros

• Noise-Cancelling Microphone: The noise-cancelling microphone is a standout feature of this VHF radio. It blocks background noise for crystal clear conversations, making it easier to communicate with others on the water.

• Customizable Wattage: With the ability to select between 1, 3, and 6 watts, this radio provides the flexibility to customize your conversations based on your distance from shore. This is especially useful for those who spend days on the water further from shore.

• Backlit and Floats: The backlit and easy-to-read orange display ensures higher visibility in all conditions. Additionally, the orange core floating design makes it easier to retrieve your radio if dropped overboard.

• Maximum Coverage: This VHF marine radio allows operation on any of the three different channel maps established for the USA, Canada, and International areas, providing maximum coverage wherever you go.

• NOAA Weather and Emergency Radio: The built-in NOAA Weather radio channel provides 24-hour updates on threatening weather conditions, emergencies, and incoming hazards, ensuring that you are always prepared and never surprised.

Cons

• Speaker Volume: Some users have noted that the speaker volume could be louder, making it difficult to hear in noisy or windy conditions.

• Limited Wattage: While the customizable wattage is a pro, some users may find the maximum wattage of 6 to be limiting, especially if they require more power for longer range communication. 

• If you are looking for a mounted radio, the Cobra MR F77B GPS VHF Marine Radio might be a better option

Overall, the Cobra MR HH350 FLT Handheld Floating VHF Radio is a great choice for those looking for a reliable and versatile VHF radio. Its noise-cancelling microphone, customizable wattage, backlit display, and NOAA Weather radio channel make it a standout choice for communication and safety on the water. However, the limited speaker volume and wattage may be a drawback for some users.

Customer Reviews

After using the Cobra MR HH350 FLT Handheld Floating VHF Radio for a while, I decided to check out what other customers had to say about it. I was impressed to see that the majority of reviews were positive, with many people praising the radio's durability and ease of use. One user even mentioned that their friends were jealous of their radio's features and unique white color.

Others appreciated the radio's compact size and long battery life, which made it perfect for outdoor activities like canoeing and boating. However, some users did mention that they wished the speaker was a little louder.

Overall, the customer reviews for the Cobra MR HH350 FLT Handheld Floating VHF Radio were very encouraging and reinforced my own positive experience with the product.

Conclusion

After using the Cobra MR HH350 FLT Handheld Floating VHF Radio, I can confidently say that it is a reliable and useful tool for anyone who spends time on the water. The radio's 6-watt power and submersible design make it a great choice for boaters and paddlers alike. The noise-canceling microphone and backlit LCD display are also great features that make communication easy and clear.

One thing to note is that the speaker could be a little louder, but this is a minor issue compared to the overall performance of the radio. The fact that it is compact, holds a charge well, and has a good range of up to 8 miles is a huge plus.

Overall, I highly recommend the Cobra MR HH350 FLT Handheld Floating VHF Radio to anyone in need of a reliable and easy-to-use marine radio. It's a great investment for safety and peace of mind while out on the water.

Frequently Asked Questions

As a reviewer who has used the Cobra MR HH350 FLT Handheld Floating VHF Radio, I have received many questions about its features and capabilities. In this section, I will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about this product.

What is the battery life of the Cobra MR HH350 FLT?

The Cobra MR HH350 FLT is equipped with a Lithium Polymer battery that provides up to 8 hours of continuous use. This battery life is more than enough for a full day of boating or fishing. Additionally, the battery is rechargeable, which means you can use it multiple times without having to replace it.

How far will a 6 watt VHF radio transmit?

The range of a 6 watt VHF radio can vary depending on the conditions and environment. In general, the Cobra MR HH350 FLT can transmit up to 3-5 miles in open water. However, the range can be increased by using a higher antenna or by transmitting from a higher location.

What is the emergency channel on marine radio?

The emergency channel on marine radio is channel 16. This channel is reserved for emergency communications only and should not be used for regular conversations. In case of an emergency, you can use this channel to call for help or to communicate with other boats in the area.

What are some accessories available for the Cobra MR HH350 FLT?

There are several accessories available for the Cobra MR HH350 FLT, including a charging cradle, a car charger, and a replacement battery. Additionally, you can purchase a higher antenna to increase the range of the radio.

How does the Cobra MR HH350 FLT compare to the Cobra HH500?

The Cobra MR HH350 FLT and the Cobra HH500 are both handheld VHF radios designed for marine use. However, there are some differences between the two models. The Cobra MR HH350 FLT is a 6 watt radio with a noise-cancelling microphone and a backlit LCD display. On the other hand, the Cobra HH500 is an 8 watt radio with Bluetooth connectivity and a GPS receiver. While both radios are great options for boaters, the choice between them depends on your specific needs and preferences.

Where can I find the manual for the Cobra MR HH350 FLT?

The manual for the Cobra MR HH350 FLT can be found in the box that comes with the radio. If you have lost the manual or need a digital copy, you can download it from the Cobra Electronics website. The manual provides detailed instructions on how to use the radio and its features, making it a valuable resource for any boater.