By: Jeremy Neisser
As someone who enjoys outdoor activities, I know how important it is to have reliable communication equipment. Walkie talkies are a great way to stay connected with your group when cell phone service is not available. In this article, I will compare two popular walkie talkie brands: Midland and Cobra.
Midland vs Cobra – Walkie Talkie Comparison Key Takeaways
- Midland walkie talkies may have shorter battery life than other brands, especially Cobra
- It's terms of distance, Midland (36 miles) out-performs Cobra (30-35 miles)
- Both have similar features, user-friendly to setup, and are about the same in price
- In general, Midland walkie-talkies are slightly bulkier than Cobra, making them a few ounces heavier
Midland and Cobra are both well-known brands in the world of two-way radios. They offer a wide range of models with various features and price points. In this article, I will provide an overview of both brands, compare their most popular models, and share my personal experience using them.
Before we dive into the direct comparison, let's take a closer look at each brand individually. I will discuss the features and benefits of Midland and Cobra walkie talkies, as well as any drawbacks. By the end of this article, you will have a clear understanding of which brand and model is the best fit for your needs.
Overview of Midland Walkie Talkie
As I compare Midland and Cobra walkie talkies, it's important to understand the key features of each brand. Midland walkie talkies are popular for their durability and long-range capabilities. They're designed to withstand harsh weather conditions and are ideal for outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, and hunting.
Key Features
Midland walkie talkies come with a range of features that make them stand out from other brands. Here are some of the key features of Midland walkie talkies:
- Long-range capabilities: Midland walkie talkies have a range of up to 36 miles, making them ideal for long-distance communication.
- Weather alerts: Midland walkie talkies come with NOAA weather alerts, which keep you informed about any severe weather conditions in your area.
- SOS signals: In case of an emergency, Midland walkie talkies can send out an SOS signal to alert other users.
- VOX technology: Midland walkie talkies come with voice-activated transmission (VOX) technology, which allows you to communicate hands-free.
- Dual power options: Midland walkie talkies can be powered by either rechargeable batteries or regular AA batteries.
Pros and Cons
Like any other product, Midland walkie talkies have their pros and cons. Here are some of the advantages and disadvantages of using Midland walkie talkies:
Pros
- Long-range capabilities: Midland walkie talkies have a range of up to 36 miles, making them ideal for long-distance communication.
- Durable: Midland walkie talkies are built to withstand harsh weather conditions and are ideal for outdoor activities.
- Weather alerts: Midland walkie talkies come with NOAA weather alerts, which keep you informed about any severe weather conditions in your area.
- SOS signals: In case of an emergency, Midland walkie talkies can send out an SOS signal to alert other users.
- VOX technology: Midland walkie talkies come with voice-activated transmission (VOX) technology, which allows you to communicate hands-free.
- Dual power options: Midland walkie talkies can be powered by either rechargeable batteries or regular AA batteries.
Cons
- Price: Midland walkie talkies can be more expensive than other brands.
- Size: Midland walkie talkies can be bulkier than other brands, which can make them less portable.
- Battery life: Midland walkie talkies may have shorter battery life than other brands, especially when using rechargeable batteries.
Here are the TOP three Midland Walkie talkies
MMidland® T71VP3 X-TALKER Long Range Walkie Talkie
- 2-WAY Radios: The walkie-talkies are equipped with 36 FRS (Family Radio Service) channels and communication options. Additionally, they offer a convenient channel scan feature that allows users to easily check for activity on different channels. For power, these walkie-talkies offer dual options.
- Up to 30 Mile Range: Unlock the power of long-range communication capabilities in, unobstructed environments with minimal or no obstacles. With enhanced signal reach, these devices enable seamless and reliable connections over greater distances.
- 121 CTCSS Privacy Codes: With privacy codes, the Continuous Tone-Coded Squelch System provides a wide selection of up to 2,662 channel options. These codes offer the ability to block out other conversations, ensuring clear and interference-free communication. The walkie-talkies feature a silent operation mode, allowing users to turn off all tones and operate discreetly without any audible signals.
- NOAA Weather Scan + Alert: NOAA Weather Scan will automatically scan through 10 available weather (WX) band channels and locks onto the strongest weather channel to alert you of severe weather updates. NOAA Weather Alert will sound an alarm indicating that there is a risk of severe weather in your area.
Midland - LXT500VP3, 22 Channel FRS Walkie Talkies
- 2-WAY RADIOS - These walkie-talkies feature 22 FRS (Family Radio Service) channels, along with channel scan to check for activity
- 24-MILE RANGE - Longer range communication in open areas with little or no obstruction
- DUAL POWER OPTIONS - Use rechargeable battery packs (included) or 4 AAA alkaline batteries (not included) to power your radio. Includes a battery life extender
- KEYPAD CONTROL - Keypad lock prevents accidental activation of function/mode keys. Keystroke tones provides audible tones with each key press for response or confirmation. Use silent operation to turn off all tones
- INCLUDED IN THE BOX - Radios (x2), rechargeable battery packs (x2), desktop charger, AC wall adapter, belt clips (x2), and an owner’s manual
Midland 50 Channel GMRS Two-Way Radio - Long Range Walkie Talkie
- 2-Way Radios - These Walkie-Talkies Feature 50 Gmrs (General Mobile Radio Service) Channels, Along With Channel Scan To Check For Activity. The Jis4 Waterproof Protection Prevents Splashing Water From Having Any Harmful Effect On It (Splash Resistant)
- 36-Mile Range - Longer Range Communication In Open Areas With Little Or No Obstruction. Easy Voice And Sound Activation Transmission (Evox) With 9 Sensitivity Levels For Hands-Free Operation
- 142 Ctcss/Dcs Privacy Codes - The Privacy Codes Give You Up To 3,124 Channel Options To Block Other Conversations
- Noaa Weather Scan + Alert - Noaa Weather Scan Will Automatically Scan Through 10 Available Weather (Wx) Band Channels And Locks Onto The Strongest Weather Channel To Alert You Of Severe Weather Updates. Noaa Weather Alert Will Sound An Alarm Indicating That There Is A Risk Of Severe Weather In Your Area
Most of these are for adults, if you are looking for kid walkie-talkies read this article.
Overview of Cobra Walkie Talkie
As I compare the Cobra and Midland walkie talkies, it's important to take a closer look at each brand's offerings. In this section, I will provide an overview of the Cobra walkie talkie.
Key Features
Cobra walkie talkies are known for their durability and range. They use advanced technology to provide clear communication over long distances. Some of the key features of Cobra walkie talkies include:
- VOX (voice-activated transmission) technology for hands-free communication
- NOAA weather alerts to keep you informed of changing weather conditions
- Multiple channels and privacy codes for secure communication
- Long battery life for extended use
- Compact and lightweight design for easy portability
Pros and Cons
Before deciding on a walkie talkie, it's important to consider the pros and cons. Here are some of the advantages and disadvantages of Cobra walkie talkies:
Pros
- Durable design that can withstand harsh conditions
- Long-range communication capabilities
- Easy to use and set up
- Multiple channels and privacy codes for secure communication
- NOAA weather alerts to keep you informed of changing weather conditions
Cons
- More expensive than some other walkie talkie brands
- Some users have reported issues with battery life
- Limited compatibility with other brands of walkie talkies
Overall, the Cobra walkie talkie is a reliable and durable option for those in need of long-range communication capabilities. While it may be more expensive than some other brands, its advanced features and technology make it a worthwhile investment.
Here are the top three Cobra Walkie Talkies
Cobra RX380 Walkie Talkies for Adults
- Compact and Weather Resistant – Weather-resistant walkie talkie built with a strong shell so your radio can handle harsh conditions. With up to 32-mile range, this walkie talkie is compact to carry with you on your long journeys.
- 40 Preset Channels - Easy access to 22 standard FRS channels plus 18 pre-programmed channel/privacy code combinations to secure your conversations from surrounding hikers, hunters or wherever your adventure takes you.
- NOAA Weather Channels – Get 24/7 access to NOAA weather channels so you can always be prepared and connected with those you are traveling with in the instance you run into bad weather conditions.
- Call Tones - 10 selectable tones to distinguish between different parties as well as a channel scan feature so you can automatically scan channels for incoming transmissions. Communicate clear in working areas like hotel, security, and construction.
- Built-In LED Flashlight – Use the LED Flashlight or enable SOS function with the push of a button making this two-way radio the perfect addition to your camping accessories so you can always stay connected with your loved ones.
Cobra ACXT645 Waterproof Walkie Talkies
- The Cobra ACXT645 is engineered for demanding outdoor conditions.
- With up to 35-mile range, Splashproof (IPX4) Rating, built-in LED flashlight, NOAA Weather Alerts, VibrAlert® feedback for incoming transmissions, and more.
- The ACXT645 is perfect for all of your rugged outdoor adventures as well as for emergency preparedness.
Cobra RX380 Walkie Talkies for Adults
- Compact and Weather Resistant – Weather-resistant walkie talkie built with a strong shell so your radio can handle harsh conditions. With up to 32-mile range, this walkie talkie is compact to carry with you on your long journeys.
- 40 Preset Channels - Easy access to 22 standard FRS channels plus 18 pre-programmed channel/privacy code combinations to secure your conversations from surrounding hikers, hunters or wherever your adventure takes you.
- NOAA Weather Channels – Get 24/7 access to NOAA weather channels so you can always be prepared and connected with those you are traveling with in the instance you run into bad weather conditions.
- Call Tones - 10 selectable tones to distinguish between different parties as well as a channel scan feature so you can automatically scan channels for incoming transmissions. Communicate clear in working areas like hotel, security, and construction.
- Built-In LED Flashlight – Use the LED Flashlight or enable SOS function with the push of a button making this two-way radio the perfect addition to your camping accessories so you can always stay connected with your loved ones.
You may be interested in: What the difference between CB radios and Walkie Talkies
Direct Comparison
When it comes to comparing Midland and Cobra walkie talkies, there are a few key areas to consider. Here's a direct comparison of the two brands in terms of range, battery life, durability, and price.
Range
Both Midland and Cobra offer walkie talkies with impressive ranges, but the exact range will depend on the specific model you choose. Generally speaking, Midland walkie talkies tend to have slightly longer ranges than Cobra models. For example, the Midland GXT1000VP4 boasts a range of up to 36 miles, while the Cobra ACXT1035R FLT has a range of up to 37 miles.
- LONG RANGE UP TO 37 MILES: Provides an extended long range signal up to 37 miles with 2662 channel combinations & 121 privacy codes to minimize unwanted interference
- NOAA WEATHER & ALERT: Be prepared for storms and emergencies with built-in NOAA radio receiver and alert in the event of weather or other emergencies
- VOX - VOICE-ACTIVATED TRANSMISSION: The user's voice is detected and the radio transmits without the need to press any buttons, freeing hands for other tasks
- FLOATING & WATERPROOF (IPX7 standard): Never lose your radio. Floating design and orange core makes retrieving the radio easy if dropped in water
- REWIND-SAY-AGAIN: Replay missed radio calls. Automatically records the last 20 seconds of incoming audio
- VIBRALERT & CALL ALERT: Your microTALK radio can alert you to incoming signals by sounding an audible call tone only or both with vibrating
- BUILT-IN LED/S.O.S. FLASHLIGHT: The LED/S.O.S. flashlight located at the base of the radio provide enhanced functionality to keep you on the go when the sun goes down
Battery Life
Battery life is another important factor to consider when comparing Midland and Cobra walkie talkies. Midland walkie talkies tend to have longer battery life than Cobra models, with some Midland models offering up to 22 hours of battery life on a single charge. On the other hand, Cobra walkie talkies typically offer around 10-12 hours of battery life.
Durability
Both Midland and Cobra walkie talkies are designed to be durable and withstand tough conditions. However, Midland walkie talkies tend to be slightly more rugged and durable than Cobra models. For example, the Midland GXT1000VP4 is waterproof and dustproof, while the Cobra ACXT1035R FLT is only water-resistant.
- 2-Way radios - these walkie-talkies Feature 50 gmrs (general mobile radio service) channels, along with channel scan to check for activity. Jis4 waterproof protection makes it splash resistant.
- 36-Mile range - longer range communication in open areas with little or no obstruction. Easy voice and sound activation transmission (evox) with 9 sensitivity levels for hands-free operation.
- 142 ctcss/DCS privacy Codes - the privacy Codes give you up to 3, 124 channel options to block other conversations.
- Noaa weather scan + alert - will automatically scan through 10 Available weather band channels & alert you of severe weather in your area if you are at risk.
- Included in the Box - Radios (x4), rechargeable battery packs (x4), boom mic headsets (x4), belt clips (x4), (x2) dual desktop chargers, (x2) AC and DC adaptors.
Price
Price is always an important consideration when choosing between different walkie talkie brands. Generally speaking, Midland walkie talkies tend to be slightly more expensive than Cobra models, but the price difference is not significant. For example, the Midland GXT1000VP4 typically retails for around $70, while the Cobra ACXT1035R FLT is priced at around $60.
Overall, both Midland and Cobra offer high-quality walkie talkies that are well-suited for a variety of uses. When choosing between the two brands, it's important to consider your specific needs and preferences, as well as the features and specifications of each model.
User Experience
In terms of user experience, both Midland and Cobra walkie talkies offer reliable and easy-to-use communication devices.
One advantage of the Midland walkie talkies is that they are lightweight and compact, making them easy to carry around during outdoor activities. The buttons are also well-placed and easy to use, even with gloves on. Additionally, the audio quality is clear and loud, which is essential for effective communication in noisy environments.
On the other hand, Cobra walkie talkies are known for their rugged design, which makes them durable and resistant to harsh weather conditions. The buttons are also large and easy to press, which is helpful when wearing gloves. Furthermore, the battery life of Cobra walkie talkies is impressive, lasting up to 12 hours on a single charge.
Both Midland and Cobra walkie talkies offer a variety of features, such as weather alerts and emergency channels. However, some users may find Midland walkie talkies to be more user-friendly, with a simpler interface and fewer buttons to navigate. Meanwhile, Cobra walkie talkies may offer more advanced features, such as voice-activated transmission and customizable call tones.
Overall, the user experience with Midland and Cobra walkie talkies is positive, with both brands offering reliable and easy-to-use communication devices. The choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference and specific needs, such as durability, battery life, and advanced features.
Verdict
In conclusion, both Midland and Cobra offer high-quality walkie talkies with advanced features and impressive ranges. Deciding which brand to choose ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences.
If you prioritize a longer battery life and greater range, then the Midland GXT1000VP4 is the best option for you. It has a maximum range of 36 miles, 50 channels, and a battery life of up to 11 hours. Additionally, it includes NOAA weather alerts and a vibrate alert feature.
On the other hand, if you value compactness and portability, then the Cobra ACXT1035R FLT is the better choice. It has a maximum range of 37 miles, 22 channels, and a battery life of up to 12 hours. It also features a floating design and an LED flashlight.
Both brands offer similar features such as waterproofing, group calling, and hands-free operation. However, Midland has a slight edge with its SOS siren feature and longer range.
Ultimately, it is important to consider your specific needs and budget when choosing between Midland and Cobra walkie talkies. Both brands offer reliable and high-quality products that can meet the demands of various outdoor activities.
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Hi & Welcome!
My name is Jeremy and I have been an avid car nut for many year. My first car was an 1987 Honda CRX. I put in my first Kenwood stereo, amp, 2 10" JLs and a CB Radio in it and have been an avid user of CBs and car radios for years. I'll do my best to share my tips, information and thoughts to help you with whatever question you might have, ABOUT ME
After I graduated from High School, I worked 5 years are Radio Shack and 3 years at Circuit City answering questions and helping customers with various electronics questions.
