Motorola Talkabout T470 vs T800! Which Offers More Value?

 

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Today we have another comparison of 2 popular walkie-talkies—the Motorola Talkabout T470 and Motorola Talkabout T800! These radios are often compared head-to-head, and today, we’ll break down what makes each stand out. We’ll hit all the major categories, from build quality to features and range, so you can decide which one is the right pick for your adventures.

Build Quality and Design

Let’s start with the build quality and design. Both radios have solid build quality but take a different approach.

The T470 is built with ruggedness in mind. It’s IPX4 water-resistant, which means it can handle water splashes from any direction. This is perfect if you’re out in light rain or snow. The design feels sturdy in the hand, and the extra plastic loop around the body makes it easy to clip onto a belt or hang with a carabiner. It’s definitely built to last .

On the other hand, the T800 also has an IPX4 rating, but it takes a sleeker approach. Its “hidden display” only lights up when you press a button, giving it a clean, modern look. The body is compact, but it doesn’t compromise on durability . The downside is that its design makes it harder to stand the radio upright.

Regarding overall toughness, I’d say the T470 feels more like a workhorse. The T800, while durable, seems to prioritize style over ruggedness.

Connectivity Features

Now, this is where things get interesting. The T800 takes a big leap ahead with its Bluetooth connectivity. You can pair it with the Talkabout app on your phone, giving you access to features like off-grid texting, map sharing, and location tracking. That’s a game-changer if you’re out hiking or camping with friends and need more than just voice communication. Plus, the app lets you control the radio’s settings .

Meanwhile, the T470 sticks to the basics here. It doesn’t offer Bluetooth or app integration, so it’s just your standard walkie-talkie. While that might sound like a disadvantage, it could appeal to someone who doesn’t want the added complexity of pairing their device to a phone .

If you need a radio that works with modern tech and apps, the T800 is your guy. But if you need straightforward, reliable communication, the T470 does the job without fuss.

Battery Life and Charging

Both radios offer dual power options, which is super convenient. The T470 can run on a rechargeable 800mAh battery pack or three AA batteries. That flexibility is nice, especially if you’re out without access to a charger for long periods.

The T800 also has dual power, but its NiMH battery gives it up to 14 hours of use, and if you switch to AA batteries, it can last up to 25 hours . On paper, the T800’s battery life seems better, but remember that using the Bluetooth features could drain that battery faster than you’d expect.

So, if longevity is a big concern, the T800 with AA batteries could give you more hours, but it’s always good to have spare power banks or AA batteries on hand for both models.

Range and Communication

Ah, the classic issue with two-way radios is the advertised range vs. the real one. Both the T470 and the T800 advertise up to 35 miles of range, but let’s be real—this only happens if you’re on a flat, unobstructed terrain with perfect weather conditions.

For the T470, you’re realistically looking at a range of about 1-2 miles, depending on the environment . It’s typical for walkie-talkies in this class, but the claim of 35 miles is definitely overstated.

With the T800, you get up to 20 miles of range for data transmission and 35 miles for voice, but again, this is under ideal conditions. In real-world use, expect it to be similar to the T470, around 1 mile in most environments .

The T800 does win here if you’re using it for data communication like text or location sharing. But if you’re primarily using it for voice, there’s not a huge difference.

Weather Alerts and Emergency Features

Both radios include NOAA weather channels and emergency alerts, a must-have if you’re camping or hiking. The T470 allows you to tune into weather channels and get alerts, and it even has a VibraCall™ alert, which is great if you’re in a noisy environment .

The T800 offers the same weather features, but it takes it a step further with its off-grid emergency messaging. If you and your group are out of cell service, the T800’s Bluetooth pairing allows you to still send emergency messages to other T800 users . It’s a feature that could potentially be life-saving in the right situation.

Ease of Use

Let’s talk user-friendliness. The T470 is extremely easy to use. The buttons are straightforward, and the display is clean and readable. Even if you’re new to radios, you’ll quickly get the hang of it.

The T800 is slightly more complex due to its Bluetooth features and app integration. While the app adds a lot of functionality, it also means there’s more of a learning curve. If you love tech, you’ll enjoy the T800’s smart features. But if you prefer to keep things simple, the T470 is a better fit.

The Verdict!

Both radios have their strengths, but they cater to different types of users. The T470 is perfect for someone who wants a reliable, rugged, easy-to-use radio without fancy extras. It’s well-built, offers multiple power options, and does exactly what it’s supposed to do .

On the other hand, the T800 is ideal for someone who loves technology and wants more than just a walkie-talkie. The ability to send texts, share maps, and connect with others off-grid is a huge advantage, especially for group adventures . However, the added tech might be overkill for someone who just wants a simple radio.

So, which one should you pick? If you value simplicity and durability, go with the T470. If you want to stay connected with off-grid features and Bluetooth integration, then the T800 is your best bet.

  • January 22, 2025
Paul