The Best Two-Way Radios for Conventions
If you go out and buy the first radio that you see for your team, you might be in for a rude awakening. Static, poor battery life, messages that sound like a drive-through speaker...
That’s why you need a quality radio tailored to your convention, and we’ve got you covered!
We don't want you to buy any radio just because you like the name or the price. We want you to make an educated decision and purchase the perfect radio within the scope of your needs, staff, and location.
We’ve sold thousands of radios and have compiled all that knowledge right here in this brief guide.
What do you need in a walkie talkie for conventions?
The registration line is wrapped around the lobby and there aren’t enough staff members to check people in...
A speaker for the 10 a.m. session just arrived but no one knows where to escort her...
Meanwhile, a vendor is trying to get access to the loading dock and can't find anyone to unlock it. Everyone needs answers—now,
These are all common issues in a convention - and they can easily be solved with clear, quality two-way radios.
Let's walk through some important components when comparing radios.
Coverage Considerations
When choosing two-way radios for your convention, it is important to match radio power and coverage of your building size and layout.
Selecting a radio that is too powerful for your needs can lead to overpaying, while choosing one with insufficient coverage may result in poor quality and dead zones.
For smaller conventions, 2 watts of power will do the trick - you can get from 200k sqft of coverage.
Larger conventions (or multiple buildings), covering up to 350,000 square feet, require more powerful radios in the 3-4 watt range on analog (or 1 watt on digital) that can transmit clearly through walls and across larger distances.
You also need to take obstructions and building materials into account. If you have thick concrete walls, it may be necessary to go 1-watt stronger.
For unlimited coverage, across multiple locations, consider radios that use LTE and Wi-Fi, like the Motorola WAVE PTX series.
Number of Channels Needed
Channels help segment team conversations, to simplify radio chatter.
Recommended groups for conventions:
- Event Operations – For overall coordination between departments and to manage the flow of the event.
- Registration & Guest Services – Handles attendee check-in, badge issues, and general inquiries.
- Security – Monitors entrances, manages crowd control, and responds to incidents.
- AV & Tech Support – Coordinates with speakers, handles equipment setup, and troubleshoots technical issues.
- Exhibitor Support – Assists vendors with setup, supplies, and special requests.
- Logistics & Facilities – Manages room setups, deliveries, cleaning crews, and general venue needs.
- VIP & Speaker Escorts – Ensures key guests are where they need to be, on time.
- Medical & First Aid – For health-related concerns or emergencies
Easy breezy. That’s concise and direct communication.
Channels can also be used to set up private conversations: “Sarah, call Tom on channel two.”
Sarah and Tom can then have an in-depth conversation over the radio without bothering the rest of the staff.
Quality Brands Make a Difference
You need a radio that is not going to fall apart within a year. You need one that will last so you’re not throwing away money.
Motorola and Kenwood two-way Radios are the most quality brands on the market because they are purpose-built for reliable communication with a durable build.
Designed to be easy to use and intuitive their radio series are affordable, cost-effective and eliminate monthly cell phone plans.
Tested for 5 years of field use, Motorola and Kenwood make sure you see a return on your investment.
Not to mention the included manufacturer warranty (1-3 years depending on model).
What features make a great convention radio?
- Clear Audio Quality Large, busy venues can be loud—radios need to cut through the noise with crisp, reliable sound.
- Long Battery Life Staff will be working long shifts. Radios that last 10–14 hours or more help avoid mid-event downtime.
- Multiple Channels Different teams (security, registration, logistics, etc.) need their own channels to stay organized and avoid cross-talk.
- Durability Drops, bumps, and constant use are inevitable. Look for radios that are rugged and built to withstand wear and tear.
- Lightweight and Comfortable to Wear Staff are on the move all day. Compact, lightweight radios with belt clips or earpieces are ideal for all-day use.
- Hands-Free Accessories Headsets or earpieces with push-to-talk (PTT) or VOX (voice-activated transmission) help staff multitask without fumbling for their radios.
- Extended Range Whether it's a massive convention center or multiple connected buildings, you’ll need enough coverage to stay in touch from one end to the other.
- Privacy Codes / Interference Elimination Keeps communication clean and reduces interference from other nearby users or events.
- Emergency Features Radios with an emergency alert button or lone worker mode can enhance safety, especially for security or medical teams.
Our Top Two-Way Radio Picks for Conventions
To help you with your selection, we've highlighted several different models below that are perfect for conventions of every size.
These recommendations come from our own experience working with thousands of these radios. Each one has a rock-solid history and great reputation.
Smaller Conventions
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One of the most durable radios on the market.
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Compact and powerful. Easy to use and great battery life.
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Larger Conventions - Multiple Buildings
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Best Unlimited Coverage (LTE & Wi-Fi Enabled)
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Ideal for operations across multiple locations, cities or states.
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Request a Quote for Bulk Purchases
Need to equip your team? We want to help!
Make sure to request a quote for our best possible pricing.
We are here for you!
If you have any questions on which radio is right for your convention – do not hesitate to reach out to our support team.
We have a very knowledgeable staff with over 25 years of experience in the two-way radio industry that can answer all your questions.
You can’t get rid of us that easily after purchase - we include lifetime tech support to be there for you every step of the way!