Name: Kenwood ProTalk PKT-300 UHF Two-Way Radio
Brand: Kenwood
SKU: MM-PKT-300-NO-PROGRAM
Price: 195 USD
Availability: InStock

What Is the Kenwood PKT-300 ProTalk XLS?

The Kenwood PKT-300 is a 2-watt, UHF two-way radio engineered for business teams that need reliable, hands-free capable communication in a genuinely pocketable form factor. Built on a sturdy polycarbonate body with a spring-loaded belt clip and a lithium-ion battery pack, the PKT-300 covers facilities up to 275,000 sq ft indoors.

It supports up to 45 QT tones and 174 DQT codes, voice-scrambling via Privacy Talk, VOX hands-free operation, and an adjustable squelch level. Weighing just 140 g (4.9 oz) with battery, it is one of the smallest business-grade UHF radios on the market.

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Product page by Kristin Wood, two-way radio consultant @ Tech Wholesale | Last Updated: May 2026

Technical Specifications

2.0 WRF Output (High)

16 ChChannels

140 gWeight w/ battery

275K sqftIndoor coverage

IP54Ingress Protection

Radio Performance

Frequency bandUHF FM

RF output (high)2.0 W

RF output (low)0.5 W

Frequency stability±2.5 ppm

Channels 16 (user-configurable)

Indoor range~275,000 sq ft

Privacy & Signaling

QT tones45 (+ 6 custom)

DQT codes174 (+ 6 custom)

Privacy TalkYes

Call alert tones10 types

Squelch levels0–5 (adjustable)

Busy Channel Lockout

Audio & VOX

Audio output power100 mW

VOX (hands-free)Yes (headset req.)

VOX gain levels1–5 (+ off)

VOX delay time0.3–3.0 sec

Mic sensitivity Normal / High

CompanderYes

Battery & Power

Battery typeLi-ion (KNB-81L)

Operating voltage3.8 V

Battery saverYes

Battery level indicatorYes

Charge temp range5°C – 40°C

Physical

Dimensions (W×D×H)50 × 27 × 98 mm

Weight (w/ KNB-81L)140 g (4.9 oz)

HousingPolycarbonate

Belt clipSpring-loaded (included)

DisplayLCD with backlight

Advanced Features

Scan functionYes

Time-out timer1–10 min

Mode reset timerOff / 10 / 30 sec

Incoming call notificationYes

Key / Super LockYes

Factory resetYes

What's Included

Kenwood PKT-300 two-way radio
KNB-81L lithium-ion battery pack
KBH-23 belt clip holster
Single-unit desktop charger with AC adapter
User manual

Note: Headset/speaker-microphone accessories are sold separately. VOX operation requires a compatible optional headset.

PKT-300 Key Features

Coverage & Range

2-Watt UHF Output

High power (2 W) reaches up to 275,000 sq ft indoors. Selectable low power (0.5 W) extends battery life when range demands are lower.

16 Programmable Channels

The PKT-300 supports 16 channels, each assignable to a specific GMRS/FRS frequency, allowing department-level segmentation across a facility.

Channel Scan

The built-in scan function cycles through all active channels and pauses when a matching QT/DQT signal is detected, ensuring no call is missed.

Privacy & Audio Quality

Privacy Talk (Voice Scrambling)

Scrambles transmissions so third parties on the same channel cannot understand the conversation — useful for security, HR, or management channels.

45 QT / 174 DQT Codes

QT (analog) and DQT (digital) sub-channel signaling lets each team operate on their own code within a shared frequency, filtering out unintended traffic.

Compander

The built-in compressor/expander reduces noise and improves signal clarity — compressing outgoing audio and expanding incoming audio for a cleaner experience.

10 Call Alert Tones

Each team member or department can use a distinct alert tone so staff instantly knows who's calling before transmitting — no guessing, no confusion.

Hands-Free & Ergonomics

VOX Hands-Free Operation

With a compatible optional headset, VOX activates transmission automatically when you speak — no PTT button needed. Adjustable gain (1–5) and delay (0.3–3.0 sec) prevent false triggering in noisy environments.

Pocketable Form Factor

At 50 × 27 × 98 mm and 140 g, the PKT-300 fits in a shirt or apron pocket. The spring-loaded belt clip holster provides a secure, quick-release carry option.

Key Lock & Super Lock

Key Lock disables the menu and channel buttons to prevent accidental changes. Super Lock goes further, disabling the CALL button and setting mode — ideal for shared or high-turnover environments.

Battery & Reliability

Lithium-Ion Battery Pack

The KNB-81L Li-ion pack is lightweight and rechargeable. A visual battery level indicator keeps users informed, and an audible / LED alert fires before shutdown during transmission.

Battery Saver Mode

After 5 seconds of inactivity, battery saver automatically reduces power draw — activating on receipt of a call or key press instantly restores full operation.

Time-Out Timer

Prevents accidental prolonged transmissions (e.g., a stuck PTT switch) by automatically stopping transmission after a configurable 1–10 minute window, with a 10-second pre-alert tone.

Compatible Accessories

The PKT-300 supports a full range of Kenwood-branded accessories via the dual SP/MIC jacks. All headsets listed below enable VOX hands-free operation when paired with the radio's VOX gain setting.

Model	Type	Best Use
KBH-23	Belt Clip Holster (included)	Carry / quick-draw access
KBH-14 / KBH-20 / KBH-21	Belt Clips	Lightweight carry alternatives
KNB-81L	Li-ion Battery Pack (included)	Standard runtime
KMC-21A / KMC-45D	Speaker Microphone	Louder audio; no earpiece required
EMC-11 / EMC-12	Clip Mic with Earphone	Discreet audio; hospitality, retail
KHS-35F	Headset	Hands-free / VOX; desk or light outdoor use
KHS-7/7C / KHS-7A/7AC	Single-Muff Headset (w/ in-line PTT option)	Industrial, warehousing
KHS-8BL / KHS-9BL	2- or 3-wire Palm Mic w/ Earphone	Security, law enforcement style carry
KHS-10D-BH / KHS-10D-OH	Heavy-duty Behind/Over Headset	High-noise environments
KHS-22A	Headset w/ VOX & PTT	Full hands-free + PTT toggle option
KHS-26 / KHS-27A	Earbud / D-Ring In-line PTT	Discreet; events, hospitality
KHS-31C	C-Ring Ear Hanger w/ PTT & Mic	Compact covert style
KSC-50CR	Charger Pocket (single unit)	Desk charging
KSC-44SL / KSC-44ML	AC Adapter (single / multi-unit)	Single or fleet charging

Explore the full range of two-way radio accessories at Tech Wholesale or review our guide on how to use VOX on a two-way radio.

Who Is This Radio For?

The PKT-300 is purpose-built for operations where staff need compact, reliable UHF communication without the bulk of a traditional radio. It excels in environments with multiple teams or floors.

Hospitality & Hotels

Housekeeping, front desk, maintenance, and security teams on different channels — all covered with one radio fleet. The pocket form factor keeps staff looking professional.

Retail & Shopping Centers

Multiple departments on separate QT-coded channels. Privacy Talk keeps management communications confidential on the sales floor.

Restaurants & Food Service

VOX hands-free mode (with headset) keeps kitchen and floor staff in contact without touching the radio. IP54 resistance handles kitchen splash zones.

Events & Venues

Stage, security, production, and catering teams operate on separate channels simultaneously. Incoming Call Notification and scan ensure no critical message is missed.

Schools & Campus Facilities

Administration, facilities, and security on separate channels. Key Lock prevents accidental re-programming by non-technical staff.

Security Teams

Privacy Talk scrambles sensitive communications. Surveillance-style earpiece accessories (KHS-26, KHS-27A) maintain a low profile. See our full guide on radios for security teams.

How Does the PKT-300 Compare?

	Kenwood PKT-300	Kenwood PKT-23	Kenwood NX-P300AUK
RF Output	2.0 W high / 0.5 W low	0.5 W	2 W
Channels	16	4 or 6	16 (digital)
Frequency	UHF (GMRS/FRS)	UHF (GMRS/FRS)	UHF (digital/analog)
Privacy Talk	Yes (analog scramble)	No	Digital encryption
VOX	Yes (headset req.)	Yes	Yes
Scan	Yes	No	Yes
Weight (w/ battery)	140 g	~85 g	~175 g
Best For	Multi-team facilities needing channel segmentation + privacy	Ultra-compact, light-duty single-team use	Larger facilities needing digital clarity

PKT-300 vs. PKT-23

The Kenwood PKT-23 is smaller and lighter — ideal for single-team, light-duty use — but outputs only 0.5 watts and offers fewer channels. The PKT-300 delivers four times the power output, Privacy Talk scrambling, up to 16 channels, and advanced features like scan and Busy Channel Lockout. For any multi-team operation or facility larger than 100,000 sq ft, the PKT-300 is the right step up.

PKT-300 vs. PKT Series (General)

The broader Kenwood PKT series shares the compact form factor but the PKT-300 distinguishes itself with Privacy Talk voice scrambling, 45 QT / 174 DQT code options, scan, time-out timer, and Busy Channel Lockout — features absent from lower-tier PKT models. If your teams handle sensitive communications or operate in crowded spectrum environments, the PKT-300 is the clear choice.

PKT-300 vs. NX-P300AUK

For operations that need digital audio clarity, digital encryption, or future-proofing to digital-only infrastructure, the Kenwood NX-P300AUK offers dual analog/digital operation with NXDN digital. The PKT-300 remains the more cost-effective choice for facilities where analog UHF coverage is sufficient and where the GMRS/FRS channel plan of the LF model fits the operation.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many channels does the Kenwood PKT-300 support?

The PKT-300 supports up to 16 programmable channels, each individually assignable to a frequency from the built-in channel number table (Table 0–22 covering GMRS/FRS bands). Default channel configurations are pre-loaded at the factory. Each channel can also carry its own independent QT tone or DQT code for sub-channel privacy.

The PKT-300 LMR model's channel count is configured by your authorized dealer using Kenwood's KPG-208DK programming software.

Is the Kenwood PKT-300 compatible with other two-way radios I already own?

The PKT-300 operates on UHF frequencies and is communication-compatible with other UHF business radios — including the Kenwood NX-P300AUK and Motorola CLS1410 — provided both radios are programmed to the same frequency and privacy code (QT/DQT).

VHF, MURS, 900 MHz (DTR/DLR series), or digital-only protocol radios will not interoperate directly. If you're unsure about compatibility with your existing fleet, contact our team with your current model numbers before ordering.

Can VOX be used without a headset?

No. VOX (Voice Operated Transmission) on the PKT-300 requires an optional headset connected to the SP/MIC jack — it will not activate with the built-in microphone alone. Kenwood recommends a headset with both an earpiece and a boom microphone positioned in front of the mouth for best performance.

VOX gain (sensitivity levels 1–5) and delay time (0.3–3.0 sec) are independently adjustable to prevent false triggering in noisy environments. Learn more in our guide to using VOX on two-way radios.

What is Privacy Talk, and is it true encryption?

Privacy Talk is a voice-scrambling feature that makes transmissions unintelligible to any third party monitoring the same channel without Privacy Talk activated on a matching setting. It is an analog inversion scrambling technique — not AES digital encryption.

For most business applications — preventing casual eavesdropping on a shared channel — Privacy Talk is sufficient. For operations requiring certified encryption (e.g., healthcare, law enforcement), a digital radio with AES-256 encryption such as the Kenwood NX-P300AUK may be more appropriate.

How do I program the Kenwood PKT-300?

Basic configuration — QT/DQT codes, transmit power, VOX settings, backlight, battery saver, and call alert tones — can all be set directly on the radio through Setting Mode (hold MENU while powering on) and Menu Mode (press MENU during operation).

For advanced channel frequency programming on the LMR model, an authorized dealer programs the radio using the Kenwood KPG-208DK programming software. See also our general Kenwood programming guide for step-by-step instructions.

What does Busy Channel Lockout (BCL) do?

BCL is a PKT-300-only feature that prevents transmission on a channel already in use. When active, pressing PTT while a signal is present triggers a beep instead of transmitting — avoiding "talking over" another party.

BCL has four configurable modes: Off, Carrier Only (blocks transmission on any active carrier), Correct QT/DQT (blocks only when your matching code is present), and Incorrect QT/DQT (blocks only when a non-matching code is present). The Correct QT/DQT mode is most commonly used in multi-team environments.

How do I reset the PKT-300 to factory defaults?

With the radio powered OFF, simultaneously press and hold the MON, up (▲), and down (▼) buttons while turning power ON. The display shows "rESt." Release the buttons; the display shows "SUrE." Press the PTT switch to confirm. The radio resets all channels to factory frequencies, restores QT/DQT defaults, and resets all button assignments.

Pressing any button other than PTT at the "SUrE" prompt cancels the reset and returns to normal operation without changes.

PKT-300 Resources and User Guides

Kenwood ProTalk PKT Radio Series Overview Compare all models in the Kenwood PKT compact radio lineup — channels, power, and best-use cases side by side.

Kenwood Business Two-Way Radios — Full Catalog Browse Kenwood's complete ProTalk UHF, VHF, and digital radio lineup available through Tech Wholesale.

Best Two-Way Radios for Security Teams What to look for in a security radio — VOX, encryption, durability, and earpiece compatibility — with model recommendations.

How to Use the VOX Feature on Two-Way Radios A plain-language explainer on how VOX works, when to use it, and how to set sensitivity levels to avoid false triggers.

Two-Way Radio Feature Guide A buyer's reference covering squelch, VOX, QT/DQT codes, displays, accessories, and more — useful for first-time fleet buyers.

Business Radio Accessories: Work in Comfort Everything from earpiece mics to speaker mics and charging solutions — matched to job type and user preference.

RadioReference Frequency Database Verify local frequency usage and identify available channels in your area before programming your radio fleet.

Kenwood PKT-300 Official Spec Sheet Manufacturer's official spec sheet and product documentation from Kenwood USA's commercial communications division.

Kenwood ProTalk PKT-300 UHF Two-Way Radio