The Best Two-Way Radios for Dispensaries
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 dispensary, 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 dispensaries?
The front desk just checked in a patient and called for a budtender—no one responded...
A customer is asking about a product that’s locked in the back room, but the only keyholder is across the store…
Security spotted someone acting suspiciously near the exit, but can’t quietly alert the team without causing a scene…
Everyone’s doing their job, but no one’s connected—and it’s starting to show.
These are all common issues in a dispensary - 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 dispensary, 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 small dispensaries, 1 to 2 watts of power will do the trick - you can get from 100k - 200k sqft of coverage.
Larger dispensaries (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.
Number of Channels Needed
Channels help segment team conversations, to simplify radio chatter.
Recommended groups for Dispensaries:
- Front-of-House - Used by receptionists, budtenders, and cashiers to manage customer flow, wait times, and general service coordination.
- Inventory & Fulfillment - For team members handling product restocking, backroom access, and inventory checks.
- Security - A private channel for monitoring store activity, addressing incidents, and coordinating discreet responses.
- Management - Reserved for supervisors and managers to oversee operations and jump between departments as needed.
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 dispensary radio?
- Clear Audio Quality - Dispensaries can be loud—music, conversations, HVAC noise—so crisp, reliable audio is a must.
- Private or Encrypted Channels - Protecting sensitive conversations, especially those involving security or customer issues, is essential. Look for radios that support privacy codes or encryption features.
- Long Battery Life - Staff need radios that last an entire shift (or longer) without recharging, especially during high-traffic hours.
- Compact & Lightweight Design - Radios should be easy to wear and carry, whether clipped to a belt or stashed in an apron pocket.
- Hands-Free or Earpiece Compatible - For discretion and multitasking, especially for budtenders or security personnel, hands-free operation or earpieces can be a game-changer.
- Durability - Even in a clean, indoor setting, drops happen. A sturdy build ensures the radio survives daily wear and tear.
- Multiple Channels - Having enough channels to separate departments—front desk, inventory, security, and management—keeps communication organized.
Our Top Two-Way Radio Picks for Dispensaries
To help you with your selection, we've highlighted several different models below that are perfect for dispensaries 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 Dispensaries
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User-friendly with reliable coverage and extended battery life.
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Meet the Motorola CLS1410, a UHF Radio with 4 channels that would be right at home in an average sized dispensary up to 200,000 sqft.
You can conserve a lot of power with this device as it only uses 1-watt of energy.
It has 15 floors of indoor range, which is more than enough.
This radio features audible call alerts, which play a sound when a call is coming in.
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Lightweight, discreet, and hands-free with excellent audio clarity.
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The Motorola CLPe series has the distinction of being the smallest and lightest series on our list at only 2.38 ounces. The Motorola CLP1080e is the most advanced CLPe radio that we carry.
By advanced, we mean that this radio has eight channels to segment a mid-size staff (or there is a 1 channel version)..
It’s a UHF radio that works really well both indoors and outside with a 10 floor indoor range and one mile outdoors.
This series comes with a discreet earpiece and belt holster and fits perfectly on most uniforms.
The 1080e has a 12-hour battery life and is simple to use thanks to the large central PTT button.
Antimicrobial properties are included in the casing for disease control, so germs aren’t going to spread.
This device is also repeater capable in case you need to double its range.
If you want the Motorola CLP1080e for your team, reach out to the radio experts at Tech Wholesale for a free personalized quote.
Honorable Mention
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Larger Dispensaries - Multiple Buildings
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Advanced digital technology for clear audio and extended coverage.
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The Motorola Curve is another popular option…
This is a radio that will work well with a larger staff. It has 10 channels to choose from, making it ideal for a big _ with multiple teams.
The Curve will also save you money in the long run. Because it operates on a digital band, you won't have to worry about paying any pesky FCC licensing fees.
While larger than the CLPe series, this device is still lightweight at only 4.2 ounces. It covers up to 20 floors or 300,000 square feet of range.
The Call Button compatibility can improve customer service with quick response times.
When it comes to protecting confidential information, the Curve has you covered with Frequency Hopping Spread Spectrum technology and 10,000 different privacy codes.
Another great and beneficial feature of this device is its Page All and Call All Available functions. This allows you to reach out to the entire staff at once, and it is ideal in an emergency.
On the other side of the coin, there is also a Direct Call feature that allows you to contact just one person with sensitive information.
This device is going to be able to handle even the longest shift with a 14-Hour battery life. That's all thanks to the rechargeable lithium-ion battery that it comes with.
This is another two-way radio that has an anti-microbial coating to curb the spread of bacteria.
Do you think that the Motorola Curve is right for your team? Contact us today for a free personalized quote.
Honorable Mentions:
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Ultra-slim, durable, and superior audio clarity for larger coverage needs.
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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 dispensary – 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!