The Best Two-Way Radios for Event Planning
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 event planning team, 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 event planning?
The stage setup is behind schedule and no one knows where the lighting crew is…
The VIP guest arrived early and their green room still isn’t prepped…
Security at the east entrance is overwhelmed with attendees, but the rest of the team has no idea. The event is unraveling—and fast—because no one’s connected.
These are all common issues in the event planning industry - 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 business, 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 venues, 1 to 2 watts of power will do the trick - you can get from 100k - 200k sqft of coverage.
Larger venues (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 Event Planning Teams:
- Security – For managing crowd control, access points, and emergency response.
- Operations – For coordinating setup, teardown, and venue logistics.
- AV Crew – For handling sound, lighting, and technical issues.
- Planning Core – Reserved for the lead planner, stage manager, and VIP coordinator to make quick, high-level decisions.
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 event planning radio?
Long Battery Life – To last through all-day (or all-night) events without dying mid-task.
Clear Audio Quality – Crisp sound, even in noisy environments like concerts or festivals.
Durability – Built to handle drops, dust, and the occasional unexpected downpour.
Multiple Channels – To keep teams (like security, AV, and operations) communicating without cross-talk.
Hands-Free Options – With earpieces or VOX (voice-activated transmission) for multitasking.
Extended Range – Especially for large venues, outdoor events, or multi-level buildings.
Privacy Codes or Encryption – To prevent interference or eavesdropping, especially for high-profile events.
Compact and Lightweight – Comfortable to wear or clip on for long periods.
Emergency Features – Like panic buttons or man-down alerts for fast response in critical situations.
Easy to Use – Simple interface so any staff member can pick one up and get started, fast.
Our Top Two-Way Radio Picks for Event Planners
To help you with your selection, we've highlighted several different models below that are perfect for veues 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.
Small Venues
You’ll want a compact and lightweight radio that is discreet and easy to carry. Offering modest power and 1 to a handful of channels, you will have enough groups to keep operations running smoothly.
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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.
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User-friendly with reliable coverage and extended battery life.
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The Motorola CLS1410 lives up to its name. CLS stands for Clear, Light, and Simple, and that’s what you’re getting with this device.
This is a UHF Radio with four channels (or this 1 channel version), which will allow you to divide your staff and give the managers their own private channel.
It has 15 floors of indoor range with up to two miles of clear communication outside.
This device features Audible Call Alerts and Vibracall technology.
It’s also an easy device to set up thanks to simplified cloning.
If you need a radio that is clear, light, and simple, contact us today for a free personalized quote on the Motorola CLS1410.
Larger Venues - Multiple Buildings
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Advanced digital technology for clear audio and extended coverage. Channels: 10 Power: 1 watt digital (equal to 4 watt analog power) Coverage: 300,000 sqft Flexible call options (‘call-all available’, private reply), NO FCC LICENSE REQUIRED! |
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If you want to include the Motorola Curve in your toolbox, contact Tech Wholesale to get a free personalized quote.
With 10 channels, you can segment a much larger staff.
You're also able to save money on these radios because there is no FCC licensing. That means you won't have to pay any government fees to use your devices.
This is a portable two-way radio with an indoor range of up to 300,000 square feet or 20 floors. That range is ideal for most larger spaces.
If you've got a larger venue, like those radios found in a hotel or a large chain, we recommend the Motorola Curve.
Honorable Mention
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Ultra-slim, durable, and superior audio clarity for larger coverage needs.
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Best Nationwide 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 event planning business – do not hesitate to reach out to our support team.
We have a very knowledgeable staff with over 15 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!