Why Digital Radios Over Analog?

Digital two way radios have risen in popularity in recent years, so you may be wondering what the difference is between new digital radios and the more common analog two way radios that have been around for a long time. This post is going to explain the differences between the two and tell you why you should start buying digital.

1) Digital two way radios are the way of the future.

Even though analog two way radios have worked well for a long time, they are going to permanently be replaced by digital radios pretty soon. The government has already mandated that all new two way radio models must have a digital option; analog-only models that are already out there, such as the popular CLS Series, can continue being manufactured, but no new analog-only models are allowed to be created. Basically, you will have to switch to digital at some point in the next 10 years or so.

2) Digital two way radios do not require a license.

Most analog two way radios, other than specific models that operate on MURS frequencies (like the Motorola RMM2050), require an FCC License in order to use. These licenses typically last 10 years and cost several hundred dollars depending on the power of your radios, whether or not you’re using a repeater, and other factors. Unlike analog, digital radios are license-free and do not require any extra money to use, which makes them more cost-effective and hassle-free.

3) Digital two way radios offer greater clarity.

Digital two way radios don’t have the same static as analog radios. The transmissions come across crystal clear, so you no longer have to repeat yourself or worry that your message wasn’t heard properly. Digital radios also make it obvious when you are no longer in range. While analog radios become more garbled or staticy the further away you get, digital radios will keep the same audio quality the entire time they are in range. Once digital radios are out of range, the communication goes out completely. This is good because it shows exactly how far you can communicate and also allows for the greatest possibly clarity for as long as possible, making your communication the best it can be.

4) Digital two way radios offer better privacy.

If one of your main complaints about two way radios is that you hear other businesses or conversations on your channels, digital is the answer. Digital communication is private, so you no longer have to worry about nearby businesses interrupting your communication or causing interference in your workplace.

5) Most digital two way radios can still communicate with analog radios.

The transition to digital doesn’t have to be expensive. Most digital two way radios can be programmed to have digital channels and analog channels, which means you can still communicate with your existing analog walkie talkies while you add in digital radios over time.

Not only can switching to digital be cost-effective and improve your communication, digital two way radios typically offer better features, such as one-to-one communication, to allow your team to work effectively and safely. If you have any questions about digital two way radios, the differences between analog and digital, or how you can switch to digital, please leave a comment below or give us a call at 888-560-0758. You can learn more about specific digital two way radios, such as the CP200d, DLR1020, or DTR700 on our website.