I need to purchase 30 radios to communicate for a event at our high school- The entire area is less than a square mile but we always end up renting portable radios where batteries die. We need about 8 hours of battery life. I was thinking about purchasing small talk abouts and using AA batteries. Anyone have any recommendations on which have longest battery life??

 

I've rented walkie talkies out in the past. Battery life is a problem as for a pro W/T the battery can run $45-65 each. I would always send out spare batteries.

Most of those FRS radios claim an average of 8 hours. The life depends on how much transmitting is done as that's what shortens the life. It wouldn't be a problem changing them during the event. If you only use them occasionally.... don't even bother with the chargeable models. The batteries won't last. If you need guaranteed performance from certain units... use lithium AA batteries in them. Using lithiums in all of them would be extremely costly.

The biggest problem with the FRS type radios is that there is no security.
Anyone can interrupt your communications.

 

Almost cheaper to use cell phones even if you had to buy burner phones.

 

I was just thinking if they use AA batteries then at least you can replace them on the fly vs having to put them in a charger. Just trying to figure out which ones would be best thanks

 

I don't think there is a major difference between the units. You'll want something on the FRS (family radio service) band. Motorola, Uniden and Midland are well known and reliable radio companies. Don't purchase the units based on inflated distance claims. Regardless of what they advertise.... the FRS radios are good for approx two miles.

Where are you planning on purchasing them ?
We can see what brands they carry.

 

i need to purchase this week

 

So you'll need to check with a place like Costco or BJ's for bulk.