Icom handheld marine VHF radios have had and continue to own a reputation for straightforward functionality, reliability, and quality in the large and diverse field of marine electronics.
They offer a range of models from basic to full-featured to commercial grade that will meet the needs of a wide variety of boaters.
The Icom handheld marine VHF radio lineup is kept pointedly small and driven toward specific market niches, currently, five models are available. Once they introduce a radio it usually remains on the market for a number of years. Recently Icom has been replacing older models with upgraded floating handhelds.
Icom Basic Handheld Radios
The current entry-level marine handheld VHF radio is the Icom M34. This radio floats and is equipped with a Lithium-Ion battery. Another handheld radio we have in line for review is the newly released Icom M36. This radio also floats, has high output power, and meets tough waterproofing standards. The latest radio released from this maker is the Icom M24. This one is a compact lightweight floating marine VHF radio.
Top-of-the-Line Marine Handheld VHF Radios
The handheld VHF radios at the top of the Icom lineup do not float. Both of these radios have been on the market for the past couple years and have proven themselves in the field as top performers. The Icom M72 features a high output transmitter, a large-capacity Lithium Ion battery, and a powerful audio system. At the pinnacle of the handheld line is the sub-compact Icom M88. This marine handheld VHF packs a myriad of features into a small package. The most recent addition to the Icom handheld lineup is the floating GPS equipped Icom M92.
Commercial Handheld VHFs
Designed for use on survival craft the bright yellow Icom GM1600 can also be fitted out for use as a communications radio on large ships.