The Standard Horizon HX270S controls the basics with a single top-mounted twist knob for on/off/volume.
A side-mounted pushbutton selects squelch, it can be increased or decreased by using the front panel mounted up/down pushbuttons.
Standard Horizon HX270S
The other six front-mounted pushbuttons control transmitter power selection, channel changing, weather band selection, and scanning.
Size and weight-wise the HX270S is about average. It has no provision for an external microphone or speaker.
Performance
We found this handheld had one of the more powerful audio systems, it was able to produce 92 dBA in our test.
The HX270S earned excellent ratings for transmitter power and frequency stability, one of only a few handheld radios to do the latter. Receiver selectivity is rated a very good 70 dB.
It passed the drop and submersion test with no problems.
Battery Life
Battery life didnt live up to the manufacturers claim of 18 hours, but the radio still did perform well by lasting 13 hours. That was good performance compared to others in its price range.
Last time we checked the battery replacement cost for the 1400 mAH nickel metal hydride battery it was $65.
Final Thoughts
This basic reliable marine handheld VHF is available for under $90 today.