Poclink Radios - Are they really global coverage???

[bsquaredMTB]

I've been getting ads for these poclink radios that claim to have global coverage

https://poclink.com/products/poclin...n9Q419OwW6T4wynHjpzpFAvzB33jRpSoaAo2KEALw_wcB

Does anyone have any experience with these, or anything similar? Are their claims of global coverage true?

I'm looking for an affordable solution for communication when I'm off grid

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[StreeTaco]

All of these ptt radios similar to this use cell coverage and towers to communicate. If both are within cell service, yes they will work across the globe. If true off grid, they will be terribly useless contraptions from a global use standpoint. They do however work like traditional two way radios , utilizing UHF frequencies for close range comms.

 

[Yotota]

Wow, the marketing is extremely misleading on those. They transmit either over 4G, or over FRS (Family Band) channels at less than 2 watts. So they only work with cell coverage to transmit with an "unlimited" range.

Outside of cell coverage, they work just like any other $20 FRS radio. They will have maybe 1mi range to other FRS radios in mountains or forests, and maybe 15-20mi range on perfectly flat plains with zero obstructions or interference.

If you want true global comms, you need something with a satellite service. Either a Garmin Inreach, Spot, etc. Or a full on Sat-Phone.

I personally use a Garmin Inreach Mini 2, and a modded Yaesu FT-70DR for comms. They cover all the bases in the backcountry.

 

[Wife bought my 24 TRD]

I have been able to connect my cellphone to my starlink mini. I have been able to call and text when I have been completely off the grid so far with np.

 

[bsquaredMTB]

Thanks for all the info! I'm trying to find the sweet spot between spending on a subscription service and having communication available in most cases. I camp 2 to 3 times a year so I'm thinking a subscription service would be a bit of a waste for me.

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