Motorola’s Talkabout series offers a wide range of two-way radios designed for outdoor adventures, emergency preparedness, and communication in both professional and recreational settings.
Two closely related models in this series are the Motorola T802 and Motorola T803, both offering excellent features for reliable communication including off-grid messaging.
Both radios features Bluetooth connectivity and NOAA weather alerts, but the T803 comes with added tools such as a carry case and car charger, providing extra convenience for extended trips or emergencies.
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In this article, we’ll compare the Motorola T802 and T803, highlight their main differences, and provide a detailed comparison of their pros and cons.
Overview of Motorola T802
The Motorola T802 is a versatile two-way radio designed for outdoor use. With a range of up to 35 miles in ideal conditions, it provides clear communication across various terrains. The T802 offers Bluetooth connectivity, allowing users to pair their smartphones for easy control via the Motorola Talkabout app. It also includes NOAA weather alerts to keep you informed of changing weather conditions, making it a great tool for hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities.
Overview of Motorola T803
The Motorola T803 shares many of the same core features as the T802. It’s essentially the same radio hardware, but is geared more toward adventure seekers who need additional accessories.
Comparison Table: Motorola T802 vs. T803
| Feature | Motorola T802 | Motorola T803 |
|---|---|---|
| 💳 Pricing | Check Price | Check Price |
| Range | Up to 35 miles (ideal conditions) | Up to 35 miles (ideal conditions) |
| Bluetooth Connectivity | Yes, with Talkabout app support | Yes, with Talkabout app support |
| NOAA Weather Alerts | Yes | Yes |
| Power Options | Rechargeable NiMH or 3x AA batteries | Rechargeable NiMH or 3x AA batteries |
| Battery Life | Up to 14 hours (NiMH) / 26 hours (AA) | Up to 14 hours (NiMH) / 26 hours (AA) |
| Included Accessories | None | Car charger, carry case |
| Waterproof Rating | IPX4 (splash-proof) | IPX4 (splash-proof) |
| Built-in Flashlight | Yes | Yes |
| Emergency Features | NOAA weather alerts, flashlight | NOAA weather alerts, flashlight, car charger |
| App Integration | Yes, works with Motorola Talkabout app | Yes, works with Motorola Talkabout app |
| Weight with Batteries | 0.40 lbs | 0.44 lbs |
| Price | Lower-priced | Higher-priced due to added accessories |
Key Differences Between T802 and T803
Included Accessories
- The T803 comes with extra accessories, including a car charger and a carry case. These additions make the T803 more suitable for extended outdoor adventures where having a way to recharge the walkie-talkie on the go is essential. The T802, on the other hand, does not include these accessories, which keeps its price slightly lower.
Price
- Due to the additional accessories, the T803 is typically priced higher than the T802. However, this price difference is generally small, and users who frequently go on long trips might find the added convenience of the accessories worth the extra cost.
Weight
- The T803 is slightly heavier than the T802 (0.44 lbs vs. 0.40 lbs), likely due to the extra accessories included. While the weight difference is minor, it could matter for users who are carrying a lot of gear on long hikes or outdoor trips.
Pros and Cons of Motorola T802
Pros:
- Affordable: The T802 is more budget-friendly, making it a great option for users who don’t need extra accessories like a car charger.
- Bluetooth Connectivity: The ability to connect to the Motorola Talkabout app via Bluetooth is a major advantage, allowing users to share locations, communicate, and customize settings through their smartphones.
- NOAA Weather Alerts: The built-in NOAA weather alerts keep you informed of potential weather hazards, an important feature for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Lightweight: The T802 is slightly lighter than the T803, making it easier to carry during outdoor activities.
Cons:
- No Included Accessories: Unlike the T803, the T802 doesn’t come with a car charger or carry case, which might be a drawback for users who need these tools for longer trips.
- Splash-Proof Only: While it has an IPX4 rating, the T802 is only splash-proof, meaning it’s not suitable for use in heavy rain or submerged conditions.
Pros and Cons of Motorola T803
Pros:
- Additional Accessories: The T803 includes a car charger and a carry case, which are valuable additions for extended trips. This makes it easier to keep your walkie-talkies charged and protected while on the move.
- Bluetooth Connectivity: Like the T802, the T803 features Bluetooth connectivity, allowing for integration with the Motorola Talkabout app for additional functionality such as location sharing and communication via smartphone.
- NOAA Weather Alerts: The T803’s NOAA weather alert feature helps you stay informed about changing weather conditions, ensuring safety during outdoor adventures.
Cons:
- Higher Price: The T803 is priced slightly higher than the T802 due to the included accessories, which may not be necessary for users who don’t require a car charger or carry case.
- Heavier: The T803 is a little heavier than the T802, though the difference is minimal and likely won’t be an issue for most users.
Which One Should You Choose?
- Choose the Motorola T802 if you’re looking for a budget-friendly, lightweight walkie-talkie with Bluetooth connectivity and essential features like NOAA weather alerts. The T802 is a great option for casual users or those who don’t need extra accessories like a car charger or carry case.
- Choose the Motorola T803 if you’re willing to pay a little extra for the added convenience of a car charger and carry case. The T803 is ideal for adventurers who need to recharge their devices while on the road and want a carry case for added protection during outdoor trips.
Summary
Both the Motorola T802 and T803 offer excellent communication tools for outdoor enthusiasts, with Bluetooth connectivity, NOAA weather alerts, and a range of up to 35 miles.
The T803 stands out due to its additional accessories, making it the better choice for extended trips or emergency preparedness. However, if you’re looking for a more affordable option with the same core features, the T802 is an excellent choice for shorter trips or casual outdoor use.
