Cobra RX100 Family Walkie Talkies vs Midland T51VP3 X-Talker

Buy the Cobra RX100 4-pack if you need several radios for kids and neighborhood use; buy the Midland T51VP3 2-pack if you want rechargeable batteries, privacy codes and weather scan for two adults outdoors. The Cobra gives you four radios with simple controls and bright colors, but owners say real range falls well short of the 16-mile claim and AAA batteries are not included. The Midland adds 38 privacy codes, eVOX hands-free talk, water resistance and a desktop charger, though its 3.3 rating from 25 ratings is thin and lower than the Cobra's 4.2 from 435.

• Choose the Cobra RX100 if you want four simple radios for kids, parties and the neighborhood, and you don't mind buying AAA batteries.
• Choose the Midland T51VP3 if you want two rechargeable radios with privacy codes, hands-free VOX and weather scan for camping.