Does the Cobra ACXT345 really reach 25 miles?

No. That is a maximum under ideal line-of-sight conditions. Owners report roughly a few blocks to about 3 miles in woods, hills or buildings.

How do the ACXT345 radios charge?

Each radio takes three AA NiMH batteries and charges through a shared USB-Y cable included in the box. You can also swap in standard AA batteries.

Are the Cobra ACXT345 radios waterproof?

They carry an IPX2 rating, which means they resist light rain and splashes. They are not submersible, so do not drop them in water.

Do I need a license to use them?

No. They operate on FRS channels, which do not require a license in the US.

Two ACXT345 radios, two belt clips, a USB-Y charging cable, rechargeable NiMH AA batteries and a manual.

How do they compare with the ACXT345's predecessor?

The ACXT345 keeps the same FRS channel set and adds NOAA weather alerts, VOX and USB charging. Range and battery life remain the main weak points across the line.

Where is the Cobra ACXT345 cheapest?

At Staples, for $59.95, as of our latest check.

What do buyers say about the Cobra ACXT345?

Rated 3.7 out of 5 from 15 ratings. Buyers like: Works well outdoors for camping and hiking to stay in touch with a group; Works in extreme weather and where cell phones have no service; Durable, tough and reliable build quality. Common complaints: Range falls far short of the claimed 25 miles; users report only a few blocks or about 3 miles; Batteries drain quickly during long use.

Where can I buy the Cobra ACXT345?

7 stores we checked sell it, including Staples, Cobra, Tractor Supply Co, Quill, Amazon.

Cobra ACXT345 Price History: Lowest $59.95 at Staples

What reviewers say

3.7 / 515 ratings

Owners rate the ACXT345 around 3.7 out of 5. They praise its durability, weather resistance and ease of use for camping, hiking and job sites, but many say the range is far below the advertised 25 miles and that battery life is short.

What people mention

RangeCriticisedOwners say real range is a few blocks to about 3 miles, far below the 25-mile claim.
Battery lifeCriticisedUsers report the NiMH batteries drain quickly in long use and lose charge while stored.
BuildMixedMany call the radios tough and reliable, but some say the build could be stronger.
Weather resistancePraisedOwners report the radios keep working in extreme weather and where phones have no service.
Ease of usePraisedBuyers find the controls simple and the radios easy to hand to anyone in a group.
ValuePraisedReviewers call the two-radio set good value for camping, hiking and job-site use.

From Cobra Electronics US

Rugged, weather-resistant two-way radio with IPX2 water resistance
Up to 25-mile maximum range
22 channels and 121 privacy codes
NOAA weather alerts with 10 weather channels
Voice-activated transmission (VOX) with 5 steps
Channel scan for channels or privacy codes

Guarantee: Price match promise: if you find a better advertised price online for any current Cobra product, Cobra will match it within 30 days of purchase.
Returns: All products purchased factory direct come with a 30-day money back guarantee, no questions asked.
Packs: Offered as a 2-Pack or a 2-Pack with Dock Charger.
In the box: 2 Cobra ACXT345 two-way radios, 2 belt clips, USB-Y charging cable, Rechargeable NiMH AA batteries, Instructions manual

About the Cobra ACXT345

The Cobra ACXT345 is a rugged, weather-resistant two-way radio/walkie talkie designed for recreational or business use. With up to 25-mile range, Water Resistant (IPX2) Rating, NOAA Weather Alerts, Voice-Activated Transmission (VOX), Channel Scan and more, the ACXT345 is great for clear communication at longer distances.

What buyers say

Buyers like

Works well outdoors for camping and hiking to stay in touch with a group
Works in extreme weather and where cell phones have no service
Durable, tough and reliable build quality
Simple and easy to operate with decent range
Good for job-site communication
Good value

Buyers complain about

Range falls far short of the claimed 25 miles; users report only a few blocks or about 3 miles
Batteries drain quickly during long use
NiMH batteries don't hold charge while not in use, needing periodic recharging
Build could be stronger