In a landscape dominated by connectivity apps and short attention spans, the idea of listening to FM radio—not streaming—can feel refreshingly analogue. Yet in the field, on the trail, or during a power outage, access to local broadcast radio remains more than a novelty. It’s a lifeline to information, weather updates, or simply a welcome break from silence.
The Talkpod A36PLUS MAX walks this line elegantly. Positioned among the best radio walkie talkies of 2025, it combines long-range two-way communication with a surprisingly well-integrated FM receiver, making it both a practical tool and a companion for downtime.
A Walkie Talkie That Also Listens
The A36PLUS MAX is, first and foremost, a powerful dual-band handheld with up to 8W of transmission power, 999 channels, and robust frequency coverage (VHF/UHF). It was built for clarity, durability, and range.
But it’s the addition of high-quality FM radio reception—with a working seek function and strong antenna pairing—that differentiates it from most peers in its class.
“The FM radio is great and the seek function works well.”
—Verified user review
Many radios include FM features as an afterthought. Talkpod doesn’t. Users report strong signal pull even in semi-enclosed environments, consistent reception across regions, and audio output that’s surprisingly crisp, even compared to purpose-built pocket radios.
Why FM Still Matters
Whether you're:
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Camping off-grid without data
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Waiting out bad weather with your radio on standby
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Needing access to real-time emergency broadcasts when networks fail
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Simply tuning in to music during long stretches in the wild
…having a built-in FM receiver makes the A36PLUS MAX more than a tactical tool—it becomes a reliable information source.
In particular, those in rural Canada and the northern US have noted how FM stations often remain operational during disasters, long after cell towers or repeaters go offline. A radio that can both transmit across kilometres and receive local FM becomes a logical choice for preparedness kits.
Form and Function in One Package
Alongside its radio versatility, the A36PLUS MAX also features:
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A 1.44-inch color screen
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A 3200mAh Type-C rechargeable battery
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Three different antennas for custom use cases
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Dual PTT keys, programmable buttons, and frequency scanning
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Loud, clear speaker output—even when tuned to FM
Users appreciate that FM playback is not isolated—it shares the same audio system as the walkie talkie, making it easy to switch between local entertainment and team communication when needed.
“Audio is clear and loud. Too loud, almost.”
—35-year amateur radio operator
Conclusion: More Than a Transmitter
The Talkpod A36PLUS MAX earns its place as one of the best radio walkie talkies of 2025 not simply because it transmits well, but because it listens well too.
That combination—long-range communication paired with robust FM reception—makes it an ideal device for hikers, workers, preppers, and anyone who values connection in both directions.
It’s not just a tool. It’s a voice when you need to speak—and a signal when you need to listen.
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