Retevis RT388 vs Inspireyes Kids Walkie Talkies: Which Should You Buy?
Retevis RT388 is the simple 8 channel pair with a key lock; Inspireyes is the rechargeable one with more channels.
Retevis Retevis RT388 Walkie Talkies for Kids, Long Range
Inspireyes Inspireyes Walkie Talkies for Kids Rechargeable, Gifts for
Side by side
| Retevis RT388 Walkie Talkies for Kids | Inspireyes Walkie Talkies for Kids Rechargeable | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | See on Amazon → | See on Amazon → |
| Rating | ★★★★☆ 4.4 | ★★★★★ 4.6 |
| Review count | 12,980 | 6,495 |
| Brand | Retevis | Inspireyes |
| Highlights |
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Our verdict
Pick the Inspireyes if you hate buying batteries: the listing says it is USB-C rechargeable, with 22 channels, a backlit screen and an SOS siren. Pick the Retevis RT388 if you want a simpler, locked set that children cannot accidentally retune: it has 8 channels, a key lock, VOX and a flashlight. Range claims on both are best case figures in open ground, so treat them as marketing, and expect much less around houses.
Which one is for you?
- Parents who want simple handsets that stay on a set channel, and don't mind batteries. Read our full look at the Retevis RT388 Walkie Talkies for Kids →
- Families who want USB-C rechargeable sets, more channels and a screen. Read our full look at the Inspireyes Walkie Talkies for Kids Rechargeable →
Power and charging
The Inspireyes set is listed as rechargeable via USB-C with a built-in lithium polymer battery. The seller quotes up to 48 hours of working time and 7 days standby, which are best case figures.
The Retevis RT388 listing in the brief does not describe a rechargeable battery, and retailer pages we saw disagree on whether each handset takes AAA batteries. Check the box before buying and have spares.
Channels and controls
Retevis lists 8 channels with 99 DCS/CTCSS codes, plus a key lock to stop children changing channels mid game. The key lock is the RT388's best feature for young children. Both use VOX, which lets kids talk without pressing the button, and both have a flashlight.
Inspireyes lists 22 channels, a backlit LCD display, clips and wearable lanyards, and an SOS siren. More channels help in crowded places, but the screen and extra settings are more to fiddle with.
Range, age and what to expect
Inspireyes quotes 3 miles in open areas with little or no obstruction. Retevis listings in some retailers also use long range wording. Real range is far shorter through walls, trees or houses, so it suits a garden or park, not a street.
Age labels differ: the Retevis listing title in the page we opened says 4 to 12 years, while the brief title says 3 to 12. Inspireyes says ages 3 to 12 and that children from about 5 can use it easily. Follow the box.
Who should skip both
If you need reliable distance for hiking, toy walkie talkies are not built for it, and a licence free PMR446 set is better. Very young children may find either too fiddly. More in electronic toys.
Questions people ask
Are Inspireyes walkie talkies rechargeable?
Yes, according to the listing: built in lithium polymer battery, USB-C charging.
How many channels does the Retevis RT388 have?
8 channels with 99 DCS/CTCSS codes, according to the listing.
Does the RT388 have a key lock?
Yes. The listing says it stops children accidentally changing channels.
What range do kids walkie talkies really have?
Quoted ranges such as 3 miles are for open ground. In houses or woods expect far less.
Which is better for a young child?
The RT388's key lock keeps settings fixed, which helps younger children; Inspireyes is better if you want rechargeable.
Sources
- Amazon UK listing, Retevis RT388 Walkie Talkies listing
- Amazon UK listing, Inspireyes Rechargeable Walkie Talkies listing
Prices are pulled live from Amazon.
Prices move around, so always confirm on Amazon before deciding. Browse more options in Electronic Toys or see the whole Toys & Games department. New to the category? Start with our buying guide.