The Best Mobile Radios for Your Tractor: Staying Connected in the Field

For farmers and agricultural workers, a tractor is more than just a vehicle; it's a mobile command center. Reliable communication is crucial—whether it's coordinating with farmhands, calling for parts or assistance, or staying informed about sudden weather changes, reliable communication is essential. While modern smartphones have their uses, dedicated mobile two-way radios offer unparalleled reliability, instant communication, and the ability to maintain communication even in areas without cell phone coverage.

Choosing the right radio for your tractor requires considering power, ease of use, and durability. Today, we'll highlight three excellent products from Retevis, each tailored to a different need.

1. Retevis RA86: The Compact & Versatile Performer

The Retevis RA86 20-Watt GMRS Mobile Radio is an ideal all-rounder for most farm and ranch applications.

Why it’s great for tractors: 

• Space-Saving Design: Its fully integrated control microphone is a game-changer. You can mount the main radio body out of the way (under the seat, in a compartment) and control every function from the handheld mic. This saves precious dashboard space in often-cramped tractor cabs.
• Weather Alert Safety: The built-in NOAA weather alert with 10 channels scans for severe weather updates, giving you advance warning to adjust your work schedule and seek shelter if necessary—a vital feature when you’re exposed in an open field.
• Clear Audio in Noise: Dual speakers ensure clear transmission and reception even over the constant rumble of a diesel engine.
• Sufficient Power & Range: With 20 watts of power, 22 GMRS channels, and 8 repeater channels, it provides ample range for communicating across a large property, especially when used with a good external antenna.

Key Features for the Farmer:

• VOX Hands-Free: Talk without pushing a button—perfect when you need both hands on the wheel and levers.
• Privacy Codes (CTCSS/DCS): Minimize interference from other users on shared channels.
• CHIRP Software Compatible: Easy programming via computer for managing all your channels. 

2. Retevis RA87: The High-Power Long-Range Solution

Need to cover vast acreage, communicate with distant outbuildings, or lead a convoy during harvest? The Retevis RA87 40W Powerful Long Range GMRS Mobile Radio is your powerhouse.

Why it’s great for tractors:

• Extended Communication Range: The 40-watt output power is the standout feature, capable of reaching up to 20 km (12+ miles) in open fields. This makes it perfect for large farms, ranches, or forestry work.
• Durability & Heat Management: Built with an aluminum substrate for superior heat dissipation, ensuring reliability during long, hot days of continuous operation.
• Repeater Ready & Builder: With 8 dedicated repeater channels, it can connect to local GMRS repeater networks to massively extend its range. Remarkably, two RA87 radios can even be linked to create your own simple repeater base station, boosting the range of all your handheld GMRS radios on the property.
• Dual Watch Function: Monitor two channels simultaneously—perfect for keeping an ear on a common work channel and an emergency or family channel.

Key Features for the Farmer:

• Strong Compatibility: Works seamlessly with most GMRS and FRS handhelds used by your crew or family.
• Emergency Alarm Function: Send a distress signal instantly.
• No PC Needed for Basic Use: The integrated mic allows for key function programming without a computer.

3. Retevis MB1: The Classic CB Choice for Truckers & Farmers

If you operate in an area where the Citizens Band (CB) radio community is active (a long-standing tradition among truckers and many farmers), the Retevis MB1 Dual Mode CB Mobile Radio is a fantastic modern take on this classic tool.

Why it’s great for tractors:

• Immediate Community Access: CB Channel 19 is the traditional highway trucking channel, and Channel 9 is reserved for emergencies. This gives you direct access to communicate with passing truckers for road condition updates or to call for help, integrating you into a wide, existing network.
• Superior Audio Clarity: The AM/FM dual-mode is a significant upgrade. FM mode provides crystal-clear, static-resistant audio for short to medium-range communication on your property.
• Excellent Noise Reduction: Auto Noise Reduction and RF Gain controls are specifically designed to cut out engine noise, electrical interference, and static—common issues in agricultural machinery.
• Compact and Simple: Its small size (4.9" x 4.0") makes it easy to install in any tractor cab without intrusion.

Key Features for the Farmer:

• VOX Hands-Free: Essential for safe operation while driving.
• 7-Color Adjustable Backlight: Easy-to-read display day or night.
• 40 Established Channels: No license required (in the US) and ready to use right out of the box. 

Final Recommendation

• Choose the Retevis RA86 for a perfect balance of features, compact design, and reliable performance for everyday farm communication.
• Choose the Retevis RA87 if you need the longest possible range, operate a very large spread, or want the flexibility to build your own repeater system.
• Choose the Retevis MB1 if you want to tap into the existing CB radio network, prioritize crystal-clear FM audio on your own channels, and want a license-free option.

Important Note:

Both the RA86 and RA87 operate on the GMRS band, which in the United States requires an inexpensive GMRS license from the FCC. This license is good for 10 years and covers your entire family.

Equip your tractor with the right voice. Stay connected, stay coordinated, and stay safe in the field with a reliable Retevis mobile radio.