Our Cobra Family Radio Service Two-Way Radios come with several styles of batteries, depending on which radio you've purchased.

Battery Types

AA or AAA Batteries

Most of our radios use AA or AAA rechargeable batteries. You can also use regular alkaline batteries or buy rechargeable ones with their own chargers.

You can swap these batteries for higher capacity ones to make the radio last longer. For floating radios, use batteries that weigh the same as the originals, so they don't sink.

Don't use lithium-ion batteries, don't mix different types of batteries, and don't try to charge regular alkaline batteries. This can cause leaks, damage the radio, and void the warranty.

Battery Packs

Several of our radios include battery packs rather than individual replaceable batteries. These packs are available for sale on our website while we still sell that model of radio. Please do not use 3rd party battery packs.

Lithium-ion Batteries

Our PX280 uses a Lithium-ion battery that is built into the radio itself. If the battery fails, the radio will need to be replaced.

Understanding Battery Condition and Lifespan

Low Batteries and Reception

When the batteries get low, a radio might have static or problems with sending and receiving signals. You might hear distorted audio, or the radio might turn off suddenly. This can happen even before the low battery warning shows up. The best solution is to recharge the batteries if possible or replace them if they're disposable.

Always replace all batteries at the same time. Don't mix new batteries with old ones. Use alkaline batteries if they're disposable, and NiMH batteries if you plan to charge them in the radio. Avoid batteries with an indented or dished negative terminal, because they might not fit properly.

If the radio still has problems, check if any battery is inserted backwards. Remove and re-install the batteries, making sure they match the polarities (the + and - signs) marked in the battery compartment.

The Meaning of the “Low Battery” Indicator

Many of our radios have a low battery indicator. Models with LCD displays show a battery icon in one of the corners.

The best way to check battery condition is by monitoring the voltage. If the voltage drops too low, the Low Battery indicator appears. The voltage of a low battery only drops under load (like when transmitting or receiving). A new battery's voltage drops a little under load, but a worn-out battery's voltage drops more.

All our FRS radios have a "power saver" feature. When not transmitting or receiving, there's little load on the batteries, making it hard to check their true condition. When you transmit or receive, the battery indicator shows the real condition. So, it's best to check the battery while transmitting or receiving.

Battery Lifespan

Battery lifespan means how long the battery can be used. To make the battery last longer, keep your radio on standby for at least 90% of the time. This means not holding down the talk button or receiving a transmission.

For NiMH and Lithium-ion rechargeable batteries, don't let them fully drain. A fully drained battery might not charge again.

Storing the Radios and Batteries

For short-term storage, remove the batteries from the radio. For long-term storage, drain the batteries to about 50% power, then remove them.

Keep the batteries and radio in a cool place. Don't put them in a refrigerator or freezer, as they can get moisture and freezers can be too cold, which can damage the batteries.

You can leave PX280 batteries in the radio if it's properly placed in the desktop charger and the charger is plugged in.

When should the batteries be replaced?

Replace disposable batteries when they run out of energy. Replace rechargeable batteries when they begin losing lifespan (giving less talk time than when they were new) or won't charge. Always replace all batteries at the same time.

All batteries will eventually fail, even if not used, no matter their type (alkaline, NiMH, lithium-ion, etc.). If you're unsure about the age or condition of the batteries, discard them and use new ones.