Motorola HT radios: compare professional portables
The Motorola HT radio is the professional portable the team wears on its belt: switch on, press the button and talk to the entire group. On this page, compare the 12 portable models in the current range sold by ABC Mais Telecom, an authorized Motorola Solutions reseller, by technology, channels, water and dust protection and use type, and understand which professional Motorola HT suits your operation.
12 portables
from the current range, from simple analog to Ex-certified
Digital and analog
MOTOTRBO coexists with older radios
Programming
channels and groups configured before delivery
Authorized reseller
Motorola Solutions PartnerEmpower Silver 2026
The right HT is one the team can use all shift
Weight, audio, battery and ruggedness matter as much as the data sheet. The best HT suits the environment and the person using it.
What is an HT radio?
HT is the Brazilian market’s name for a portable handheld radio (from handheld transceiver). It differs from mobile radios installed in vehicles or bases and repeaters that extend coverage. In daily business operations, Motorola HTs are used by gatehouse, security, maintenance, logistics, production, hospitality, events and field teams.
Professional HTs differ from recreational radios in ruggedness, audio quality, battery life, channel and group programming and the ability to operate with repeaters and systems. See the differences in the guide walkie-talkies: how to choose for professional use.
Motorola HT radio comparison
The table summarizes the 12 portables in the current range. Data comes from the sheets published on each product page; channel count and some features vary by version:
| Model | Technology | Channels | Protection | Highlight |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| R2 | Digital DMR and analog | 64 | IP55 | Entry-level MOTOTRBO; replaces DEP450 and EP450 |
| DEP250 | Digital DMR and analog | 16 or 160 | IP54 | Compact, with or without display |
| DEP550 | Digital DMR and analog | 16 | IP55 | No display, IMPRES batteries |
| R5 | Digital DMR and analog | depending on version | IP67 | AI audio, long battery life |
| R7 | Digital DMR and analog | depending on version | IP68 | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi and GNSS |
| SL500e | Digital DMR and analog | 128 | IP54 | Slim, OLED screen, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi |
| Mag One X10d | Digital DMR and analog | 64 | IP55 | Voice recording and USB-C |
| DGP5050 | Digital DMR and analog | 32 | IP57 | Rugged, no display |
| DGP8050 | Digital DMR and analog | 32 | IP57 | Rugged, with GPS |
| DTR720 | Digital 900 MHz | 50 | IP54 | Station license exemption |
| RVA50 | Analog | 8 | IP55 | Simple, UHF or VHF |
| R7Ex | Digital DMR and analog | depending on version | Ex certification | Explosive atmospheres, IIA and IIC variants |
For photos, full specifications and accessories, open each model’s page. For a brand overview including mobile radios, repeaters and PoC, see Motorola radios.
Digital DMR and analog, 64 channels and IP55. Recommended replacement for DEP450 and EP450 users.
DMR with artificial intelligence audio, IP67 and long battery life, in keypad and non-keypad versions.
Top of the portable MOTOTRBO range: IP68, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi and GNSS.
Digital and analog, compact, with display and non-display versions.
No display, DMR and analog, IP55 and IMPRES batteries.
Slim and discreet, with OLED screen, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, for public-facing service.
Digital and analog, 64 channels, IP55 and voice recording.
Digital at 900 MHz, 50 channels and station license exemption.
Rugged, IP57, DMR and analog, with IMPRES batteries.
Rugged, IP57, with GPS, for critical operations.
Version for explosive atmospheres, with certifications according to variant.
Simple analog, 8 channels, for small teams.
Motorola digital HT or analog?
Almost the entire current range consists of Motorola digital HTs on the MOTOTRBO platform (DMR standard), which also operates in analog mode. In digital mode, audio stays clean near the coverage limit, batteries last longer, compatible systems fit two conversations on the same channel and features include private calls, text messages and emergency alerts. Analog remains useful for communicating with older radios and very simple operations, as with the RVA50.
For those migrating, MOTOTRBO’s advantage is programming analog and digital channels in the same radio: the new HT communicates with the old fleet during the transition, then the whole fleet moves to digital.
Which Motorola HT for each use
- Teams starting out or replacing older radios: R2 or DEP250, with a good balance of features and simplicity.
- High noise and intensive use: R5 or R7, with louder audio and processing that reduces background noise.
- Those preferring a radio without a display, to avoid accidental channel changes: DEP550, DGP5050 or R2.
- Public-facing service: SL500e, slim and discreet, for reception, hospitality and retail.
- Harsh environments: DGP5050, DGP8050 or R7, with IP57 protection or higher.
- Classified hazardous area: R7Ex or DGP8550EX, with explosive-atmosphere certification according to the area.
- Retail and hospitality without a station license: DTR720, digital at 900 MHz.
- Small teams and simple use: RVA50, analog.
Motorola HT radios by sector
The same model can be excellent for one operation and unsuitable for another. Some examples of selecting Motorola portables by sector:
- Property security: rugged HT, with emergency button and, depending on model, GPS and man-down alert for night patrols.
- Logistics: HT with loud audio and battery for 12-hour shifts, used with lapel microphones by forklift operators.
- Industry: HT with high IP protection and noise-isolating headset; in hazardous areas, only Ex-certified HTs.
- Hospitality and retail: slim, lightweight HT with discreet earpiece to avoid disturbing guests and customers.
- Condominiums: simple HT without a display to avoid accidental channel changes at gatehouse and on patrol.
- Events: HT with good battery life and a headset, for production and security in loud environments.
Weight, size and ergonomics
Those using an HT all shift feel the difference in weight and size. Slim models such as the SL500e fit a jacket pocket; rugged models such as the DGP8050 are larger but withstand drops and rain. Large, well-spaced buttons help glove wearers, and a locking channel selector prevents accidental changes. These details inform professional Motorola HT selection alongside the data sheet.
How to test the HT before buying the fleet
For large fleets, it is worth testing the chosen model at the operation’s most difficult locations before finalizing quantities: basement parking, back of the warehouse, machinery room, farthest outdoor area. The test shows whether radio-to-radio communication is enough or a repeater is needed, and helps choose between UHF and VHF. Talk to the sales team about organizing this test for the suggested Motorola HT.
HT battery and operating time
A Motorola HT’s operating time depends on battery, mode (digital lasts longer than analog), power and how much the person talks. Sheets such as the R5’s indicate up to 32 hours depending on battery, on a standard usage cycle. In practice, for 12-hour shifts with extensive conversation, allow spare batteries for those who talk most, such as leaders and gatehouse staff. IMPRES batteries used with compatible chargers report charge status and help extend service life.
Motorola HT radio accessories
The right accessory transforms HT use: lapel microphone for hands-free work, noise-isolating headset for high noise levels, discreet earpiece for service, higher-capacity batteries and multi-unit chargers to organize charging. Each product page has a compatible accessories section with item codes, and compatibility is checked in the proposal.
Care to make your HT last longer
A well-maintained Motorola HT radio lasts many years. Some simple practices: charge the battery in a compatible charger without leaving the radio switched on in it all the time; keep the antenna firmly screwed on; clean battery and accessory contacts; use a case in dusty environments; and send radios that fell into water or have low audio to technical service before the problem worsens. For fleets, periodic inspection avoids surprises on critical operating days.
Programming and cloning
A professional Motorola HT must be programmed with the operation’s channels, groups and features. ABC Mais Telecom delivers radios programmed, and as the fleet grows, new radios receive the same configuration so everyone communicates in the same groups. If operations change, technical service handles reprogramming.
What buying from ABC includes
When buying Motorola HT radios from ABC Mais Telecom, the proposal may include:
- Technical guidanceModel selection based on the operation: environment, noise, coverage, shifts and integration with the existing fleet.
- ProgrammingChannels, groups and features configured for the operation before delivery.
- Compatible accessoriesOriginal batteries, chargers, earpieces, microphones and antennas, checked for each radio.
- Installation where applicableMobile radios in vehicles and bases, repeaters and antennas, according to the project.
- Technical serviceDiagnosis, repair, programming and preventive maintenance after purchase.
- ProvenanceEquipment from the manufacturer’s official range, with an invoice and warranty under manufacturer terms.
Items and terms apply according to the approved proposal.
Discontinued Motorola HTs
The DEP450 and EP450 were Brazil’s best-selling Motorola HTs for many years and remain in use at many companies. Both are discontinued; the suggested replacement is the Motorola R2, which also operates in analog mode. The DTR620 was replaced by the DTR720. ABC maintains service and accessories for older models; see DEP450, EP450 and the comparison DEP450 or Motorola R2.
Motorola HT with repeaters and systems
On its own, an HT talks to other radios in direct mode, and range depends on the environment. With a repeater such as the SLR1000 or the SLR5100, coverage extends throughout a building, plant or residential complex. At businesses with multiple sites, systems such as the IP Site Connect interconnect repeaters over the network, and the same Motorola HT radio talks to colleagues at other addresses. These projects begin with a technical site survey.
HT, PoC radio or mobile phone?
An HT talks directly to other radios without relying on a carrier and, with a repeater, covers a building, plant or neighborhood. A PoC radio uses the cellular network and reaches teams in different cities, provided coverage and data are available. A mobile phone talks to one person at a time. For operations concentrated at one site, the Motorola HT is usually the most direct choice; for dispersed teams, PoC complements it. See PoC two-way radio: how it works and when to use it.
License to use the HT
License requirements depend on equipment and use. The manufacturer describes the DTR720 as station-license-free in the version approved for Brazil. For other models, ABC advises on each case in the proposal; also see the guide does a two-way radio need an Anatel license?.
How buying from ABC Mais Telecom works
You do not need to have a model selected. For Motorola HT radio purchases, the starting point is the operation:
- Describe the use: how many people, environment type, whether there is noise, basements or open areas, and whether the company already has radios.
- The technical team suggests options: models, accessories and, if needed, a repeater or system, explaining the differences.
- Receive the proposal: equipment, accessories, services and commercial terms in writing.
- Radios are programmed with operational channels and groups before delivery.
- After purchase, specialist technical service handles maintenance, repair and reprogramming.
Delivery times and availability of each model are confirmed in the proposal.
Technical service for Motorola HTs
Battery that will not hold charge, worn talk button, broken antenna, low audio: the technical service team at ABC Mais Telecom diagnoses, repairs and reprograms Motorola HT radios, including discontinued models.
For companies that rely on radios every day, having the same company handle sales, programming and maintenance simplifies fleet management: each HT’s history is recorded, replacement accessories are correct and group configurations remain the same across all radios. Also see the guide two-way radio technical service: from symptom to diagnosis.
Frequently asked questions
Which Motorola HT radio is best for businesses?
It depends on the environment and use. For general use, R2 or DEP250; for high noise levels, R5 or R7; for customer service, SL500e; for harsh environments, DGP5050 or DGP8050; for classified hazardous areas, R7Ex or DGP8550EX. The technical team recommends options in the proposal.
What is the difference between an HT and a walkie-talkie?
In common usage, both names describe handheld radios. In practice, HT usually refers to a professional radio that is more durable, programmable and feature-rich, while walkie-talkie also refers to recreational radios.
Can a digital Motorola HT communicate with analog radios?
Most MOTOTRBO HTs operate in digital and analog modes. Programmed with analog channels in the same band, they communicate with analog radios during migration.
Do I need a license to use a Motorola HT?
It depends on equipment and use. Some models, such as Motorola DTR720, are described by the manufacturer as station-license-free in the version approved for Brazil. For others, ABC Mais Telecom advises on the applicable arrangement in each proposal.
How much does a Motorola HT radio cost?
The price depends on model, quantity, accessories and programming. Terms are provided in the proposal: request a quote through the form or sales WhatsApp.
Which HT replaces the Motorola DEP450?
The recommended replacement for the DEP450 and EP450 is the Motorola R2, which operates in digital and analog modes.
What is the difference between the Motorola R2 and R5?
Both are digital and analog MOTOTRBO HTs. The R2 is the entry-level model, with 64 channels and IP55, suitable for general use. The R5 is more durable (IP67), has artificial intelligence audio for noisy environments and longer battery life depending on the battery, suitable for intensive use.
Do you sell Motorola HTs for classified hazardous areas?
Yes. The R7Ex and DGP8550EX are certified for explosive atmospheres, depending on the variant. Provide the area’s classification so the technical team can confirm the appropriate model.
Does the Motorola HT come programmed?
Yes. Operational channels and groups are configured before delivery. If the company already has radios, programming considers compatibility with the existing fleet.
How many hours does a Motorola HT battery last?
It depends on the model, battery, operating mode and use. Some datasheets, such as the R5’s, specify up to 32 hours depending on the battery. For long shifts, the proposal can include a spare battery.
Motorola Solutions
ABC Mais Telecom is an authorized Motorola Solutions reseller. The Motorola HT is recommended according to the operation and confirmed in the proposal.
Official manufacturer range. Models, availability and terms are confirmed in each proposal.
Request your Motorola HT radio quote
Tell us how many people will use the radios, the type of environment and whether the company already has radios. The technical team recommends the model and sends the proposal.
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