Pros |
Cons |
| + Ultra Compact | - No USB charging |
| + High capacity battery | - Doesn't float |
| + Powerful transmission | - No DSC or GPS |
| + Battery save function | |
| + Value |
The Standard Horizon HX40 is a tiny but mighty handheld VHF radio which has some great features for sea kayakers, but also a few drawbacks.
For it's very small form factor this VHF has a surprisingly high capacity battery. It is a 1850mAh Li-ion battery that uses a newer Lithium Polymer construction. This 'pouch-style' battery allows the radios to be built significantly slimmer and lighter than traditional models. The drawback of this technology is that the battery is not user replaceable, meaning you cannot swap in fresh batteries during a long expedition.
In part due to the power of the battery, this radio is capable of a powerful 6W of transmission. While this doesn't tend to increase the range of this unit, as all VHF radios are limited to 'line of sight', which for 'kayaker to kayaker' is only 2-3 miles. However higher wattage helps 'punch through' interference which can help reach a tall Coast Guard antenna which can 'see you' from about 20 miles away because of its height. This interferance can be caused by many things but moisture in the air is perhaps the most significant factor for sea kayakers.
Another feature of this radio that is particularly useful for sea kayakers is its battery save function. This effectively allows the radio's receiver to take micro naps. This is where the receiver sleeps for a few milliseconds and is then awake for a few. If it detects a signal while it's awake, it stays awake so you hear the transmission. In high save modes, you can often double the standby life of your radio (e.g., from 12 hours to 20+ hours). The only downside is that if someone starts speaking very abruptly, you might miss the first half-second of their transmission because the radio was napping when they first keyed the mic.
For charging it uses a drop-in cradle. While not a deal breaker, most users would probably prefer the convenience of more modern USB-C charging as this means you only need a single cable to charge most devices. This is particularly convenient on multi-day expeditions.
Because of the smaller size of this radio the screen real estate is quite small. While the main channel number is bold and high-contrast, the auxiliary information can look a bit cluttered in such a tight space. If you require reading glasses for fine print, you will likely struggle to see this without bringing the radio close to your face.
Perhaps the most appealing feature of this handheld VHF for sea kayakers is its ultra compact size which makes it so convenient to keep it in a PDF pocket. Excluding the arial it isn't much bigger than a pack of cards. The small size does comes at the cost of not floating though. The optional extra floating case solves this if really needed. However we would recommend looking at the Standard Horizon HX210 if floating is a deal breaker as this is a very similar unit, but bigger to accommodate the flotation.
We think the HX40 will appeal to many sea kayakers but it will not suit everyone. While its good value and simplicity might appeal to newer paddlers, some will be put off by its lack of flotation and be better suited by the HX210. More experienced paddlers may want the more advanced features of the HX890, however coaches and leaders may consider the HX40 as a backup to something like this. The paddlers that will really appreciate the HX40 are those that like the freedom of carrying less on them. If you are into ocean play or fast sea kayaking you will really value the small and light form factor of this unit as it allows you to carry a VHF in your PFD but without really noticing its there.
For an overview of all the best current radios for sea kayakers see our Buyers Guide: VHF Radios for Sea Kayakers 2026.
HX40 Key Specs and Features:
- RRP £131.95
- Waterproof: IPX7
- Float+Flash: No
- Transmit Power: 1/2.5/6W
- Audio output: 600 mW
- Battery: 1850mAh Li-ion, built in.
- Charging: 12V or mains cradle
- DSC+GPS: No
- Dimensions: 95 x 52 x 33mm
- Weight: 230g
- Warranty: 3 years
Price Check:
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By Philip Clegg
With over two decades of working in the sea kayaking industry, Phil is a Paddle UK Level 5 Sea Kayak Coach and former record holder for the Circumnavigation of Britain. He can mainly be found coaching on the sea around Anglesey. That's when he's not researching and writing on all things sea kayaking.
