Icom V68

Updated September 20, 2026

Overview

Product sourcing insights & recommendations

23 来源

The Icom IC-V68 is a legacy professional VHF handheld transceiver that gained widespread popularity following its release in 1994. Known for its "brick-like" durability and superior audio quality, it remains a respected device among amateur radio enthusiasts and for emergency communication, particularly in Southeast Asia and South America. Rigpix Radiomuseum

Product Overview & Specifications

The IC-V68 was designed as a "crossover" radio, meeting professional Land Mobile Radio (LMR) standards while remaining accessible for amateur use. Radiomuseum

* Frequency Range: 136–174 MHz (TX/RX) Rigpix

* Power Output: Up to 5 Watts, providing reliable long-range communication for a handheld unit Centralseminary Radiomuseum

* Capacity: 40 programmable memory channels with adjustable repeater offsets Eham

* Build Quality: Metal chassis construction, often cited by users as more rugged than modern plastic equivalents Radiomuseum

* Key Features: DTMF capability and an optional voice scrambler for secure professional applications Rigpix Radiomuseum

Market Trends & Insights (2026)

In today's market, the Icom IC-V68 has transitioned into a legacy/vintage status. Youtube

* Demand Shift: Consumer interest has largely shifted toward newer models like the Icom IC-V86, which offers higher audio output (1.5W) and modern battery technology while maintaining the rugged tradition of the V68. Icomamerica

* Supply Scarcity: Direct searches on B2B platforms like Alibaba.com indicate that the IC-V68 is no longer available as a standard new-stock item. Current listings for "Icom" in this category focus on modern models or generic equivalents from manufacturers in Shenzhen and Dongguan.

* Secondary Market Presence: The device maintains a niche presence on secondary platforms (e.g., eBay, specialized radio forums), where it is valued for its longevity. A 2026 search volume analysis shows that while exact searches for the "V68" are low, broader demand for "Icom VHF" and "handheld marine radios" remains steady, with monthly search volumes exceeding 400 for related terms. Youtube

Consumer Sentiment

Users generally hold the IC-V68 in high regard, giving it an average rating of 4.5/5. Eham

* Positives: Excellent receiver clarity and volume, battery versatility (supporting Ni-Cd and Alkaline packs), and a simple, non-menu-driven interface. Eham Radiomuseum

* Negatives: Lacks modern conveniences such as backlit keys, full-frequency scanning (it only scans programmed channels), and the ability to operate while charging. Eham

For those looking to source similar devices today, manufacturers like Guangzhou Eletree Electronic and Shenzhen Mingyi Communication offer OEM and customization services for professional handheld radios that can emulate the V68's performance standards. Alibaba Alibaba

Based on the legacy status of the Icom V68, here are some next steps you can take:

Sources & References

23 sources cited · Verified industry data & reports

Ic-V68 U68 | PDF | Technology & Engineering

Scribd

MANUAL VHF FM TRANSCEIVER iC—-V68 UHF FM TRANSCEIVER. This transceiver has both channel indication and frequency indication modes.

Icom IC-V68 - Professional transceivers

RigPix Database

SPECIFICATIONS GENERAL Type: Professional land mobile VHF transceiver Frequency range: 136-174 MHz Tuning. Mode: FM Channels / memory ...

IC-V86 IC-U86 | Products

Icom America

With 1.5W of receive audio power and a new chassis design, the IC-V86 enables users to hear incoming signals in loud, noisy environments. The IC-V86 expands ...

Reviews For: ICOM IC-V68

eHam

Rugged, VHF(136-174MHz), 5 Watts reliable HT. 40 channel with adjustable offset for repeaters. Uses pack of bateries. Product is in production ...

ICOM IC V68 USER MANUAL

Central Baptist Theological Seminary - Plymouth, Minnesota

The radio provides up to 5 watts of power, Covers 136-174 MHz, suitable for a wide range of VHF communications. 128 Memory Channels:

Handheld