The Motorola R Series – Which Model is Right for You?

Released On 11th Jun 2025

With a well-deserved reputation for keeping teams connected, whether on construction sites, in warehouses, schools, or hospitality settings, Motorola has long been a trusted name in communication technology. Its latest generation of portable two-way radios, the Motorola R Series, has taken innovation a stage further and brought their range bang up to date.

With several models and configurations that look similar but serve different needs, choosing the right model in the R Series can be a little overwhelming! We’ll help you understand the differences between the R2, R5, R7, and R7Ex so you can make the right choice for your team.

What is the Motorola R Series?

The Motorola R Series is designed to deliver exceptional voice communication in a variety of environments, from quiet offices to explosive atmospheres. These radios build on Motorola's legacy of durable, reliable devices and introduce advanced features like intelligent noise cancellation, IP-rated durability, long battery life, and integration with Motorola's broader safety ecosystem.

All R Series radios are compatible with a range of Motorola audio and charging accessories, making them easy to integrate into existing workflows. Each model offers different capabilities and durability levels to suit specific needs. Let's dive in with a quick comparison of each one.

Quick Comparison Table

*NKP = No keypad; LKP – Limited keypad; FKP = Full keypad

**Note: The R7 is available in three configurations – R7A, , R7 Capable, and R7 Premium – each with different feature sets and upgrade potential.

In-Depth Model Guides

Motorola R2 – Rugged Simplicity

The R2 is a durable, lightweight radio ideal for users who need reliable communication in straightforward work environments. Weighing less than 290g, it’s easy to handle even with gloves. It features SINC+ advanced noise suppression, long-range audio clarity, and full-shift battery life. Designed with simplicity and reliability in mind, it’s perfect for those upgrading from models like the DP1400.

Best for: Security, light industrial work, facilities management, retail.

View the Motorola R2.

Motorola R5 – Built for the Elements

The R5 is engineered for more demanding conditions. With an IP67 rating, it withstands dust, water, and tough environments. Its powerful speaker and AI-trained noise suppression provide crystal-clear audio, even in loud settings. It also supports up to 32 hours of battery life and includes a built-in emergency button and GNSS for location tracking.

The R5 is available with no keypad (NKP) or a limited keypad (LKP) for quick navigation and access to a wider range of functions

Best for: Construction, logistics, manufacturing, utility workers.

View the Motorola R5 NKP model or R5 LKP model.

Motorola R7 – Flagship Intelligence

Motorola’s flagship model in the R Series is the R7, offering multiple configurations to match a range of operational needs, with or without a full keypad: the R7A, the R7 Capable, and the R7 Premium. There’s also an Intrinsically Safe R7 model with the appropriate battery option.

Here's a quick breakdown of each of those options:

Comparison of Motorola R7 configurations:

• The Motorola R7A is considered the entry-level option in the R7 range, though it’s still a superb professional digital radio for professional users. It can't be upgraded via licence keys – similar to Motorola's older DP4400. The R7A has no access to features such as Bluetooth, GPS, Man Down, and Wi-Fi. Consider upgrading to a different model if those are important to you.
• The Motorola R7 Capable is the mid-range device in the R7 Series. The Capable model has a fixed feature set out of the box, but it can be upgraded in the future via a licence key. If you need one or two of the features that an upgrade provides, the R7 Capable may be a more economical option. For a full set of features, the R7 Premium is the best choice.
• The R7 Premium is the flagship option. It comes with most licences activated straight out of the box (except AES 256-bit Encryption), offering access to the R7's full suite of features. It's a worthwhile investment for users who need the most advanced communication capabilities.

Each model in the R7 range offers outstanding audio, smart integration features, and superior durability. R7 radios adjust audio automatically based on background noise and support loud, clear output through a 2.5W speaker. Ideal for industries where communication clarity can impact safety and performance, the R7 also integrates with broader Motorola video and security systems.

Best for: Warehousing, transport, education, hospitality, healthcare.

View the Motorola R7 NKP model, the R7 FKP model, the R7A NKP model or the Intrinsically Safe R7 TIA model

Motorola R7Ex – Ultimate Safety in Hazardous Zones

The R7Ex is ATEX and IECEx certified for use in explosive and hazardous environments. It features robust ingress protection, built-in GNSS and Bluetooth, and advanced audio with volume boost. With its blue casing and alerts for non-ATEX battery use, it’s clearly identifiable as a safety-grade device.

Best for: Oil and gas, chemical processing, mining, any explosive or dusty environments.

View the Motorola R7Ex NKP model or the R7Ex FKP model.

Choosing the right keypad configuration

• Full Keypad (FKP): Ideal for text messaging, advanced navigation, and quick access to multiple features.
• Limited Keypad (LKP): (Only available in the Motorola R5 model). Provides essential navigation with a few programmable buttons.
• No Keypad (NKP): Simplified interface for straightforward communication needs.

Your choice depends on how much interaction users need with the radio beyond basic push-to-talk functionality.

R7 accessories and ecosystem integration

Motorola’s R Series is supported by a full range of accessories including remote speaker microphones, headsets, carry cases, and flexible charging solutions. These radios are designed to be part of an integrated communications and safety network, supporting features like lone worker alerts, GNSS tracking, and push-to-talk over broadband.

Which R Series radio is right for you?

Choosing the right radio depends on your environment, safety requirements, and how much communication complexity your team needs.

• Choose the Motorola R2 for simple, everyday communication.
• Choose the Motorola R5 if you need high durability and longer battery life.
• Choose the Motorola R7 for smart features, superior audio, and system integration.
• Choose the Motorola R7Ex for the most demanding and hazardous work environments.

Still unsure? Contact us for expert advice or to request a demo. All models are included in RadioTrader’s Price-Match Promise and available for next-day delivery.