Netflix’s TV series Stranger Things has captivated audiences since its debut in 2016. With a nostalgic 1980s backdrop, thrilling supernatural themes, and a group of misfit kids battling dark forces, the show has become a global phenomenon. Among its signature elements are the walkie talkies used by the core group of friends. These devices play a pivotal role in how characters communicate across distances in Hawkins, Indiana.
The walkie talkies in Stranger Things are not just functional tools; they symbolize the bond between the characters and the era the show pays homage to. Whether the kids are planning their next mission or warning each other of Demogorgon sightings, their walkie talkies keep them connected. But what exact models are used in the show? How realistic are they for the time period? And why are they so iconic in this supernatural drama? This article explores those questions in depth.
The Walkie Talkie Models Featured in the Show
Real-World Inspiration: Realistic TRC-214
The most prominently featured walkie talkie in Stranger Things is the Realistic TRC-214, manufactured by RadioShack. This model was available in the early 1980s and is a perfect match for the show’s timeline. The TRC-214 is a CB (Citizens Band) handheld radio with a range of around 1-2 miles under optimal conditions. It was battery-powered and known for its rugged design and reliability.
In Stranger Things, the TRC-214 is often seen slung over shoulders or in the hands of the main group—Mike, Dustin, Lucas, and Will. The prop design is faithful to the original unit, including the telescopic antenna and volume controls. The showrunners clearly did their homework in terms of authenticity.
Supporting Devices and Other Models
While the TRC-214 is the primary walkie talkie seen in the series, other communication devices appear throughout. For instance, in some episodes, characters use variations of RadioShack CB radios mounted in vehicles or used in the Wheeler household. These fixed units serve as complementary tools to the handheld devices, creating a wider communication network.
It’s worth noting that while the TRC-214 was the mainstay for portable communication, the use of additional hardware—like amplified antennas and base stations—was common in the 1980s for better reception, especially in rural areas like Hawkins.
Role of Walkie Talkies in the Plot
Plot Device and Symbol of Friendship
Walkie talkies are more than props in Stranger Things. They are narrative devices that facilitate key plot developments. For example, in Season 1, when Will is missing, the boys use their radios to coordinate search efforts. When Eleven joins the group, her interactions over the walkie mark a pivotal bonding moment.
As the show progresses, these devices are integral to the group’s strategy. From warning each other about Mind Flayer attacks to discussing codes and theories, walkie talkies keep the tension high and the group in sync. The frequent phrase “Do you copy?” has become one of the show’s signature catchphrases.
Emblem of the 1980s
In the absence of smartphones, walkie talkies represented the height of kid-to-kid communication in the 1980s. Shows like TV show Stranger Things capture this era-specific detail with stunning accuracy. This adds depth and realism, further immersing viewers in the nostalgic world of Hawkins.
The walkie talkies serve as a cultural touchstone, reflecting the independence and imagination kids were encouraged to have during that decade. They enhance the show’s themes of exploration, camaraderie, and rebellion against adult skepticism.
Technical Capabilities and Realism
Signal Range and Limitations
The Realistic TRC-214, like other CB radios of its kind, had a relatively short effective range. Under ideal conditions, it could transmit up to 2 miles, though real-world usage often fell short due to terrain and interference. In Stranger Things, the kids sometimes communicate across unrealistic distances, which can be attributed to creative license rather than technical accuracy.
That said, the show often compensates by depicting static or dropped signals when the group moves out of range or into supernatural hotspots like the Upside Down. This slight nod to realism helps ground the otherwise fantastical elements of the story.
Use of Channels and Codes
CB radios typically come with 40 channels. In Stranger Things, the kids often refer to specific channels for secure communication. They also develop their own codes and slang—like referring to government agents as “the bad men”—to avoid detection. These elements are true to form and enhance the espionage-like feel of their adventures.
Additionally, Eleven’s psychic abilities are often triggered or amplified by radio frequencies. The show creatively blends scientific and paranormal themes, using the walkie talkies as a bridge between worlds.
Walkie Talkies as a Pop Culture Phenomenon
Influence on Fans and Merchandise
The popularity of Stranger Things has revived interest in vintage electronics, including CB radios. Fans often purchase replicas or functional units of the Realistic TRC-214 for cosplay or display. Online retailers and fan conventions feature these items prominently, along with character costumes and other accessories.
Collectors now consider these walkie talkies valuable memorabilia. Their presence in the show elevates them to icon status, much like the Ghostbusters gear or Dustin’s signature hat.
Appearances in Other Media
Following Stranger Things, other television series have adopted similar stylistic choices. Retro devices like walkie talkies now appear in new productions set in the 1980s or inspired by that era. This trend underscores the show’s cultural impact and how something as simple as a radio can become a powerful storytelling device.
In addition, the “kids with walkie talkies” trope is now synonymous with youth-led adventures, much like it was in the classic Spielberg films the Duffer Brothers drew inspiration from.
Behind the Scenes: Production and Props
Prop Selection and Authenticity
The props department of Stranger Things went to great lengths to ensure accuracy. They sourced original models from collectors, auctions, and vintage electronics dealers. When working units weren’t available, non-functional replicas were built to match dimensions and materials precisely.
The walkie talkies had to be both realistic and durable, especially for action scenes. Some were fitted with hidden microphones and speakers to capture live dialogue, although most conversations were recorded separately and added in post-production.
Training for Actors
The young cast members were trained in how to use CB radios authentically. They learned radio etiquette, proper microphone handling, and basic channel operation. This attention to detail helps maintain immersion and prevents anachronistic behavior that would break the illusion of the 1980s setting.
The walkie talkie scenes also offered a chance to bond the cast. Many of the show’s most iconic and heartfelt moments were shared via radio, reinforcing its thematic importance.
Conclusion
In Stranger Things, walkie talkies represent more than just a means of communication. They embody friendship, determination, and the spirit of youth in the face of extraordinary danger. Each radio transmission is a lifeline in the battle against evil forces from the Upside Down.
As much as the monsters, government conspiracies, and psychic battles define the show, it’s the human elements—like staying in touch with your friends over a scratchy signal—that give it heart. The walkie talkies are a constant reminder that no matter how dark things get, the group is never truly alone.
