I use the kenwood models. They have an optional VOX headset if needed. The battery life is good and the units I have contain a built-in ringer. This is usefull if you are in a Noisy area.
If you want better battery life, quality and performance, study for your amateur radio license and get a 2m/70ch hand held from Icom, yaesu or Kenwood. You will then have access to repeaters, phone patches and even the internet in some areas for free.
Take a look here... http://www.remote.arrl.org/
and here.. http://www.icomamerica.com/