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GMRS Pro Radio Review

Jun 11, 2025

Overview

This video provides an in-depth review and operational walkthrough of the BTech GMRS Pro radio, covering its unboxing, key features, menu navigation, performance testing, mobile app integration, and overall impressions for prospective buyers.

Unboxing and Initial Setup

  • The package includes the GMRS Pro radio, a belt clip, BP-26 2600mAh battery, manual, and a screwdriver tool for the clip.
  • Installing the belt clip is easier using tweezers to hold the screw.
  • The battery is installed via a clip mechanism; removal and installation are straightforward.

Physical Features and Interface

  • The radio features a color screen similar to other BTech models (e.g., KG-UV9PX), familiar in layout but unique in software.
  • Key controls include PTT, two programmable side buttons, up/down navigation, function buttons, back, and menu buttons.
  • The display shows channel, GPS data (direction, height, time), power level, signal, audio, and other status icons.

Menu Navigation and Settings

  • Main menu options: FM radio, signaling (APRS-like functions), radio settings, sound, display, Bluetooth pairing, NOAA weather, GPS, compass, and device status.
  • APRS and signaling features require a second radio to fully utilize; limited with a single unit.
  • Radio settings include dual watch, scanning, talkaround (simplex/repeater toggle), channel grouping, squelch level, TX timer, PTT options, and tail elimination.
  • Sound settings allow adjustment of speaker, mic gain, Bluetooth mic (future accessory), and key tones.
  • Display settings adjust brightness, screen timeout, and time zone.
  • NOAA feature provides weather channel scanning and automatic alert reception.
  • GPS and compass functions provide location and heading, with calibration available.

Antenna and Accessory Notes

  • The radio uses a fixed antenna per FCC for data-enabled GMRS units, though it can be carefully removed for testing/tested with other antennas.
  • M1 headset jack is present; an M1-to-K1 adapter for accessories is in development.

Power Output Testing

  • High power mode delivers approximately 5.2 watts on both low and high GMRS channels.
  • Low power mode outputs around 0.35–0.4 watts, suitable for battery conservation.
  • Tests were conducted using a dummy load, not over-the-air transmission.

Mobile App Integration

  • The BTech GMRS Programmer app is available for Android and iOS; Android version has more features.
  • Bluetooth pairing enables full programming, channel switching, and GPS map features from the phone.
  • App allows editing channel properties, switching power levels, setting codes, voice-to-chat, text messaging, and track recording.
  • Bluetooth audio accessories (e.g., AirPods) can be used for listening but not for PTT.
  • Up to 196 channels can be managed; firmware and battery status are displayed.

Advanced Features and Limitations

  • The radio supports off-grid GPS tracking and messaging; network features found in overseas models are not enabled for US users.
  • Possible future integration with tactical mapping apps (e.g., ATAK) is anticipated.
  • The device is IP67 waterproof but not yet submerged/tested by the reviewer.

General Impressions and Recommendations

  • The GMRS Pro offers robust quality, essential and advanced features (GPS, tracking, off-grid communication) at a $140 price point.
  • Particularly suited for users seeking off-grid survival or group coordination tools.
  • Reviewer encourages feedback and hopes to acquire a second unit for further feature testing.

Full transcript