Overview
This video reviews and tests eight popular GMRS radios, evaluating their range, clarity, size, build quality, battery setup, and unique features, with the aim of helping viewers choose the best option for their needs.
Radios Reviewed
- Rocky Talkie GMRS 5 Watt: Easy for beginners, rugged, strong outdoor performance.
- Wouxun KG-935G Plus: Feature-rich, tough, suitable for advanced users.
- Retevis AL H1G: Affordable, large battery, heavy.
- BTECH GMRS Pro: Advanced features (GPS, SMS), top scorer, best for advanced outdoor users.
- Baofeng UV-5G: Cheapest, impressive for price, compatible with Baofeng accessories.
- Midland GXT 1000R: Affordable, entry-level, limited features, easy to use.
- TIDRADIO TD-H8 GMRS: Affordable, app/PC programmable, good for stationary use.
- TIDRADIO A36 Plus: Compact, lightweight, solid feature set for budget users.
Range and Clarity Testing
- All radios performed well at 1.6 miles in a dense suburban environment.
- At 5.5 miles, most radios except the Midland continued to work, with noticeable differences in clarity.
- Top signal clarity: BTECH GMRS Pro, Baofeng, Wouxun, Rocky Talkie.
- Range can be extended with a repeater like the Retevis RT97.
Build Quality and IP Ratings
- Highest IP67: Rocky Talkie, BTECH, Retevis—most resistant to water and dust.
- Wouxun: IP66, also suitable for outdoors.
- Baofeng and TIDRADIO A36 Plus: IP54, require more caution with moisture.
- Midland: JIS4, similar to IP54.
- TIDRADIO TD-H8: No specified rating, caution advised.
Size and Weight
- Midland and TIDRADIO A36 Plus: Lightest (~7 oz), best for portability.
- Rocky Talkie: Also light and portable.
- Most radios fall in the 10–11 oz range, Retevis is the heaviest (12 oz).
Charging and Battery Features
- All except Midland have USB-C charging; Midland uses a proprietary cradle but accepts AA batteries.
- Rocky Talkie and Baofeng have covered charge ports for added protection.
- Most include charging cradles for convenience.
Scoring and Recommendations
- BTECH GMRS Pro: 90/100, best for advanced users, highest x-factor (19).
- Wouxun KG-935G Plus: 80/100, high quality and features, x-factor (15).
- Rocky Talkie & Baofeng UV-5G: 75/100, Rocky best for beginners, Baofeng top value.
- Retevis AL H1G: 67/100, durable and affordable.
- TIDRADIO A36 Plus: 65/100, highly portable, good features.
- TIDRADIO TD-H8: 64/100, large battery, best for stationary use.
- Midland GXT 1000R: 45/100, easy for beginners, limited features.
Decisions
- BTECH GMRS Pro named top overall performer.
- Wouxun KG-935G Plus and Rocky Talkie recommended for advanced/entry-level users.
Action Items
- Next Friday – Channel Host: Announce giveaway winner on Community page and respond to their comment.
Questions / Follow-Ups
- Viewers invited to comment with questions or suggest other GMRS radios for future reviews.