The term “GMRS” refers to a general mobile radio system. GMRS is the standard for many amateur radio operators, including those who operate radios used for emergency communications.
GMRS is a radio standard for two-way wireless communications using unlicensed radio frequencies. It is intended for local and personal use. GMRS radio communication is free of any government licensing requirements and is open to anyone.
In most cases, GMRS radios are portable handheld devices that are built to perform under the strict guidelines of the GMRS system.
GMRS is used by a wide range of people including hikers, emergency responders, and pilots.
To get a good deal on the best GMRS radios, I have compiled a list of the best GMRS radios that can help you enjoy your outdoor adventures without any hindrance.
Top GMRS Radio Reviews
1. BAOFENG UV-9G GMRS Radio
If you’re looking for a GMRS radio that’s built to last, the BAOFENG UV-9G is it. With a 30 repeater channel group and a long range of up to 5 miles, you can take advantage of your local repeaters and make some extra money for your community.
Unlike other GMRS radios, this one is capable of operating as an amateur radio station too, so you can get involved in ham radio activities. And with its two-way radio capabilities, you can use it as a walkie-talkie, too.
While the radio itself is waterproof, its USB port and charging port aren’t. This means that you can use it on the beach, but you’ll have to keep it dry in your bag.
As with all BAOFENG radios, it’s super durable, so you’ll have no problems taking it into the wild. The only drawback is that it’s a bit bulky, which makes it less convenient for traveling. But if you’re a hiker, backpacker, or just need to be out in the wilderness, this is definitely the best option for you.
2. Midland 50 Channel Waterproof GMRS Two-Way Radio
The Midland 50 Channel Waterproof GMRS two-way radio is the ideal option for anyone looking for a high quality radio that’s built to last.
This two-way radio features 50 Gmrs channels (General Mobile Radio Service), allowing you to communicate with other parties over a larger area. With a 36-mile range, you can stay connected to others when you’re in open areas with little or no obstruction.
It’s built with a rugged, waterproof design that’ll prevent it from being damaged by splashing water. This means you’ll be able to take this radio on any outdoor adventure with you and it’ll be ready to go.
This radio is also designed to be easy to use. Its voice activation transmission (Evox) feature allows you to talk and listen to your surroundings without having to press buttons.
With the Midland 50 Channel Waterproof GMRS radio, you’ll never have to worry about running out of battery power again. This is because it comes with an internal battery and charging system.
You’ll be able to recharge it while you’re on the move and you won’t have to worry about losing signal because the radio features a 142 ctcss/dcs privacy code. This means you’ll be able to block other conversations from interrupting your communication.
The Midland 50 Channel Waterproof GMRS radio also includes a noaa weather scan feature. This will automatically scan through 10 available weather channels and locks onto the strongest channel to alert you of severe weather updates.
You can also choose from a variety of private codes. These codes will allow you to block other conversations on the same frequency. So you’ll never have to worry about hearing unwanted conversations.
The Midland 50 Channel Waterproof GMRS radio is a great choice for anyone looking for a reliable, waterproof radio that’s built to last. With a long battery life, a waterproof design, and a ton of features, it’s a solid investment.
3. Radioddity DB20-G Mobile Radio
With over a decade of experience, Radioddity has built a reputation as one of the most reliable brands for mobile radios and antennas.
The Radioddity DB20-G is their latest offering for off-roading and camping enthusiasts. With a powerful, long-range, 20W GMRS radio, it’s the perfect companion for your adventures.
With its high quality and durable design, this radio is perfect for camping and off-roading. It has a ruggedized aluminum housing, which makes it lightweight and easy to hold in your hands.
This radio has a built-in speaker that is loud and clear. Its microphone is equipped with a shock mount, so it’s less likely to fall out during an accident.
This radio also features a powerful and clear display. With 500 channels, it’s easy to scan and listen to your favorite channel.
This radio is also compatible with all the standard GMRS repeaters, so you can easily connect to them and get free radio service.
This radio has many great features, including a long-range antenna, a powerful 20W radio, and a strong signal.
Overall, the Radioddity DB20-G is a great off-roading and camping radio for anyone who needs a reliable radio for long distances.
4. Wouxun KG-805G Professional GMRS Two Way Radio
The Wouxun KG-805G is the ultimate in GMRS radios. It’s packed with the features you need for a reliable and versatile radio. It’s the first truly professional radio you can buy for less than $200.
With a price under $200, you get a ton of features that cost hundreds more. This is a serious radio that you can rely on in the field.
Features like the 22 standard channels, the 8 repeater channels, the LED display, the backlit keys, the menu and programming functions, the VOX function, the transmit and receive alarms, the CTCSS/DCS code memory, the adjustable squelch, the FM radio, the lighted display, the programmable buttons, the high and low battery indicators, the waterproof rating, the FM antenna, the belt clip, and the desktop charging port are all included.
The radio has a built-in 1500mAh battery and it charges via a USB cable. It has a power indicator that will let you know when it’s charging.
The radio has a built-in FM radio with a dedicated volume control. There are 3 backlight colors, so you can choose between white, green, or blue. It has a 3.5mm headphone jack for private listening or for use with a headset.
This is a professional grade radio that you can use in the field for work, school, and play. It’s easy to use, easy to program, and easy to carry.
5. Backcountry Access BCA BC Link Group Communication Radio
The Backcountry Access BC Link 2-Way radio is a truly unique piece of equipment. It was designed with the purpose of making communications easy in the backcountry, and it succeeds in that goal.
The BC Link 2-way radio is a compact unit, measuring only 1.5 inches tall and weighs just over 2 ounces. And it’s light enough to be carried in a backpack or even a pocket.
This radio uses a built-in rechargeable battery that lasts up to 4 days.
Backcountry Access offers the BC Link 2-way radio in two models. The original is available in black or silver, and it is compatible with their Stash and Float packs.
Both the Stash and Float packs have a compartment on the outside of the pack that can hold the BC Link radio. This compartment is big enough for a smartphone and other gear, so you won’t have to carry extra gear.
The BC Link is also a truly user-friendly radio. It’s a compact and easy-to-use radio with intuitive menus and a simple setup.
It’s not too difficult to understand, and once you’re familiar with the radio, you’ll be able to set it up and change the channel and volume easily.
The BC Link can be used for several different purposes. It can be used for group communication, calling for help, and even tracking animals.
It can also be used as a beacon for navigation. This is especially useful when traveling in the backcountry.
The BC Link is compatible with a number of smartphones and tablets, including the iPhone and iPad. It also supports many other mobile devices, including Blackberry, Android, and Windows.
The BC Link is also a fully integrated radio. It has a built-in speaker and microphone, so you won’t have to use a separate device for these functions.
It comes with a clip on Smart Mic interface, which means that you don’t have to remove the radio from the pack to make changes. The Smart Mic interface allows for easier mounting to pockets and backpack straps.
The BC Link is also a great option for someone who wants to get a radio for their first time. It’s a compact and easy-to-use radio, so it will be a breeze to learn how to use.
6. AnyTone Dual Band Mobile Transceiver VHF/UHF Transmitter
This is a dual band radio that’s also a portable transceiver, which means you can use it for more than just talking. It comes with a built-in antenna, so you can communicate with other stations on the same band, or even with other bands.
You can also use it for ham radio. This radio has a 50W output power and a 40W input power. It can cover up to 50 miles in the UHF band, and up to 15 miles in the VHF band.
This radio also has an integrated speaker. You can use it for private communication, such as with your partner. You can also use it to talk to people with hearing impairments.
AnyTone has been producing high-quality radio equipment for years, and the AT-5888UV is no exception.
This dual band mobile transceiver is a true workhorse. It features a rugged and sturdy chassis and is made to withstand the rigors of the road.
Its main advantage is its versatility. This model features a total of 758 channels, which can be programmed for various purposes. You can use it for amateur radio, emergency communications, marine radio, or any other purpose.
It also has a built-in 50W VHF transmitter with a 40W UHF transmitter. This means you can use it for voice and data communication with the landline, for example.
If you want to get the best value for money, we recommend the AT-5888UV. It’s compact and robust, and it’s one of the most powerful and versatile dual band mobile radio transceivers available.
7. Radioddity DB25-G GMRS Mobile Radio
The Radioddity DB25-G is a versatile and highly functional 2-way radio, with a built-in GPS antenna and a 25W transmit/receive capability.
With a compact size, it’s perfect for mounting inside your vehicle and is ready to use right out of the box. The DB25-G also includes a USB charging port for charging your mobile devices, making it ideal for overlanding and long distance traveling.
With a wide range of channels, the DB25-G is a great choice for anyone who is looking for a long range radio that will work well for both day and night communication.
For campers, it’s also great for those who want a durable, lightweight, and easy to operate radio that they can use for overlanding and survival purposes.
The Radioddity DB25-G is the best 2-way radio for anyone looking for a simple, reliable, and easy to use radio.
8. Midland – MXT115 GMRS Two-Way Radio
The Midland MXT115 is a mid-range radio for the price. And we love that it’s a 2-way radio, not a 1-way radio. This is a common mistake that many people make when buying a radio. They get a cheap, 1-way radio thinking that they can only talk, but a 2-way radio is a great tool for everyone in the family.
Midland has done a fantastic job with the design and usability of the MXT115. The device is sleek, compact, and lightweight. It’s very easy to operate and setup. There are just a few buttons and a large, clear display. The MXT115 has the basics you need for a solid 2-way radio: the ability to communicate with others, the ability to listen in on others, and the ability to receive and transmit signals.
This is a pretty small radio. It’s roughly the size of a pack of cards, and is perfect for traveling, camping, or even hiking. But don’t let its small size fool you, this radio packs a ton of power. The MXT115 is capable of communicating up to 50 miles in rural areas, depending on the environment. It has the power to reach into tall buildings, deep inside tunnels, or across wide, open plains.
The MXT115 also features NOAA weather alerts, which can be very useful for outdoor enthusiasts. You can set up the device so that it will automatically scan through the 10 NOAA weather channels and automatically lock onto the strongest weather channel. The NOAA weather alert will sound an alarm indicating that there is a risk of severe weather in your area. This is a great feature to have when you’re camping, hiking, or in any area where severe weather can cause major problems.
The MXT115 also has a built-in microphone, which is great for people who enjoy being on the phone. This will be useful if you’re calling someone to ask directions, or to see if there are any hazards along your route.
And the MXT115 also has a weather alert system. This will alert you to any severe weather that is happening in your area. This is a great way to stay up to date with current weather conditions and alerts.
The MXT115 also has a NOAA weather channel for receiving weather information from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. This is a really useful feature for outdoors
9. Kenwood TM-V71A Dual-Band Mobile Transceiver
Kenwood TM-V71A is a powerful amateur radio transceiver for the DXpedition community. This model offers an all-in-one radio design that’s very user-friendly.
The TM-V71A features a powerful, 144/440 MHz transceiver with a 50 W power output. This is perfect for ham radio operations, emergency communications, and amateur radio.
The TM-V71A is designed with a rugged, high-impact polycarbonate case that protects the electronics and features a rubberized exterior for enhanced shock resistance. There’s even a rubberized handle for extra durability.
It features a digital code squelch memory function and a choice of AMBER or GREEN backlight colors for the front panel LCD. The antenna connector is built into the handle, so you won’t have to worry about losing it.
This Kenwood is a dual-band transceiver that supports both 144/440 MHz and 440/870 MHz frequencies. With a choice of two backlight colors, the display can be configured for optimal viewing in any light conditions.
For added convenience, the TM-V71A features a user-programmable memory with up to 1000 channels. This means you can save up to 1000 contact lists in the memory. You can also program up to 10 different scan modes, so you can easily switch between these modes.
It also has a 104-code digital code squelch memory for automatic dialing. This is a huge time-saver for field operators.
Kenwood TM-V71A is a versatile and easy-to-use amateur radio transceiver for the DXpedition community. This is our top pick for the best multi-band amateur radio transceiver for the 2020s.
10. BTECH Mobile GMRS-50X1 50 Watt Two-Way Radio
The BTECH GMRS-50X1 is a 50 watt handheld mobile two-way radio and scanning receiver. It is a very versatile radio, and can be used for both voice and data transmissions. It also includes a powerful scanning receiver, so you can pick up additional channels for receive only.
This is a very compact, lightweight and durable radio that is built to last. The GMRS-50X1 has a rugged aluminum housing with a sturdy rubberized grip handle for easy portability. This radio is designed to be used in the field, but it is also very durable and weatherproof.
The GMRS-50X1 has a large, bright LCD display, which is great for operating in low light environments. It also has a microphone, speaker, and a headphone jack for private communications.
The GMRS-50X1 is an ideal radio for users that need the maximum range from a base/home/or mobile environment. The GMRS-50X1 was designed in the heartland of the ?? (in South Dakota), the GMRS-50X1 is the best GMRS mobile radio available!
The GMRS-50X1 is a great little radio, and we highly recommend it for anyone that is looking for a durable, reliable, compact radio for use in the field.
11. TYT TH-9800D A+B Dual Band Two Way Radio
In the world of radio communications, you need a reliable, robust radio for the best possible service. And the TYT TH-9800D is one of the best around.
This is a dual-band radio that allows you to use two different frequencies at once. It supports the following bands: 26-33 MHz, 47-54 MHz, 110-180 MHz, and 420-450 MHz. This is a huge advantage when you’re operating in areas with overlapping frequency ranges.
It can also transmit and receive using multiple channels, so you can use more than one at a time. This is great for those times when you need to communicate with a large group of people, such as a large business or sports team.
TYT also provides you with a powerful CHIRP feature, which allows you to program the radio in advance. This is useful if you have a large group of people that you need to coordinate with.
But the best feature is its compatibility with the free Chirp app for Android and iOS. This is great for those who want to program their radio from anywhere in the world. You can use the app to set up the radio and change the channel and transmission settings, all without needing to be near the radio.
If you need a reliable radio that will give you the best possible reception and communication, then the TYT TH-9800D is the one for you.
What to Look for When Buying a GMRS Radio
Range to Cover
If you’re looking for a radio to use outdoors, then you’ll need to consider the range you need to cover and the environment in which you’ll be using it. The range you need to cover depends on where you’re going to be placing your radio, and the environment in which you’ll be using it.
Most outdoor radios have a range of 300 to 1000 meters, depending on the size of the antenna, the antenna’s length, and whether or not you’re transmitting. However, if you plan on using your radio at a very high elevation, then you’ll likely need to increase the antenna’s length.
Battery Life
The battery life of a radio also depends on its operating mode. If you’re listening to AM or FM stations, then you’ll only require a single AAA battery. However, if you’re transmitting, you’ll need a larger battery.
Transmitting a station requires a minimum of 3 AAA batteries, but a maximum of 6 batteries. A 12-volt battery should provide enough power to transmit a station for a few hours.
Some models have a separate USB port, so you can recharge your batteries with an external charger.
Sound Quality
When it comes to outdoor radio, there are four main types of audio quality you’ll encounter. The first type is a crystal-controlled radio, which is a very clear, clean audio signal.
The second type is a vacuum tube radio, which is a very smooth and even sound. It’s often accompanied with a small speaker, making it easier to hear the sound.
The third type is a solid state radio, which is a bit more of a harsh sound. Solid state radios are typically used for short-range, portable uses.
The fourth type is a car radio, which offers a strong and loud audio signal.
Privacy codes
You should check the privacy codes on your GMRS radio before purchasing it. Most GMRS radios are set up with the ability to connect to multiple frequencies. This means that you can use the radio on a variety of different channels, depending on what type of communication you need. The privacy codes limit the range of each frequency to a specific number, which prevents someone else from listening in on your conversations. The number will depend on the channel and the sensitivity of the radio. Transmitter power The transmitter power is usually measured in milliwatts (mW). This is important because the higher the power, the more sensitive the radio. If you are going to be using the radio on a long distance, you will want to use a high powered radio. If you are going to be using the radio in an area where there are many other radios operating, then you will want to use a lower-powered radio.
Maximum power output
The maximum power output for the radio will tell you how much energy it can put out at a certain frequency. This information will help you determine how far you can send your signal. Frequency range The frequency range of the GMRS radio will tell you which frequencies you can use. This is important because if you want to use the radio on a specific frequency, you will have to know what channels are being used on that frequency. You should also check to see if the radio is capable of using multiple channels.
LCD Screen with a Flashlight
With so many options available in wireless technology today, you should always keep in mind the features and benefits of a particular model you’re considering. One of the most useful features of a GMRS radio is its ability to connect to repeaters.
These are stations that allow you to communicate with others across large distances by using a common channel and frequency. In other words, when you’re using a repeater, you can be talking to someone within range of hundreds or even thousands of miles away.
It’s especially helpful when you’re traveling in remote areas and don’t have access to a cellular network. If you’re out of cell coverage, you can use a repeater to connect to a local station.
Another reason to consider GMRS radios is their compatibility with NOAA weather scans. These allow you to get a weather forecast from NOAA directly to your GMRS radio. You’ll be able to receive an audio signal over the air that allows you to hear the specific details of any current or upcoming weather forecast.
Repeater Compatibility
When you’re looking for a GMRS radio, you’ll need to consider how compatible it is with repeaters. In general, you can expect GMRS radios to have at least one repeater channel, which means you’ll be able to connect to another station and talk to people in a different location.
For example, if you have a GMRS radio that doesn’t have a repeater channel, you can purchase a repeater to add to your set.
NOAA Weather Scan
If you’re looking for a GMRS radio that offers NOAA weather alerts, you’ll want to make sure it has a NOAA weather channel. This is a common channel that’s used by NOAA to broadcast the weather forecast to radio users. The channel will typically broadcast information in the form of voice and/or text.
A GMRS radio with a NOAA weather channel will let you know the weather conditions for anywhere in the country and for any upcoming weather events. For example, you may be able to tune into a channel that’ll tell you the exact temperature in your hometown.
FAQ’s of Best GMRS Handheld Radio
What is the range of a GMRS radio?
GMRS radios can cover a range of about 10 miles, which is pretty impressive. It is possible to extend this range up to 25 miles, but it requires a lot of research and planning. You should consider a range of around 15 miles as the maximum, and plan accordingly.
What Is the Difference Between FRS and GMRS Radio
Radio frequency spectrum is a limited resource that is being used at an increasing rate by new technologies. While the majority of radios operate on FM band frequencies, there are other bands available for use.
While most people think of FM as being the only band that is available for use, there are a few other options for radio operators. The first option is the General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS).
GMRS is a digital radio service designed to operate on certain bands of the radio spectrum. It allows users to communicate with each other in small groups or to large numbers of people across the country.
The second option is the Family Radio Service (FRS).
FRS is a digital radio service that allows users to communicate with other FRS radios and with mobile phones using shortwave radio technology.
Can I use a GMRS radio without a license?
In most states, you can use a GMRS radio without a license, provided you don’t interfere with anyone’s communications. There are certain exceptions though, like in New York and California, where a license is required to operate any such device. You can check with your local authorities to see what laws apply in your area, and you should always use licensed radios when operating one near sensitive areas.
What Is the Range of a 50-watt GMRS Radio
A 50-watt GMRS radio has a range of 2.5 miles or 4 kilometers. It is best used to communicate with a distant neighbor or a friend. This radio can also be used to make phone calls.
How do I get a GMRS license?
If you’re looking to get a GMRS license, then you should consider the following steps. First, you should buy a GMRS transceiver and pair it with a radio. You can use a universal one, but it’s recommended to choose a transceiver that is specifically made to work with GMRS radios. Second, you should purchase a subscription from your service provider. You should have a good antenna to maximize reception. Third, you should install the radio at your location of choice.
