Staying connected is essential, whether you’re exploring the wilderness, coordinating an event, or simply keeping in touch with family and friends. GMRS (General Mobile Radio Service) radios offer a reliable way to do just that, providing better range and clarity than FRS radios. This roundup ranks seven popular GMRS handheld radios, starting with our top pick.
Here are the radios we’ll be comparing, in order of ranking:
- Retevis Ailunce HA1G
- Tidradio TD-H8
- Tidradio TD-H3
- Baofeng UV-5G
- Baofeng UV-9G
- Radioddity GM-30
- Retevis RT-48P
Let’s explore what makes each of these radios stand out (or fall short):
1. Retevis Ailunce HA1G:
Our top pick, the HA1G, earns its spot with a winning combination of ruggedness, performance, and features. Its IP67 waterproof rating makes it ideal for outdoor adventures, while its excellent range and clear audio ensure reliable communication.
The HA1G has the best sounding audio of all of the radios in this roundup, and USB -C charging is a must these days. While the programming software can be a bit challenging, the overall quality justifies the extra effort.
2. Tidradio TD-H8:
Close behind the HA1G, the TD-H8 is a durable workhorse designed for extended use. Its long battery life and high-gain antenna translate to impressive range, making it a great choice for situations where reliable communication is critical. Programming is easy whether from the keypad, using Chirp, or Bluetooth, and USB -C charging is supported. However, it can be pricier than some competitors.
3. Tidradio TD-H3:
For those prioritizing portability, the TD-H3 is a fantastic option. Compact and lightweight, it’s easy to carry without sacrificing essential features like NOAA weather alerts, USB -C charging, and Chirp or Bluetooth programming also wireless cloning is a great feature. Keep in mind that its range and battery life may be somewhat limited compared to larger models.
4. Baofeng UV-5G Plus:
A budget-friendly and versatile option, the UV-5G Plus offers USB -C charging, and dual-band functionality. Its affordability makes it appealing.
5. Baofeng UV-9G:
Similar to the UV-5G, the UV-9G provides USB -C charging, dual-band capabilities at an accessible price point. It’s relatively easy to use and compact, making it a good entry-level option.
6. Radioddity GM-30:
The GM-30 strikes a balance between features and affordability. It offers programmable channels, decent battery life, and a built-in flashlight. While it may not excel in any specific area, it’s a reliable all-around performer for casual users. We have experienced some issues with the transmitted audio from of the two unit we tested. The audio in one of the units was bad to the point of being unusable.
7. Retevis RT-48P:
Designed for ease of use, the RT-48P is simple to program and operate. It includes essential features like Ruggedness, ip67 water, dust and drop resistance, NOAA weather alerts and a flashlight. While a good choice for beginners, it lacks some of the bells and whistles of higher-end models.