More and more people choose GMRS radios as their communication tool when adventuring, camping, and hiking with family and friends. BAOFENG UV-9G and BTECH GMRS-V2 are both popular models on Amazon. If you don't know how to choose between these two excellent GMRS radios, then read on.
IP67 Waterproof Grade
Talking range and waterproof performance are often two of the priority factors when choosing an outdoor-ready walkie-talkie. Compared to most models on the market, the IP67 UV-9G has better water and dust resistance. It can be submerged in 3 feet/1 meters deep water for 30 minutes without any damage. With a waterproof rating of only IP54, the GMRS-V2 has no way to keep dust out completely and is only protected from splashing water or a little rain drop. That means if your outdoor activities include fishing, kayaking, or hiking near lakes or streams, the UV-9G is the best choice.
Numbers of Channels
The UV-9G has a total of 128 channels, including 22 GMRS Channels +8 GMRS Repeater Channels + 11 NOAA Weather + 87 Scanner Channels. What's more, UV-9G has 32 repeater channels, so you can freely set the repeater order and parameters, and set different CTCSS/DCS, to reduce interruptions. It is believed that all of this design could meet most of the need of daily use, no matter of the entry-level using or serious GMRS using. And BTECH advertises that they have 200 customizable channels and allows full channel arrangement, which might be fairly free to use. However, the GMRS-V2 is not as accurate as the UV-9G in terms of scanning.
Cost Effectiveness
As the comparison form above, the main features of these two radios are a lot in common, like their frequency range, output, battery capacity, multiple color display and so on. However, GMRS-V2 cost nearly $70(on Sep. 5, 2022), while UV-9G is $25 cheaper.
What have fixed in the current inventory?
If you are worried about the bugs others mentioned in the previous batch, let me tell you what have fixed now!
- Support CHIRP.
- Problem: CTCSS/DCS was activated when open the box. FIXED. Now CTCSS/DCS is OFF in factory setting.
- Problem: All channels were set to narrow-band. FIXED. They're wide-band now (except CH8-CH14).
- Problem: No way to change power setting via keypad. FIXED. Now can use "#" to switch power.
Accessories
As our customers’ enthusiasm for the UV-9G keeps growing, we have released some adaptable accessories to meet the needs of a wider range of usage scenarios. (👇Click to view more)
Conclusion
UV-9G is an excellent handy talkie at this price point. Its performance is greater than other GMRS radios at this price range for it’s rugged construction and IP67 water resistance rating. The extra DIY channels are also a bonus and not always found on inexpensive handheld radios. If you’re looking for an inexpensive GMRS radio that’s reliable and user-friendly at the market, you owe it to yourself to consider the UV-9G.
