|
GMRS Reviews
GMRS
Radio Reviews
While you can't test
each GMRS radio brand and model to see how they perform under
typical conditions, our reviews provide the results of our
hands-on tests of the features you want and need. We
offer our opinions of which radios really deliver and which
ones offer basic services. We test the maximum ranges
that typically are advertised to see if their claims are
true.
| Midland
GXT500, GXT500vp4, GXT550vp1, GXT550vp4
(GXT550vp1Includes
a pair of headsets,
GXT500vp4
Includes batts, charger & headsets,
GXT550vp4
Includes batts, charger, & headsets) |
 |
| Range
Criteria: Flat land
sending and receiving, suburb setting.
|
| Clear |
3 miles |
| Faint/Static yet usable |
3.5 miles |
| Signals lost |
over 3.5 miles | |
| Clarity |
Very clear
speaker. Excellent volume range from super soft to
quite loud. The only reason I have to
rate the signal as > 3.5 miles, is because I ran out of
test road. Look for repeat testing (on a much
longer road) in the near future. Compare this
testing to other lower watt radios which top out at about
1-2 miles. |
| Features |
5 Watts
38 Privacy codes
5 Call tones
NOAA Weather Radio
Vibrating Alert
Hand Free Operation
Scan, Keypad lock,
Auto Stealth
Auto
battery save
4 AA
alkaline or
rechargeable
With a wealth of fine features,
including NOAA weather reception, I've found the GXT500 to
be a fantastic communications companion.
Super sturdy case, nice
push to talk button (tactile feedback). easy to
change settings with a click of the menu button. I guess
you could use the low power option to save batteries when
you're relatively close to each other, but my guess is
people generally leave it on high anyway. Scanning
channels was a little slow to my liking, but it works
fine. The Vox feature works great in a
relatively quiet environment, but that's about the only
time you'd need this feature anyway. Because of it's
power capabilities, it uses 4 AA batteries, but doesn't
feel bulky on your belt. Like the vibrate alert for
use in noisy environments (like when using lawn mower,
etc.). |
| Ergonomics
Ease of use, and general feel |
Radio feels good
in the hand. It's on the thick side, but not
uncomfortably so. PTT button is conveniently placed. |
| Quality |
Radio has a solid
feel. Case and buttons are manufactured from sturdy
materials. Is slightly heavier than some other radio. |
| Overall
Impressions |
The Midland GXT500
is an excellent choice in GMRS radios. Our range
testing indicated at least a 3.5 mile range, though I have
heard of reports up to 8 miles. |
| Rating (1
worst, 10 best) |
9 |
|
