MaverickNH
NES Member
Radioddity GS-5B Analog Radio | 5W | Dual PTT | Bluetooth Programming | S-Meter | USB Charging
Radioddity GS-5B is a rugged and reliable dual-PTT analog radio for ham use. With Bluetooth programming, you can program it on a dedicated APP. With a cable, high gain antenna and a high-quality air acoustic earpiece, the GS-5B is an excellent choice with a more mature look, professional feel...
www.radioddity.com
I picked one up from Amazon $89.99. More costly than a Baofeng (same price as a Yaesu FT-65r) but will likely outlast 2-3 UV-5Rs - YMMV. Radioddity has a $99.99 bundle offer now for the radio and accessories that went up a few days (link above) after I paid more on Amazon for the gear.
A top selling point is Bluetooth programming from an app. I used the Android version but there’s an IOS app too.
I was able to quickly enter the main SHFT channels and program the radio from my Pixel 5a. You can program using the radio buttons too, of course, but that’s tedious. The device has extended RX/TX and one can turn off TX on those bands where you or the device are not licensed to transmit - or leave them on and risk the FCC Commandos descending on you
Another second main feature is scanning - you can scan your memory channels (all those SHTF channels) 3-3-3 (3rd on the month, 3hr intervals 3a/6a/9a/12p/3p/6p/12a for 3min) for practice or 3-3 any day you need to do so.
A third main feature us USB Mini charging - the port is on the removable battery, so you can buy a spare (only $18) and charge it up for backup. It comes with a desk stand charger and a “spy” behind the ear headphone too. A programming cable for Windows and a hand Mike are optional accessories.
It’s a KISS b/u for my RFinder B1+, which is really sweet, but more complex.