[K3CAL] GMRS Radio Recommendations

[Mike Nasitka, AL3G]

I like the Retevis Ailunce HA1G.  It’s not very expensive, is USB-C charger, as well as a cradle.  It comes preprogrammed with all the GMRS freqs, and repeaters.  It has VFO and memory/channel options.  You just need to set the PL.  It does come with the program cable, and is easy to program from the front panel (as long as you have the manual handy… but, now that I’ve done it more than a few times, it’s pretty easy.).  They have easy to use software available for free on their website, or you can use CHIRP (I haven’t tried CHIRP yet)  There is also a key combo at power-on to open it up outside of just the GMRS frequencies, or you can reflash it to make it the Ham Radio version of the radio if you want to move ham from GMRS.  It uses the Kenwood side connector for speaker/mic, etc.  It’s also a Prime Day Deal right now so it’s under $40 

(https://www.amazon.com/Retevis-HA1G-Handheld-Rechargeable-Waterproof/dp/B0CHRJ3PRS/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2GZTD89TJ4A2N&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.reyA0q_XCUzKOyn6XwJmHeqynM-f2nckuaStMRojzdvoQI19Ziyv0A1QMWyhnQKm1Ha0L9Eg6I82CmWShZzgu67uWOHm2X7cxgCka-OIKpAOsuuBymULa6m6u7gBaCVziBWhwGn7szTM2_ie5Pdgm3wSRh5-72SF7KSubeVh2WtkakAKrbynCUrzkIbBFT_SmwlKABM-n-xzXmBrZ2muJPYeUDSR0G1XGBMMEPw5r8U.OVHAfLR9-B3dkaCAWkHxhEWKDF5LXBz4px1fREmIJ9U&dib_tag=se&keywords=retevis%2Bailunce%2Bha1g&qid=1782261334&sprefix=reteivs%2Bail%2Caps%2C190&sr=8-1&th=1) 

. (I think I may get another one….but I want to find the Neon Yellow one they show).  It’s quickly becoming my favorite EDC radio.  And it’s much easier to operate than the Beofeng at the same price point.  It’s also IP67, waterproof, NOAA wx radio (I don’t remember if it has a wx alert), etc.  

73’s
Mike
AL3G



> On Jun 23, 2026, at 8:29 PM, Andrew Charland via K3CAL <k3cal at mailman.qth.net> wrote:
> 
> Initial thoughts...
> 
> Based on age and not knowing if radio will be a continued interest, I would be inclined to stay in a lower price range. If a radio is accidentally left out in the rain, dropped and broken, etc., not too much of a worry. Accidentally left somewhere, not too much of a worry. If it's something that's grown out of as they grow and their interests change, not too much of a worry. Are they going to have regular use or only when they're at the grandparents place? Alternatively, as they use them and develop an interest, show proper care, etc., maybe upgrade to something of a higher quality with more options. 
> 
> I would stick with something preprogrammed, easy to use (no indepth menu to navigate, no button combinations to memorize, etc.), easily recharged (USB-C), and flexible antenna (not always best but stand a better chance if activities" become rough). Software programming is popular so a programming cable is a must. 
> 
> I'm usually not much of a brand recomender nor do I know anyone's budget. If you're looking to stay lower price for now, Amazon has a lot to offer that will work. If you're willing to go higher in price, there are several brands worth mentioning... Retevis, Midland, Wouxun, Radioddity are a few.
> 
> Just a few quick thoughts...
> 
> Whatever direction you go, hopefully you'll bring some younger folks into radio and I look forward to hearing from them on the repeater.
> 
> Andy
> 
> On Tue, Jun 23, 2026, 19:14 KB3WFV via K3CAL <k3cal at mailman.qth.net <mailto:k3cal at mailman.qth.net>> wrote:
>> 
>> GMRS Radio Recommendations.
>> 
>> I'm posting this question for fellow club member Shorty KC3ZPC. She has five grandchildren visiting her from out of town. They range in age from 4 to 14 years old, and have expressed an interest in two way radio. Are there any recommendations on which GMRS radios to purchase, and where to buy them?
>> 
>> Brian
>> KB3WFV   
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