BaoFeng GT-3
via Amazon
The BaoFeng GT-3 is the latest two-way radio technology of 2014. Some improvements to this years model include a better lit keypad, improved squelch thresholds, receiver sensitivity, increased FM band range, and many more that we'll get into later. For new users, the included manual is very well illustrated and an excellent guide. The shape is contoured to fit comfortably in the palm of your hand. It's large capacity battery can last up to nine hours.
The antennae has some nice improvements which make it more reliable and vastly increases signal clarity. The upgraded frame material makes it more durable, but no less light or cumbersome as it's small enough to fit inside a pants pocket. It comes in a fashionable combination of black and orange coloring along with a comfortable, fitted grip. The backlight has been improved upon as well, utilizing a black background with white text for easier viewing. The new screen seems to hold up better after extended use as well, where older models would "black out" once heat built up.
As mentioned earlier, the FM band on this model has been increased to 65-108 Mhz instead of the standard 88-108 Mhz. VHF is 136-174 Mhz, and UHF is 400-480 Mhz. Heat dissipation is better with the GT-3 and the Battery life is quite good. You can expect 7-9 hours of use depending on your use of the HI/LO setting. An extended battery pack can be purchased separately to extend this much further.
Some other features include a very bright LED flash light which is very useful and also has a strobe feature for emergency scenarios. A charge base with AC plug in are included as well as a belt clip and wrist strap. An included headset/mic allow for hands-free communication. Also, this unit is water resistant so you can operate in rainy conditions without fear of shorting it out. It can be programmed by hooking up to a PC and I recommend getting the latest CHIRP and going that route.
There are so many improvements made to this years model that it clearly shines under any comparison. The GT-3 is a good model for a beginner or advanced user. So if you don't have a two-way radio, this is a great model to start with. And even if you do, the vast improvements make the GT-3 a very worthy upgrade! At the time of this writing, you can pick one of these up for $62 from Amazon.
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