AR-5RM the best newby radio??

[OscarWillow76]

Supposedly it comes unlocked.

Can listen to ALL channels.

Can talk to all GMSR channels.

Great battery life.

Great screen.

Easily program in channels with CHIRP.

What am I missing?

Is there a BETTER Beofang radio??

[WRTC928]

Yes, all of those are true. I'm very satisfied with mine. It's not the best radio on the market, but it's probably the best $30 radio on the market. As usual, Baofeng overstates the transmission wattage, but I do get 8-9 watts depending upon the frequency.

[OscarWillow76]

10 hours ago, WRTC928 said:

Yes, all of those are true. I'm very satisfied with mine. It's not the best radio on the market, but it's probably the best $30 radio on the market. As usual, Baofeng overstates the transmission wattage, but I do get 8-9 watts depending upon the frequency.

Are you able to listen to everything?  

[WRTC928]

1 hour ago, OscarWillow76 said:

Are you able to listen to everything?  

I sent you a message.

[RIPPER238]

I really liked my Tidradio H3 as a starter, it has really sparked my interest in radio again with all its potential capabilities for those with self control. So much has changed since my first GMRS RadioShack radio in the early 90's. 

[WRTC928]

I wouldn't say the AR-5RM is the best radio for a newbie. A noob radio is a dedicated GMRS radio that you pick up, turn on, pick a channel, and start talking. The 5RM does require some programming, but it's a lot more versatile than a dedicated GMRS radio. There is a learning curve, and there are things I learned by trial and error, but I think most people can learn to use it. Like @RIPPER238's Tidradio H3, it has a lot of options, but you do have to exercise some restraint because you can do things with it that you definitely shouldn't do as a GMRS operator. An SSC Tuatara car can go 295 mph, and I'd kinda like to tool around in one to look cool, but it will absolutely do things that I have no business participating in.