Newbie - GMRS Wouxun KG-805G vs Midland GXT1000VP4

[htims05]

I've always had an interest in radio since a little kid but never took to it for some reason. Now as an adult I just bought my GMRS license and thought I'd pick up a couple handheld GMRS radios to use/learn when out with the family - hiking biking skiing - using around the neighborhood.

That said I'm trying to determine if either of these two Wouxun KG-805G vs Midland GXT1000VP4 would give me a noticeable difference in daily use with the family activities noted above. I know the Wouxun is more capable in terms of programming etc...but is it worth double the cost for 2of the Midlands.

Sorry for the noob question here - and I know the answers are going to be subjective, but either way your thoughts and opinions as a more experienced radio user than I is greatly appreciated.

 

[htims05]

Additionally - does the inclusion of the repeater capability...seems I have some open system ones that I could use around the house as they are close to my neighborhood...warrant the Wouxun - in the sense of extra range potential?

 

[N1SAK]

I've not used the Midland GXT1000VP4 but I have used the Wouxan KG-805G (and own two KG-905G's which is the same as the 805G with IP66 waterproofing rating). If you just want the kids to have fun, the Midland might be enough around the yard plus a couple of your neighbors. I doubt very much it operates at the 5W allowed on some channels, likely operates at 2W or less. I can definitely say that you'll be happy with the Wouxan for some time to come. You'll have a full 5W on the channels that allow it - it's programmed in, nothing to do or worry about - and better range. Just as easy to use - but: you can take it further, if you wish to. If you have repeaters in your area (see mygmrs.com for a listing), go with the Wouxan for sure. If you have the budget for it, it's gonna be, imho, a far better radio and you'll be much happier with it for a long time. I've had several multi-set radios and they have always been disappointing if desiring more range than a neighbor's yard or three.

BTW: on mygmrs.com, you'll see a button to ask for permission to use the repeaters. Use that. Often, there's a tone you'll need to set in the radio and the reply you get will contain that info. The 805G has free programming software too so you can use your computer to input all the area repeaters you desire and name them as you like (up to 6 or 8 characters, I forget now).

 

[iMONITOR]

BTech GMRS 50X1 VS Wouxun KG-1000G - GMRS Mobile Radio Shootout - Which GMRS Radio Is Better?

 

[N1SAK]

That's a great video - all the GMRS videos from that guy are worth the watch. But, I think htims05 was specifically looking at hand held units. This video reviewer has a couple videos on the 805G though.