Both...
I have one each of the 96 and 2096.
If you will be going TOTALLY digital and not listening to VHF Hi Band, UHF or Low Band, go for the 2096.
However, if you DO still need to listen to regular/conventional freqs, go with the 96 handheld.
My 2096 is (
a 1st or 2nd addition run - I've completed all the version updates on it) and the darn thing is pretty much
DEAF on VHF Hi band. A little better on VHF low band and UHF but not what a $500.oo radio
SHOULD be.
The 96 hears everything just fine with the ruber duckie antenna that came on it. I have the 2096 on a Scantenna up about 30 feet. I can hook up my Bearcat 760D to the antenna and it is
OK on VHF Hi & Low and UHF. The Bearcat works great so I know it ISN'T an antenna issue....
In some of the newer run radios (you know, the ones that loose their displays) they seem to have corrected the
deafness on them. We have four of them at work (in our 911 Center) and they all have very decent RX on all bands. We use a Scantenna with the proper splitter on the coax for the scanners.
However, EACH of the newer models have had to be replaced because of the display "disappearing" like we've read about here so many times.
Steve/KB8FAR