A well-rated handheld radio, the Radioddity GA-2S is a long-range, two-way walkie-talkie that takes pride in its ergonomic design and high-quality features. It doesn’t cost that much, but I am confident that it is an outstanding device that is worth more than its price. This portable radio is intended for wide coverage applications such as construction sites, security measures, maintenance protocols, fire department communications, and a whole lot more. But there is more to it than meets the eyes. That’s why I have written this review to give you more information about the Radioddity GA-2S.
Specs
- Brand: Radioddity
- Range: 3 miles
- Power output: 2 watts
- Frequency ranges: 400-470 MHz (UHF)
- Battery: Lithium-ion rechargeable Battery
- Size: 4.72 x 2.36 x 1.18 inches
- Weight: not stated
- Waterproof: not stated
- License needed: yes
Scope of Delivery
What do you get if you buy this walkie-talkie model? Since the Radioddity GA-2S is a two-way radio, each component in the box comes in a pair. There are two radio bodies, two 1500mAh Lithium-ion batteries, two antennas, two USB chargers, and two micro USB cables for the main parts. You will get two belt clips, two wrist straps, two air acoustic earpieces, and two user manuals for the accessories. Make sure that you check all the items before disregarding the package.
Setup
Let’s move on to the setup of the Radioddity GA-2S. In general, the assembly has no complicated steps, and it can only take a few minutes to complete the radio. Once you have all the parts out of the box, install the battery in the back of the radio body until you hear a click (it signifies that the battery is locked in place). Screw the antenna carefully into the radio. You only need to turn it ten times to ensure that the antenna is tight.
Once the battery and antenna are in their right places, turn on the radio by twisting the power knob counterclockwise. The device has an automated voice, telling you that the radio has been activated. Select the channel you want to access, and the radio will respond with one, two, three, etc. Finally, press the PTT switch to start talking, then release it to receive a response.
It is so easy, right? Repeat the same procedure for the other handheld radio. And if anything goes wrong, make sure that you read the user manual.
Waterproof
There is no mention if the Radioddity GA-2S is waterproof or not. But to prevent any irreparable damage, it is best not to drop the radio in the water or even try to submerge in the water. Use the belt clip and wrist strap to keep it safe with you at all times.
Power Source
The power source of this particular model is a rechargeable 1500mAh Lithium-ion battery. Upon receiving the package, the battery has enough power that you can use to test the radio. Once you have drained the remaining battery power, charge it using the USB charger. I think the initial charging should be seven to eight hours. When it is fully charged, the radio can be on standby for 96 hours. It means that you can use it for 24 hours without charging it again.
When charging the handheld radio, you need to plug the USB cable into a compatible USB source. A red LED will show, telling you that charging has started. You will notice that the LED becomes green. It means that the charging cycle is ready to commence. Either place the battery-empty radio or detach the battery from the radio and directly place it to the charger. The charging cycle is complete when the LED turns green, and it is already safe to remove the radio or the battery from the charger.
Since it has a built-in micro USB charging port, you can easily charge the radio in many different ways. You can plug it into a wall charger as long as you have a suitable adapter or a power bank. It is also possible to charge it using your computer or laptop, which normally has several USB ports. And if you are driving, you can charge the device to your car charger. You can take it anywhere.
Range
When it comes to range, the Radioddity GA-2S can reach three to four miles if it’s used in an open area. But it can still cover a two-mile range, sometimes three, even if physical factors obstruct the transmission. The maximum range can be reached when the radio uses two watt transmission output.
Having said that, this model is perfect for outdoor activities like camping, hiking, hunting, and traveling within the locality. It is also effective in monitoring family activities, keeping security tight, and maintaining convenient communication between the management and the staff personnel.
Frequencies
The Radioddity GA-2S uses ultra-high-frequency or UHF in transmitting radio signals. It has a frequency range of 400-470 MHz for UHF, and It can save up to 16 channels.
Although there is no mention of whether an FCC license is required or not, I checked out a few reviews from customers who bought the device. Most of them say that you need to acquire the license, especially if you are using the radio within the US. If you intercept certain signals or channels without a license, then you are breaking the law, and you may face charges for unlawful action.
Features
On the surface, the Radioddity GA-2S has a simple look. It does not have a screen display like most updated or advanced walkie-talkies today. But behind its simplicity, you’ll be surprised to know that it is built with many impressive features, and they are the reasons why you would want to consider this portable radio for your outdoor adventure needs.
- PC Programming :
- Allows you to program the radio through your computer. This feature provides convenience in storing data from the portable device and activating several functions. It is also a better way to set it because the radio does not have a screen display.
- Scan Function:
- Once the radio is programmed, this function will automatically the channels from one to 16.
- Battery Save Function:
- Extends the radio’s standby time longer for more hours.
- Busy Channel Lockout:
- Activates the transmission even if the signal is prohibited.
- VOX:
- Activates transmission at voice command. There is no need to press the PTT button. All you have to do is speak through the microphone, and the device will transmit the signal whenever you command it.
- Low Battery Indication:
- It alerts you when the battery level is low. You’ll notice a red LED blinking and hear an alert tone whenever this happens.
- Squelch:
- Determines the signal strength when the radio speaker is activated.
- Time-Out-Timer (TOT):
- Turns on the safety switch when the limit of the transmission time has been reached. This feature is helpful when the transmission is taking too long.
- QT/DQT (CTCSS/DCS):
- It prevents the radio from getting unwanted signals on the same frequency.
Price
I have mentioned earlier that this model doesn’t cost much, and it’s true. The Radioddity GA-2S is within $25-$27, which is definitely within the low-price range. Many portable radios cost around $40-$50, so a pair of these devices are relatively cheap. And if you check Amazon, the Radioddity GA-2S has a very good rating score, which means that it is of high quality at a really affordable price.
Pros
- Cost-effective, lightweight, and ergonomic design
- Straightforward setup, has a user manual
- Rechargeable battery
- Built with a micro USB and comes with a USB charger
- Has many outstanding features
- Can be programmed on the computer
- Includes an air acoustic earpiece
Cons
- No screen display
- Without keypads
- Not waterproof
- Shorter range compared to other handheld radios
- Not compatible with disposable batteries
Conclusion – Radioddity GA-2S Review
With an easy setup, durable design, and a budget-friendly price, the Radioddity GA-2S is worth buying. It is a very good choice if you don’t want anything too fancy, too complicated, or too advanced. For example, if you need a pair of portable radios as soon as possible, you can buy this one without having to read everything about it.
Yes, there are better options on the market, but I think this particular model is already good enough. It is challenging to find affordable two-way walkie-talkies with high-quality features because most of them have higher prices. But with the Radioddity GA-2S, you do get more than what you have paid.
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