DB25-G GMRS Radio

In this video we'll take a look at the Radioddity DB-25G GMRS mobile/base station transceiver. Please take a look at the chapter headings below to skip to the parts you're most interested in.
Be sure to check out "The New Operator's Guide to GMRS." My new book will answer a bunch of your questions regarding GMRS and how you might find using GMRS radios can help solve your communications problems. Whether just around town, around your business or as an important part of your Go-Bag or Prepper plans, "The New Operator's Guide to GMRS" is a great resource.
Amazon Link:
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Links to products in the video (affiliate links).
Radioddity DB25-G
radioddity.refr.cc/jmohan351
Radioddity DB20-G
radioddity.refr.cc/jmohan351
Cupholder mobile mount
amzn.to/3E42lBu
Mobile antenna mount & antenna
amzn.to/3B6fLec
Mobile antenna mount only
amzn.to/3E3v8pR
Mobile antenna
amzn.to/2ZixXV2
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Chapters:
00:00 Intro
00:30 Overview
04:40 Unboxing
10:17 Operations
14:12 Power Output
16:45 CPS
27:30 Mobile Installation
28:38 Closing

[@404-Error-Not-Found]

Honestly, this guy might be my new favorite radio KZbinr

[@rgrimsley55]

Thanks for providing these informative reviews of GMRS radios. They have helped me immensely when I’m staring at the manual with this look 🤪 on my face 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼

[@Stan_Rich]

Thank you for your thorough review. I had seen others and yours is by far more detailed with helpful operational info. I ordered this one for delivery this week. Will use a Midland 32” 6 dB Gain Antenna with a Mag Base on my Silverado. My son and a friend have this setup on their tricks and works fantastic. Liked & Subscribed😊👍

[@carlosr.garcia9996]

Thank you very much for this detailed review. Great quality work!

[@TELEVISIONARCHIVES]

Loving this Radio. Used it at our Smoky Mountains retreat. It's our Base Unit for both houses when we travel. Kids have 5-watt GMRS radios and love to talk on them.

[@GadgetTalk4U]

Nice

[@kakegarcia8056]

So rewarding watch your video my friend, thanks for this one! I am interested on this radio. Bests regards from a Venezuelan follower!

[@gaptastic]

Thanks again for another very informative review.

[@wheel1775]

I purchased one of these radios a few days ago. It has a few quirks, but for the price, it is a good value. I do wish the handset was larger, and had bigger buttons. But I do really like the ability to monitor 4 channels. In my area there are several repeaters that I use. It’s awesome to be able to monitor them all at once as I travel in and out of coverage.

[@photographywithbrallan1247]

How do i setup so it monitors all 4 channels? Or does it do it automatically? Just got mine today

[@Blues2cool]

Nice job as always well thought out and easy to listen to Excellent operational review. I'm a full time RV'r GMRS was our choice over a walkie talkie.

[@GadgetTalk4U]

Thanks for watching and commenting.

[@bulldogbrower6732]

Thanks again for another professional review of a radio. I like the layout of the Radioddity DB20-G over this one.I hope that you review that radio in the future. I don’t know why the DB20-G has such a limited number of user programmable GMRS channels. The radio is designed for the automobile, and for that reason you would want numerous programmable options since you are moving from area to area. Radioddity has a great handi talkie, the GM-30 which gives you 24 programmable channels. I hope that you can convince Radioddity to increase the number of user programmable GMRS channels in the DB20-G. Thanks again for your excellent review.

[@GadgetTalk4U]

Thanks for watching and commenting. I've review both the DB20-G and GM30. Both work well but are different for different users. Cheers!

[@bulldogbrower6732]

@@GadgetTalk4U yes, my error, I already commented on your excellent review of the DB20-G. Thanks again.

[@sweeperdave1]

Thanks for this.

[@JamesSmith-rt6fu]

Thanks for the review! Hard to find info and videos online for this model. I received mine yesterday and have been personalizing/programming it from the screen to repeaters I may encounter during my travels. I may pick up another as a base radio at home if I get into this GMRS stuff deeper. The radio software is a bit buggy. Example: custom repeater/scan channel names don't always take and displays only the memory location on the radio. Also, when installing the software, I had to download and install and register 3 OCX files onto my newish Windows 10 laptop to get it to run. Looking forward to when it's CHIRP ready. I mounted the radio on a Ram mount that has a pole from a bolt on the floor for the passenger seat, then to a short arm, to a plate that bolts to the radio's bracket. This puts the radio just above center console height and will power is the same as you did. No hole installation.

[@JamesSmith-rt6fu]

@Appalachian Nation now they do. Didn't when I made the original post. Glad they do because Chirp is relatively easy compared to the factory programming software out there and nice to have 1 program for the popular radios out there.

[@pastorjoe1712]

Good job good video thank you

[@jaybarr3307]

Nice thorough tour of the radio. Been considering this model for a desktop base station setup. Never occurred to me that I needed to write both the frequency/channel data and the options settings to the radio separately. For some other HT's, I always thought writing back to the radio did both or, said another way, that it wrote all changes to the radio each time.

[@GadgetTalk4U]

I thought it was odd, too. It may be just for when you change one or the other, not both. I double checked the file sizes for both saves and they are the same.

[@jaybarr3307]

@@GadgetTalk4U Suspect it's not necessary then. For all my other radios, writing back does both the configurations and the frequencies.

[@tommyjohn1177]

Thanks great video

[@GadgetTalk4U]

Glad it was helpful!

[@manvanross]

When I read the radio data nothing displays in the channels. It states complete reading and Chanel data is ok but shows nothing. Thanks for all your work!

[@1000to1]

I ordered a Radioddity DB-25G GMRS I tried to hook up my UHf PL-259 cable and it would not go on the center hole on the SO-239 is .145 dia and the PL-259 center pin is .157 dia and you can not call and talk to anyone. Great!

[@stevehorvat69]

Any preference between the DB-20 and the DB-25? Each have their own positives. I just hate the mic mounting clip on the top of this one. Reminds me of the little clips on the back of a 5x7 picture frame. Lol. Thanks.

[@prepping7722]

informative!

[@waynedoomad2573]

Great great video is it a plug & play for repeater

[@rickramirez7710]

New question. recently i did a repeater update using the software. After radio rebooted it only displayed the repeaters and not the names that I entered for each repeater. Can you advise me on how to get names to display again?

[@yellowduckass]

im have the hardest time downloading the software. any advice? i down loaded the zip from radioddity websit and opened it up and i was lost from there. if you can help that would be great.

[@bobbaratta5627]

I haven't been able to find out how to save a frequency on the radio itself or how to get it to scan. Does it scan the contents of A display one does it scam A through D? Manual leaves alot to be desired. Enjoyed your video

[@KellyAMR]

I didn't get a programming cable with mine open box just radio and mic. and missing the instructions AND the plug for my truck

[@chriskring4709]

Great review and instructions. Do you know what the power plug is? I am going to hardwire it in one vehicle but want to keep the cigarette plug if I temporarily move it

[@GadgetTalk4U]

Search Amazon for 12v dc plug for mobile radio. There should be several if I understood your question correctly. My phone app doesn't give me a direct URL, sorry.

[@rickramirez7710]

Read a review that the BD25-G gets very hot. This concerns me since i was planning on installing my Xmas gift DB25-G in my 2011 Tacoma at the bottom of my console in open cubby slot. Just below the AC dials. Will this over heat or do any damage to the radio or the cubby space area? You input is appreciated. 73, Rick

[@GadgetTalk4U]

I don't find the radio runs hot when just listening. The big heat sink on the top indicates that it can get hot though. Assess how much you plan to talk and for how long. I doubt short conversations would heat it up too much. Long monologs might heat things up.

[@Musldup]

Thank you for this detailed review and instructional video... I just installed this radio in my truck and I've got a question about operation.. I have a handheld gmsr radio and so I used it to do a test with this installed radioddity gmrs radio.. when I talk through my handheld gym RS radio I can hear it on this base unit installed on my truck. When I push to talk with the mic on this installed base unit in my truck I cannot hear anything on my handheld gmrs radio. My question is is there something special to program the handheld mic to be able to transmit /talk?.. side note, both units were programmed on gmrs channel 8.. I could talk with my handheld and hear it on the base unit but when I would try to talk with the base unit I could not hear anything on my handheld. Do you have any advice for me?

[@GadgetTalk4U]

Channels 8 through 14 are the low power GMRS channels. Many don't know they are HT only channels, also. Mobile/ base radios are not allowed. Try 1 - 7 or 15 - 22.

[@jorgeestrada6623]

Hello, I really liked your review. How can I program two or more channels to listen to at the same time? Best regards

[@GadgetTalk4U]

Menu item 0 provides several choices to monitoring multiple channels. Time code 11:50 in the video describes how to set the channels for those four registers. Thanks for watching.

[@johnfloy]

I just ordered this radio with a Black Friday sale so I was curious. Seems like it's going to work well as a base station.

[@GadgetTalk4U]

Yep, it should be great in that application. I use a round 12 volt socket style connector to plug into my power supply. If your power supply doesn't have a socket, I'd recommend getting one rather than cutting off the radio's plug. Have fun with your new radio!

[@nimroddiaries_]

I got one today also. Plan to use it as a base as well. Looking to build a J- pole for it. What do you have planned for an antenna?

[@tbaylo4034]

Can you program the repeater offsets and store them in the “extra storage” slots from the radio itself? I bought a DB 20 and the radio itself does not let you do that in the “DIY” channels. You have to use a PC. I have a Mac and the new OS does not allow me to use CHIRP so unless I buy a PC those DIY channels are useless to me. I want to be able to do this from the radio so I don’t have to buy a PC.

[@GadgetTalk4U]

Sorry to be a bit tardy on this reply. Yes you can. The process is described in the user guide that you can download from Radioddity. The radio is on sale now with a nice discount. Please use my affiliate link if you choose to purchase. radioddity.refr.cc/jmohan351 . Thanks for watching and commenting.

[@rickramirez7710]

Excellent videos thank you. Having a problem using the DB25G CPS to program my radio. Any help on using the Radioditty software would be greatly appreciated!!! Thanks for all your help. 73! Update: additionally programming the Notarubicon Ranchino repeater into my DB25G. Thanks again.

[@GadgetTalk4U]

Tyr this video from the channel: kzbin.info/www/bejne/q4GkgaKFjrKpf6ssi=NF3GPaXSVIJwiJjI

[@KTMcaptain]

I have another question. Is the “R” and “T” in front of DCS and CTS in the menu for receiving and transmission? Like if I were to put on a RDCS tone it won’t transmit the tone only set the squelch? And if only TDCS it will only transmit the tone but won’t filter the channel. So id need both set?

[@GadgetTalk4U]

It depends on the repeater. Program the input code to break the repeater squelch. If it transmits an output tone, program that in your receiver code, either CTCSS or DCS depending on what is broadcast.

[@KTMcaptain]

@@GadgetTalk4U thank you 🙏

[@iyot1020]

How did you able to program multiple repeater ch with different codes mine won't transmit unless it's the pre-installed repeater ch

[@GadgetTalk4U]

If you use the Radioddity CPS, add a channel (for example 31) put the info for channel 30 into line 31 making sure to have the proper receive and transmit frequencies. Add the CTCSS codes from the dropdown boxes to match your desired repeater. So long as the frequencies match defined repeater channels (23 - 30) my DB-25G transmitted. Use the name column to name the channel so you know what's what. I have a local repeater that is channel 30. I duplicated all the info on line 30 to line 31 exactly then added the repeater's input and output CTCSS codes and named it. I then saved the file and wrote back to the radio. It seems to work fine. Cheers.

[@wireworks616]

I tried programming mine with Chirp, no go. I downloaded db25-g programming software and it wouldn't run. So would be nice if you could do a manual programming video.

[@RKingis]

What happened when you tried to open the program?😊

[@wireworks616]

@@RKingis I eventually had to turn off the virus software to get it to run.

[@shawnphillips4772]

Can't get mine to go past channel 7. Can't get to repeater channels

[@2023Red]

@Gadget Talk. I just bought the GMRS license and today the 25G radio from Amazon. Please provide two suggestions for this radio's antenna and the cup holder. Thank you for an excellent video. Robert P

[@GadgetTalk4U]

Here's a link to an antenna mount and antenna to get you started. amzn.to/3nYfcjC Here is the link to the cup holder mount I use with a couple of different radios amzn.to/3xpXTeh They are affiliate links to Amazon. If you live near a Ham Radio Outlet or Gigaparts retailer they would be able to help you, too. You'll pay more there, though.

[@2023Red]

@@GadgetTalk4U I had to order something else because I have no desire to drill holes in my new minivan. Nagoya UT-72 Super Loading Coil 19-Inch Magnetic Mount (Heavy Duty) VHF/UHF (144/430Mhz) Antenna PL-259. I hope it works because I know nothing about radios nor appropriate antennaes. For example, will this antenna work inside my minivan or inside my garage? And I need to purchase some 12v power plug adapter for my house current. Both the antenna and 25G are due to arrive from Amazon tomorrow, on Monday. I am absolutely open to your suggestions! Thank you.

[@GadgetTalk4U]

@@2023Red The antenna will likely work in your minivan with reduced range. The issue will be possible health impact being too close to the antenna -- both you and passengers since this has higher power output. Put the antenna on a steel cookie sheet for a ground plane in the garage. Will work fine. Again, keep the antenna several feet away from you.

[@gussuk11]

How do you get it to broadcast your call sign either at the end or beginning of PTT? The software has a dialog box for PRESS PTT TO SEND or RELEASE PTT TO SEND but it won't save alphabetic characters only numerals. Your screen shots are not readable too small. Oh and BTW Radioddity referred me to your video to explain everything about these settings. Thanks

[@GadgetTalk4U]

I believe the two PTT commands you mention are DTMF commands, thus the numbers. You could, in a business setting, send a code to unlock or close another radio using the tones. They are likely for a non GMRS version of this radio. Sending ID info on DMR or C4FM is used in digital ham modes but not in GMRS as I understand it.

[@vidcreator5276]

Can 2 of these radios be used as a repeater when used in conjunction with a duplexer? If so, how?

[@GadgetTalk4U]

Not sure about these inexpensive radios. There are a couple of more costly rigs that have the cables and menu settings to do what you're asking. For example - the Wouxun KG-1000G and G plus. Otherwise, there are some repeater cables for radios that use a K1 connector that folks use as "ammo can" repeaters. Most of those are 5 watt radios, though. Cheers.

[@MizterZiniztr]

What do you suggest for a cheap antenna for home base. I live in a rental home so I need not so big. And suggestions for power supply when power goes out for this model. Thanks for your video

[@GadgetTalk4U]

I use an Ed Fong j-pole. I have it set in a window in my upstairs shack and get good coverage around Phoenix. Here's a link. edsantennas.weebly.com/ Ed's class and club at a university make these out of ladder line to support their activities. Get the DBJ-1 commercial which is tuned to cover the GMRS band. You slide it into a piece of PVC pipe for protection. A smallish 12 volt LiFe-Po battery of 5 - 8 amp hours will power this. How long it will last depends on how much you talk vs. listen. Solar panels can be used to charge the battery in SHTF situations. More amp hours equals longer time. You'll want to consider battery size and cost.

[@PIGGYm3opt]

need to use a extension speaker, what are the ohms nothing in the msanual.

[@freik98682]

I just got this radio had a hell of time getting the CPS to work. Radioditty was great in resolving the problem. Had to to do with 32 bit software on a 64 bit computer. I found the radio interface somewhat confusing and manual lacking in some areas. Love the small size. Still messing around with all programming choices.

[@GadgetTalk4U]

Thanks for watching and commenting. Sorry you struggled with the CPS. Glad you got it working.

[@stevenrobertson7069]

I had the same problem...it wil.not work on win 11 it will tell you. it is not compatible with the OS..

[@freik98682]

@@stevenrobertson7069 mine is windows 10 machine. The radio is now in CHIRP.

[@manvanross]

I’m on windows 10 and can’t get a list of channels displayed after reading

[@freik98682]

@@manvanross Hit the V/M button on the radio. That will go back to channel name mode.

[@1OFGODSOWN]

That's an RJ-45 plug NOT an RG-45 on the microphone I believe.

[@SimonRiley115]

Should I get a gmrs antenna or dual band? Thanks

[@GadgetTalk4U]

If you can find one that is reasonably priced and you think you'll only be using GMRS, go for it. If you find a dual band for a good price and you think you might someday be involved in 2m or 70cm radio, the dual band will likely be just fine at 462 MHz.

[@SimonRiley115]

@Gadget Talk ok, I just got the Comet GP-6NC and it seems to be working great. Thanks

[@billmiller9901]

Where do I find the program software? Also does the software work on windows 11?

[@GadgetTalk4U]

www.radioddity.com/pages/radioddity-download. . Yes, I haven't heard otherwise.

[@billmiller9901]

It does not work on windows 11

[@RKingis]

​@@billmiller9901What happens?

[@TheRayDog]

Remarkable how disingenuous power output ratings are. A 25W radio outputting 16W is flat dishonest. Otherwise the unit looks solid. Thanks for the thorough walk through.

[@yellowduckass]

never mind, I guess this radio software isn't supported on windows 11. well then.... not to sure what to do now... any suggestions?

[@GadgetTalk4U]

I did a video on connecting and using CPS software. Follow along and see if that works. You may be right about Win11. kzbin.info/www/bejne/iGSXmHSXepJrl5Y

[@RKingis]

When you say "it isn't supported", what do you mean? You're leaving a lot of info out.

[@yellowduckass]

@@RKingis there's no info needed. It just doesn't work on windows 11. Anything older then that it will work for but 11. I need to use my older laptop to do all the programming. It won't even read the radio on a windows 11 computer. I tried to hit up the company and they told me that knew about it. Then they sent me a long list of things to try to uninstall and download and I said nope never mind, I'll just use my older computer

[@RKingis]

@@yellowduckass Did you run it as Administrator? Did you try compatibility mode, like in the last few versions of Windows?

[@yellowduckass]

@@RKingis well sir no I did not, I'm not a computer wiz, I know enough to get by but and that's that haha. If you figure it out let me know. Like I said I reached out to the company and they gave me a bunch of weird directions to follow and I never did because it was just easier for me to use my older computer.

[@sharmaelectronic4235]

Bhai keshe ho mai aapka channel subscribe kardiya hu❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@GadgetTalk4U]

Thanks for watching and commenting.

[@zelloToiletTalks]

Audio output jack does not work properly

[@KTMcaptain]

It lets me put in any frequency, but it doesn’t transmit on them. Just listens. This is correct behavior?

[@GadgetTalk4U]

GMRS type certified radios will only transmit on GMRS channels. So depending on the freq you entered, it is likely normal behavior.

[@KTMcaptain]

@@GadgetTalk4U thanks, yes it makes a weird beep. When transmitting on gmrs I can here a sound almost like a solenoid clicking. Thanks :)

[@RKingis]

​@@KTMcaptainNeed to be in memory mode.

[@HarryHamsterChannel]

I've tried four stick on magnetic antennas. They all seem to kill my receive. I'm listening on various HT's. Have a DB25-G on the way, but no repeater mounted on my property. Nobody wants to address the elephant in the room. Coax loss.

[@RKingis]

They need proper grounding.

[@jamesblack449]

Don't forget to mention you need an FCC License to operate this radio

[@DiggerX]

I bought one of these radio's and it wouldn't power up, so Radioddity sent me a replacement and it works sometimes, so I contact Radioddity about it and I got a cold shoulder from them. The Radio's are Junk, Don't waste your money on them. Spend a little more and get the Wouxun KG-1000G, a better radio that works.

[@UltraDude2000]

Keep in mind, that is one experience from one user. I, like thousands of others have had 0 issues with Radioddity, your experience is valid and true, but a sample case of 1 with a sample size of several tens of thousands does not equate to a major majority.