UHF Radio: Guide for Overlanders, 4WD and Travellers – 2024
UHF Introduction
For those who venture off-road and explore Australia’s vast and remote landscapes, reliable communication is paramount. UHF radios provide the essential link when mobile phone signals become unreliable or non-existent, ensuring not only convenience but also safety and connectivity throughout your trip.
UHF is often also used where quick and convenient open channel communication is needed in areas of mobile reception, where through the use of a handheld “walkie-talkie” style unit and the in-vehicle it is possible to communicate effectively over short line of sight ranges to get tasks done, such as reversing a trailer or a recovery operation. It is also useful for staying in communication with your convoy or warning other travellers you are on track and in which direction you are travelling.
In this post, we’re going to have a quick rundown of who the main players are in the Australian 4WD UHF market, what their key products are and compare the key features. This post summarises my findings when choosing the best UHF radio for our Troopy Overlander 4WD Build.
If you are looking for a comparison to review the key features between GME, Oricom, Uniden and Icom to find the radio for you, you are in the right place.
VHF vs UHF – What CB should you use in Australia?
Many people ask especially if they are not familiar with 4WD and CB Radio in Australia, “Is CB radio UHF or VHF?”, the actual answer is both but here in Australia and New Zealand UHF is the dominant type of CB for vehicle use.
In many parts of the world, CB radios operate on the VHF (very high frequency) band, in Australia the UHF (Ultra High Frequency) band is the predominant choice, VHF is used in Australia but mainly in maritime communication. They are the standard for ship-to-ship and ship-to-shore communication, as well as for emergency and distress calls at sea.
Why UHF for 4WD Adventures?
So what are the advantages of UHF radios and why would you want one?
- Extended Range: UHF (Ultra High Frequency) radios offer a greater range than VHF radios, making them ideal for navigating vast and open terrains where communication over long distances is crucial.
- Clear Communication in Challenging Terrains: UHF signals are less susceptible to obstructions like hills and trees, ensuring clearer communication in varied landscapes. Like VHF, it is possible to swap antennae to improve performance relative to the terrain.
- Community and Safety: Connect with fellow travellers, and road users and access emergency services using dedicated UHF channels, fostering a sense of community and safety on the road less travelled. Often vehicles will use UHF channels to advise other travellers of safety issues or assist with overtaking and the like. Many vehicles have a UHF channel displayed on the rear of them to allow other users to communicate.
Leading UHF Radio Brands for Weekend Warriors, Overlanders and 4WD Enthusiasts
GME
GME is a brand of the parent company Standard Communications Pty Ltd. GME has a very strong brand following in Australia.
GME is a leading Australian manufacturer of communication and safety equipment, renowned for its UHF CB radios, emergency beacons (EPIRBs and PLBs), antennas, and various other products. They have a strong reputation for producing high-quality, durable, and innovative products designed for the Australian environment and outdoor enthusiasts. GME is proudly 100% Australian-owned and has been a key player in the communications industry for over 60 years.
- Australian-Made Durability: GME radios are built to withstand the harsh Australian Outback conditions, ensuring reliability in demanding environments.
- Innovative Features: Select models offer Bluetooth connectivity, smartphone app integration, and even built-in GPS for enhanced functionality and convenience.
- Popular Choices: The XRS series offers a range of compact and powerful options catering to different budgets and communication needs.
GME Key Products
GME’s key UHF Radio and Safety products aimed at the 4WD market are
UHF CB Radios:
- XRS Series: Compact, feature-rich models with Bluetooth, app integration, and some with GPS (e.g., XRS-370C, XRS-390C, XRS-330C).
- TX Series: Affordable and reliable options for basic communication needs (e.g., TX3350).
Antennas: Wide range of antennas to suit various mounting locations and requirements (e.g., AE4704B heavy-duty, AE4705B medium-duty).
Emergency Beacons: EPIRBs (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons) and PLBs (Personal Locator Beacons) for safety and rescue in remote areas.
Comparison of GME Radios
| Feature | GME XRS-370C | GME XRS-390C | GME XRS-330C | GME TX3350 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Feature | GME XRS-370C | GME XRS-390C | GME XRS-330C | GME TX3350 |
| Design | Compact hideaway | Compact | Super compact hideaway | Compact |
| Bluetooth | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| Antenna | Heavy-duty | Standard | Touring-grade | Standard |
| Smartphone App | XRS Connect | XRS Connect | XRS Connect | No |
| GPS | No | Yes | No | No |
| Durability | High | IP67, MIL-STD-810G | High | Moderate |
| Channels | 80 | 80 | 80 | 80 |
| Noise Cancellation | Yes | Yes | Yes | SoundPath™ |
| Value Pack Options | 4WD Pack | None | Outback Pack | Value Pack |
| Value Pack Contents | Radio, antenna, mounts | N/A | Radio, antenna, mounts | Radio, antenna, mounts |
| Ideal User | Hardcore 4WDer | Adventurous 4WDer | Touring/Casual 4WDer | Budget-conscious 4WDer |
| Price | High-end | High-end | Mid-range | Entry-level |
| Built-in Speaker | Yes | Yes | No | Yes |
Uniden
Uniden is a well-established global brand with a strong presence in Australia.
Uniden is known for its diverse range of consumer electronics, particularly in the communication and security sectors. They offer a variety of products, including cordless phones, baby monitors, dashcams, security systems, and, of course, UHF CB radios. Uniden is recognized for its focus on reliability, durability, and user-friendly features, making its products popular among consumers and professionals alike.
- Reliability and Longevity: Uniden is a well-established brand known for its dependable and long-lasting communication equipment.
- Diverse Product Range: Uniden offers a variety of models, from basic options for occasional use to feature-rich choices for avid adventurers.
- Notable Features: Uniden’s Smart Scan technology automatically locates available channels, simplifying communication setup.
Uniden Key Products
UHF CB Radios:
- UH Series: Variety of models, from basic to advanced, with features like Smart Scan and digital signal processing (e.g., UH9060, UH5060).
- XTRAK Series: High-performance radios with integrated GPS and advanced features (e.g., XTRAK 80).
Antennas: Selection of antennas for different mounting options and performance levels.
Uniden Radio Comparison
| Feature | Uniden UH9060 | Uniden UH5060 | Uniden XTRAK 80 | Uniden UH078SX | Uniden X70 | Uniden X86 | Uniden X76 | Uniden X66 |
| Design | Compact | Compact | Compact | Compact hideaway | Compact | Compact | Compact | Compact |
| Bluetooth | Yes | No | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| Antenna | Included | Included | Included | N/A (external) | Included | Included | Included | Included |
| Smartphone App | No | No | XTRAK App | No | No | No | No | No |
| GPS | No | No | Yes | No | No | No | No | No |
| Durability | High | Moderate | High | Moderate | High | High | High | Moderate |
| Channels | 80 | 80 | 80 | 80 | 80 | 80 | 80 | 80 |
| Noise Cancellation | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Value Pack Options | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Ideal User | Enthusiast 4WDer | Casual 4WDer | Adventurous 4WDer | Budget 4WDer | Enthusiast | Enthusiast | Enthusiast | Casual |
| Price | Mid-range | Entry-level | High-end | Entry-level | Mid-range | Mid-range | Mid-range | Entry-level |
| Built-in Speaker | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Additional Features | Smart Scan, Voice enhancer | CTCSS, DCS | Group Tracking, Geofencing | Compact, discreet | Large Display | Extra tough & Durable | IP67 Waterproof | Compact, Reliable |
Notes:
- The UH078SX is a hideaway unit and requires an external speaker and microphone.
- “Smart Scan” is a Uniden feature that automatically scans for active channels.
- The XTRAK App offers features like group tracking and geofencing.
Icom
Icom is a globally recognized brand specializing in high-quality communication equipment.
Icom is known for its professional-grade two-way radios, including VHF, UHF, and digital models. Their products are favoured by a range of industries, from aviation and marine to public safety and commercial sectors. Icom is synonymous with reliability, durability, and advanced features, making it a premium choice for those seeking top-tier communication solutions.
- Professional-Grade Quality: Icom radios deliver exceptional audio clarity and robust construction, ideal for demanding off-road conditions.
- Advanced Functionality: Icom offers a range of professional-grade radios with advanced features suitable for experienced 4WD enthusiasts who require top-tier performance.
- Long-Term Investment: While Icom radios might be a more significant investment, they offer unmatched quality and longevity, ensuring reliable communication for years to come.
Icom Key Products
UHF CB Radios: IC-446S: Professional-grade UHF CB radio with exceptional audio quality and durability.
Other Two-Way Radios: Wide range of VHF, UHF, and digital two-way radios for various industries and applications.
Accessories: Antennas, batteries, chargers, and other accessories to complement their radio systems.
ICOM Radio Comparison
| Feature | Icom IC-446S | Icom IC-410 | Icom IC-455 |
| Design | Compact | Compact | Mobile |
| Bluetooth | No | No | No |
| Antenna | Requires external | Requires external | Requires external |
| Smartphone App | No | No | No |
| GPS | No | No | No |
| Durability | Very High | High | Very High |
| Channels | 80 | 80 | 200 |
| Noise Cancellation | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Value Pack Options | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Ideal User | Professional/Demanding 4WDer | Professional User | Commercial/Industrial Use |
| Price | High-end | Mid-range | High-end |
| Built-in Speaker | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Additional Features | Rugged construction, clear audio | Clear audio, reliable performance | Advanced features, durable construction |
Key Observations:
- Model Variety: Icom offers a range of UHF radios catering to different user needs, from the compact and reliable IC-410 for professional users to the feature-rich IC-455 for commercial and industrial applications.
- Durability: Icom maintains its focus on durability, with all models offering high or very high durability ratings, making them suitable for challenging environments.
- Channel Capacity: The IC-455 stands out with its 200-channel capacity, providing greater flexibility for communication in complex settings.
- Price Range: Icom radios generally fall in the mid-range to high-end price bracket, reflecting their professional-grade quality and features.
Oricom
Oricom is an Australian-based company that specialises in communication and safety equipment, including UHF CB radios, emergency beacons, antennas, and related accessories.
Oricom is committed to providing reliable and user-friendly communication solutions for various applications, from 4WD adventures to boating and outdoor activities. Oricom’s products are known for their value proposition, combining good quality and features at competitive prices.
- User-Friendly Design: Oricom radios feature intuitive controls and clear displays, making them easy to use even in challenging situations.
- Innovative Options: Models like the UHF2900 include built-in GPS for location tracking and sharing, adding an extra layer of safety and convenience to your adventures.
- Value Proposition: Oricom strikes a balance between features and affordability, offering capable radios suitable for various budgets.
Oricom Key Products
UHF CB Radios: User-friendly models with a range of features and price points (e.g., UHF2900 with built-in GPS, UHF088 compact model).
Antennas: Selection of antennas designed to work seamlessly with their UHF radios.
Emergency Beacons: EPIRBs and PLBs for safety and rescue in remote locations.
Oricom Comparison Table
| Feature | Oricom UHF2900 | Oricom UHF088 | Oricom DTX4200 | Oricom DTX4300 | Oricom UHF350 | Oricom UHF395 | Oricom UHF390 | Oricom UHF310 |
| Design | Compact | Compact | Compact | Compact | Compact | Compact | Compact | Compact |
| Bluetooth | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | No | No | No | No |
| Antenna | Included | Included | Included | Included | Included | Included | Included | Included |
| Smartphone App | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| GPS | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | No | No | No | No |
| Durability | High | Moderate | High | High | Moderate | Moderate | Moderate | Moderate |
| Channels | 80 | 80 | 80 | 80 | 80 | 80 | 80 | 80 |
| Noise Cancellation | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Value Pack Options | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Ideal User | Adventurous 4WDer | Casual 4WDer | Adventurous 4WDer | Adventurous 4WDer | Casual 4WDer | Casual 4WDer | Casual 4WDer | Casual 4WDer |
| Price | Mid-range | Entry-level | Mid-range | Mid-range | Entry-level | Entry-level | Entry-level | Entry-level |
| Built-in Speaker | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Additional Features | Built-in GPS, Voice Enhancer, Selcall | CTCSS, DCS | IP67 Waterproof | IP67 Waterproof | Large Display | Voice Enhancer | Scan Suite | Compact & Reliable |
Key Observations:
- GPS Capability: Only the UHF2900, DTX4200, and DTX4300 models offer built-in GPS functionality.
- Durability: The DTX4200 and DTX4300 models stand out with their IP67 waterproof and dustproof rating.
- Price Range: Oricom provides a wide range of options catering to different budgets, from entry-level models like the UHF088 and UHF310 to mid-range models like the UHF2900 and DTX series.
- User Focus: The table highlights the ideal user for each model, aiding in selecting the radio that best suits your 4WDing style and communication needs.
Selecting the Right UHF Radio for Your Needs
We ended up selecting the XRS-330COBG, the main consideration for choosing this radio was the compact size, which is mainly driven by the fact the XRS-330 does not have a built-in speaker, which is perfect for us because we wanted to mount the radio under the Troopy dash on the passenger side above the glove box. We’ll share more on that in our next post.
The other aspect was the ability to control the whole thing from the handset, yet manage the settings from the app. Managing the settings from the handset worried me because, on my last CB radio in the Defender, it was a lot to manage via the small interface of the handset. The final feature I liked, although I am not sure how useful it will be for us, was the GPS in the handset of the “COBG” GME pack.
If you are considering which CB is right for you our general advice is:
- Evaluate Your Requirements: Consider the frequency and intensity of your off-road excursions. Choose a radio with features and durability that align with your needs.
- Vehicle Compatibility: Ensure the radio’s size and mounting options are suitable for your 4WD and where you would like to mount the components of the radio.
Installing a UHF Radio in the Troopy
Stay Tuned for the Next Installment! In our next post, we will go into the practical aspects of UHF radio installation, specifically installing a GME UHF into our Toyota Troopy. We’ll cover everything from selecting the optimal mounting location, which was under the dash for us, to antenna placement and cable routing.
Our Troopy Build
If you would like to know more about our Troopy Overland Camper Build, check out this post and we’ll keep you updated.