Built by someone who definitely doesn't have too many radios.
Note: Radio-specific information on this page is provided as a general guide. Always refer to your radio's manual for accurate menu options, settings, and specifications. If you spot an error, let us know on the forum.
The Radioddity DB25-G is a 25-watt GMRS mobile radio and the higher-powered sibling of the DB20-G. It offers a modest step up in transmit power while retaining the same compact, affordable design philosophy that makes Radioddity's GMRS mobiles popular with budget-conscious operators.
The DB25-G fills a middle ground in the GMRS mobile market. Operators who want more power than the DB20-G but do not want to pay for a 50W radio find it an appealing compromise. The extra 5 watts over the DB20-G is a small but measurable improvement, and the radio shares the same compact form factor and reliable repeater support that make the Radioddity mobile line a solid value.
DB20-G vs DB25-G: The main difference is 5 extra watts of transmit power. In practice, the range difference between 20W and 25W is minimal - less than 1 dB. Choose the DB25-G if the price difference is small or if you simply want the higher-spec model. Otherwise, the DB20-G performs nearly identically.
The Radioddity DB25-G is not supported by CHIRP. Like the DB20-G, it uses Radioddity's own CPS (Customer Programming Software), available as a free download from the Radioddity website. A Radioddity programming cable is required.
The CPS software provides a straightforward interface for configuring channels, frequencies, power levels, CTCSS/DCS tones, and repeater offsets. It covers everything needed for GMRS channel programming.
The radio can also be set up through its built-in front-panel menu without a computer.
The DB25-G is functionally very close to the DB20-G - the 5-watt difference translates to less than 1 dB in the real world, which is imperceptible in most situations. If the price gap is small, the DB25-G is the better buy. Stepping up to a 50W mobile (such as the Wouxun KG-1000G Plus or Midland MXT575) is worthwhile if you are building a base station, running a longer coax run to a rooftop antenna, or regularly working through repeaters at the edge of their range. For typical vehicle use on local channels and repeaters, 25W is more than sufficient.
The DB25-G is a strong choice for a primary mobile radio in a passenger vehicle, truck, or SUV where you want solid repeater access and simplex range without the cost of a 50W radio. It also works well as a low-cost base station when paired with a 12V power supply and a gain antenna mounted outdoors.
If you find yourself regularly needing more range - especially for base station use or linking to distant repeaters - the next step is a 50W mobile. The Wouxun KG-1000G Plus is a well-regarded option with a large display and extensive feature set. The Midland MXT575 is another reliable choice with a clean interface. Either pairs well with an NMO-mount antenna on a quality coax run for a significant real-world upgrade over any compact mobile.