Uniden MHS338BT Handheld VHF Radio with Bluetooth, Black
- Brand:
- Uniden
- Part no:
- MHS338BT
Image: overtons.com
Where to buy
Specifications
- Mounting
- Handheld
- Transmit power
- 6 W
- Waterproof
- IPX8
- DSC
- Class D
- Bluetooth
- Yes
- NOAA weather alerts
- Yes
The Uniden MHS338BT is a handheld VHF marine radio with Bluetooth and a built-in GPS receiver. It carries full Class D DSC and transmits at 6 watts. The radio floats and is rated IPX8. It also receives NOAA weather channels with alerts, and noise cancelling works on both received and transmitted audio. A smartphone app for Android and iOS handles DSC directory setup, texts to other VHF radios and firmware updates.
Our take
With 6 watt transmit power, an IPX8 rating and a floating body, the MHS338BT is set up for the day it goes over the side. The water activated strobe and MOB function help you find it, and the compass screen can lead you back to a stored waypoint.
From our buying guide
Standard Horizon says range depends far more on the antenna than on transmit power, and that a handheld on its stock antenna at sea level may only reach a mile or two. It has its own battery and antenna, so it keeps working if the boat's power fails.
Check before you buy:
- It has DSC and GPS if you want a distress button that sends your position, since handhelds are not required to have DSC.
- The waterproof rating comes with the maker's depth and time, since IPX8 has no fixed depth or time.
- The maker says it floats on its own, since some float only in an optional case.