Retevis RT97L Portable GMRS Repeater

Wonderful repeater. Getting 22 watts to the antenna feed line. Got A+ Tech support!

they work great. I have the S and L. They are easy and work out to 20 miles with my setup

I set up RT97L Repeater for my ranch in Bushness, FI. It works well. The tower is now 30' And the antenna came with the system from Retevis. Tower is now 30' & MA09 High Gain 462~467MHz GMRS Omni-Directional Base Antenna 4.5/7.2 dBi High Gain Fiberglass Antenna 5.75’. I will recommend to my friends.

I have the RT97S 5watt version of this and it gets me around 10 miles through the piney woods area of Texas. I would like to see if I get more from the 25Watt version. I use a 9db gain Comet CAF-712EFC Antenna about 30ft up, and with my 50w base it can reach about 50-70miles, so I'm curious to see if it would work the same for a repeater.

So far mine has been working great! Very happy with it. Been testing it with some of the other ranchers so far in heavy woods we have gotten 14 miles south and 12 miles north of me so far.

I recently purchased an RT97L GMRS repeater. It has amazing clarity and receive sensitivity, great job,. I would like to make you aware of an issue the repeater has of falling asleep after an overnight with no use. If you very long key the repeater or short key it 4 times it wakes and is good for the day with activity.

nice unit. very solid construction. 21w on .625. easy to program.impressive.

My goals for this repeater were to be used as a rapid deployment unit. We have a few full sized station repeaters in my area but I wanted something I could deploy quickly and anywhere I needed to for recreational or emergency. The requirements were waterproof, Ac/Dc compatible, solar usable and durable. The RT97L has fit all these requirements. The antenna and coaxial cable sent has worked flawlessly. The output has been very clear and it will do everything I want it to. As you can see in my pictures I have this set up as a rapid deployment unit. Most users have it in a box and all set up for daily use. Being able to set up and deploy this repeater anywhere I need to is a huge asset. Top notch product and I could not be happier. On my testing I was able to speak with people over 90 miles away due to my location and antenna placement. The repeater received good reviews across my test users and we all are glad to have this unit for the moments where we will need it. The build quality is perfect. It is heavy duty and does not feel like it will break easily. I would absolutely purchase this repeater/antenna again and would highly recommend this to others who are looking for a similar system.

Just unboxed it, connected it to a KB9VBR copper J-Pole 35' above ground with a 1.01:1 SWR on 75' of LMR 400 coax. The SWR/Power meter shows it transmitting at 20.3 watts. It will replace a fully operational linked RT97S that has been in service for a few years and has worked flawlessly. The RT97S replaced a first generation RT97 that also worked flawlessly for years. This is a solar powered remote setup so my main concern is how the additional transmit power will impact battery life during the winter months when the solar charging at its minimum. The RT97S transmitted at 4 watts. Retevis said this RT97L draws 6 amps DC with a 100% duty cycle while transmitting on high power. If that is true, I should not have a problem. This one is larger and heavier than the first two generations. All are well built and rugged. So far, the only issue is that I need to change the privacy tones, but the software has a password that was not provided. If anyone knows what that is, I would greatly appreciate you sharing it. I will do another review after I have this placed in the remote location. It is on a hilltop and with the 4 watts the RT97S transmits at, has a 30 mile range, unless you are in a valley.

For GMRS transmission and multi-frequency receiving, this radio does well, as advertised. You will find the radio to be quite versatile - for the $. I like it well enough that I am considering adding another to a second vehicle . For mobile operation, I use a GMRS -specific magnetic mount antenna - works great!

Eliminated our farm's GMRS dead zone in a valley area. Barn-mounted repeater provides seamless coverage.

My relay has been running continuously for over a year now. The only maintenance is blowing the dust out occasionally.

So easy to use, and it makes a huge difference in communication quality.

This radio is outstanding. It has a quality build and is a great sounding radio. It is easy to program and the user manual is easy to navigate while providing all the capabilities you need. Overall I am pleased with the company, their products, and the superior customer support. I will continue to purchase products from this company.

Accurate 25W system producing. Quality construction delivers reliable performance within specifications.

Perfect solution for our family cabin where cell service doesn't exist. With a mountain blocking signals behind our house, this unit keeps everyone connected during outdoor activities. Works exactly as advertised.

Bought this for both my truck and family campground. Performs great in both environments.

I'm a volunteer firefighter and we use this as our backup comms system. Handles our hilly terrain much better than the old setup we had.

We use these in retail and warehouse operations - perfect for our needs with clear audio and durable construction.

We've used the RT97 on numerous family outings with perfect results. Excellent range with clear signals through obstacles, and so user-friendly that my kids operate it easily. Highly recommended.

This high-powered repeater provides excellent coverage, though line of sight definitely helps performance. Does its job exceptionally well.

Exceptional value proposition. The RT97 delivers professional-grade range and audio clarity at a consumer-friendly price point.

As a longtime radio operator, I hesitated to install a home repeater until Hurricane Helene knocked out all communication. The RT97 bundle with antenna and accessories was the perfect solution - easy setup with excellent audio quality.

The RT97 delivers impressive range - maintained clear signals across our 1-mile park tests. Its intuitive interface makes it perfect for family adventures.

Solved my duplexer challenges effortlessly. Robust construction with straightforward programming - outputs full power when properly tuned.

The weight is perfect - heavy enough to feel substantial but light enough for portable use.

Simplified GMRS repeater operation. While duplexer halves the 25W output, real-world performance remains impressive.

Simple enough that my tech-challenged wife can use it, but has all the features I want as a radio enthusiast.

From my hilltop location, I get about 10 miles of handheld coverage. Perfect for connecting family and serving as a community resource. I've since added automated ID and solar power for uninterrupted operation.

Great product! Outstanding price! Works extremely well! Setup is very easy and programming was simple!

I'm getting about 25 watts output after the duplexer - more than enough for our needs. Stays cool even during extended use.

Effective signal amplification ensures clear communications even in isolated areas with typical obstructions.

I waited nearly three weeks to receive the RT97. The logistics was indeed much slower than expected. The machine itself can work normally, and the signal and coverage are in line with the description. However, such a long waiting time affected my use plan, so I can only give it a medium rating of three stars.

Honestly, I didn't have high hopes when I bought these, but the clarity and range blew me away. The battery lasts forever too - I accidentally left one on for three straight days and it still worked a full 8-hour day of off-roading.

Ideal family communication solution. Intuitive operation makes it accessible for all age groups during outdoor adventures.

It is a high-powered repeater, providing excellent coverage, but line of sight still enhances performance. It does its job exceptionally well.

In flat Florida terrain around Tampa Bay, my repeater (callsign HA1G) covers about an 8-mile radius. For 25 watts output, I'm completely satisfied with the performance.

Way better range than my CB. Clear and precise. I'm well off going anywhere I need to and not to worry about any problem.

Amazing results pairing this with my handheld in the garage - now hitting repeaters 18 and even 40 miles away! Currently getting 24.5 watts output - should improve with better coax.

I’ve had this radio for several months now, and I really don’t have any complaints, I think for the price range, it is very good. I use it as a home base station, The speaker is good and clear enough not to need an Al external speaker.

After the last hurricane knocked out cell service, I decided to get this. Tested it last week - crystal clear to my brother's house 15 miles away.

True plug-and-play experience. Only challenge was physically positioning the antenna at optimal height.

This completely transformed our GMRS network - our communication range has expanded dramatically. Excellent product all around.

The durability impresses me - these radios withstand tough outdoor use while maintaining reliable performance season after season.

Our hiking group loves these radios. The repeater system keeps larger parties connected on the trails.

The unit arrived on time and works exactly as advertised. Very satisfied with the performance!

Installation requires no technical expertise. Literally mount, connect, and begin communicating immediately.

Had some initial programming confusion, but Retevis support walked me through it. Now it works perfectly with all our radios.

With a Comet 712 EFC antenna on a 40' tower in hilly terrain, we achieved 15-mile range to vehicles with mag-mount antennas.

Took a chance based on YouTube reviews and it paid off. In our hilly, wooded area it covers 800+ acres with only minor dead spots. Using an affordable Amazon antenna with great results.

Here in Albuquerque, I'm getting about 16 miles range. Still experimenting with different antennas to optimize performance.

The front panel controls are simple but give me all the access I need without menu diving.

Premium setup yields 17W radiation at 40' - achieves 12-mile open-range communication with basic handhelds.

Emergency comms backbone: proper antenna placement yields 15+ mile range for critical family communications.

Consistently maintains strong signals over 1+ miles. Simple enough that my kids can operate it safely during outdoor adventures.

If you want an easy setup, this is the perfect device for you. Simple and effective!

Works exactly as advertised. Good quality and great value when paired with the right antenna.

For our off-grid cabin, this plus some solar panels means we always have comms. Uses less power than I expected.

Our hunting camp runs smoothly with the RT97 keeping everyone connected. The compact size makes transport easy, and the signal punches through dense woods.

For repeater system upgrades, Retevis offers solutions for every need. Their product line warrants serious consideration.

I can now hit repeaters that were completely out of range with my 10-watt handheld. Big improvement in connectivity.

Perfect for beginners like me - no radio background needed. An online video walked me through the simple setup. Great choice if you need repeater.

This is a good radio that works well. Easy installation, programming and use. This would be a five star review except they sent me the wrong radio when I first ordered and I had to send it back and reorder the radio again.

I monitor the local repeaters and the RT97 has cleaner audio than most of the commercial systems around here.

Managed medical teams across a mountain marathon route with this system. The 256 channels prevented interference, and RT97 repeaters covered the entire course with easy setup.

I was worried about programming, but the Windows software is actually intuitive. Had all my channels set up in 10 minutes.

GMRS repeater setup simplified. While lacking CHIRP compatibility, the Windows app provides sufficient programming control.

Very impressed with the build and performance of this repeater. Well-designed and highly functional—works exactly as needed!

My base station setup with this is incredible - I reached someone 50 miles away who said my transmission was crystal clear. This amp gets my highest recommendation.

I was pleasantly surprised when this actually worked as I hoped

Perfect solution for our remote construction site. Lets the equipment operators stay in touch across the whole project.

Customer service deserves recognition - promptly replaced my incorrectly ordered model with the GMRS version I needed.

The front panel LEDs give just the right amount of feedback without being distracting at night.

Strong reception even in remote areas, plus the simple design prevents my kids from accidentally changing settings. Ideal for skiing and family outings.

Had initial power output issues but Retevis support was phenomenal. They quickly diagnosed it as my setup problem, not the unit. Followed their advice and now it performs perfectly. Rare to find such responsive support these days.

Paired with a 6-element UHF beam antenna and premium coax, my setup achieves 90W equivalent radiation. Handhelds now reach 3-5 miles reliably.

I rely on the RT97 for long-distance communication during treks. It performs wonderfully.

Children operate these effortlessly on ski trips. The simplified interface prevents accidental channel changes during active use.

Good quality and great value, especially with the right antenna. Performance exceeds expectations.

I mounted mine on a 30-foot tower with a DB404 antenna. Getting consistent 25-mile coverage across our valley - neighbors are jealous!

The CTCSS tone support works flawlessly - no more interference from nearby businesses using the same frequencies.

Using callsign HA1G, we now communicate over much longer distances on GMRS. Very pleased with this purchase.

Ski trip champion: 1-mile+ reliability with child-proof design that prevents accidental setting changes.

Performance is solid but battery life could be better on high power - lasts about 8 hours. Audio quality is excellent though, and setup took minutes.

The duplexer tuning was spot on out of the box - didn't need any adjustments to get great performance.

During ski trips in the mountains, we consistently get over 1 mile of reliable coverage. The RT97 handles the terrain beautifully.

Getting about 20 watts output after the duplexer, just as expected. Paired with a 6dBi outdoor antenna, coverage is quite good.

Pro tip from my experience: download the programming software to customize it. Makes a great mobile repeater once you set up your channels and tones properly. Range varies depending on location though.

Works great! I may need to get one more to cover all the nooks and crannies on our fifty-square-mile mountain ranch. Highly recommended!

I've recommended these to three friends who all bought and love them.

Here in Albuquerque, I'm currently getting about 8 miles range. Planning to experiment with different antennas to improve performance.

Exactly as described. The seller kept me informed throughout the process.

As a public safety responder, I use this daily with my duty radios. Surprisingly, my agency says my signal sounds clearer than our expensive mobile units. I keep mine loose in my Jeep but mounting would be smarter.

So far I've only tested this at sea level, but it's working well. I'm excited to try it at higher elevation to really push the 25-watt capability.

Unit arrived safe and secure in original packaging with safety seal. All contents as advertised. Will update after installation and test.

Used this in a wilderness rescue operation recently. The repeater extended our coverage across valleys.

Just installed my RT97 last weekend - already getting 12+ mile range from my rooftop antenna setup. Way better than I expected from a 20W unit.

We placed this repeater in the barn near this area and it solved our dead spot issues.

Item works just fine, no extra settings required on radios. Mine was a plug and play setup. I will say shipping was very slow on the item. I won't buy from this seller again unless 2 day is guaranteed.

Our cave rescue team uses these at entrances. The reliable performance is crucial underground.

True plug-and-play functionality. All parameters were optimally configured for immediate operation right out of the box.

White Mountain hunting solution where others failed. Maintains crystal-clear transmission in New England's rugged backcountry.

The repeater and radios work great, and the range is more than adequate.

The housing is more rugged than it looks - survived being knocked off a shelf during an earthquake with no damage.

The repeater works well approximately 15 miles range within wooded area.

Works great for we off road enthusiasts, easy to use and operate

I feed mine with a 35Ah battery and small solar panel - perfect for our remote weather station comms.

With quality components at 40' elevation, achieves 25W radiation and 30-mile open-area range when paired with HD2 radios.

Set up was a breeze, and it works perfectly with my radios. Ideal for outdoor adventures.

when used with a Comet 712 efc gmrs antenna on a 40 ft tower in a hilly area using mag mount antenna on trucks we reached out 15 miles

Works well with a decent antenna and RT86 handheld radios

Can't stress enough - read the description carefully before ordering. I got the GMRS model and it's been fantastic. Setup was a breeze.

My off-grid communication solution works great in rural areas, though terrain definitely affects range. Audio quality is excellent and the unit feels rugged. I just wish it had more power options.

Works good.i like that it small and compact. I think its pricey for what you get.

Family-proof design maintains settings while delivering consistent range and audio clarity across all users.

I bought these for use with my non-profit organization. They both worked fine, and I must say that they were easy to program.

I was surprised by how well the RT97 boosts signals - the range is way better than I expected. What really impressed me is how simple it is to operate.

When I first set up my GMRS repeater is was not putting out a lot more wattage. I contacted support who immediately got back to requesting additional information. Once provided they quickly responded with detailed information on how to resolve the issues which were related to my set up and not the product. I implemented their advice and immediately the power was up to where it should be. You don't really see this kind of customer support these days.

Our movie set uses this to coordinate between locations. The directors love how clear the audio is through headsets.

I optimized all the other parts of the system when it arrived and I was able to get 10+ miles of coverage right away in a dense urban environment. Now let's face it, most users have to face it. In the area where I live, it's very common to have 15-story buildings with two or three floors of residential areas and it works fine.

At first, I was worried that cheap products would not be good, but the 25W power of RT97 exceeded my expectations. It is the best value for money. All my friends who play GMRS have been attracted by it.

Our RV caravan group uses this to stay connected on the road. Easy to move between vehicles and sets up in minutes at camp.

A belt clip, wrist lanyard, and corded earpiece are included for each of the radios along with a USB-C cable and brick. Construction is rugged, the radios seem to be quite sturdy

Very well built with metal case. Power cables could be a couple feet longer, but easy enough to splice more wire and extend. Owners manual is clear and not being a radio tech, easy to follow directions. Took a couple of hours to wire and install in my F-150 pick-up. Was able to go on-line and find local GMRS repeaters and add the correct tones to the repeater channels via the hand mic programming.

Currently using my RT97 temporarily until I roof-mount my antenna. Love how compact it is - transfers easily between my home and vehicle setups.

Retevis RT97 keeps communication strong over long distances, and it’s easy for everyone to use. Great value for family skiing trips.

Our marina uses this to coordinate between dock masters. The salty environment hasn't caused any corrosion issues.

when used with a Comet 712 efc gmrs antenna  on a 40 ft tower in a hilly area using mag mount antenna on trucks we reached out 15 miles

Mountain hiking essential: maintained crystal-clear communications beyond 1-mile distances in rugged terrain. Perfect emergency comms tool.

I have mine setup as a base on my ranch. Easy to setup and program.. Much recommend!!!

RT97L variant paired with HD2 radios achieved remarkable 15+ mile range in our field tests. Flawless performance.

Turnkey repeater solution with user-friendly programming software. Had our duplex system operational within minutes of unboxing.

Perfect mobile relay solution for 3-4 mile coverage extensions. Not designed for extreme conditions but excels in typical field applications.

After several months of use, I'm thoroughly impressed. The signal quality over long distances is superb, and the simple design means my kids can use it without confusion. Performs flawlessly on ski trips.

Festival coordination workhorse. Maintained reliable volunteer communications despite dense crowd interference.

Signal boosting technology bridges communication gaps in challenging terrain, enhancing both range and transmission quality.

Complete farm communication solution. The included cabling length perfectly accommodated our barn loft installation.

GMRS-licensed user here: achieved 12-mile water crossings and 7-mile inland coverage with proper antenna setup. Consistent performance over time.

Hooked it up to a ht in the garage and I'm able to talk to repeaters that are 38 miles away and another that is just shy of 98 miles away. Retevis RT97 bumped my 8 watt ht to 24.5 watts and will probably be better when I get around to buying better coax for my antenna.

I use mine with an old TV antenna mounted in the attic - gets me 10-mile coverage despite not being optimal for GMRS.

Took it on a week-long backpacking trip. The lightweight design didn't burden my pack but gave us safety comms the whole way

Our ski patrol team upgraded to these last season. The cold weather performance is outstanding - no issues at -20°F.

I appreciate that it uses standard connectors - didn't have to buy any special adapters for my existing antennas.

The included power supply is robust - handles our voltage fluctuations out here in rural Montana without any problems.

Our GMRS network's range has improved significantly since adding this. Truly an excellent product.

Perfect for our search and rescue team. The compact size fits in our go-bag but provides serious range when we need it.

I bought the RT97 because I couldn't get two radios to work as a repeater without a duplexer. This solved my problem perfectly - easy to program and set up, with solid construction. I get 25 watts at center frequencies and 15 watts on the edges.

Keeps our family connected over long distances while skiing. The intuitive operation makes it great for groups. Excellent value.

We use the retevis rt97 repeater on our farm. They have helped us tremendously by being able to communicate more effortlessly. The repeater is extremely reliable and very easy to install and setup.

As an amateur radio enthusiast, I am very satisfied with the performance of RT97. The 25W power performs well in mountainous areas, and the cost performance is very high. I have recommended it to my friends in the club.

The mounting bracket is sturdy enough for permanent installation but easy to remove when I need to take it mobile.

Bought it based on reviews on youtube and have not been disappointed - this thing is cool.  Set up in a hilly area with  lot of trees and I seem to be getting what would be expected in this terrain and such. Solid coverage over 800+ acres with only a few spots being hit or miss. Has greatly increased comms ability in the area. Using a low-priced omni antenna purchased on amazon as well with no complaints. Shipping direct from manufacturer was quicker than regular post from Florida to Virginia!

Retevis makes repeater simple and work ever time. Great range when placing the antenna properly.

For the price, you can't beat the performance. I compared it to units costing twice as much and the RT97 held its own in range tests.

First time setting up a repeater and the RT97 made it painless. Had it working within an hour of unboxing with the included instructions.

Haven't measured exact range but it keeps our off-road group connected. Crystal clear audio even over engine noise.

My HOA wouldn't let me put up a big antenna, but the RT97 with a simple mag-mount gets me 5-mile coverage in our subdivision.

Get ready to talk long distance. This radio really is amazing. Pair it up with a GMRS antenna and you’ve got the combo.

Radio functions perfectly pre-programmed for the right things. Box and instructions all excellent

The audio quality surprised me - everyone says I sound clearer through the repeater than when I transmit direct from my handheld.

This radio has everything you need for GMRS . Overall it's a great, powerful radio. With the right antenna configuration, I can trivially glowing signal reports. If you need a GMRS radio, it doesn't get much better than this.

The Retevis RT97 puts out about 5-6 watts of power after the duplexer, as would be expected. When connected to a 6dBi outside antenna, it has decent coverage.

Repeater bundle comes with everything you need to set up. Seems to be built very sturdy with a metal case.

Great range and easy for kids to use without messing up settings. Highly recommend for skiing or hiking trips.

Works perfectly in open country. In the city, you'll need to play with antenna positioning to get the best range.

GMRS repeater perfection - includes all necessary power options. Expected duplexer power reduction doesn't diminish effectiveness.

My mistake - these radios do work with the repeater once properly programmed. The channel numbering isn't intuitive (the manual isn't helpful), but YouTube tutorials saved me. Excellent design and performance for the price.

While the RT97L works fine, its range limitations don't meet my professional needs. I'm considering upgrading to a 50W system for longer distances.

It offers excellent reception and keeps us connected even over 1 mile away. Easy enough for kids to use safely.

This is actually our third unit - we keep one as a backup. All have worked flawlessly for years now.

With my current antenna setup and terrain, I'm getting 10-15 miles range. Results vary by location, but it's a great solution for tractor-to-tractor communication.

This is an amazing product. Received it two days early. Easy to install. Exactly as described.

Simple to use and program. As long as expectations for range don't exceed common sense, you'll be happy.

Performance is good, but the battery drains too quickly on high power. Lasts about 8 hours, so pack a spare. Audio clarity is excellent, though, and setup is a breeze.

Our neighborhood watch program uses this to coordinate. Even folks with basic radios can access it easily.

Our disaster response team has five of these deployed. They've survived rain, dust, and extreme temperatures without fail.

Works great. Haven’t measured range exactly, but serves my purpose of communicating with friends while off-roading. The sound is crystal clear.

If you don't need a lot of power and you want easy setup, this is your device. If you need station ID for allowing public to use, Retevis RT97 is the way to go.  I have no background in radio and this was super easy to setup with an online video once.

Mountain hiking with this repeater is a game-changer. The signal quality and clarity make group coordination so much easier.

We are running one of these local and it works excellent all around the valley. I decided to purchase my own to set up mobile for camping and such.

Don't underestimate its compact size - the RT97 packs substantial transmission power in a space-efficient package.

Reliable performance for family events. The lightweight design and fast charging make it ideal for casual users.

It’s okay, but not rugged enough for harsh conditions. Dropped once, and the casing cracked. Range is average. Would pay more for a tougher build.

Took the RT97 hiking and was amazed by the range. Crystal clear transmission even in mountainous areas with typical signal problems. My 10-year-old figured out the controls immediately.

First thing I'll say - it's truly plug-and-play and just works. Provides an awesome boost for handheld GMRS radios. Lives up to the advertising and gets my recommendation.

Arrived securely packaged. Immediate successful testing with existing power supply and base antenna setup.

We purchased this third repeater as a back up. They have work fine all these years

I bought this for vehicles and for my family camp. It works great.

My hunting group covers about 8 square miles - this keeps us all connected even in thick woods. Battery lasts all weekend on a single charge.

I bought the RT97 for the team. The 25W power is more than enough to keep clear calls in the mountains. The price is very affordable. I plan to buy another one as a backup.

I paired mine with a Tram 1486 antenna and get reliable 20-mile coverage across our county. Sheriff's department even asked what I'm using.

Immediate operation with proper antenna placement. While output is 25W post-duplexer, strategic elevation delivers impressive coverage.

Ski resort performance exceeds expectations. Maintains strong connections across multiple miles with exceptional audio clarity.

I use it for my farm, it really improve our efficiency and ensures durable communication

Small footprint, big performance. Consistently delivers in remote locations where conventional radios fail.

After trying three other brands, I finally found one that just works. The RT97 has been running continuously for 6 months without a single hiccup.

I love it. I have Retevis RT97 hooked up temporarily until I can get my antenna on my roof. Great product. Small compact and easy to transfer over to my vehicle.

As an avid skier, I needed reliable radios for mountain trips. The RT97 delivers excellent reception even in tough terrain, and it's so simple my kids can use it without help. Best value I've found.

Shocked by the 5-mile car-to-house clarity despite urban obstacles. Far surpasses typical walkie-talkie range expectations.

The cooling fan is quiet but effective - even after 8 hours of continuous use during our last emergency drill.

The signal boost is impressive - I always have communication available when needed.

The automatic squelch control works better than any repeater I've used before. No more annoying static between transmissions.

Really helped our portable radios along with increased our coverage in our vehicles from around 3 miles to 9 miles.

This product works well, especially in open areas. For best performance in urban environments, we recommend optimizing antenna placement for maximum range.

Extremely satisfied with this purchase. Highly recommend this repeater to others.

Our security team at the racetrack uses three of these to cover the entire property. Handles the interference from all the generators perfectly.

Black Friday bundle outperforms: 13-mile valley coverage achieved with included antenna at just 20' elevation.

I bought this for use with my radios I use for my Public Safety response job. The amplifier is easy to use and according to my agency it seems to sound better and stronger signal than our expensive patrol car radios. I would suggest mounting it to make it easier to use. I just toss it on my seat the seat of my jeep and go.

The simple design with no face buttons makes it easy for kids to operate without issues.

Read description before to insure you order the right one, the GMRS model works great and easy to set up

My kids use the RT97 without any issues - they can't accidentally change the settings.

Whether we're skiing, snowboarding, or hiking, this keeps our group communications crystal clear.

With the RT97, our group stays connected even in the most remote locations.

The external speaker jack is a nice touch - I have it connected to an old car stereo speaker for loud, clear monitoring.

This one is doing the job, nicely. I like that it can be programmed using CHIRP software. I also bought one for my son, who is just getting into GMRS radio. Very satisfied.

The no-button face design is genius for kids. My 8-year-old can use it without accidentally changing settings like our old radios.

Build quality exceeds price expectations. These radios offer professional features at consumer-grade pricing.

The build quality exceeds what I expected at this price point.

I am starting off with a 4 star, I will edit in the future should it change.  Repeater up and running for about a day now.  Good coverage and noce clear audio.Shipping from Hong Kong was super quick less than 2 weeks.  Retivis customer service resp were great making contact a few times.Only complaints so far, dodnt come programmed with the correct gmrs freq.  However programming cable and a software download made short work of that.  Antenna quality height and over all placement is more important that wattage anyway.So far I am happy with my purchase.  Thank you retivis.

Comes well-equipped with belt clips, lanyards, earpieces, and USB-C charging. Construction feels solid - these can take some abuse.

It's decent but not bulletproof. Mine took a 3-foot drop and the case cracked. Range is okay, but I'd pay extra for a more rugged version.

After optimizing my system, I immediately got 10+ mile coverage in my dense urban area with tall buildings. Works surprisingly well in this challenging environment.

Impressive range plus kid-proof operation. Our ski and hiking trips are much safer and better coordinated now. Highly recommended.

I achieved a 15 km range consistently after mounting it on a high hill. Works great

Consistent 5-mile wooded area performance. Excellent output using stock configuration.

This repeater is an awesome value for the money it works fantastic on our hunting property, I have it connected to a 12 volt deep cycle battery with a solar panel and charge controller. Built a 20' tall mast out of 2 chain link fence top rails guy wires and a nice gmrs antenna connected with lmr400 coax it's a sweet set up !!! Couldn't be more satisfied with this purchase nice job Retevis I will be purchasing another one for my home property.

The Retevis RT97 is perfect for long-distance comms! Clear audio and strong reception make it ideal for outdoor adventures. Easy to set up, too.

It works fine for casual use - about 5 miles range in open areas, less in urban environments. Simple interface, though the manual could be clearer. Fair value for the price.

Zero regrets about this purchase. The RT97 is a reliable, cost-effective solution for local GMRS coverage.

Remarkably user-friendly configuration. Spends most operational life in my vehicle trunk without performance degradation.

Read description before to insure you order the right one, the GMRS model works great and easy to set up, I actually ordered the wrong one and contacted customer service, it was replaced with the GMRS version very quickly, customer service was great

The RT97's weather-resistant construction survives harsh outdoor conditions while maintaining reliable performance season after season.

Presently I am getting @ 16 miles coverage in a mountainous area. This summer I will place the unit at about 7000 feet after the snow recedes and should get @ 100 miles coverage. The unit appears to be well made and mine puts out @ 6 watts of power.

The power output is stable - no drifting or fluctuations even as the input voltage varies.

Doubled our coverage radius from 3 to 6 miles when mounted on our 35' silo pole. Vehicle range expanded to an incredible 9 miles.

Everything you need comes in the box - no guessing required. Solid, reliable unit.

Have gone through a bunch of these. This box is fantastic. . Happy I finally found something reliable.

I leave mine running 24/7 in the barn to cover our 200-acre farm. Only had to reset it once after a severe thunderstorm.

This is a great budget GMRS transceiver . I have it hooked up to my vehicle to a ghost antenna clone and can pick up repeaters 15 miles away no problem.

This repeater does exactly what it promises, offering excellent performance in high altitudes.

I tested it side-by-side with a commercial repeater and most users actually preferred the RT97's audio.

I’m extremely satisfied with this purchase. Great job, Retevis! I’ll definitely be getting another one for my home property.

Our hiking group depends on these radios. The repeater keeps larger parties connected seamlessly.

The audio quality is crisp and clear, and the controls are so intuitive even my children have no trouble using them. Perfect for our family camping trips.

Our entire emergency comms plan now centers around these reliable repeaters.

Game-changer for our valet operations: provides seamless garage-to-stand connectivity across multiple locations with consistent outdoor performance.

Ski patrol essential: dramatically extended our operational range with dependable connectivity across slopes.

The system works great.The Retevis RT97 has an excellent design.A good value with good performance.

Complete out-of-the-box solution with generous cabling. Installed effortlessly in our barn loft for reliable farm communications.

We use the Retevis RT97 and these radios heavily on our farm.The radios are extremely reliable and very easy to setup.

We used this system for a 10,000-person outdoor concert, and it handled all communication effortlessly. The full-duplex feature allowed real-time updates between security and stage crews. No signal drops despite the crowd density. Highly recommend for event planners!

The lack of buttons on the face makes it easier to use for kids or less tech-savvy users.

The RT97 handles long-term energization well, maintaining stable performance even when powered continuously. Its 12V DC coil works smoothly, and the SPDT contacts manage low-power DC switching effectively. A solid choice for automation projects requiring constant operation.

Love how portable this is! Used it during a road trip—helped keep our group connected. Battery lasts a full day with moderate use. Only downside: the antenna could be stronger.

We love them for skiing, and the kids can easily operate without accidentally changing channels. Clear communication all the way.

I replaced my previous repeater with the Retevis Retevis RT97, and I couldn’t be happier with the upgrade! This repeater is exceptionally well-built. The design is solid, with all the features I need for reliable communication. Whether it's for long-range coverage or smooth performance in rugged environments, the Retevis RT97 excels in every way.

This is a solid radio for intro into GMRS. The guts are small enough to mount just about anywhere

My antenna is on a 35 ft tower. My area is rolling hills with lots of woods and can get 5 miles reliably, up to 10 miles from hilltops.

The Retevis RT97 repeater bundle has been a game-changer for our mountain rescue team. The GPS integration ensures precise location tracking during missions, and the 5W power provides reliable coverage even in rugged terrain. Setup was straightforward, and the durability is unmatched

Repeater kit comes with everything you need to set up. Seems to be built very sturdy with a metal case. Suggest downloading software which is required to set privacy tones. My antenna is on a 35 ft tower. My area is rolling hills with lots of woods and can get 5 miles reliably, up to 10 miles from hilltops.

Durable and built to withstand harsh environments—great for all-weather use.

Retevis RT97 seems like it will fit our needs very well. Including all the quality components on one bundle really helps. The radios seem well constructed and able to take some abuse, it just sometimes happens. We will be adding to our system.

The Retevis RT97 is sturdy, reliable, and works well even in challenging environments.

The range on these is really good. Tested at about a mile clear. Maybe it about 10 city blocks through walls.

The quality is in line with expectations, but the shipping time is too long. It would be better if the delivery could be accelerated.

We use Retevis RT97 for skiing, and the kids have no trouble operating it. No worries about accidental channel changes, unlike other models.

A compact and user-friendly GMRS repeater that’s easy to program and set up. Works flawlessly! Comes complete with everything needed for both AC power and portable DC operation.

All exactly as described, quick to ship and fast shipping, great price, smooth and easy transaction.

Very impressed with the build and abilities of this repeater. Well designed and very functional. Once ordered you will receive a message from the company about any special programming you may desire. For me I simply wanted the typical GMRS repeater frequencies programmed into the unit. They said it may be 30 days before delivery but - for me it came withing about 10 days. Easy set up and worked great. Now just trying to locate a good high location for the repeater to be placed in an emergency.  I would definitely recommend this repeater as a very good purchase and value.

Although I haven't checked out all the features, I can safely say this is the right radio for noisy environments. Tested it at a few stage shows here in the Caribbean for our Carnival just over a week ago and the audio was crystal clear. Keep in mind the sound engineer on stage was able to speak to me back stage without any background noise issues.

Long-range signal, even in tough mountain terrain. No worries about channel switching, making it safe for kids. Clear audio and simple to operate. Perfect for outdoor excursions.

The repeater puts out about 5-6 watts of power after the duplexer, as would be expected. When connected to a 6dBi outside antenna, it has decent coverage.

Fixed installed on my Toyhauler Camper w/a Multi-Polarized 1/4 wave NMO (08-ANT-0864), and a 6 Pack of RT22 Handhelds all on licensed GMRS for use somewhat near camp. Ive built my own GMRS repeater before and this has better audio and is much more portable and power efficient.The handheld coverage is far more solid than simplex, being inside a building like the showers/bathroom does not cause issues like before, the handhelds can hear the repeater from much further away than they can be heard, like 8m+ Rx and 2-3m Tx. The range is perfect for base camp, we switch to simplex if we have a bunch of handhelds too far out from base, could likely gain range for HT's with a higher gain base antenna but I don't need it and this multi polarized wideband antenna is getting me great audio without LoS and better range in Canyons.Mobile Rigs can now venture off at great distances and keep coms, tow vehicle has 25W with 5/8 wave radio and I've got over 15 miles out, and from behind obstacles I didn't think would work like earthen dams. Anyone in base camp can communicate with the far-off mobile rigs with a simple handheld, audio is clear. This is great and just what I wanted, I can install nice radios with nice antennas in toys such as OHV's and Boats and still communicate with base camp over large distances.

Excellent product. Top notch customer service. I would highly recommend again and again. Definitely not a disappointment

I use Retevis RT97 for skiing and it works over 1 mile with ease. No confusing buttons for the kids to press.

Simple to use and program. As long as expectations for range don't exceed common sense, you'll be happy. Retevis RT97 is only a 10 watt repeater with just above 5 watts out of the duplexer. It is a quality unit. Glad I bought one.

This repeater saved our team during a remote mountain rescue. The GPS integration tracked our units in real-time, and the 8-channel capacity ensured zero interference. Even in harsh weather, the dual-band UHF system delivered crisp audio. Setup was a breeze with Retevis walkie-talkie compatibility. Lifesaving gear!

The Retevis RT97 has a no-nonsense setup. You get clear and extended range without unnecessary features.

Works great may have to get one more to cover all the nooks and crannies in our twenty square mile mountain ranch. Highly recommended.

Very happy with our purchase and highly recommend this bundle!

Live in Albuquerque, Nm seems like this unit can get around 8 miles, hoping to play with antenna.

We’ve been using the Retevis RT97 on multiple family outings, and it’s been perfect. The range is excellent, and the signal is clear even when there are obstacles like trees or hills. Plus, it’s so user-friendly that my kids can easily operate it. Highly recommend for outdoor activities.

Good quality and great value, especially when paired with the proper antenna. Performs excellently!

The Retevis RT97 ensures that you don’t lose touch with your group even in the most isolated locations.

Does the job for casual use. Range is okay (~5 miles in open areas), but urban performance drops. Interface is simple, but the manual could be clearer. For the price, it’s a fair deal.

I have had zero regrets with my purchase of the RETEVIS Retevis RT97 and would recommend it as a reliable cost effective solution for a local coverage solution for your GMRS needs!

We use the Retevis RT97 for our hunting camp, and it keeps everyone connected. The compact design makes it easy to transport, and the signal is strong even in dense woods.

As a long time amateur radio and GMRS operator, I had often considered placing a repeater at my home QTH but always seemed to find an excuse to delay the project. Six months ago today, Hurricane Helene devastated the southeastern US and even my part of NC about 25 miles West of Charlotte was without power, Cell, and internet for days. I was no longer 'on the fence' about a repeater and decided it was time to move forward with the project. After assessing needs, wants, and budget the RETEVIS Retevis RT97 was the best choice for me and I placed my order for the bundle that also included a base antenna, coax, programming cable, power adapters (fixed & mobile) and a hand speaker mic for use directly with the repeater. Setup was quick & easy. Audio quality is excellent.

I've been using the Retevis RT97 for a few months now, and I’m really impressed. The signal quality is superb, especially over long distances. It’s simple enough for my young kids to use without confusing buttons. It works perfectly for skiing trips with great range, even in remote areas.

We used these in a retail and warehouse location, and they are perfect. Great sound and durability. We can hear everything clearly

With this antenna on my terrain I am getting 10-15 miles range but like I said that’s going be different pending terrain. Overall great way to get reliable communication from tractor to tractor.

Easy to set up, works flawlessly with my radios. Perfect for outdoor adventures.

Whether skiing, snowboarding, or hiking, the Retevis RT97 keeps communication crystal clear.

My kids love using the Retevis RT97 without worrying about accidental settings changes.

The Retevis RT97L's range limitations make it unsuitable for my work demands. I'll be evaluating 50W alternatives that can handle longer distances.

The first thing I want to say is, it's an easy-to-use plug and play item and "it works". This Amp is an awesome boost for your handheld GMRS radio. Works as advertised and I would recommend this product.

Retevis RT97 is easy to use, and it enhances communication significantly.

I use Retevis RT97 for long-distance communication while trekking. It works wonders.

Very happy with our purchase and highly recommend this repeater

These radios are fantastic. We use these in the hiking community and great to keep in contact with larger groups.

Retevis RT97 is a high-powered repeater, providing excellent coverage, but line of sight still enhances performance. It does its job exceptionally well.

Comes with everything you need so you don't have to guess! Solid unit.

Retevis RT97 boosts signal range effectively, ensuring communication is always available.

I bought this Retevis RT97 because I could not get 2 radios to work as a repeater without duplexer. So I got this and it works very well. easy to program and setup. Feels solid and built well. Also I do not know what the issue is with others saying it only makes 3.5 or 4 watts after duplexer. if you move away from tuned frequency on duplexer of course the power will drop out. At 462.575-467.575 I get 7 watts and 5 watts on edges.

As advertised. Good quality and great value of paired with proper antenna.

We took the Retevis RT97 on a hiking trip, and the range was fantastic. The clarity in both TX and RX was crystal clear, and it even worked well in the mountains where signal issues are common. The controls are easy to understand, so even my 10-year-old could use it without any issues. Highly recommend!

Managed a mountain marathon with 10+ medical teams. The HA1G's 256 channels eliminated interference, and the Retevis RT97 repeaters covered the entire route. Easy setup

We can now communicate over longer distances on GMRS network using HA1G. Excellent product.

We now can communicate much further on our GMRS network. Excellent product.

Coverage is about 10 miles of HT coverage from my hilltop location and was perfect to meet my goal of connecting family as well as providing a community resource for leisure as well as for future disasters and providing an alternate repeater to our local wide coverage GMRS machine. I've since added a repeaterid.com automated ID device that was plug & play with the Retevis RT97's data port as well as a LiFePO4 battery and solar panel so my repeater can remain in operation no matter what mother nature throws at us.

Strong reception, even in remote locations, and simple design. Perfect for skiing and family use. My kids can handle it without the risk of changing settings.

These radios and repeater are fantastic. We use these in the hiking community and great to keep in contact with larger groups.

Retevis RT97 works perfectly for mountain trips, offering great signal quality and clarity.

My error. Many apologies. Yes, the radios ARE programmed for the repeater. You must be aware that there is a break in the channel numbers. My fault. (Well, okay, the documentation is no help. Thank you YouTube) The system works great. The repeater has an excellent design. A good value with good performance.

The Retevis RT97 boosts range dramatically, providing clear communication in even remote locations.

Works great so far can reach repeater thati could not with a 10 watt hand held

Bought this for off-grid comms. Works well in rural areas, though terrain affects range. Audio is crisp, and the build feels durable. Wish it had more power options, but it’s a lifesaver when cell service fails.

During a recent wilderness rescue, the GPS functionality pinpointed our team’s locations accurately, while the repeater extended coverage across valleys

With over 1-mile range in mountains, the Retevis RT97 delivers excellent coverage for skiing.

Our GMRS network now has much greater range. Excellent product!

Clear and crisp sound, great reception, and super user-friendly. My kids don’t struggle with the controls, making them perfect for outdoor trips.

In Tampa Bay area of ​​Florida, I can get 8 mile radius from repeater HA1G. No hills or peaks. Just flat land. For 5 watts it works fine. For my use, I am happy with it.

Live in Albuquerque,seems like this unit can get around 16 miles, hoping to play with antenna.

I was looking for a reliable, easy-to-use radio for our skiing trips, and the Retevis RT97 delivered. Excellent reception even in challenging terrains, and it's so straightforward that my kids can operate it without any hassle. For the price, this is definitely one of the best options out there.

This set is backed up in extending the radio range at our family cabin, where there is no cell phone signal, and there is a large mountain behind our house, so a portable unit on a solar panel like this should be perfect for those days when our family is in the area doing various activities. So far it is exactly as described and works great,

I love my base station set up. The furthest I was able to hit was 50 miles and the person I was talking too said I was crystal clear.I highly recommend this amp.

I have tested this from a relatively sea level location. I look forward to a higher placement to see what kind of range I can get out of this 10 watt repeater.

Be sure to download the program software and make it your own! Great mobile repeater! Just works once programmed to your channels and tones!Range varies.. Thanks Retevis!

I didn't expect much from these, but quality clarity and range is awesome. Battery is better than what manufacturer starts I had one I accidentally left on for 3 days and still used it for a full 8hr day of wheeling

Retevis RT97 boosts signal strength and has impressive reception range. It’s simple to use.

Strong signal, simple controls, and reliable performance. Perfect for family outings, especially with kids who need an easy-to-use, no-frills radio.

Works fine, but range is overhyped. In dense woods, it struggled beyond 2 miles. Audio quality is good, though, and it’s easy to operate. Maybe better for urban preppers than wilderness

Provides clear, reliable signal for over a mile, perfect for skiing. The kids can use it without issues, and setup is a breeze. Definitely worth the investment.

This radio will definitely do DMR with good audio. Analog also works very well too. Powerful enough with 10 watts and the reception is very nice. Build quality is good and the radio feels solid in the hand.

Great product for the price! It was very easy to set up with the software!

The R1 repeater product is used solely in the field of public transportation services within and outside the city.

I have tested this from a relatively sea level location. I look forward to a higher placement to see what kind of range I can get out of this 7 watt repeater.