I agree. Wish I had viewed this before buying the GD-88. I've been two months trying to figure out getting it on the air. Programming thoroughly has to be done from a computer. The Radioddity CPS software is thoroughly confusing. CPEditor is much better, BUT has a few parts that seem so well hidden that I have yet to work it all. If I had known how confusing and how many rabbit holes I'd get sent down I would have just said "Hell No!" to digital radio because I am stuck at the bottom of the price barrel, so none of the better developed options are within my reach. Thanks for an excellent video! AL2E
I own both and agree with your assessment. I will add that DMR programming is easier on the 878 since you can change talk groups on the fly without programming them as a channel. Makes DMR much easier to work with.
I found this assessment to be very helpful. Given the forthcoming Black Friday deal being offered by Bridgecom Systems, I am feeling rather predisposed to purchasing this radio. By the way, I have not used cross-band repeat since I had my Kenwood 721 dual band mobile radio after it first came out in 1989 (purchased from Press' salesman Chuck at Hamtronics in Trevose, PA). Oddly, I could not believe that these multi-decade old radios are selling for close to $250 these days on eBay!?! Gosh there are new Chinese mobile radios for half of that! My father once told me, after you buy something remember, "It's not you get what you pay for, but you didn't get what you didn't pay for!"
Glad it helped you. I too have never used cross band repeat in my 27 years as a ham. I like your father's quote. Best of luck on Black Friday. I don't think you will be disappointed on your decision. 73 Bob WV7W
Although I anyway have more or less decided to go for the Anytone, this video is very useful and confirms that this device is the right choice for me as a newbie. Very useful, thanks. 🙂
Thanks, up to this video i was more into the GD88, but honestly, after looking your video i changed my mind to my as of today favorite 878... thanks a lot!
All around excellent presentation: audio video clarity and stability speech clarity. Coherent. Well paced. Only thing I would change: keep the products on their same side of the screen. 73.
I have both radios and have to agree 💯. I had the 878 up and running in about ten minutes with my hotspot. The 88 took a couple days and had to ask a ton of questions to get close to the same point. I did manage to get the 88 CPS working on Win 11 via Parallels but took a ton of digging to get the proper driver. My 878 all functions work perfectly out of the box but for the 88 I have yet to get digital APRS working after a month of trial and error. To me the 878 is the winner no questions asked.
Thanks Jim, I didn't take as long to get the GD-88 up and running. I have a Win10 VM in Parallels and it freaks out when I try and read from or write to the radio.
Great no-nonsense to-the-point comparison! Thank you, great job, subscribed! - By the way, I'm a Mac user, too, and totally new to ham, licenced just recently. I'd be very interested to hear from a fellow Mac users how to navigate this surprisingly Windows-only world. Thank you very much. All the best from Finland! 👍😎
You could always just buy a cheap windows laptop. I bet you can find something useable for 150 dollars. It would just be for programming your radios so who cares if someone's sketchy software screws it up..
@House of Ham easiest thing I could think of. Really thinking about picking up this anytone radio... dmr sounds like it could be alot of fun. I'm new to all of this anyway.. but I need a winter project so learning dmr programming should keep me occupied for a bit. Thx for the video !
@@leokarasinski4217 DMR is a lot of fun and allows worldwide communications for Technician licensees and even for higher level folks you don't have to worry about sunspots and propagation.
The GD88 kept piquing my interest, even though I own a GD77 (running OpenGD77) and an Anytone 878UV (not II, not Plus) with its dual receive, but this video was very enlightening and a reminder that performance goes well beyond specifications.
Thanks Walter, it certainly does. I try to present the information so you can make your own decision. I know I slanted towards the 878 but that is the way I would go if I were making the purchase all over again.
I really wanted th4e GD-88. But, between your video and others I've watched, I ended up with the AnyTone AT-878UVII Plus. I haven't gotten a hotspot for it yet. But, I'm just trying to learn more about DMR and how it works. Thank you.
Two years after this video was made, an update to the GD-88 has fixed the Dual to Single VFO issue (and almost every bug you listed). This changes the dynamic of your review significantly. It now means the benefit of having dual receive has been amplified by being able to switch to single receive mode if desired. The benefit of having cross band repeat is that when working events, exercises, or even actual disasters, you can act as a repeater. The value of this cannot be overstated. This is ALSO a benefit of single channel repeating. You can repeat using two time slots in one frequency. When everyone is using a DMR radio, you can be positioned to hit the repeater, and they can hit you… There is a third mode of repeat, cross MODE repeat. Everyone using analog radios can be mode switched to DMR through your handheld making them able to take advantage of DMR repeaters. Just because you can’t identify a purpose for a feature doesn’t make the feature valueless. You do a disservice to your viewers by pretending that because YOU can’t provide a reason for a feature, that makes the feature irrelevant. The Anytone and the GD-88 are two feature rich yet completely different radios. Given the cost of the AnyTone 878 plus v.s. the cost of the GD-88, I’d have to disagree with you emphatically and state the GD-88 is the better buy. (POINT four ounces, 100 mA of battery difference, and an extra low power mode that can be compensated for with a lower (no) gain antenna just don’t sell me…) HOWEVER, if your consideration is a requirement for Bluetooth, the Anytone is the only option between these two. But be prepared to pay for that option…
@@houseofhamradio it’s missing only one feature I crave here in FL, IP67 rating. I don’t plan on scuba diving with it, but field work often gets wet really quickly.
Agree comlpletly with you assessment. I just can't see not being able to turn off the second reciever is an advantage. I like the dual watch feature of the 878. However, it is redundent if you run promiscuous mode. I keep the reciever on only for a fast button push to a talkgroup that I might use (net on a different talkgroup). Yes, the CPS is a pain, I know that RT Systems has a CPS software package out (again Windows only). I think Radioddity is an ODM. They have the GD-10, which is UHF only version of the 878. BTech does the same with the 878/878UVII Plus with their DMR-6X2, and DMR-6x2 Pro. Big drawback not having a 1 Watt setting on the GD-88 for hotspot users. Nice to see a fair comparison!
My experience with the AnyTone was not very positive. It is likely I just received a bad unit but at around the 2 year mark, my radio emitted a puff of smoke when I turned it on and it has been a brick ever since. Because it was 6 months out of warranty, Bridgecom could not do anything about it. So I’m out $320 and have to start over with a new radio. Thank you for this comparison, it highlights a potential alternative. I’m really hesitant to put the money out for an AnyTone after that.
Sorry to hear that. One thing I didn’t mention in the video is that any of the Chinese radios can suffer from poor quality assurance. Anytone is typically better than many but not exempt from issues. Sucks that it happened after warranty expired.
Had both. Ran out of patience with the GD-88, sold it, and upgraded to the D878UVII Plus. I really tried to ride it out with the GD-88 but for over $200 I needed to have something far less "alpha" and a lot more "general release". It's a shame really. The GD-88 is a neat piece of hardware, but the software, firmware, and support just did not hold value at a radio that was over $200. Hopefully the the "GD-89" or whatever the next version is will get the software and firmware issues ironed out.
Thank you for your video. Very helpful and also your pronunciation is very good for those who don't speak native english. Easy to understand!. I prefer the Anytone, but I must say that it irritates me the fact that it has a stupid SMA reverse connector, instead of the normal SMA we hams are used to. I have lots of antennas that will need an adaptor that, honestly, it's not easy to find in an elegant and robust form.
Thank you Marcos, Glad I was helpful for you. Unfortunately, most of the Chinese HTs use female SMA on the antenna. That doesn't bother me so much as there are good alternative antennas with that configuration. 73s Bob WV7W
The only advantage I could see of the GD-88 is Analog APRS. IF (and I do mean if) the Analog APRS ACTUALLY worked, having two receivers would be useful. Then you could set the second receiver to APRS functions, turn the audio down on it, and use the primary channel. This was how I was planning on using the 878, but it doesn’t sound like it’ll do it.
Although I suspect I'd like the 878 more, I chose the GD-88 based solely on price. And I'm not disappointed. It works great for me, despite its quirks (like the volume control lag).
I have the GD-88. I'm not happy with everything, but you can put it in single mode so there aren't two receivers running. Maybe that's a change since you made this video.
Not sure on that one. I would contact Radioddity but I would guess that it would not be worth fixing. They kind of make these things to be disposable IMHO. Not like the radios of old that could be fixed readily.
Not sure what you are asking but to buy the Anytone radio there are several good sources including Bridgecom Systems. For the Radioddity, go directly to radioddity.com
Yes, it is a good choice for that. Important to know why you are throwing your cash at something tangible and not hype. Good for you! It is not a perfect radio, but it is good.
@@houseofhamradio yeah I’m basically going to hotwire the battery keep it charged all the time throw it in a pelican case and use as what I call a QDR (Quick Drop repeater) I live in an area with really high mountains in deep valleys and having something like this for search and rescue and just general use is awesome.
Funny thing I seem to like the GD88 much better. The more info on screen is good but screen is small and can't see it anyways (for me). The updated firmware fixed a lot of other small things. I like to be able to use 2 time slots at same time and then also be able to use the radio for Sat work (work great there). The only thing I have to say is your hit on the head it the battery life really S^%ks, this makes me take 2 batteries with me. Programming seems to be same for me on both radios and that might be because I work as Communication officer with NXDN radios, so I am doing code plugs all the time. But good video and like to see more.
I think they have come a long way with the GD88. I no longer have it as I gave it to my son but they seem to be much more comparable than when I did the video. DMR radios in general are about the same to program and it really depends on the CPD software on what the experience is like. Thanks for sharing your comments.
There are tons of videos on TH-cam to install Parallels or VMWare Fusion to be able to have a Windows virtual machine. I had issues with running the GD88 CPS on my VM. I had to use my Widows laptop to get it to work reliably.
you don't really need to worry about transmitting outside of the amateur bands as long as it's for a split second and you aren't transmitting your gps coordinates
When you say you don't need to worry... I assume you mean likelihood of being caught. If so, you are correct. If you mean that it is legal to transmit for a split second, then no. Will the FCC fine you if you transmit for a split second rarely, I don't think anyone would know or care. If you do it regularly and cause harmful interference to licensed radio spectrum, that might be different. I personally would not risk my license by knowingly transmitting out of band. My 2 cents.
Neither of these do air band rx or tx. Air band is AM these are FM and DMR. My Yeasu FT5d has air band rx. If you want air band rx you must get an air band specific radio. I know Icom sells one.
Thanks for this video! I am just beginning my quest to get a license and am not sure which radio to buy. I know I don't want one of the sub-hundred dollar radios, but I don't know what would be suitable for a good first radio. Money is always a factor, of course, but I strongly believe in the buy once, cry once plan. I would rather buy something nicer than I need right away to avoid having it end up in a drawer somewhere because I needed something better. I found your video because I have been searching for videos on the AT-878UVii Plus. Is this overkill for a beginner? I am an engineer who works regularly in technical and computer fields, so I'm not intimidated by the programming. Thanks for any help anyone on here can offer!
Scott, DMR is probably not the best place to start as it is certainly more complex than many areas of the hobby. I am going to be doing a video of the Yeasu FT65 which is an analog dual band handheld which is a good starter radio that is much simpler but has much better quality than a Baofeng or similar. Bottom line, if you think you will be getting into DMR soon, go with the 878 as it will do both. If you just want to get on some local repeaters and talk to other hams, the FT65 is much easier to get started. On a side note, I am just getting ready to publish my video on online testing which also briefly discusses some study options. Good luck and hope to hear you on the bands soon.
@@houseofhamradio Thank you for the quick reply! I would like to add a hotspot to my equipment to broaden my reach once I get comfortable with analog communications. I was under the assumption that I needed a digital radio for that functionality. Does that change your recommendation at all?
@@scottbrader-kd9vyy225 Yes, if you want to do digital and hotspots are digital, you will need a digital radio. The 878 is a great choice as well as the Yeasu FT5D which is significantly more expensive but is another great choice. I am going to do a side by side of those two as well but not sure when.
@@houseofhamradio Excellent! I will watch for your comparison. I don't need to buy right now since I am just starting my studying for Technician (and hopefully General at the same time).
@@scottbrader-kd9vyy225 I just published my video for online testing. Go to HamStudy.org and practice/study for both the Tech and General. You can take both at the same exam session and only pay one exam session fee and walk out with your General license which will open up the HF bands to you. best of luck.
I have the Anytone but It does not scan CTCSS tones, the scan list has only 50 memories, and It scans veeeery slow. I enjoyed your video very much. 73!!!
Glad you liked the video. the 878UVii Plus can do CTCSS scan by going to Menu/Scan/CDT Scan. You will need a fairly lengthy transmission for it to scan the entire list of codes.
What is analog APRS please explain. I have never heard of this only APRS that is a digital signal. These seem like nice radios but I will not buy any of them until understand what they are selling.
You are right in saying APRS is a digital mode. On DMR radios we say “analog” when we are using the radio on Analog say 144.390. We say digital if we are using DMR either through a DMR repeater or a hotspot. I hope that clears it up.
@@houseofhamradio I see your point but all RF is analog. The DSTAR guys had a similar issue and call their APRS type data DPRS. I still think calling it analog ads a ton of confusion and it should be only APRS the correct name.
@@thuff3207 I hear ya. I think the fundamental difference is that traditional APRS is just that and nothing else. The "Digital" APRS is included in the data stream along with the voice so kind of an add on. I'm not even sure you can do DMR APRS beacons but I cannot say that with any certainty.
Love your channel! Looks like I got you in the log Park to Park a couple of weeks ago. I bought an Anytone a year ago and got frustrated quickly with DMR. I need to dust off my noggin and give it another whirl. I still have the radio. DMR is the only digital mode out here in the Columbia River Gorge. 73, KD7LX
I did the same. It's easier than the online tutorials make it out to be. I've been bashing Bridgecom hard. Hopefully they will come out with a new viddy soon.
Thanks for the tip. Still doesn't turn off the receiver just makes it so you hear the same thing on both. Also don't get the info presented on the whole screen.
Noce review, but you seemed from the word go to find all the plus points for the GD-88 as unnecessary or something you don't want - this trend followed through - everytime it did NOT do something, that was a plus point for the Anytone, when it did more than the Anytone, these features were pointless? Its fine not to like it, but a DMR that can receive and transmit at the same time? You don;t know how it works, so dissmis it as pointless? As it happens, it's a bit flawed as it goes in on slot 1 and out on slot 2, which means the other radios need to TX on one slot and receive on another, and few can actually do this. The twin receiver feature is really handy, yet because the Anytone can't do it - you dismiss the GD-88? It's a logical review, but crazily biased. I actually agree with you on many points, but tell people about the bugs so they can compare, not leave them in another video?
I have to disagree. I have an 878 and the first one I got was bad and had to be replaced. The new one when loaded using the extremely confusing non-user friendly CPS software corrupts random channels and no matter what you do those channels will never again be useable. This radio has a very long way to go to be a good radio. For the price this thing should be amazing!
I think this is systemic of most Chinese manufactured radios. If you get a good one it is good, but if you get a bad one... well you know because it happened to you. Both the 878 and GD88 that I got were fine. It easily could have gone the other way with either of them.
Neither. Had 3 878's and analog sensitivity and squelch sensitivity sucked on all of them. My 29$ UV-5R blew away all 3. And yes, adjusted squelch parameters in test mode-no dice.
There is no perfect radio, particularly in the Chinese market but of the two, I like the Anytone. As for the UV-5R, those things break squelch on a mouse fart or any other stray RF within 100 miles. They are a good cheap option if you don't mind those interruptions. I primarily use the 878 for DMR only. For analog I will use one of my Yaesu HTs. Thanks for the comment.
Completely wrong. The only real disadvantage is the lack of BT in the Radioddity. Otherwise, almost everything is better in the Radioddity. The second transceiver in the Radioddity can be used extremely well for satellite operation. By the way, APRS is quick and clean if set up correctly. And there is something else to mention. In some countries, the Anytone has been banned. Why is that? Because it just didn't meet the required harmonics of -60 dB. The Radioddity is much cleaner. In the USA, however, the Anytone is no problem for the authorities. The limits are much less strict than in some European countries. Otherwise, I like comparisons like this, keep it up.
Thanks for your comments. I appreciate the differing views. Understand the difference in time between when this video was done and today. Radioddity has done a lot of improvements but for me, I stand by my preference. Much of that is nothing more than personal preference.
What's so unfortunate about Windows? Can you find ANY Apple desktop for $150? Can you repair your own Mac machine? Add memory? Install a better graphics card?? But the deal breaker for me is the ripoff certified repair centers. Good luck getting anything Apple actually repaired. You'll be lucky if you don't have to pay full price for a replacement.
Chris, Obviously you are not a Mac fan but there are those of us who like them. I have use Windows, Linux and MacOS for many years. Windows is my least favorite so for me, yes unfortunate. I do have a Windows laptop just for things I cannot do on the Mac but it is not my go to. 73 Bob
Thanks for the comment. It wasn't intended to be that but I can certainly see how you would come to that conclusion. Having used both, I really do like the Anytone better. So much in fact that I no longer have the GD-88. Both are good radios but one is certainly my favorite.
Simply means that if you aren't paying attention, it will not allow you to transmit out of band. As hams, we should always be cognizant of where we are and not press the PTT if we aren't sure we are within our privileges but the added protection has it's place.
@@houseofhamradio I know what it means but I find it to be an absurd excuse for excessive regulations. What I disagree is the apathetic spirit of accepting and justifying anything that is being pushed on us. I am not accusing you of apathy but I am noticing that most people are willing to accept and rationalize without questioning. I own a sailboat and where I live PMR/GMRS are legal. Why should I need 3 locked-down radios? Also If you aren't paying attention you should not be operating radio, driving a vehicle, handling a firearm, going up or down the stairs etc. Of all these things, accidentally and briefly pressing the button will make the least amount of damage which is equal to none... I personally treat it like a trigger. My finger is off unless antenna is on and I am ready to transmit.
@@TH-camUsername7777 I see where you are going with this. Understand that both radios are fully capable of being opened up if you choose to. The Anytone is locked by default but you as a user can open it up if you choose to it just requires a few buttons being held down at startup and then creating a new code plug for the opened environment.
@@TH-camUsername7777A lot of preppers are buying radios that are open, but if you don't know how to use these radios in an emergency, they are not gonna serve you well.
DMR is TOO much of a hassle, too time consuming to waste time with. Apaling that hams will spend days of frustration creating ONE CODE PLUG but don't have the discipline to take 15 mins a day learning something useful like cw.
DMR is certainly not for everyone. I do like it but I also enjoy CW (actually prefer it). Ham radio has many areas to explore. Go with the ones you like and leave the ones you don't for others. The main thing is to stay active.
Very true. I should not take 30 minutes to program a codeplug but instead learn cw, when I am tone deaf…to tap back and forth to the 3 people still on hf using that mode 🤣😂🤣
Thanks Luis, From Google Translator "big radio is big battery more duration." Actually, the larger radio actually has a slightly smaller (in capacity) battery and significantly less run time.
This is one of the most coherent ham radio product comparisons I've watched on TH-cam in a long, long time. Nice job!
Thanks for the kind words. Glad you found it useful.
I totally agree. The is THE best I've personally seen so far!! Subscribed!!
I agree. Wish I had viewed this before buying the GD-88. I've been two months trying to figure out getting it on the air. Programming thoroughly has to be done from a computer. The Radioddity CPS software is thoroughly confusing. CPEditor is much better, BUT has a few parts that seem so well hidden that I have yet to work it all. If I had known how confusing and how many rabbit holes I'd get sent down I would have just said "Hell No!" to digital radio because I am stuck at the bottom of the price barrel, so none of the better developed options are within my reach.
Thanks for an excellent video! AL2E
I own both and agree with your assessment. I will add that DMR programming is easier on the 878 since you can change talk groups on the fly without programming them as a channel. Makes DMR much easier to work with.
Thanks I completely agree.
I got the Anytone878II-Plus, and I'm not disappointed, it's a great radio with a lot of options
totally agree. Enjoy your rig
I found this assessment to be very helpful. Given the forthcoming Black Friday deal being offered by Bridgecom Systems, I am feeling rather predisposed to purchasing this radio.
By the way, I have not used cross-band repeat since I had my Kenwood 721 dual band mobile radio after it first came out in 1989 (purchased from Press' salesman Chuck at Hamtronics in Trevose, PA). Oddly, I could not believe that these multi-decade old radios are selling for close to $250 these days on eBay!?! Gosh there are new Chinese mobile radios for half of that!
My father once told me, after you buy something remember, "It's not you get what you pay for, but you didn't get what you didn't pay for!"
Glad it helped you. I too have never used cross band repeat in my 27 years as a ham. I like your father's quote.
Best of luck on Black Friday. I don't think you will be disappointed on your decision.
73 Bob WV7W
I was at a toss up with these two and your vid really helped! Thanks!
Glad I could help!
73
WV7W
Although I anyway have more or less decided to go for the Anytone, this video is very useful and confirms that this device is the right choice for me as a newbie. Very useful, thanks. 🙂
Thanks for the super! Much appreciated. I don't think you will regret your choice.
Thanks, up to this video i was more into the GD88, but honestly, after looking your video i changed my mind to my as of today favorite 878... thanks a lot!
Had I known what I know now, I would have gone straight for the 878 but then who would have done this comparison?
Definitely two radios that needed to be compared to each other; nice objective and helpful presentation HoH.
Thanks Bob, I hope you and yours stayed safe during storm and homestead is all good.
@@houseofhamradio A few downed branches and some frazzled nerves; we did great compared to those south of us. Thanks for the kind thoughts.
All around excellent presentation:
audio
video clarity and stability
speech clarity. Coherent. Well paced.
Only thing I would change: keep the products on their same side of the screen.
73.
Thanks JK. Something to consider for future vids.
Absolutely fantastic review.
Loads of questions answered.
Glad it helped.
enjoyed the comparison, glad I purchased the 878UVII-plus.
Thanks Chuck. it truly is head and shoulders above most others in the market.
Thanks for the comparison. You likely have saved me a couple hundred dollars as I already own the anytone.
The Radioddity has potential but I would wait a bit. I will do an update on the GD-88 once they release the updated firmware
I have both radios and have to agree 💯. I had the 878 up and running in about ten minutes with my hotspot. The 88 took a couple days and had to ask a ton of questions to get close to the same point. I did manage to get the 88 CPS working on Win 11 via Parallels but took a ton of digging to get the proper driver. My 878 all functions work perfectly out of the box but for the 88 I have yet to get digital APRS working after a month of trial and error. To me the 878 is the winner no questions asked.
Thanks Jim, I didn't take as long to get the GD-88 up and running. I have a Win10 VM in Parallels and it freaks out when I try and read from or write to the radio.
@@houseofhamradio This is the reason why I bought a separate PC for HAM :)
Great no-nonsense to-the-point comparison! Thank you, great job, subscribed! - By the way, I'm a Mac user, too, and totally new to ham, licenced just recently. I'd be very interested to hear from a fellow Mac users how to navigate this surprisingly Windows-only world. Thank you very much. All the best from Finland! 👍😎
Yes ham radio is a challenge for Mac users. It is possible and much of the Windows stuff works fine in a Windows virtual machine.
You could always just buy a cheap windows laptop. I bet you can find something useable for 150 dollars. It would just be for programming your radios so who cares if someone's sketchy software screws it up..
@@leokarasinski4217 I actually do just that. I have a cheapo Widnows tablet PC for just ham radio stuff.
@House of Ham easiest thing I could think of. Really thinking about picking up this anytone radio... dmr sounds like it could be alot of fun. I'm new to all of this anyway.. but I need a winter project so learning dmr programming should keep me occupied for a bit. Thx for the video !
@@leokarasinski4217 DMR is a lot of fun and allows worldwide communications for Technician licensees and even for higher level folks you don't have to worry about sunspots and propagation.
Excellent comparison. Can’t disagree with any of it
Thanks. I appreciate the feedback.
The GD88 kept piquing my interest, even though I own a GD77 (running OpenGD77) and an Anytone 878UV (not II, not Plus) with its dual receive, but this video was very enlightening and a reminder that performance goes well beyond specifications.
Thanks Walter, it certainly does. I try to present the information so you can make your own decision. I know I slanted towards the 878 but that is the way I would go if I were making the purchase all over again.
Very good review the main plus of the GD-88 is the dual analogue and digital receive the 878 is single receive .
Agreed. I just wish you could go to single receive mode like most Japanese HTs.
You can now :)
How? Or why any update?@@aspirenlptherapies7568
I really wanted th4e GD-88. But, between your video and others I've watched, I ended up with the AnyTone AT-878UVII Plus. I haven't gotten a hotspot for it yet. But, I'm just trying to learn more about DMR and how it works. Thank you.
Best of luck, if you are like me, you will not regret your decision.
Thank you helped me make my choice and explained a lot. Thank you
Glad I could help! Good luck
Two years after this video was made, an update to the GD-88 has fixed the Dual to Single VFO issue (and almost every bug you listed). This changes the dynamic of your review significantly.
It now means the benefit of having dual receive has been amplified by being able to switch to single receive mode if desired.
The benefit of having cross band repeat is that when working events, exercises, or even actual disasters, you can act as a repeater. The value of this cannot be overstated.
This is ALSO a benefit of single channel repeating. You can repeat using two time slots in one frequency. When everyone is using a DMR radio, you can be positioned to hit the repeater, and they can hit you…
There is a third mode of repeat, cross MODE repeat. Everyone using analog radios can be mode switched to DMR through your handheld making them able to take advantage of DMR repeaters.
Just because you can’t identify a purpose for a feature doesn’t make the feature valueless. You do a disservice to your viewers by pretending that because YOU can’t provide a reason for a feature, that makes the feature irrelevant.
The Anytone and the GD-88 are two feature rich yet completely different radios. Given the cost of the AnyTone 878 plus v.s. the cost of the GD-88, I’d have to disagree with you emphatically and state the GD-88 is the better buy. (POINT four ounces, 100 mA of battery difference, and an extra low power mode that can be compensated for with a lower (no) gain antenna just don’t sell me…)
HOWEVER, if your consideration is a requirement for Bluetooth, the Anytone is the only option between these two. But be prepared to pay for that option…
Thanks for the update. I no longer have the radio so cannot keep it more up to date.
Thank you Bob for your insight.
Glad to help
Great video. I love my D878s. It does everything that someone may want.
Although there is no perfect DMR radio, I think the Anytone comes close.
@@houseofhamradio it’s missing only one feature I crave here in FL, IP67 rating. I don’t plan on scuba diving with it, but field work often gets wet really quickly.
Agree comlpletly with you assessment. I just can't see not being able to turn off the second reciever is an advantage. I like the dual watch feature of the 878. However, it is redundent if you run promiscuous mode. I keep the reciever on only for a fast button push to a talkgroup that I might use (net on a different talkgroup).
Yes, the CPS is a pain, I know that RT Systems has a CPS software package out (again Windows only).
I think Radioddity is an ODM. They have the GD-10, which is UHF only version of the 878. BTech does the same with the 878/878UVII Plus with their DMR-6X2, and DMR-6x2 Pro.
Big drawback not having a 1 Watt setting on the GD-88 for hotspot users.
Nice to see a fair comparison!
thanks Mark. I do my best to stay objective based on my experience.
My experience with the AnyTone was not very positive. It is likely I just received a bad unit but at around the 2 year mark, my radio emitted a puff of smoke when I turned it on and it has been a brick ever since. Because it was 6 months out of warranty, Bridgecom could not do anything about it. So I’m out $320 and have to start over with a new radio. Thank you for this comparison, it highlights a potential alternative. I’m really hesitant to put the money out for an AnyTone after that.
Sorry to hear that. One thing I didn’t mention in the video is that any of the Chinese radios can suffer from poor quality assurance. Anytone is typically better than many but not exempt from issues. Sucks that it happened after warranty expired.
Had both. Ran out of patience with the GD-88, sold it, and upgraded to the D878UVII Plus. I really tried to ride it out with the GD-88 but for over $200 I needed to have something far less "alpha" and a lot more "general release". It's a shame really. The GD-88 is a neat piece of hardware, but the software, firmware, and support just did not hold value at a radio that was over $200. Hopefully the the "GD-89" or whatever the next version is will get the software and firmware issues ironed out.
Could not have said it better myself. The Anytone is just more polished.
I have the Anytone but like the GD88... once it's fixed but I dont really "need" another HT, just HF.
One cannot have too many HF rigs... Although, I have a good stable of HTs too... It's a sickness.
@@houseofhamradio haha!... a good sickness!😄👍📻
Thank you for your video. Very helpful and also your pronunciation is very good for those who don't speak native english. Easy to understand!. I prefer the Anytone, but I must say that it irritates me the fact that it has a stupid SMA reverse connector, instead of the normal SMA we hams are used to. I have lots of antennas that will need an adaptor that, honestly, it's not easy to find in an elegant and robust form.
Thank you Marcos,
Glad I was helpful for you. Unfortunately, most of the Chinese HTs use female SMA on the antenna. That doesn't bother me so much as there are good alternative antennas with that configuration.
73s
Bob
WV7W
The only advantage I could see of the GD-88 is Analog APRS. IF (and I do mean if) the Analog APRS ACTUALLY worked, having two receivers would be useful. Then you could set the second receiver to APRS functions, turn the audio down on it, and use the primary channel. This was how I was planning on using the 878, but it doesn’t sound like it’ll do it.
Unfortunately, it doesn't. At least not up until I let mine go. Analog APRS still wasn't working.
@@houseofhamradio I just confirmed with someone that owns one that they still haven’t bothered to fix it. 878 it is…
Although I suspect I'd like the 878 more, I chose the GD-88 based solely on price. And I'm not disappointed. It works great for me, despite its quirks (like the volume control lag).
They are both good radios. Your reasoning for going with the GD-88 makes sense and if you are happy with it, you chose well. Enjoy and ham on!
I have the GD-88. I'm not happy with everything, but you can put it in single mode so there aren't two receivers running. Maybe that's a change since you made this video.
they did change that after the video. I still think the 878 is a more stable radio. GD-88 has promise but is still not there IMHO.
I have gd77 and the lcd broken/ defected after around 2 years and i dont know where i can fixit
Not sure on that one. I would contact Radioddity but I would guess that it would not be worth fixing. They kind of make these things to be disposable IMHO. Not like the radios of old that could be fixed readily.
Thanks for your reviews on both. Very helpful to make a decision, 73s 2E0SGL
Glad you found it useful
WV7W
Gud pm how can i buy?
Not sure what you are asking but to buy the Anytone radio there are several good sources including Bridgecom Systems. For the Radioddity, go directly to radioddity.com
@@houseofhamradio i'm in philippines
I’m getting the GD-88 specifically because of the cross band repeat!
Yes, it is a good choice for that. Important to know why you are throwing your cash at something tangible and not hype. Good for you! It is not a perfect radio, but it is good.
@@houseofhamradio yeah I’m basically going to hotwire the battery keep it charged all the time throw it in a pelican case and use as what I call a QDR (Quick Drop repeater) I live in an area with really high mountains in deep valleys and having something like this for search and rescue and just general use is awesome.
@@TwitchFlys Sounds like a really good use case. Best of luck with that project. I hope it works as you plan.
Funny thing I seem to like the GD88 much better. The more info on screen is good but screen is small and can't see it anyways (for me). The updated firmware fixed a lot of other small things. I like to be able to use 2 time slots at same time and then also be able to use the radio for Sat work (work great there). The only thing I have to say is your hit on the head it the battery life really S^%ks, this makes me take 2 batteries with me. Programming seems to be same for me on both radios and that might be because I work as Communication officer with NXDN radios, so I am doing code plugs all the time. But good video and like to see more.
I think they have come a long way with the GD88. I no longer have it as I gave it to my son but they seem to be much more comparable than when I did the video. DMR radios in general are about the same to program and it really depends on the CPD software on what the experience is like. Thanks for sharing your comments.
What about the audio repports?
I got good audio reports from both radios on analog. Digital is less about the radio and more about the network.
@@houseofhamradio Thanks 73!
Thanks for this review. I was thinking of buying a gc88. I need a Bluetooth to pair with my motorcycle helmet.
Glad I could help
Can you do a quick video on installing the virtual machine on my Mac so I can program?
There are tons of videos on TH-cam to install Parallels or VMWare Fusion to be able to have a Windows virtual machine. I had issues with running the GD88 CPS on my VM. I had to use my Widows laptop to get it to work reliably.
Will this radio scan local transmissions in my area and find color code and talk groups automatically?
Not that I am aware of.
Très bon comparatif ! merci.
Content que vous ayez trouvé ça utile
you don't really need to worry about transmitting outside of the amateur bands as long as it's for a split second and you aren't transmitting your gps coordinates
When you say you don't need to worry... I assume you mean likelihood of being caught. If so, you are correct. If you mean that it is legal to transmit for a split second, then no. Will the FCC fine you if you transmit for a split second rarely, I don't think anyone would know or care. If you do it regularly and cause harmful interference to licensed radio spectrum, that might be different. I personally would not risk my license by knowingly transmitting out of band. My 2 cents.
@@houseofhamradio out here in the middle of no where there really isnt that many companies using the entire band
I there a handheld the rx TX Airband, uhf, vhf? 118.00 to 124.00
Neither of these do air band rx or tx. Air band is AM these are FM and DMR. My Yeasu FT5d has air band rx. If you want air band rx you must get an air band specific radio. I know Icom sells one.
Thanks for this video! I am just beginning my quest to get a license and am not sure which radio to buy. I know I don't want one of the sub-hundred dollar radios, but I don't know what would be suitable for a good first radio. Money is always a factor, of course, but I strongly believe in the buy once, cry once plan. I would rather buy something nicer than I need right away to avoid having it end up in a drawer somewhere because I needed something better. I found your video because I have been searching for videos on the AT-878UVii Plus. Is this overkill for a beginner? I am an engineer who works regularly in technical and computer fields, so I'm not intimidated by the programming. Thanks for any help anyone on here can offer!
Scott, DMR is probably not the best place to start as it is certainly more complex than many areas of the hobby. I am going to be doing a video of the Yeasu FT65 which is an analog dual band handheld which is a good starter radio that is much simpler but has much better quality than a Baofeng or similar. Bottom line, if you think you will be getting into DMR soon, go with the 878 as it will do both. If you just want to get on some local repeaters and talk to other hams, the FT65 is much easier to get started.
On a side note, I am just getting ready to publish my video on online testing which also briefly discusses some study options. Good luck and hope to hear you on the bands soon.
@@houseofhamradio Thank you for the quick reply! I would like to add a hotspot to my equipment to broaden my reach once I get comfortable with analog communications. I was under the assumption that I needed a digital radio for that functionality. Does that change your recommendation at all?
@@scottbrader-kd9vyy225 Yes, if you want to do digital and hotspots are digital, you will need a digital radio. The 878 is a great choice as well as the Yeasu FT5D which is significantly more expensive but is another great choice. I am going to do a side by side of those two as well but not sure when.
@@houseofhamradio Excellent! I will watch for your comparison. I don't need to buy right now since I am just starting my studying for Technician (and hopefully General at the same time).
@@scottbrader-kd9vyy225 I just published my video for online testing. Go to HamStudy.org and practice/study for both the Tech and General. You can take both at the same exam session and only pay one exam session fee and walk out with your General license which will open up the HF bands to you. best of luck.
I have the Anytone but It does not scan CTCSS tones, the scan list has only 50 memories, and It scans veeeery slow.
I enjoyed your video very much. 73!!!
Glad you liked the video. the 878UVii Plus can do CTCSS scan by going to Menu/Scan/CDT Scan. You will need a fairly lengthy transmission for it to scan the entire list of codes.
@@houseofhamradio Ohh thank you very much. Maybe it's the moment to update to the ii version. 73's from Spain!!
Great Instructional, thoroughly explained Video 📹 💯 ...AT878uvii + is very worth it 👌 73!
Could not agree more. Thanks and 73s
Good comparison. Thanks.
Thanks for your comment. Glad to do it.
What is analog APRS please explain. I have never heard of this only APRS that is a digital signal. These seem like nice radios but I will not buy any of them until understand what they are selling.
You are right in saying APRS is a digital mode. On DMR radios we say “analog” when we are using the radio on Analog say 144.390. We say digital if we are using DMR either through a DMR repeater or a hotspot. I hope that clears it up.
@@houseofhamradio I see your point but all RF is analog. The DSTAR guys had a similar issue and call their APRS type data DPRS. I still think calling it analog ads a ton of confusion and it should be only APRS the correct name.
@@thuff3207 I hear ya. I think the fundamental difference is that traditional APRS is just that and nothing else. The "Digital" APRS is included in the data stream along with the voice so kind of an add on. I'm not even sure you can do DMR APRS beacons but I cannot say that with any certainty.
Very helpful! Thank You! :-D
Glad it was helpful!
Any updated firmware for the GD88?
I have not heard anything on an updated firmware.
Love your channel! Looks like I got you in the log Park to Park a couple of weeks ago.
I bought an Anytone a year ago and got frustrated quickly with DMR. I need to dust off my noggin and give it another whirl. I still have the radio. DMR is the only digital mode out here in the Columbia River Gorge.
73, KD7LX
Don't give up on DMR. It takes a bit but worth it.
I did the same. It's easier than the online tutorials make it out to be. I've been bashing Bridgecom hard. Hopefully they will come out with a new viddy soon.
Great video
Thanks Gary! appreciate the feedback.
I own both and I prefer the AnyTone over my GD 88
Yup, me too in case you could't tell from video 🙂
Anytone, no doubts.
agreed.
Guess next year I'll get a GD88 to play with, after i pay off my 6x2Pro😊
Not sure you would gain much but it is a fun radio to play with
@@houseofhamradio It would just be a toy, but I'd have fun figuring out APRS.
I would venture a guess that most of our ham gear could be classified as toys... I say toy on!@@RKingis
I have 2 of each radio like them both!
There are things to like about both but if I could only choose one, it would be the 878.
gracias .. muy bien hk3cam
You are welcome
Well done.
Thanks Michael.
Hack to turn off the dual recieve on GD-88: set both VFOs to the single frequency you are interested in
Thanks for the tip. Still doesn't turn off the receiver just makes it so you hear the same thing on both. Also don't get the info presented on the whole screen.
I had both. Sold them. Both not waterproof
Yup. To get waterproof DMR I think you have to go with Motorola or similar.
@@houseofhamradio there is Anytone D278U IP67 but I can’t buy it anywhere
Yes you can shut off the 2nd band receiver keep investigating you will find the setting!
Thanks, can you point me and possibly others in the right direction where we can find that.
The 878 does GMRS quite well!! GMRS while monitoring Five2.
Noce review, but you seemed from the word go to find all the plus points for the GD-88 as unnecessary or something you don't want - this trend followed through - everytime it did NOT do something, that was a plus point for the Anytone, when it did more than the Anytone, these features were pointless? Its fine not to like it, but a DMR that can receive and transmit at the same time? You don;t know how it works, so dissmis it as pointless? As it happens, it's a bit flawed as it goes in on slot 1 and out on slot 2, which means the other radios need to TX on one slot and receive on another, and few can actually do this. The twin receiver feature is really handy, yet because the Anytone can't do it - you dismiss the GD-88? It's a logical review, but crazily biased. I actually agree with you on many points, but tell people about the bugs so they can compare, not leave them in another video?
Yup, we all have biases. It wasn't intended to be that slanted but just the way I felt about the two radios.
I have Anyone 878UV plus 1st Gen. And to be honest it has it's own bugs and it is far easier to program with CPS.
You are correct. but still much less buggy than the GD-88. Some comes from more time out there to be refined.
I have to disagree. I have an 878 and the first one I got was bad and had to be replaced. The new one when loaded using the extremely confusing non-user friendly CPS software corrupts random channels and no matter what you do those channels will never again be useable. This radio has a very long way to go to be a good radio. For the price this thing should be amazing!
I think this is systemic of most Chinese manufactured radios. If you get a good one it is good, but if you get a bad one... well you know because it happened to you. Both the 878 and GD88 that I got were fine. It easily could have gone the other way with either of them.
Neither. Had 3 878's and analog sensitivity and squelch sensitivity sucked on all of them. My 29$ UV-5R blew away all 3. And yes, adjusted squelch parameters in test mode-no dice.
There is no perfect radio, particularly in the Chinese market but of the two, I like the Anytone. As for the UV-5R, those things break squelch on a mouse fart or any other stray RF within 100 miles. They are a good cheap option if you don't mind those interruptions. I primarily use the 878 for DMR only. For analog I will use one of my Yaesu HTs. Thanks for the comment.
Completely wrong. The only real disadvantage is the lack of BT in the Radioddity. Otherwise, almost everything is better in the Radioddity. The second transceiver in the Radioddity can be used extremely well for satellite operation. By the way, APRS is quick and clean if set up correctly. And there is something else to mention. In some countries, the Anytone has been banned. Why is that? Because it just didn't meet the required harmonics of -60 dB. The Radioddity is much cleaner. In the USA, however, the Anytone is no problem for the authorities. The limits are much less strict than in some European countries. Otherwise, I like comparisons like this, keep it up.
Thanks for your comments. I appreciate the differing views. Understand the difference in time between when this video was done and today. Radioddity has done a lot of improvements but for me, I stand by my preference. Much of that is nothing more than personal preference.
Well my mind is made up ...thank you
Glad I could help
You forgot to mention that the Anytone is $100.00 more.
I actually had to go back and watch the video for myself but you are absolutely correct, I didn't mention the price.
@@houseofhamradio It's OK. You did a good job on the video.
What's so unfortunate about Windows? Can you find ANY Apple desktop for $150? Can you repair your own Mac machine? Add memory? Install a better graphics card?? But the deal breaker for me is the ripoff certified repair centers. Good luck getting anything Apple actually repaired. You'll be lucky if you don't have to pay full price for a replacement.
Chris, Obviously you are not a Mac fan but there are those of us who like them. I have use Windows, Linux and MacOS for many years. Windows is my least favorite so for me, yes unfortunate. I do have a Windows laptop just for things I cannot do on the Mac but it is not my go to.
73
Bob
This isn't so much as a comparison as a 'this is why the 878 is better' video.
Thanks for the comment. It wasn't intended to be that but I can certainly see how you would come to that conclusion. Having used both, I really do like the Anytone better. So much in fact that I no longer have the GD-88. Both are good radios but one is certainly my favorite.
One can tell you are biased starting from minute 4 ....but that's fine hihi
Yeah, that is true. The bias comes from actual usage so I'm fine with it as well.
You really lost me at "this lockdown protect you from yourself"
Simply means that if you aren't paying attention, it will not allow you to transmit out of band. As hams, we should always be cognizant of where we are and not press the PTT if we aren't sure we are within our privileges but the added protection has it's place.
@@houseofhamradio I know what it means but I find it to be an absurd excuse for excessive regulations. What I disagree is the apathetic spirit of accepting and justifying anything that is being pushed on us. I am not accusing you of apathy but I am noticing that most people are willing to accept and rationalize without questioning. I own a sailboat and where I live PMR/GMRS are legal. Why should I need 3 locked-down radios? Also If you aren't paying attention you should not be operating radio, driving a vehicle, handling a firearm, going up or down the stairs etc. Of all these things, accidentally and briefly pressing the button will make the least amount of damage which is equal to none... I personally treat it like a trigger. My finger is off unless antenna is on and I am ready to transmit.
@@TH-camUsername7777 I see where you are going with this. Understand that both radios are fully capable of being opened up if you choose to. The Anytone is locked by default but you as a user can open it up if you choose to it just requires a few buttons being held down at startup and then creating a new code plug for the opened environment.
@@TH-camUsername7777PMR446 is in Europe, and GMRS in the US 🤔
@@TH-camUsername7777A lot of preppers are buying radios that are open, but if you don't know how to use these radios in an emergency, they are not gonna serve you well.
DMR is TOO much of a hassle, too time consuming to waste time with.
Apaling that hams will spend days of frustration creating ONE CODE PLUG but don't have the discipline to take 15 mins a day learning something useful like cw.
DMR is certainly not for everyone. I do like it but I also enjoy CW (actually prefer it). Ham radio has many areas to explore. Go with the ones you like and leave the ones you don't for others. The main thing is to stay active.
Very true. I should not take 30 minutes to program a codeplug but instead learn cw, when I am tone deaf…to tap back and forth to the 3 people still on hf using that mode 🤣😂🤣
radio grande es batería grande mas duración.
Thanks Luis,
From Google Translator "big radio is big battery more duration."
Actually, the larger radio actually has a slightly smaller (in capacity) battery and significantly less run time.
Very bias towards 878
I cannot argue with that but only because I prefer it. I bought and paid for both radios so no pressure from either manufacturer.
I don't have to watch the video. Buy Anytone from Connect Systems. Radioddity has Sh!ty customer service.
Thanks David, I had trouble getting Radioddity Support to get back to me as well. They finally did but took several days.
Thanks for this video. Just what I needed at this time! 73 de WA3RSL
Glad it was helpful! 73 WV7W
Great comparison...thanks
Thanks Paul.