An in-depth, no-fluff review of the Ratel RT950 Pro radio by Amateur Radio and GMRS. Discover why this feature-packed device fails in real-world use and what radios actually perform better.
🎧 Introduction
Hey radio enthusiasts — it’s Joe from Amateur Radio and GMRS!
Today’s video is a brutally honest look at the Ratel RT950 Pro, a handheld transceiver that’s been making waves (and a few headaches) in the amateur radio community.
I wanted to share this review because so many people are being misled by glowing reviews, thinking this radio is the next big thing. As someone who’s spent years testing, reviewing, and programming radios, I felt compelled to expose what actually happens when you try to use this thing in the real world. Spoiler alert: it’s not pretty.
Let’s dive into what makes this “Pro” model more of a problem than a powerhouse.
🧭 Creator Bio
🎥 Channel: Amateur Radio and GMRS
👤 Creator: Joe — a long-time radio operator and gear reviewer passionate about educating new hams and radio enthusiasts with real, hands-on insights.
🔗 Connect:
Joe’s content stands out because he doesn’t sugarcoat anything. If a radio sucks, he’ll tell you why — and back it up with real-world tests, audio samples, and plenty of passion.
⚡ Key Takeaways
- Bluetooth programming is completely broken.
When setting analog PL tones, the RT950 Pro’s software auto-switches to DCS — making it nearly impossible to program correctly. - CB transmission on FM is pointless.
Nobody uses FM on CB. The feature sounds fancy but is utterly impractical. - Too many features, too little purpose.
With CB, UHF/VHF, and even shortwave options, it’s trying to be everything — but doesn’t do anything well.
🧬 Step-by-Step Breakdown
1. Unboxing the RT950 Pro
You get:
- The radio itself
- Belt clip, charger, USB cable, docking station
- Two antennas (VHF/UHF and CB only)
Joe immediately notices: the CB antenna is not designed for HF — a major red flag for performance.
2. Programming the Radio
Using the Bluetooth software:
“When you select an analog PL, it automatically sets the radio to DCS. Regardless. It programs the radio wrong.”
This glitch alone renders Bluetooth programming useless and will frustrate even experienced users.
3. Testing Power Output
- 136 MHz: ~6.5W
- 148 MHz: ~8W
- 433 MHz: ~8.5W
It’s marketed as a 10-watt radio — but never actually reaches it.
4. Scrambler (Illegal Use)
“You’re not allowed to encrypt or scramble anything on licensed ham or GMRS bands.”
The scramble feature works, but using it on ham or GMRS frequencies violates FCC rules.
5. Performance in Real Use
- Transmit: Clear audio.
- Receive: “Pretty deaf.” Couldn’t pick up signals in weak-signal environments where cheaper radios could.
6. Conclusion
“Too much packed in a little box. Too much. No need.”
Joe concludes the RT950 Pro is an over-engineered gimmick that fails to deliver practical value for beginners or serious operators alike.
🧮 Resources Mentioned
| Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| Bluetooth Programming App | The official Ratel app meant for wireless programming — but it’s bug-ridden and unreliable. |
| Repeater Test (WQSY 810) | Joe’s live on-air test to check transmission clarity — revealed poor receiver sensitivity. |
| UV5R Mini | A benchmark budget radio used for comparison — performs better in receive tests. |
| Waterfall Display | Visual signal strength feature; neat, but refreshes slowly and lacks real utility. |
💡 My Expert Advice
As someone who’s been in the hobby for decades, I never recommend buying gear just because it promises more features. Radios should serve a purpose, not just look good on paper.
If you want something reliable:
- Stick with proven handhelds like the Yaesu FT-4XR or Baofeng UV-5R for starters.
- Learn to program manually before relying on Bluetooth apps.
- Focus on clear, legal communication — not gimmicks like scramblers or FM CB modes.
Always remember: simplicity equals reliability.
❓ FAQ
Q1: Can I use the RT950 Pro for CB radio?
Yes, but only on FM — which is mostly useless since nearly all CB traffic is on AM or SSB.
Q2: Is Bluetooth programming safe to use?
No. It’s broken and can corrupt your settings. Use the cable or manual entry instead.
Q3: Does it really have 10 watts output?
No. It maxes around 8.5 watts — and that’s on higher frequencies.
Q4: Is it legal to use the scramble feature on GMRS or ham bands?
Absolutely not. Encryption is prohibited by FCC regulations.
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