What are the differences between RT97 and RT97S GMRS repeater?

Retevis RT97 and Retevis RT97S are two different GMRS repeater models of Retevis. They are both GMRS repeaters. RT97 is the oldest model and was launched in 2018. RT97S is an upgraded GMRS repeater model based on RT97. It was 2021. As both are GMRS repeaters, you must want to know the differences between them before buying.

What are the differences between RT97 and RT97S GMRS repeaters?

We will explain the difference between Retevis RT97 and RT97S GMRS repeaters in terms of function, appearance size, weight, etc.

The first is the function, which is usually the most concern for customers. Although Retevis RT97 and RT97S GMRS repeater use the same programming software, there are still differences in their functions. The main difference between RT97S and RT97 is that RT97S has an extra DB-9 Female connector for adding an external controller for linking purposes, mainly for ham use. We can borrow that RT97S repeater is an upgraded version of RT97, adding a DB9 interface for networking.

For ordinary families and groups, such as building a mountaintop repeater or a family GMRS repeater, the RT97 GMRS repeater is the most cost-effective choice. Because if there is no need for exploration and plans for networking, then BD9 is just a decoration and will increase the budget.

The second is the motherboard. If you have dismantled the RT97 repeater and the RT97S repeater, you will find that the color of their motherboard is different. The RT97 is green, while the RT97S is blue. This is because of the need to add DB9 to the RT97S. In terms of power or performance, circuit layout, etc.they are almost exactly the same, it is difficult to say which is better.

retevis RT97S GMRS repeater inside

retevis rt97 gmrs repeater inside

Third, the weight and size. The Retevis RT97S GMRS repeater uses the Retevis RT97P DMR Repeater face shell, which is the same as the RT97P DMR Repeater Shell Mold， so their size is the same, the size of the RT97S is 280×210 ×75mm, while RT97 GMRS repeater is 260*210*70mm, RT97S GMRS repeater is slightly larger in size. at the same time, the weight of the RT97S is slightly different from that of the RT97S, but the overall effect is not great.

The above is the difference between RT97S and RT97 GMRS repeater. For the choice, the key is whether you really need a DB-9 connector. If you need, choose Retevis RT97S GMRS repeater, otherwise RT97 is the best.

After knowing the difference between Retevis RT97 and RT97S GMRS repeaters, what they have in common is also very attractive. They are all GMRS repeaters, have the same factory settings, and use the same programming software. If you build a GMRS repeater, you need the same accessories. The ones that are suitable for RT97 are also suitable for RT97S GMRS repeater. Of course, Because of their similarities, It also makes people want to know more about their differences, to clarify their choices.

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