Retevis RB22 Professional DMR Transceiver Review

Upon first glance, Retevis RB22 DMR radio might look like many other DMR radios on the market, but there are some features that set it apart. Here is Radio Geek’s review of the Retevis RB22 professional DMR transceiver.

First Impressions

The most noticeable difference with the RB22 DMR transceiver is a semi-keypad. It offers a step-up in terms of flexibility with its semi-keypad. You can program many settings directly from the device itself. This makes it a good choice for people that require a little more control and customization. It is also a small handheld radio, and the body of the RB22 profile is only 4 inches (10.16 cm) tall, but it has a nice feel and good performance.

Retevis RB22 DMR Transceiver

Durability and Design

The Retevis RB22 handheld radio feels surprisingly durable. Unlike some other radios that might crack or shatter when bumped or dropped, this one feels like it can handle a bit of rough treatment. It’s a solid, business-ready radio that’s not easily damaged when brushed against an object or subjected to minor impacts. In terms of design, it’s compact enough to be portable yet substantial enough to feel solid in your hand. It strikes a balance between size and usability that makes it comfortable for all-day use.

Software and Ease of Use

When it comes to software, the Retevis RB22 DMR radio uses DMR-compatible software that’s very similar to other inexpensive DMR radios. While it might not have a unique interface, this isn't necessarily a negative. A common software platform means that it's well-known and frequently updated, with more users identifying issues and potential fixes. If you’ve used DMR software from another manufacturer, the transition to Retevis’s version will be seamless.

Build Quality

The overall build quality of the RB22 two way radio is robust. The buttons have a satisfying tactile feel, which ensures easy operation. The belt clip is solid and easily replaceable, adding to the radio's overall practicality. This radio doesn’t feel flimsy or cheap, and it’s clear that Retevis put thought into the materials and design for long-term use.

Display and Audio Quality

The display is clear and easy to read. With sufficient pixel density, it offers great visibility for things like channel identification and basic settings. The screen also stays on without dimming, which is useful during extended use. Despite being a small screen, it doesn’t drain the battery as quickly as one might expect.

As for audio, the speaker quality is good—considering its size. While it's not going to rival high-end radios with larger speakers, the sound is more than adequate for typical use. Digital transmissions come through clearly, while analog transmissions may lack a bit of clarity. This is typical for radios in this price range.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the Retevis RB22 DMR transceiver impresses with its solid construction, user-friendly design, and reliable performance. It’s an ideal choice for users who need a dependable, no-frills DMR radio for professional or recreational use. While it may lack some advanced features like a keypad, it offers enough functionality and durability to make it a standout in its class. If you're looking for a practical, well-built handheld radio that performs well in both digital and analog modes, the Retevis RB22 is worth considering.