Midland MXT 575 v. MXT 275

Hi there,

Looking to add coms to my truck and am torn between the two. Apart from the MXT 575 being 50w and the 275 being 15w, is there any real difference? More importantly, I am somebody who doesn't do a whole lot of technical off-roading but instead likes to get deep in the backcountry of Colorado to get away from the masses. Would the more powered radio be a better option or will the 275 at more than half the price be suitable?

Basically, should I spend more money for something that may not matter to me and my situation.

As always, thanks.

 

I got my 275 before the 575 came out and it's good, but if the 575 was available i would definitely gone that way since i travel alone. More power more range, but the antenna is equal in importance. I think the 575 has more repeater options?

You will also need a GMRS license for ether.

 

That is a really good point. Most of my overlanding is either alone or with my kids who are aged 7 and 10. Having the extra wattage to cover a larger area in the event of an emergency is a very good selling point. I know the unit is a bit larger than the 275 and I was hoping to mount it under the dash someplace. I do not think the 575 will fit under the dash, so maybe the glovebox.

I would be running the Midland Ghost antenna which would probably be placed on my Ditch light bracket on the passenger side. I have read in reviews that the Ghost antenna is quite powerful.

Thanks for the help in making my decision. Spending the extra money for the wider range is certainly worth it, in particular my scenario.

 

I have MXT275 powered off cigarette lighter / 12v circular port. (I have wire tap behind the dash)

For MXT575 I doubt that is enough, I might be able to run a wire directly from the battery.

 

Then i would definitely go 575 being alone. Just keep in mind range is still limited by terrain.

I have the Ghost antenna for my daily antenna or hilly terrain (its okay). But for range i have the Midland MXTA26 6DB gain whip antenna which has much much further reach. The mount i have on the roof for maximum range in all directions. Read this about antennas: https://www.daywireless.com/blog/2019/03/30/to-gain-or-not-to-gainthat-is-the-antenna-question/

 

Yeah, I agree. Most of what I have seen is that the 575 has to be wired to the battery.

 

Though i have the 275 i would think placement for the 575 would be just as good here: