Retevis RM20 Marine VHF Radio Fixed Mount, 25W, Boat Marine Radio with Built in GPS, DSC, IP67 Waterproof, NOAA Weather, International Channels
Quick take
The Retevis RM20 is a fixed-mount marine VHF radio (25W) designed for clearer, louder audio on deck, with external speaker support and IP67 waterproofing. It pairs built-in GPS with DSC so you can handle distress and position-sharing without separate GPS wiring. The main caveat is that reported reliability issues exist in buyer feedback, so consider your mounting setup and plan for troubleshooting if anything goes wrong.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Built for noisy boats, with high-output audio rated up to 110dB and 25W power.
- DSC plus built-in GPS, helping simplify DSC setup and position sharing.
- Weather-ready design with IP67 waterproofing for rough handling at sea.
- Flexible audio via support for an external 3.5mm speaker.
- Includes key marine functions like NOAA weather and both distress and individual DSC calling.
Cons
- Reliability reports are mixed, including feedback about units failing after a relatively short period.
- Best fit for fixed-mount installs, not handheld use cases.
What buyers think
Buyer-review evidence is mixed, but a few themes show up that matter for marine VHF shopping. Several buyers describe strong initial performance and good sound, including fit for smaller installation spaces and loud, usable audio. Durability experiences vary, with some units continuing working well for a couple of years, while other feedback reports the radio becoming non-functional after light use. There is also at least one positive note about responsive support after troubleshooting, suggesting the company may help when issues arise, though outcomes can differ.
What the retevis RM20 is for
The RM20 is aimed at boaters who want a fixed-mount VHF that can handle everyday conditions at sea, including wind and deck noise. With 25W output and a loudspeaker designed for high-volume listening, it suits common recreational and fishing/power-boat setups where you are trying to hear hails clearly. The built-in GPS and DSC feature set targets buyers who want distress calling and position-sharing without adding an external GPS module.
Key features that affect day-to-day use
Loud audio (and external speaker options)
For many buyers, VHF “usability” is mostly about whether you can hear calls over noise. The RM20 is marketed with high-output speaker performance rated up to 110dB. It also supports an external speaker through a 3.5mm audio jack, which is useful if your mounting location has sound-shadowing or if you typically operate in louder areas of the boat.
DSC with built-in GPS, designed to reduce wiring
DSC can be a big upgrade for VHF safety and convenience, but it only helps if it is set up correctly. The RM20 integrates GPS into the radio so DSC calling and position sharing can be performed without routing a separate GPS feed to the VHF. DSC support includes distress calling as well as individual calling with position information exchange between boats.
Ruggedness for real-world marine exposure
The radio is rated IP67 waterproof, meaning it is intended to stand up to heavy exposure and accidental splashes. This can matter for fixed installations on open decks or areas where spray is common.
Marine radio basics: weather and channel support
The RM20 includes NOAA weather and supports marine VHF operation in the 156-174 MHz range, with 88 channels. For buyers making the jump from older radios, these are the core expectations that help keep daily hails and weather checks straightforward.
Installation and compatibility considerations
Because the RM20 is a fixed-mount transceiver, it is best suited for permanent installs where you can connect it to a 13V DC power source. It ships with a mounting bracket and includes a handheld microphone. If you plan to route audio to a different speaker location, confirm you have access for the external speaker connection (3.5mm audio jack) and consider cable routing where the mic cord will experience movement or sun exposure.
Pros and cons summary (who it fits best)
Best for
- Boaters who want a loud 25W fixed-mount VHF for noisy conditions.
- Anyone who values DSC distress and position sharing and prefers built-in GPS to reduce extra wiring.
- Shoppers seeking IP67-rated waterproofing for spray-prone or wet locations.
- Installers open to adding an external speaker if the main location is not ideal.
Who should think twice
- Buyers who are highly sensitive to reliability risk, given mixed feedback that includes premature failures.
- People mounting under conditions that could stress the microphone cord over time, such as areas with frequent movement, heat, or direct sun.
- Anyone needing a handheld-only solution, since this is a fixed-mount design.
Price and availability
The RM20 is positioned as a mid-to-upper priced option compared to entry marine radios, and its listing includes notes about limited stock availability at times. If you are comparing overall value, weigh the features you want most (DSC with built-in GPS, external speaker support, IP67) against the reliability tradeoff reflected in buyer experiences.
Verdict
The Retevis RM20 makes a strong case for boaters who prioritize loud, clear communications, DSC convenience with built-in GPS, and IP67 waterproofing. If your setup is a fixed-mount install and you can plan solid cable routing, it can be a practical choice for everyday VHF use. Just keep reliability in mind, because buyer feedback includes both longer-running success and shorter-term failures.
FAQ
Does the retevis RM20 have built-in GPS for DSC?
Yes. The RM20 includes built-in GPS, which is intended to simplify DSC setup for distress and position sharing without needing an external GPS connection.
Is the RM20 waterproof?
It is rated IP67 waterproof, designed to handle immersion and heavy exposure (up to the rating conditions) for rough marine environments.
Can I connect an external speaker to the RM20?
Yes. The radio supports an external speaker through a 3.5mm audio jack, which can help if you need more volume or different speaker placement.
What marine band and channel coverage does it support?
The RM20 operates on the VHF marine band in the 156-174 MHz range and supports 88 channels.
Is this radio suitable for all boats?
It is designed as a fixed-mount VHF for recreational and power-boat style installs. It is not a handheld model, so it is best when you want a permanent transceiver installation.
What should I watch for during installation?
Pay attention to power connections (13V DC) and cable routing, especially the handheld microphone cord, since poor routing can lead to wear over time in some mounting locations.
What are the main downsides buyers mention?
While many buyers report good performance, some feedback includes premature failures and, in one case, microphone cord brittleness after extended use in a t-top area. Reliability can vary by installation and conditions, so it is worth planning for troubleshooting if needed.
Specifications
| Product Title | Retevis RM20 Marine VHF Radio Fixed Mount, 25W, Boat Marine Radio with Built in GPS, DSC, IP67 Waterproof, NOAA Weather, International Channels, Ship to Shore Radio for Boats, Black |
|---|---|
| Category | Electronics > Car & Vehicle Electronics > Marine Electronics > Marine Two-Way Radios |
| Brand | Retevis |
| Manufacturer | Retevis |
| Model Number | RM20 |
| Color | Black |
| Item Weight | 1296 Grams |
| Product Dimensions | 4.06"D x 9.8"W x 9.33"H |
| Number of Channels | 88 |
| Additional Features | Support External Speaker |
| Frequency Range | 156-174 MHz |
| Voltage | 13 Volts (DC) |
| Water Resistance Level | Waterproof |
| Compatible Devices | External speakers with 3.5mm audio jack, VHF radios and devices on 156-174 MHz frequency band |
| Tuner Type | VHF |
| Connectivity Protocol | DSC |
| Item Dimensions D x W x H | 4.06"D x 9.8"W x 9.33"H |
| Waterproof Rating | IP67 |
| Built-In Media | 1 x DC Power Cable, 1 x Handheld Microphone, 1 x Mounting Bracket, 1 x Retevis RM20 Marine Transceiver, User Manual |
| Unit Count | 1.0 Count |
| Mfr Part Number | B0B5SV9JVY_CA NARF |
| Warranty Description | We provide 2 year support and 30 days no reason to return;2 year support for radio body and 1 year support for accessories. Beyond the support period: We still offer maintain service, buyers are required to afford corresponding costs |
| Special Feature | Support External Speaker |
| Included Components | 1 x DC Power Cable, 1 x Handheld Microphone, 1 x Mounting Bracket, 1 x Retevis RM20 Marine Transceiver, User Manual 1 x DC Power Cable, 1 x Handheld Microphone, 1 x Mounting Bracket, 1 x Retevis RM20 Marine Transceiver, User Manual See more |
Available variants
Set Name
- 1 Pack with Handheld Marine Radio
- 1 Pack Only
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