There is no question that Wouxun has become a leader in the production of high quality, professional grade GMRS radios. These premium products do come at a higher price, and given these inflationary times, maintaining a balance between quality and affordability of comms is becoming a topic of concern. Now there is a new radio that offers both. Introducing the Wouxun KG-S65G GMRS Portable Handheld Radio!
The KG-S65G is a versatile and budget-conscious option for those seeking reliable communication without breaking the bank. Designed with the key features necessary for effective operations on the GMRS, the KG-S65G offers a balance of functionality, durability, and ease of use for casual users and experienced GMRS operators alike.
Core Functions
The KG-S65G supports all 30 GMRS channels, including 8 built-in repeater channels, making it capable of handling typical GMRS communication needs. For users interested in longer distance communication through repeaters, the included repeater channels are a welcome feature, enabling extended range. It can also store a total of 400 memory channels, allowing you to add customized channels for even greater versatility. These channels can easily be created either through programming software or directly from the radio itself.
The KG-S65G provides up to 5 watts of transmit power with three selectable power levels. While some other Wouxun radios such as the KG-935G Plus or KG-Q10G may offer a bit more, the KG-S65G provides enough wattage for everyday use without the added complexity or cost of the higher-end models. Considering the fact that wattage alone isn't the most the most important consideration for a handheld radio when it comes to range, the power comparisons between these models is somewhat moot anyway. Suffice it to say, the KG-S65G is capable of standing on its own.
The core function of any radio is its ability to transmit and receive, and the KG-S65G does exactly that. When you consider that everything else beyond those capabilities is a bonus, it's easier to appreciate what a remarkable piece of technology this radio is. Let's explore what makes this portable handheld radio a premium value for the price.
Built-in Weather Radio Mode
The KG-S65G has a weather radio baked right in. While this is somewhat standard on many GMRS radios today, what makes the S65G stand out is the addition of four types of customizable weather alert notifications that can be configured to fit your needs or preferences. First introduced in the KG-935G Plus, it remains a valuable tool for outdoor enthusiasts or users in areas prone to sudden weather shifts, helping them stay informed about potential weather changes.
Standard Features with Premium Options
Of course, the KG-S65G supports the same CTCSS tones and DCS codes that are standard on all the Wouxun radios, as well as other features such as split CTCSS/DCS tone support, favorite channels, channel scan and priority scan. Then there are the usual things like the monitor, alarm, SOS and stopwatch. You'll also find many other standard features, including a descrambler, reverse frequency, talkaround and VOX, if that's something you really need. A few of these aren't found on many other GMRS radios, and certainly not on the consumer models, but on a Wouxun branded radio, they are generally expected, so here they are.
There is one additional feature that is brand new to GMRS, and included as a standard function with the introduction of this radio. The KG-S65G features a frequency counter. When activated, the frequency counter can detect radio signals nearby, along with any CTCSS tone or DCS code that is transmitted with them. This feature is very easy to enable and use, yet adds powerful functionality that is somewhat unique for a GMRS portable handheld.
Advanced Features
While it doesn't boast the feature-packed spec sheet of higher end models like the KG-S88G, KG-935G Plus and KG-Q10G, the KG-S65G includes some notable additions for those looking for a little extra control over their communications. Features like CTCSS/DCS tone scanning and DTMF encode/decode give users options for more advanced communications setups. The DTMF capability in particular allows for even more advanced features, such as group call, all call, select call and remote operations such as stun, kill, monitor and inspect.
But these are still somewhat standard, even on a few low priced competitors. What really sets the KG-S65G apart as a premium, low cost GMRS transceiver are the more advanced features that are exclusive to the high end Wouxun radios.
Channel Wizard
Yes, it's back, and part of the standard KG-S65G package. The Channel Wizard allows you to quickly and easily program a new channel or modify an existing one direct from the keypad of the radio. First introduced in the KG-935G Plus, The Channel Wizard is now one of the most popular features of Wouxun GMRS radios, and for many users who program their radios on the fly, nearly indispensible.
Dual Menus
The KG-S65G has so many features, in fact, that it has two menus to access and configure them all. The Area Menu includes menu options and settings that are only applied directly to or otherwise affect the functionality of each individual channel. It is accessed with a short press of the MENU key.
The System Menu contains the menu settings that manage or affect the operation of the radio. These including options for configuring power management, display preferences, and other system-level functions. It is accessed with a long, two second press of the MENU key.
Customizable Full Color Display
One of the more premium attribures of the KG-S65G is its full-color LCD display. The screen offers 10 colorful pre-set theme options from which to choose. But that's just a start. With the programming software, you can create up to four completely customizable color themes from a palette with millions of colors. You can also customize the display message with up to 8 alphanumeric characters. Utilizing the WORKMODE option, you can choose to show the channel name, number, or frequency, making it easier to identify active channels at a glance. In short, you can customize almost every aspect of the display to your personal preference.
Programmable Keys
While the customizable display adds a bit of personality to the radio, the full customization potential of the KG-S65G doesn't end there. Many of its controls are also configurable. To put it into perspective, The KG-S65G has a 6-key keypad, two side keys and a top key. What makes this so powerful is that out of the nine total buttons on this radio, over one half of them are programmable!
Each of the 5 programmable keys can perform two separate functions, one on a short press and another on a long press of each key. This gives the keys a total of ten programmable functions. And then there are the functions themselves. There are 19 different, powerful functions that can be assigned to these keys, and any two of them can be assigned to any one of those buttons. You can even assign the same function to one or more keys if you want. With so many possible configurations, each KG-S65G can become a unique radio of its own, personalized for its individual user. This radio may have few keys, but what it can do with them is truly impressive.
More Than a Radio
As a side note, the KG-S65G goes beyond being just a tool for short range communications. It includes a built-in flashlight. Once a rarity for radios, having a flashlight embedded in a transceiver is now quite common, and as it turns out, there are practical reasons to have one. It's a useful tool for low-light conditions, making the KG-S65G a perfect radio for camping, night hikes, group activities, family outings, or even during power outages.
USB-C Charging
Gone are the days of the traditional drop-in desktop charger with the proprietary AC charging cable. The KG-S65G is equipped with a built-in USB-C charging port. This is especially handy for users who may already have devices that use USB-C and prefer the simplicity of carrying fewer chargers. This convenience means you can charge the radio in your car, using a power bank, or at home with ease.
It is important to note that although the KG-S65G can still be charged using the old method, Wouxun has eliminated the desktop charger from the package and replaced it with a USB-C cable and USB to AC adapter. If you still prefer the old method, the CHA-034 drop-in charger is available as an optional accessory.
The USB-C charging port makes it easy to charge using common cables, reducing the need for specialized equipment. This is especially handy for users who may already have devices that use USB-C and prefer the simplicity of carrying fewer chargers.
Durability Meets Versatility
Wouxun radios are generally known for their solid construction, and the KG-S65G is no exception. It's rated IP55 for dust and water ingress, meaning it offers decent protection against splashes and dirt. While this rating does not make the KG-S65G fully dust or waterproof, it adds a layer of durability for general outdoor use or light work environments where occasional exposure to rain or dust is possible.
Compact and Lightweight
This radio may be durable, but that doesn't mean it has to be big and bulky. And it isn't. Measuring just 4.53 × 2.14 × 1.36 inches and weighing a mere 8.4 ounces, the KG-S65G is extremely compact, lightweight, and easy to carry. It fits comfortably in your hand, in a small bag or even in a pocket, ensuring you have reliable communications wherever you go without feeling weighed down. Its lightweight design makes it easy to carry during long hikes or day trips, offering a decent combination of portability and functionality without adding bulk.
Accessories
One of the advantages of the KG-S65G radio is its compatibility with so many accessories. As a compact cousin to other radios in the S-Series, it's fully compatible with the same battery and desktop charger used by the KG-S72C, KG-S74A, KG-S84B, KG-S86B and KG-S88G radio. If you already own one of those models, the KG-S65G will fit right into your fleet. It also uses the same 2-pin Kenwood (K1) style audio connector as the other models, so you can mix and match earpieces, headsets and speaker microphones to your heart's delight. And yes, you can use the same Wouxun PCO-001 programming cable, too. It doesn't get much more compatible than that.
The Wouxun KG-S65G offers a robust suite of features at a budget friendly price that make it a top contender in the GMRS marketplace. It is a certainly a viable option for those looking to enter the world of GMRS or for users who want a versatile and reliable two-way radio without paying for advanced features they may not need. It’s not the most powerful or feature-packed radio in the Wouxun lineup, but it does deliver an optimal combination of core functions and premium extras at a price point that makes it a good value.
If you’re in need of a durable, easy-to-use GMRS radio with essential features, the Wouxun KG-S65G offers a reasonable balance of performance and affordability. It's well-suited for general communications, family use, outdoor activities, and weather monitoring, providing users with a reliable option for staying connected. It's available from Buy Two Way Radios in your choice of blue, yellow or grey. Price: $79.99.