TIDRadio TD-H3 Review

Seems like there is no shortage of new Amateur Band and GMRS radios out there for sale.  Today we’ll take a look at the TIDRadio TD-H3.  TIDRadio has been around since 2013, however, this is the first one of their radios I have owned.  They are available on Amazon for about $32.  When you see what this radio can do you will recognize that $32 is a STEAL.

This radio follows a trend that I, and many others have noticed.  The consumer wants a radio that can do it all despite any FCC rules or regulations stating otherwise.  The buying public seems to want radios that can be unlocked to do much more than they are certified to do.

And that is pretty much what we have here with the TIDRadio TD-H3.  It should be noted that if you buy the Amateur TD-H3 (HAM) it doesn’t break any rules.  When you buy the TD-H3 (GMRS) version it is also set up for GMRS rules and regs.

It is when the owner unlocks the radio is where the fun begins.  Again, it seems like this is what radio customers want these days.

Initial Observations

The size of the TIDRadio TD-H3 is JUST RIGHT!  It is a bit smaller than most other radios in its class and to me that size is just perfect.  No one wants to lug around a giant radio.  Or even a big radio, for that matter.   The screen looks nice and of particular notice is a USB-C charging port on the battery itself.  I hate cradles.

It also can be programmed several different ways.  Via a programming cable,  via a USB-C cable, or via an application on your smart phone over bluetooth.  That is a feature that has been a long time coming.  Also if you have two radios you can clone the radios wirelessly as well.  Another feature not found in other much more expensive radios.

FCC ID

The TD-H3 (HAM) radio has an FCC ID # of 2A4FBTD831.  The TD-H3 (GMRS) has an FCC ID# of 2A4F8TD831G Before you buy any radio I recommend finding out the FCC ID number and reviewing the testing documents and owners manuals.   Review the documents and make SMART PURCHASES.

Three Modes of Operation

If you hold down the PTT and * button while turning on the radio you will be presented with these three choices:

1. HAM
2. GMRS
3. NORMAL

What is normal, pray tell?  Normal is actually the Unlock setting that allows a larger frequency spread.  For example 2 meter, 70 centimeter, Air Band, FM radio, and GMRS frequencies can all be programmed in when the radio is set to “Normal”.

Speaking of programming, the TD-H3 is compatible with CHIRP.  CHIRP of course, is an open source programming software.

Changing from any of the three modes to another completely wipes the radio clean.  Always ensure to have a backup of the radio from the CPS or from CHIRP software so you don’t lose your configurations.

Should you unlock the radio?  That’s on you.

Features

NOAA

Your mileage may vary here.  When I program an HT it is a double special bonus for me if I can have Air Band and NOAA coverage.   While you can program in NOAA channels manually it does have NOAA preprogrammed however you have to set a hot key up to enable it.  It isn’t set by default.   I did it by downloading data from the radio via CHIRP and going to the Settings tab and setting PF_1 Long Press for Weather.

Air Band

Air Band frequencies are easy enough to program in manually and I set mine up in a scan group so I can hear the local Tower, Ground, Emergency, and nearby military controllers for approach and departure control.  I spent a career in Aviation and I still get a kick out of hearing comms from the airport.

FM Radio

You can listen to FM radio by pressing Menu then holding the #8 button.

In my mind this kind of makes the TIDRadio TD-H3 a good candidate for hiking or being off grid.  It also belongs in the bug out bag, especially considering its small form factor.

Wireless Programming

The TD-H3 has bluetooth which allows you to download an app called ODMASTER to program the radio wirelessly.  I added one Air Band frequency this way and while it is doable………..I am not a fan of this method.  Again, your mileage may vary.  I will admit this is handy if you are somewhere and want to quickly add a channel and don’t have a computer and a cable readily available.

There are a ton of other features but I’ve kind of listed the things that are important to me.

Wireless Cloning

You can clone radios wirelessly so easily it isn’t funny.  This is great for setting up family radios or for work or your favorite club activity.

Should You Buy One?

Yes.  Yes. A resounding yes.  Here we have a radio that will do HAM VHF or UHF or GMRS (or both if you unlock it).  It will also do Air Band, FM radio, and NOAA weather band.  It can be programmed wirelessly.  Also, it can be programmed via a USB C cable and is CHIRP compatible.  And the battery can be charged via USB C.  These are features NOT found in radios that cost a heck of a lot more.

And as a bonus you can buy it in black, green (obnoxious IMO), and crystal (clear).  I like the look of the clear but it costs a few bucks more.

And again, it is SMALL.

This radio deserves a place in your Go Bag or on your HT shelf.  This may become your new favorite HT.