Uniden MHS338BT Floating, Handheld Marine VHF Radio, 6-Watts, GPS and Bluetooth
Quick take
The Uniden MHS338BT is a float-ready, IPX8-rated handheld marine VHF built for practical on-water communication, with 6-watt transmit power, integrated GPS features, NOAA weather alerts, and Bluetooth support for app-based setup and text messaging on compatible radios. Buyers generally like the audio clarity, feature set, and ease of use. The main buying caveat is that some users report GPS reception and effective range can be hit-or-miss, and battery life may not feel ideal for long, no-charge stretches.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Rugged, IPX8 submersible design that is meant to float, with an emergency strobe and flashlight.
- 6-watt transmit power plus adjustable power levels for added flexibility on the water.
- Integrated GPS functionality, NOAA weather alerts, and FM radio for staying informed.
- Loud, clear audio and generally straightforward operation (buyers often mention it is easy to use).
Cons
- Buyer feedback is mixed on effective range and GPS “spotty” performance in some situations.
- Some buyers feel the extra features can be more “gimmicky” if your primary goal is simply a solid backup hand-held for hailing.
What buyers think
Buyer-review evidence is limited but does show a few consistent themes. Many comments highlight strong audio quality and ease of operation, with users appreciating that key features like GPS and DSC capability are useful beyond basic VHF calling. Several buyers also mention value and that the radio works well as a practical secondary handheld on boats with installed radios. Overall, the reviews suggest the MHS338BT can be a solid handheld companion, but it may not be the best pick for anyone expecting it to function as their only, all-day primary VHF without charging support.
Key features that matter on the water
Rugged floating design with emergency light
The MHS338BT is built to handle real marine conditions, with an IPX8 water-resistance rating and a design intended to float. It also includes a water-activated emergency strobe and flashlight, plus MOB (man overboard) behavior intended to help you stay oriented during an incident.
6-watt transmit power with adjustable levels
With 6-watt transmit power, this handheld is designed for maximum communication range compared to lower-power handhelds. It also offers high, medium, and low power choices (1.0 W, 2.5 W, and 6.0 W), which can help you balance reach and battery use depending on how far you need to talk.
GPS, DSC support, and weather alerts
Integrated GPS supports a Favorite Position mode that lets you save your current position and manually enter other locations. It also supports NOAA weather alerts, so you can keep an eye on conditions without switching devices. The radio also supports DSC (including International Class D standards for handheld GPS/VHF marine transceivers), which is important if you want modern distress and watch capabilities.
Bluetooth for app setup and VHF text messaging
Bluetooth support allows you to use Uniden’s smartphone app (iOS and Android) to help set up the radio. It also supports text messaging to other VHF text-capable radios and gives a pathway to enter certain DSC-related directory information.
Pros and cons in plain terms
Who this handheld VHF is best for
- Sailors and boaters who want a reliable handheld backup that can keep you in contact even when you are away from a fixed console radio.
- People who value emergency awareness, specifically the water-activated strobe and flashlight features plus the float-ready, IPX8-rated build.
- Buyers who want GPS-enhanced features (Favorite Position and DSC/GPS capability) without giving up the convenience of handheld calling.
Who should consider other options
- Long-trip cruisers who cannot reliably charge onboard, since battery life feedback is not consistently “great” for all-day operation.
- Buyers whose top priority is maximum effective range and consistent GPS reception, because at least one review reports disappointing range and GPS behavior even in open areas.
- Anyone looking for a simple, no-frills hail-only radio, since some users feel the feature set may be more than they need if they only plan to use it for basic communication.
Using it day to day
Buyers frequently describe the MHS338BT as easy to operate, with audio that comes through clearly. Practical conveniences include a backlit LCD with brightness settings and noise canceling for received and transmitted audio, which can help in noisy cockpit or deck environments. Dual and triple watch options can be useful if you like monitoring multiple channels, including distress/hailing channels and a weather channel alongside a regular marine channel.
Price and availability
If you are considering the Uniden MHS338BT, check current pricing and shipping options here: Buy on Amazon.
Verdict: is the Uniden MHS338BT worth it?
The Uniden MHS338BT is a compelling handheld marine VHF for boaters who want rugged, float-ready design and emergency lighting, plus GPS and modern DSC capabilities in a compact form. It also earns points for clear audio and generally simple operation. However, if your plan is to rely on one handheld as your only VHF for long periods without charging, or if you expect consistently strong GPS and maximum-range performance in every situation, consider comparing alternatives or adding a charging solution before you commit.
FAQ
Does the Uniden MHS338BT float and have emergency lighting?
Yes. It is rated IPX8 submersible and is designed to float. It includes water-activated emergency strobe light and flashlight, plus MOB functionality for man overboard situations.
How much transmit power does it have?
It transmits at up to 6 watts, with selectable power levels of 1.0W, 2.5W, and 6.0W.
What GPS features does the radio include?
It includes integrated GPS with a Favorite Position mode, which lets you save your current position and enter other positions manually.
Does it support Bluetooth?
Yes. It is Bluetooth-capable for use with a smartphone app on iOS and Android, and it can support VHF text messaging on compatible radios.
Is it a good choice as a backup radio?
For many buyers, yes. Reviews frequently frame it as a practical backup handheld, especially on boats that already have fixed radios. The included safety features and clear audio are the standouts.
What are the main reasons someone might not like it?
Some users report concerns about effective range and GPS reception consistency, and battery life may feel only “OK” for longer stretches without charging. If that matters to your boating style, compare against other handheld or ensure you have a charging plan.
Specifications
| Product Title | Uniden MHS338BT Floating, Handheld Marine VHF Radio, 6-Watts, GPS and Bluetooth, Submersible IPX8, Emergency Strobe & Flashlight, NOAA Weather Alerts, FM Radio, Chargeing Cradle & Li-ion Battery. |
|---|---|
| Category | Electronics > Car & Vehicle Electronics > Marine Electronics > Marine Two-Way Radios |
| Brand | Uniden |
| Manufacturer | Uniden |
| Model Number | MHS338BT |
| Color | Black |
| Item Weight | 10.6 Ounces |
| Product Dimensions | 1.5"D x 2.52"W x 4.6"H |
| Number of Channels | 25 |
| Additional Features | GPS, Integrated Flaslight, Noise Reduction, Rechargable, Submersible, Weather Alert |
| Frequency Range | 156.000 to 162.025 MHz |
| Talking Range Maximum | 5 Mile |
| Voltage | 12 Volts |
| Water Resistance Level | Waterproof |
| Number of Batteries | 1 Product Specific batteries required. (included) |
| Compatible Devices | iPhone |
| Tuner Type | VHF |
| Connectivity Protocol | Bluetooth |
| Item Dimensions D x W x H | 1.5"D x 2.52"W x 4.6"H |
| Waterproof Rating | IPX8 |
| Built-In Media | VHF Radio, Charging Cradle, Lion Battery, Belt Clip, Wrist Strap, documents |
| Unit Count | 1.0 Count |
| UPC | 050633502013 |
| Mfr Part Number | MHS338BT |
| Item Type Name | Great Product |
| Warranty Description | 3 year limited warranty |
| Special Feature | GPS, Integrated Flaslight, Noise Reduction, Rechargable, Submersible, Weather Alert |
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