Marine VHF Radio with GPS and DSC - Retevis RM20 Fixed Mount

In this review the Retevis RM20 is judged as a compact fixed-mount marine VHF radio aimed at recreational boaters who need reliable communication and position sharing without a lot of installation fuss. The single biggest reason to consider the RM20 is its built-in GPS and DSC capability that work out of the box to send and receive position information, including distress and individual calls, making it practical for day boats, fishing boats, and small powerboats where quick setup and clear communication matter.

Key Features

• Built-in GPS and DSC: Ready-to-use DSC calling and automatic position sharing without separate GPS wiring, simplifying emergency and routine communication.
• High-power speaker: Up to 110dB output and support for an external 3.5mm speaker so calls can be heard clearly over wind and engine noise.
• IP67 waterproof: Can withstand being submerged up to 1 meter for 30 minutes, so it tolerates rough conditions and spray on open boats.
• NOAA weather channels: Ten weather channels with audible and visual alerts keep the operator informed of nearby threatening conditions.
• Readable display: A compact unit with a large dot-matrix LCD and clear keypad that remain visible in low light for straightforward operation.
• Aqua Quake draining: Speaker cone vibration clears water from the grille to maintain sound quality after exposure to moisture.

Who It's For

The RM20 is aimed at owners of small recreational boats, fishing boats, and powerboats who want a compact fixed-mount VHF that reduces installation complexity by including GPS and DSC in a single unit. Its loud speaker and external speaker option make it a good fit for vessels operating in windy or noisy environments where hearing calls is essential.

Boaters who need advanced integrated systems, extensive networking, or custom wired integrations with multifunction displays might prefer a higher-end radio designed for complex installations. Likewise, those requiring commercial-grade specifications beyond IP67 submersion resistance should evaluate professional marine comms models.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Built-in GPS and DSC provide fast position sharing and distress capability without extra wiring.
• Very loud speaker (up to 110dB) and external speaker support improve audibility on noisy boats.
• IP67 waterproof rating and Aqua Quake help keep the unit working after exposure to water.
• NOAA weather channels with alerts add a practical safety layer for coastal navigation.

Cons

• Sound quality impressions are mixed among users, so some owners may opt to add a louder external speaker for best results.
• The compact feature set may not satisfy users who want advanced integrations with other shipboard electronics.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The Retevis RM20 is a practical value choice for recreational boaters who want reliable VHF communications with built-in GPS and DSC and minimal installation hassle. Its loud speaker, NOAA weather alerts, and IP67 protection make it well suited to day boats and fishing boats; users who prioritize integrated marine networking or top-tier audio may choose to add external speakers or look at higher-end models.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the RM20 need a separate GPS for DSC?
No. The unit includes a built-in GPS so DSC calls and position sharing work out of the box without additional GPS wiring.

Is the radio waterproof enough for open boat use?
Yes. The RM20 meets IP67 standards, meaning it can be submerged to 1 meter for up to 30 minutes and resists spray and rough sea conditions.

Can I improve loudness if needed?
Yes. The radio supports an external 3.5mm speaker and you can connect a louder speaker if the built-in 110dB output does not meet your needs.