TYT MD-UV390 Plus 10W GPS Digital Two Way Radio - AES256 Secured

In this review the TYT MD-UV390 Plus is examined for users who need a rugged, high-power DMR radio with location reporting and strong encryption. The bottom line: this GPS version of the UV-390 Plus targets professional and enthusiast radio users who require reliable 10W transmit power, waterproof IP67 durability, and AES256 encryption for secure communications, making it a practical choice where range, digital clarity, and data security matter most.

Key Features

• 10W Output: High transmit power extends coverage and improves signal penetration in challenging environments compared with lower-power handhelds.
• GPS Version: Built-in GPS provides location data for tracking and coordination during field operations or group deployments.
• IP67 Waterproof: The waterproof and dustproof enclosure protects the radio in wet or dusty conditions for reliable outdoor use.
• AES256 Encryption: Strong encryption can be set via programming software to protect voice and text traffic from interception.
• Dual Mode Digital/Analog: Operates in both digital DMR and traditional analog modes to ease migration and maintain compatibility.
• ETSITS 102 361 Compatibility: Complies with DMR digital protocol and is compatible with MotoTRBO Tier 1 and 2 networks for broader interoperability.

Who It's For

The MD-UV390 Plus is aimed at professionals, amateur radio operators, and small teams that need a durable, secure handheld for wide-area communications and occasional GPS tracking. Its 10W power and IP67 rating suit outdoor work, search and rescue, event coordination, and security teams who prioritize range and ruggedness.

Casual users who only need short-range, lightweight radios or those who prefer an integrated accessory ecosystem may find this unit heavier and more feature-rich than necessary. If battery runtime is the top priority, check battery capacity and consider spare batteries since the unit comes with a 2200mAh pack.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Strong 10W transmit power boosts usable range for outdoor and obstructed environments.
• Built-in GPS adds location tracking without extra hardware for coordinated teams.
• IP67 rating gives confidence in wet and dusty conditions during field use.
• AES256 encryption and digital mode provide clearer voice and secure communications.

Cons

• The 2200mAh battery is adequate but may require spares for long shifts at high power.
• Programming requires the specific software for this GPS 10W model, which differs from the 5W versions and can be an extra setup step.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The TYT MD-UV390 Plus GPS 10W radio is a strong choice for users who need robust range, digital clarity, and secured communications in the field. Its IP67 build and AES256 encryption make it good value for professional or serious amateur use, provided buyers plan for spare battery capacity and the model-specific programming software.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this model include GPS?
Yes, this is the GPS version and includes built-in GPS for location reporting and tracking.

Can I use analog repeaters with it?
Yes, the radio operates in both digital DMR and analog modes to maintain compatibility with analog repeaters.

Is the programming cable compatible with other TYT models?
The programming cable is the same as used by MD-UV380 and MD-UV390 models, but the software for the GPS 10W version differs from the 5W software.