Comet SBB-5NMO Dual-Band Mobile vs Comet SS-460SBNMO Dual-Band Mobile

The SBB-5NMO wins for dual-band performance, but it depends on your priorities.

The single most important difference is electrical length on VHF. The SBB-5NMO operates at 0.47 wavelengths (half wave) on 146 MHz, delivering realistic 3.4 dBi. The SS-460SBNMO is severely compromised at only 0.23 wavelengths (quarter wave), yielding just 1.6 dBi on VHF. That's a gap of 1.8 dB in actual performance where it matters most for typical FM repeater work. On UHF, both are respectable: the SBB-5NMO at 1.40 wavelengths gives 5.2 dBi versus the SS-460SBNMO's 0.68 wavelengths at 4.9 dBi, a marginal difference. The SBB-5NMO's claimed 5.5 dBi aligns with its length; the SS-460SBNMO's 3.8 dBi claim is honest but still underpowered on VHF.

The SBB-5NMO suits operators who prioritize VHF repeater access and mobile ragchewing. The SS-460SBNMO works for UHF-primary use or tight spaces where its shorter profile matters. Buy the SBB-5NMO if VHF is your main band; owners report 4.8 out of 5 and it simply performs better where most amateurs operate.