RadioRanked verdict
Updated Nov 2026Comet SBB-5NMO Dual-Band Mobile vs Midland MXTA25 Ghost Antenna
Our pick
Comet SBB-5NMO Dual-Band Mobile$75.99
The Comet SBB-5NMO is the clear winner for serious dual-band mobile use. The most important differentiator is electrical length: the Comet operates at 0.47 wavelengths on VHF and 1.40 wavelengths on UHF, delivering realistic gain of 3.4 dBi and 5.2 dBi respectively. The Midland Ghost is electrically short at 0.14 wavelengths on GMRS, which compromises performance regardless of any claimed specifications. At 89 mm, it cannot deliver the efficiency of a properly sized antenna.
The Comet's claimed 5.5 dBi gain is supported by its physical length, a legitimate specification. The Ghost makes no gain claim, which is appropriate given its electrical shortcomings. Both antennas report 4.8/5 stars from owners, though the Ghost has more reviews (1199 vs 94), reflecting different market reach rather than performance parity.
Buy the Comet SBB-5NMO if you operate on VHF and UHF and want dual-band coverage with real electrical efficiency. Buy the Midland Ghost only if you need a compact GMRS antenna and accept the performance trade-off for size.
Get the Comet. It delivers measurable electrical performance at a reasonable price, with strong owner feedback behind it.
By use case
Which should you buy?
Car owner wanting stronger 2m and 70cm reach
Its longer electrical length gives better real-world gain on both VHF and UHF from a roof or trunk lip.
SBB-5NMODriver parking in low garages or car washes
Its very short profile clears low clearances, and it gives up range to get there.
MXTA25Budget-focused buyer wanting the lower price
It costs less than the alternative and suits buyers who accept modest range for a lower outlay.
MXTA25Operator working distant 2m repeaters at range edge
Its half-wave VHF and multi-wavelength UHF elements give more reach than a short electrically small whip.
SBB-5NMOGMRS-only operator who never uses 2m
Its GMRS band covers the only frequencies needed, without paying for unused VHF reach.
MXTA25
Reasons to choose Comet SBB-5NMO Dual-Band Mobile
- Also covers VHF (146 MHz)
Reasons to choose Midland MXTA25 Ghost Antenna
- 21% cheaper ($59.99 vs $75.99)
- Also covers GMRS (465 MHz)
- Lower profile by 34.5 in (89 mm vs 965 mm)
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
Comet SBB-5NMO Dual-Band MobilePICK
$75.99 on AmazonMidland MXTA25 Ghost Antenna
$59.99 on AmazonMore head-to-heads