RadioRanked verdict
Updated Aug 2026Midland MXTA25 Ghost Antenna vs Retevis Heavy-Duty Fiberglass GMRS Mobile
Our pick
Retevis Heavy-Duty Fiberglass GMRS Mobile$69.59
The Retevis Heavy-Duty Fiberglass is the clear winner for GMRS mobile use.
The critical difference is electrical length. The Midland Ghost at 0.14 wavelengths is electrically short and severely compromised, delivering realistic performance around negative gain. The Retevis at 1.90 wavelengths is a proper multi-wavelength design with realistic gain of 6.3 dBi, closely matching its claimed 6.5 dBi specification. This translates to meaningfully better transmission and reception in real-world operation.
The Ghost sacrifices performance for compact mounting, which only makes sense if you absolutely cannot fit a longer antenna. Its 89 mm length is genuinely convenient, but that convenience costs you roughly 7 dB of performance compared to the Retevis. The $20 price difference is negligible against that performance gap.
Buy the Midland Ghost only if vehicle or mounting constraints absolutely demand a short antenna. Buy the Retevis Heavy-Duty Fiberglass if you want functional GMRS mobile performance, which is the case for most users.
Get the Retevis. It's properly engineered for the job and priced reasonably for what you're getting.
By use case
Which should you buy?
Operator prioritizing low profile and minimal obstruction
Its short, rigid design ensures it clears vehicle obstacles in tight spots.
MXTA25Off-road or overlanding rigs needing maximum range
The extended length provides superior signal reach for distant repeaters and coverage.
Retevis Heavy-Duty Fiberglass GMRS MobileBudget-conscious buyer seeking the best value whip
At a lower price point, it offers adequate performance for basic GMRS use.
MXTA25Semi-permanent base station or fixed vehicle install
Its substantial size and rigidity are ideal for stable, high-performance mounting locations.
Retevis Heavy-Duty Fiberglass GMRS MobileDaily commuter in low-clearance parking garages
The compact form factor is crucial for navigating underground or covered lots safely.
MXTA25Operator focused on maximizing signal strength and reach
Its significantly longer electrical length provides superior RF performance and coverage.
Retevis Heavy-Duty Fiberglass GMRS Mobile
Reasons to choose Midland MXTA25 Ghost Antenna
- 14% cheaper ($59.98 vs $69.59)
- Lower profile by 44.7 in (89 mm vs 1224 mm)
Reasons to choose Retevis Heavy-Duty Fiberglass GMRS Mobile
- Stronger on GMRS (6.3 dBi vs -0.9 dBi at 465 MHz)
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
Midland MXTA25 Ghost Antenna
$59.98 on AmazonRetevis Heavy-Duty Fiberglass GMRS MobilePICK
$69.59 on AmazonMore head-to-heads