Uniden
Uniden UM385 Waterproof VHF Marine Radio
Best fixed-mount radio for recreational boaters prioritizing safety and reliable communication.
Stay connected and safe on the water with the Uniden UM385 Fixed Mount VHF Marine Radio. This versatile radio covers all USA, International, and Canadian marine channels, ensuring clear communication wherever you sail. It features advanced DSC capabilities for distress and position reporting, enhancing maritime safety. Easily monitor your favorite channels with Memory Channel Scan and Triple/Dual Watch. The UM385 offers NMEA 0183 connectivity for navigation data and boasts an IPX4/JIS4 waterproof rating for reliable performance in wet conditions. Enjoy intuitive operation with its backlit display and receive timely weather alerts with S.A.M.E. functionality.
$147.51
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Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
105
/ 178
#105 in Marine Radios
Price vs Category Average
-70%
Below average
Power Output
25
/ W
Who it's for
- Safety-conscious boaters needing reliable emergency communication tools
- Coastal sailors operating in wet or spray-heavy environments
- Night navigators requiring high-visibility channel monitoring
Who should skip it
- Boaters seeking a simple plug-and-play GPS installation
- Captains operating in loud or high-wind cockpit environments
- Owners with modern NMEA 2000 marine electronics networks
Performance breakdown
Communication Range
Standard 25-watt output provides reliable signal strength for coastal and inland navigation.
Safety Integration
Advanced DSC and S.A.M.E. weather alerts provide essential, life-saving maritime data.
Waterproof Durability
JIS4 rating ensures the unit withstands splashes and heavy spray reliably.
Interface Usability
Backlit display and intuitive keypad make operation simple in low-light conditions.
Navigation Connectivity
NMEA 0183 support allows for seamless integration with existing onboard GPS systems.
Mounting Versatility
Fixed flush-mount design offers a clean, professional look for any helm.
Key Specs
Power Output
25 W
Waterproof Rating
IPX4 JIS4
Connectivity
NMEA 0183 In/Out
Channels Supported
3
Radio Type
Fixed Mount Marine Radio
Compatibility
Uniden MRN-GPSK GPS Receiver
Emergency Features
DSC (Digital Selective Calling), Distress, Individual, Urgency, Safety calling, Position Report and Send, DSC test call
Battery Capacity
1 Ah
Features
- Covers all USA, International, and Canadian marine channels
- Advanced DSC for distress and position reporting
- Monitors multiple channels with Triple/Dual Watch
- Supports NMEA 0183 navigation data exchange
- Intuitive operation with backlit keypad and display
- Includes localized S.A.M.E. Weather Alert functionality
- Robust IPX4/JIS4 waterproof protection for marine use
- Quick access to favorite frequencies via Memory Scan
What customers say
The Uniden UM385 VHF Marine Radio earns high praise for its excellent value and reliability. Users consistently report superior audio clarity for both transmission and reception, even amid loud marine noise. Its straightforward installation and user friendly interface make it accessible for all boaters. The large, clear LCD display ensures visibility day or night. Key safety features like DSC capability provide significant peace of mind. Reviewers feel this radio delivers performance matching much pricier models, positioning the UM385 as an essential, high performing, and affordable piece of marine communication equipment.
Know before you buy
Yes, the Uniden UM385 is designed to cover all USA, International, and Canadian marine channels, making it suitable for a wide range of sailing locations.
An IPX4/JIS4 rating means the radio is protected against splashing water from any angle. While it is built for marine environments, it should not be submerged.
Yes, the UM385 features NMEA 0183 connectivity, which allows it to exchange navigation data with compatible GPS devices, such as the Uniden MRN-GPSK.
These modes allow you to monitor your selected channel while simultaneously keeping an eye on emergency or calling channels like Channel 16. It ensures you never miss a critical transmission while maintaining your primary conversation.
Yes, it includes S.A.M.E. (Specific Area Message Encoding) weather alert functionality. This allows you to receive localized NOAA weather alerts for your specific area rather than general regional broadcasts.
DSC is a vital safety feature that allows you to send automated distress signals with your exact position to the Coast Guard or other nearby vessels. It also enables individual, urgency, and safety calling for more efficient communication.
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