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Should I Choose VHF or UHF?

The Difference Between VHF And UHF And Which You Should Choose

The difference between VHF and UHF and which you should choose. This page explains the difference between VHF and UHF, which are both part of the radio spectrum, and have merit in different use cases.

VHF or UHF... Which Is Better?

UHF and VHF radios cannot speak to each other. If in any doubt, stick with UHF.

The advantage of VHF is that it has a longer wavelength and delivers a better range per watt of energy. However, VHF cannot penetrate solid objects very well and so relies on there being minimal objects in the way and getting the antennas as high as possible, above all buildings and objects, to create near perfect line of sight.

UHF penetrates solid objects much better than VHF. Since we usually use portable two way radios between waist and chest height, we don't have the advantage of height. It's the recommendation of Radiotronics UK to stick to VHF for vehicle only fleets and UHF for fleets with portable and vehicle radios.

More Detailed Information

The wavelength is approximately 2m at VHF and 70cm at UHF.

Lower radio frequencies are better for longer range but only when there are very few objects, usually achieved by height. Positioning the antenna above almost everything else creates line of sight, or at least near line of sight. For example, a typical VHF repeater operating at around 25W and an antenna 25m high can achieve a coverage radius range of 20 miles.

A UHF repeater operating at around 25W and an antenna 25m high would only achieve around 10 miles.

VHF is ideal for vehicles that need a relatively wide range. Because the antennas are on top of the vehicles.

Inversely, UHF having a shorter wavelength, can penetrate solid objects and make it's way through small gaps. Whether using a repeater or not, UHF is always better for radios in built up areas.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should Farms Use VHF or UHF?

If you're having a repeater installed with an antenna mounted high up, VHF is most certainly the best option - especially if you're wanting mobile radios in your vehicles and machines. If there is no repeater and you'll ever need to use your radios inside - even just occasionally, you should choose UHF.

Should a pub, bar or nightclub use VHF or UHF?

Like most buildings, pubs, bars and nightclubs have lots of walls, entrance hall, foyer, office, etc. UHF is best at penetrating solid objects and so UHF would be best for pubs, bars or nightclubs.

Which is better? VHF or UHF?

The rule of thumb is... Typically, VHF for wide area vehicle two way radios with a repeater; UHF for portable two way radios.

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