Feature

Winner

Notes

Display

BCD396XT

Bearcat has a far more informative display.

Digital Decode

PSR500 / PRO106

GRE still decodes digital better than Uniden, especially on Simulcast systems.

Analog Audio

PSR500 / PRO106

Louder audio from a larger speaker.

Ease of Use

PSR500 / PRO106

Once the radio is programmed the GRE is easier to use, and it is easier to add channels on the fly.

Ease of Programming

BCD396XT

Even with the Multi-Function Knob instead of more buttons the Uniden is more straightforward once you learn how. It is way more complicated now to add a new system than it was to reprogram a Bank on older scanners however.

Sensitivity

PSR500 / PRO106

The GRE is more sensitive than the Uniden but can be prone to interference in high RF areas.

Selectivity

BCD396XT

The BCD396XT is less prone to interference in high RF areas.

Susceptibility to overload

BCD396XT

The BCD396XT is less prone to intermod and adjacent channel interference, especially in high RF areas.

Better Strategic Radio

BCD396XT

If you are traveling and can plan ahead the BCD396XT allows fast access to preprogrammed systems via the Quick Keys and Start Up Keys. While it takes planning, once you get the radio programmed up it is easy to switch from set-up to set-up. The GRE’s V-Scanner works well, but it takes time to program and deploy the various V-Scanners, and only one can be active at a time.

Better Tactical Radio

PSR500 / PRO106

The larger size and more extensive keyboard makes it easier to change things on the fly, once you understand the programming method.

Object Oriented vs. DMA

Tie

This depends on personal preference. The GRE Object Oriented format and the Uniden DMA perform the same goal in different ways.

Close Call vs. Signal Stalker

PSR500 / PRO106

GRE and Uniden go about in different ways to accomplish the same goal. The GRE picks up weaker signals than the Uniden but often these might not be of interest. Due to the difference in methods use the Uniden will pick up signals faster than the GRE, but the GRE will not be blocked as much as the Uniden would in strong signal areas. While it is a matter of personal opinion, we definitely prefer the Uniden method.

Overall Size

BCD396XT

Uniden’s compact size wins out over the bulky GRE.

Belt Clip

BCD396XT

The GRE’s belt clip is flimsy and fixed, The Uniden allows the radio to rotate. We suggest however that you use a protective case and remove the clip altogether and make the issue a tie.

Battery Life

Tie

We found very similar results from both radios. While the GRE has 4 AA cells, it apparently draws more power, which makes the battery life pretty much equal.

Overall Feature Set

BCD396XT

With Fire Tone Out, GPS and Site Trunking the BCD396XT beats out the GRE.

Best for a Novice

Tie

Coming in fresh with no previous reference, new users could learn either method, although expect a very significant learning curve that sometimes can be frustrating. Novices have to learn both a solid understanding of how advanced trunking and digital radio systems work plus an understanding of how to program and operate these scanners. It's going to be a challenge either way, but a very rewarding and enjoyable life-long experience in the end. (Buying software and/or having Scanner Master pre-program the scanner for the user's area will save a tremendous amount of time in this process though and will help lessen the learning curve for either radio.)

Best for a Pro

BCD396XT

Easier to convert from Banks and Channels to DMA than Object Oriented Scanning.

Best Construction

BCD396XT

The Uniden has a better “fit and finish”.

Best Overall Operation and Design

PSR500 / PRO106

GRE's individual volume/squelch controls are easier to use and more of the programming can be done with the keyboard directly.