Comparison
Mag mount vs NMO roof mount
Budget mobile antenna mounting vs professional permanent install — ground plane and longevity.
Bottom line: Mag mount on steel roof for trial installs; NMO when you have committed to the vehicle or emcomm role.
| Magnetic mount | NMO roof mount | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | ~$35–50 antenna+mag | ~$25 mount + antenna + drill/install |
| Install | Minutes | Permanent; professional preferred |
| Ground | Needs steel; strap on composite | Best ground on steel roof center |
| Theft/weather | Easy remove; less ideal long-term | Secure; fleet standard |
| Best for | Trial mobile, rental, budget | ARES/SKYWARN vehicle, daily driver |
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