A Beginner’s Guide to Mics, Headsets, and Connectors for GMRS, HAM, and FRS Radios
Introduction
You’ve got the radio. You’re ready to add a speaker mic, headset, or earpiece.
Then comes the frustration:
“Why doesn’t this plug fit my radio?”
Welcome to one of the most confusing parts of radio gear: accessory connectors.
This guide breaks down the most common radio plug types, which radios use them, and how to choose the right accessories without wasting money or breaking your gear.
Why Connector Types Matter
Unlike phones or laptops, there’s no universal standard for radio accessory ports.
Different brands — and even different models within the same brand — use different connector types for:
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Speaker microphones
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Surveillance-style earpieces
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Programming cables
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Push-to-talk (PTT) headsets
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Tactical headsets with boom mics
Using the wrong plug? It won’t work — or worse, it’ll short out your radio.
The Most Common Radio Accessory Connector Types
Kenwood 2-Pin (K1 / K Plug)
| Details |
|---|
| Most common connector for handheld GMRS and HAM radios |
| Two separate pins — one larger, one smaller |
| Also called: Kenwood K1, Baofeng plug, TYT plug |
Used by:
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Baofeng UV-5R
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Wouxun KG-935G / KG-UV8H
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Retevis RT21, RT76P
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Midland X-Talker series (some models)
Best for: Budget radios, universal compatibility with tons of accessories
Motorola Single-Pin
| Details |
|---|
| One thick pin with a recessed notch |
| Used on many older or commercial Motorola FRS/GMRS radios |
Used by:
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Motorola Talkabout series (T200, T600, etc.)
-
Some commercial Motorola business radios
Note: Not compatible with Kenwood 2-pin accessories.
Motorola Multi-Pin / M7
| Details |
|---|
| Flat connector with multiple metal contacts |
| Used on Motorola commercial radios (XPR, CP, APX series) |
Used by:
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Motorola XPR 6550, APX 4000, CP200D
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Law enforcement, business, EMS-grade radios
Not beginner friendly — avoid unless you’re using pro-level gear.
Midland Dual-Pin (Type G)
| Details |
|---|
| Looks similar to Kenwood, but pins are spaced differently |
| Used exclusively on many Midland GMRS models |
Used by:
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Midland GXT and LXT series
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Midland MXT275, MXT400, MXT500
Important: Kenwood K1 mics will not fit Midland radios without an adapter.
ICOM 2-Pin / Screw-Lock
| Details |
|---|
| Two-pin plug with screw-lock for secure fit |
| Found on Icom VHF/UHF handhelds |
Used by:
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Icom IC-F series
-
Icom marine handhelds
Good for: Marine or commercial applications
Yaesu / Vertex Single-Pin or Multi-Pin
| Details |
|---|
| Varies by model — some use Kenwood-compatible ports, others do not |
| Some models use 4-conductor TRRS-style jacks |
Used by:
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Yaesu FT-4XR (uses K1-style)
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Yaesu VX-6R (proprietary)
-
Vertex radios (varies)
Check your exact model before buying accessories for Yaesu or Vertex.
How to Identify Your Radio’s Port Type
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Check your manual — it often lists “accessory port” type or pinout
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Look up your model on the manufacturer’s site
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Use radio-specific retailers — many label accessories by model compatibility
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Avoid “universal” accessories unless clearly labeled
Adapters: The Shortcut Solution
If you already have a favorite accessory but it doesn’t fit your new radio, look for an adapter.
| Adapter Type | Converts... |
|---|---|
| Kenwood K1 to Midland G | Use standard accessories on Midland radios |
| Motorola 1-Pin to Kenwood 2-Pin | Use common mics on Talkabout-style radios |
| K1 to 3.5mm headset | Use earbuds or tactical headsets with PTT |
Tip: Keep a couple adapters in your bag to make gear cross-compatible in emergencies.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right accessory connector might seem like a small detail — but get it wrong, and nothing works.
Before you buy:
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Know your radio's exact port type
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Match it to compatible accessories
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Consider a few adapters if you run mixed gear
With the right setup, your radio becomes more useful, more comfortable, and more mission-ready.