Great report Danny
If I may add another observation that I made between the two brands that you mentioned,
The older Cobra model that I have has a lower charging current setting then my newer Midland model. Although the initial charge time is a few hours longer for the Cobra, the charge may be left on continually without damage to the batteries according to the manufacture unlike that of the Midland that recommend removing the charge after the charge time has elapsed.
Another feature that I like about the Cobra is the memory. Aside from the intended use of the ten memories, all settings will remain even if the batteries are removed from the units for an extended time. With the Cobra units even if the units are run dead, as soon as the recharge is compleated, ALL settings remain as they were.
That memory feature is not on the Midlands so whenever the power is removed from the unit, even momentarily, every setting must be re-programmed again.