20 Best Handheld Ham Radios Of 2018

20 Best Handheld Ham Radios Of 2018

If you are in the market for a ham radio to use as a hobby, it will surely bring you hours of education, socializing and fun. If you are looking to purchase one to use during times of disaster, it will be your number one companion when disaster strikes. Whatever reason you are looking for a ham radio, we have taken the time to round up a list of the best handheld ham radios on the market.

 

Why Use Ham Radios?

If you aren’t an audiophile, then you may be wondering ‘why use ham radios in today’s modern age?’

Well, there are several reasons people still use ham radios. Of course, it’s a hobby for many people, but there are many other reasons:

• In the event of natural disasters such as a hurricane, earthquake or tsunami, when phones are out of service, ham radios will still work.
• Handheld ham radios are great for camping in remote areas where phones don’t work.
• Besides the joy of having a non-failing communication device, handheld ham radios are known lifesavers in case of emergencies.
• Handheld ham radios are great for hiking in areas where phones don’t work or would get damaged easily.
• It’s a good way to escape the modern gadgets while still staying in touch. Yep, handheld ham radios are a fun way to communicate while staying away from smartphones and the internet.

Having showed you all the benefits of ham radios, let look at the best handheld ham radios out there.

 

 

How To Choose The Best Handheld Ham Radio

Before we go on to the list of the best handheld ham radios on the market, let’s explain the critera we used to choose the best ham radios out there. When searching for best handheld ham radios, you will find that there are several makes and models on the market to choose from.

Ham radios not only come in different designs, but offer a variety of different features as well. Having said that, the ham radio you choose should depend on what you are looking for. Are you looking for a very long range ham radio or are you looking for a ham radio with a very long battery life? Think about these things before purchasing. This is why we have chosen to present the best handheld ham radios in different categories.

Regardless of what you are looking for, we have put together a list of the best handheld ham radios on the market. Take your time to go through the list and find the best handheld radio that suits your requirements.

 

1. Yaesu FT-60R Handheld Ham Radio

The Yaesu FT-60R handheld ham radio is the best handheld ham radio for hiking and camping. In fact, it is possibly the best handheld ham radio for survival.

This water-resistant portable ham radio features a plastic frame and a sturdy aluminium case that won’t crack easily when you drop it.

The battery life is also very good for those long days in the woods, with a single charge lasting for about 3-4 days.

This ham radio is inexpensive, yet it is one of the best handheld ham radios on the market offering 5 watts of raw power and comes with an audio alarm to notify you when the battery is low.

More importantly, the Yaesu FT-60R can receive about 1000 memory channels. In addition to that, its receiver has a wide coverage.

It also comes with a password feature to restrict unauthorized access and a backlit keypad to go with the alphanumeric display.

Pros

• Well-built, solid design
• Inexpensive price
• Excellent battery life
• Water-resistant casing

Cons

• The stock antenna could be a little better
• The volume knob is awkwardly positioned.

 

 

2. BaoFeng BF-F8HP Handheld Ham Radio

With a custom design that offers convenience and a delightful user experience, the BaoFeng BF-F8HP is a big step up from the UV-5R. The all-new state-of-the-art chipset comes with more transmission power, offering 6 watts on UHF and 7.4 watts on VHF.

This handheld ham radio has a 2000 mAh battery that allows you to enjoy listening to the built-in FM radio and still have enough power to last for a whole day.

The BaoFeng BF-F8HP offers 128 programmable memory channels. You can add or remove channels from the scanning list as you please using the free computer software.

This ham radio also comes with a flashlight and a handy manual to guide you through the customization options and its capabilities.

Pros

• A lot of power in a handheld device
• Compatible with all accessories used for the BaoFeng UV-5R
• Affordable price
• Great audio quality
• Built-in FM-radio and flashlight
• Bright and customizable 3 color display

Cons

• You need to download some information from a CD to the radio
• No water resistant cover

 

 

3. Baofeng Black UV-5R V2+ Handheld Ham Radio

The BaoFeng’s unique approach to making high-quality ham radios is evident in the UV-5R V2+. It is easily one of the best handheld ham radios on the market.

This handheld ham radio comes with a multiband FM transceiver that has huge frequency coverage and can support two-way communications. It also comes with a tough metallic casing that ensures its internal parts are well-protected if you drop it.

Another great feature that comes with the BaoFeng UV-5R V2+ is the all-new advanced auto-band detection that eliminates the need to use the band button. It also comes with a two-color LED screen that offers a high-quality display.

All these high-tech features and durability gives it unmatched superiority among its competitors.

Pros

• Advanced auto-band detection
• High-quality display
• Durable

Cons

• Only 2 frequency ranges
• Can’t access some stations without authorization

 

 

4. Baofeng-UV5RA Handheld Ham Radio

The UV5RA-Ham from Baofeng is a basic low-cost two-way ham radio that supports dual reception and perception.

Its power reaches up to 5 watts, and it offers a range of other delightful features at a low budget.

These extra features include a battery save function, a selectable frequency, built-in flashlight and key lock.

With the Baofeng-UV5RA-Ham, you can enjoy regular FM broadcasts, through special VHF receive band.

The casing is solid and you can detach the antenna.

Besides that, you will be impressed by the high-quality screen display that allows you to see the graphics from any angle. The keyboard is also easy to use.

Pros

• Its solid casing makes it very durable
• Great service at a budget price
• Largely simple to use
• 2-way communication

Cons

• It can be hard to program
• Not suitable for communication over long distances

 

 

5. Baofeng UV-82X Handheld Ham Radio

As a revamped version of the successful BaoFeng UV-5, the UV-82X is an awesome addition to this manufacturer’s line of radios. This handheld ham radio comes with a dual band transceiver and a LCD panel to display the menu.

The body is built with a heavy-duty plastic material that can withstand rough conditions and make the radio last for a very long time.

The BaoFeng UV-82X features a 1800 mAH rechargeable battery that lasts for about 3 days after charging. This ham radio comes with a built-in voice- operated transmit that gives you fantastic hands-free operation.

It also comes with an FM broadcast station, and you can still monitor other radio frequencies in the background.

Pros

• Has over 220 channels
• FM broadcast radio station
• Affordable price
• The antenna easily picks up the signals

Cons

• This handheld radio can be a little heavy
• Manual programming can be a bit tricky

 

 

6. Yaesu VX-8DR Handheld Ham Radio

If you are a survivalist looking for a ham radio that will help you in case of a disaster, the Yaesu VX-8DR is the one. This is really the best handheld ham radio for using during those tough times.

This handheld ham radio has an armored shell around it, allowing it to withstand a heavy impact. Its body is waterproof, and it features an optional GPS antenna add-on that will guide you to safety, in case of a catastrophic event.

Designed to be the perfect communication tool for a survivalist, the Yaesu VX-8DR has a wide frequency range. It can also pick up public service channels, AM/FM stations, audio aircraft and analog TV stations, as well as short-wave frequencies.

The best part is that you only need one hand to operate it, with the exception of a few commands.

Pros

• Integrated compass display
• One hand operation
• Extra-tough shell to survive disasters
• Built-in environmental sensors to monitor temperature and pressure

Cons

• The user manual is bulky and time-consuming to read.

 

 

7. TYT MD-380 Handheld Ham Radio

Although it’s TYT’s first DMR digital handheld ham radio, we have found that the MD-380 is one of the best handheld ham radios on the market. Kudos to them!

It is a two-way portable radio which comes with a revolutionary LCD display and a unique DTMF keypad.

This high-resolution display gives you high-tech graphics and clear text messaging. This handheld ham radio has the capability to receive about 1000 channels and is very easy to use.

As you can tell, the TYT MD-380 has a lot of great features, and they are available at a fraction of the price of its competitors. The audio quality is fantastic and you can program the radio using the keyboard.

These high-tech features are offered at a very attractive price.

Pros

• The antenna uses SMA connection
• Well-built body
• Excellent audio quality and volume
• Attractive price

Cons

• Needs a software polish
• No Bluetooth connectivity
• The desktop charger takes too long to charge the radio

 

 

8. Baofeng Yellow BF-F9 V2+ Handheld Ham Radio

As one of the most impressive handheld ham radios from Baofeng and one of the best handheld ham radios on the market, the Yellow BF-F9 V2+ comes with 8 watts of transmission power.

It has an extended frequency range like the BaoFeng UV-82 and it offers a whole lot of other features. This includes a tri-color LCD display and a noise reduction feature that comes with the new chipset.

With an automatic scanning feature, the BaoFeng Yellow BF-F9 V2+ allows you to scan for a particular frequency and channel easily.

More importantly, this lightweight radio comes with a handy keypad lock feature that helps you avoid pressing the keys accidentally.

The BF-F9 V2+ can accommodate about 128 channels and it comes with a dual reception feature that lets the radio work with two different frequencies.

Pros

• Can be used a repeater
• Powerful 3800 mAH rechargeable battery
• Rugged and durable construction
• Simple to use and install

Cons

• Manual programming can be a bit challenging

 

 

9. Midland GXT1000VP4 Handheld Ham Radio

The GXT1000P4-2 is one of the finest ham radios from Midland and one of the best handheld ham radios on the market. This device offers a two-way radio communication system.

This system has a wide coverage area, reaching up to 36 miles (50 kilometers) in open fields. Aside from the normal 22 communication channels, this handheld ham radio comes with 28 more channels.

The Midland GXT1000VP4 comes with a standard rechargeable battery that gives you 2-3 days of battery life, but you can also use 4 regular AA batteries.

Apart from that, it comes with an automatic scan feature that displays all the available channels on a LCD display.

This handheld ham radio is suitable for treasure hunting, trekking, camping and other outdoor activities.

Pros

• Lightweight and easy to carry
• Excellent signal reception
• Superb audio quality
• The build quality is perfect for rough usage

Cons

• Heavy battery drain after several years
• The VOX button needs a little improvement
• Too many controls

 

 

10. Wouxun KG-UV8D Handheld Ham Radio

The Wouxun KG-UV8D is a nice dual band ham radio that will fit well in your arms, giving you a comfortable feel. This top of the line radio is powered by a 7.4V 2600mAH rechargeable battery that lasts for about 12 hours, while in use.

The unit also comes with a battery saver feature to increase the efficiency of the battery, allowing it to last longer.

Wouxun has designed the KG-UV8D to look quite cool (cool for a ham radio), allowing it look as good as it functions.

This ham radio comes with a big LCD display, a hands-free operation feature and a high illumination flashlight.

Other great features include 999 programmable memory channels, stopwatch, removable antenna, and a user manual.

Pros

• Easy to program
• Big screen LCD display with nice graphics
• Dual capability
• Cross band repeat

Cons

• The manual could be a little better
• Low output transmit audio
• The display can be a bit annoying during sunny days

 

 

11. Baofeng UV-5R Handheld Ham Radio

As one of the finest and most popular ham radios from BaoFeng, the UV-5R has a maximum power output of about 8 watts and a 700mw speaker output.

This unit loads up a lot of great features in a strong and lightweight handset, making it easy to use and carry around.

Asides from having an ergonomic design, the BaoFeng UV-5R rocks a rechargeable Li-ion battery, lasting for 2-3 days after charging.

This device has a nice coverage area, with the antenna transmitting within a 7 miles range.  Finally, it comes with a small LED flashlight that can be used in case of emergencies.

Pros

• Excellent frequency range
• High-definition 2-color LED display
• Inbuilt speaker and microphone
• Great frequency range
• Extremely strong and durable

Cons

• Manual programming can be a pain
• Scanning could be better
• No PPT lockout function

 

 

12. Wouxun KG-UV6D Handheld Ham Radio

If you are looking for a ham radio that gives you great features at an affordable price, the Wouxun KG-UV6D is your best bet. Its one of the best handheld ham radios on the market, that is relatively inexpensive.

This dual-band radio features 199 memory channels, an LCD display, and a backlit keypad. The radio also includes a voice prompt feature that allows you to enjoy a hands-free operation.

With a strong and water-resistant body, the Wuoxun KG-UV6D is excellent for camping and all sorts of outdoor activities. The radio also features a high illumination flashlight, FM radio, battery meter and a keypad lock to prevent changing the settings accidentally.

The power saver feature included comes in handy when trying to maintain long battery life (there is a battery-meter as well as a low battery alert).

Pros

• Audible button beeps
• Customizable display options
• Hands-free operation using the VOX feature
• Backlit keyboard and LCD display

Cons

• Scanning speed is a bit slow
• Modifying an existing entry can be a bit hectic

 

 

13. Yaesu Original VX-6R Handheld Ham Radio

The Yaesu Original VX-6R is one of the finest handheld ham radios that features several beneficial features. This tri-band radio is waterproof and perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and climbing.

It has an emergency function that will convey your call signal on a UHF channel.

When it comes to functionality, the Yaesu Original VX-6R features 1000 memory channels. This gadget mainly transmits 430 MHz as well as 144.220, while the receiver gets 0.5-999MHz.

More importantly, it comes with a good speaker and a readable screen display. This small unit also has a great power output (5 watts) and an excellent airband scanner.

Pros

• Waterproof
• Great power range selection
• Emergency automatic ID
• Password lock feature
• 1000 memory channels

Cons

• Long alpha tags (six letter tags)
• Manual programming can be a pain
• Poor quality belt clip

 

 

14. BaoFeng BF-888S Handheld Ham Radio

The BaoFeng BF-888S is a full-featured handheld radio that has a coverage range of up to 6km on open ground. This two-way unit comes with a high-quality antenna, charger and a user manual. The rugged construction gives the radio a very attractive look.

Its exterior is made of dense moulded plastic to make it durable.

Aside from having a great construction and a comfortable design, the BaoFeng BF-888S has a 1500mAH Li-ion battery that gives you a full day’s worth of charge. Even better, it takes only 3 to 4 hours to recharge the battery.

The sound is crystal clear and you can enjoy a broadcasting range of about 2 miles under optimum conditions. You can also boost the range by installing a higher quality antenna.

Pros

• Fantastic sound quality
• Compact and comfortable design
• Great broadcasting range
• FM radio reception after you reprogram

Cons

• Not compatible with other FRS radios
• No automatic beep or alert after transmission

 

 

15. TYT UV8000E Handheld Ham Radio

The TYT UV8000E is one of the best handheld ham radios on the market, with a maximum transmission distance of about 6km.

This unit not only comes at an affordable price, but it also includes a whole range of unique features that many of its competitors don’t have. That includes a cross-band repeater function, dual display, and 128 channels.

This radio offers a tri-color background light which you can customize to suit your taste. The emergency alarm function also comes in handy in case of a disaster. Its 3600 mAH battery lasts about 2 days.

It also includes a VOX transmitting function, FM radio, hands-free scanning and reverse frequency function.

Pros

• Can store up to 25 radio channels
• Pocket-friendly price
• Tri-color background light
• Cross-band repeater function
• Easy to use

Cons

• Tends to overheat while on use
• Bulky user manual

 

 

16. Hesenate HT-UV8R Handheld Ham Radio

Built with a very classic design, the Hesenate HT-UV8R is an upgrade version of the HT-UV5R and it comes with more advanced features. The upgrades make the HT-UV8R best handheld ham radios out there right now. This small ham radio is easy to hold.

Moreover, it comes with a belt clip as well as a hand strap. The unit also comes with an 1800 mAH battery that lasts for about 2-3 days, without the need for a recharge.

The Hesenate HT-UV8R is a great two-way radio that comes in three power levels, with the maximum being about 8watts. This tri-power radio comes with a nice dual display and an attractive keypad that makes it easy to use.

The HT-UV8R also features a flashlight, mic and a high-tech speaker.

Pros

• Long lasting battery life
• 8watt high power output
• Excellent display
• Dual-band antenna
• Small and strong build

Cons

• Programming can be difficult

 

 

17. Btech GMRS-V1 GMRS Two-Way Handheld Ham Radio

The Btech GMRS-V1 is a top quality ham radio that features a tri-color adjustable display and a superb dual watch receiver. That means that the GMRS-V1 can monitor two different frequencies, giving priority to the one that receives a call.

You can also listen to an FM broadcast station, while still ensuring that you don’t miss an incoming call. With these features, it has earned its place on this list of the best handheld ham radios out there.

For those who like having a lot of information about a specific channel, the Btech GMRS-V1 is just what you need. You can easily synchronize the displays and configure them to show the frequency and channel name.

Finding a new channel is also very simple and you can add or remove the ones you don’t like from the list.

Pros

• Easy to add channels
• FM radio broadcast
• High-quality belt clip and wrist strap
• Can monitor two channels simultaneously

Cons

• No programmed NOAA channels
• GMRS locked to 23 channel locations
• Slow scanning

 

 

18. Amcrest ATR-22 Baofeng Two-Way Handheld Ham Radio

The Amcrest ATR-22 BaoFeng is a two-way radio and a handheld receiver that gives you excellent service in different climatic conditions. This 16-channel radio comes with a high-tech Li-ion battery that lasts for about 12-24 hours.

The unit also features a built-in LED flashlight that will help you survive in the dark.

Boasting an ergonomic design, the Amcrest ATR-22 Baofeng is easy to hold and use for a long duration. Its sturdy design allows it to withstand roughness, bumps and scratches.

All these features will comfortably meet your personal and professional needs at a very friendly price.

Pros

• Automatic battery saver function
• Hands-off monitoring while scanning
• Bright flashlight
• High pitch Emergency alarm/ siren
• Multiple color options

Cons

• No screen display
• You need a programming cable

 

 

19. BaoFeng UV-82HP Handheld Ham Radio

The BaoFeng UV-82HP is a great update of its predecessor, the UV-82 model. This unit retains the original rugged design of its predecessor and comes with a whole lot of improved features to make the user experience much better.

With these upgrades, the UV-82Hp is worthy of this list of the best handheld ham radios available. That includes a 7watt transmission power, 12hour battery life and an improved antenna for good reception.

With the UV-82HP, you can listen to FM radio, while your favourite repeater is idle. Like other BoaFeng products, this lightweight ham radio comes with a nice LCD display and a backlit keyboard that makes it easy to use at any time.

The unit also comes with a power saving feature all at an affordable price.

Pros

• Excellent battery life
• Rugged construction
• High-quality antenna
• Simple keypad buttons
• FM radio reception
• Superb receiver sensitivity

Cons

• No clock
• Doesn’t come with a USB programming cable

 

 

20. BaoFeng UV-82L Two Way Handheld Ham Radio

As one of the latest products from BaoFeng, the UV-82L two-way radio comes with a nice circuit-design, anti-inference ability, and strong stability.

This fine ham radio features a high-tech SMP speaker that delivers perfect audio quality, similar to major brands like Motorola. Its performance is as good as the design and you won’t be disappointed with the way it feels on your arm.

The BaoFeng UV-82L two-way radio comes with a dual push-to-talk button and a 18cm booster antenna supporting a longer distance of coverage.

It is also very stable when it comes to receiving signals, and comes with two signal indicators, one for sending and the other for receiving. The unit also comes with an LED flashlight and a large LCD display.

Pros

• Manually programmable
• Large 2-line LCD display
• 128 memory channels
• FM radio reception
• 1800mAH rechargeable battery

Cons

• Boring user manual

 

 

Bottom Line:

There you have it, the best handheld ham radios on the market. Though buying a handheld ham radio can be a little tricky, you can easily find one that you will truly appreciate. All you need to do is to ensure that the device suits your needs ranging from the design to the coverage range. After going through the list, we hope you found the best handheld ham radio for your own needs – one that offers beneficial features that you will enjoy.

The post 20 Best Handheld Ham Radios Of 2018 appeared first on Boom Speaker.

https://ift.tt/2Hog1ud