10 Best Baofeng Handheld Ham Radios 2025 in the United States

The Baofeng UV-5R 20-pack is a versatile set of handheld ham radios, ideal for groups needing reliable communication over medium distances, such as farms, security teams, or event staff. It supports both VHF and UHF frequency bands, which covers a wide range of channels and makes it compatible with many communication setups. With up to 128 memory channels and features like adjustable squelch, CTCSS/DCS codes, and an emergency SOS alarm, it offers good flexibility for customizing and managing communication.

The radios include a clear LCD display with backlight and user-friendly functions like voice prompts and scan mode, helping users navigate settings easily. Battery life is powered by 1800mAh rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, which should be sufficient for typical daily use but might require recharging during extended outings. One drawback is the radios are not water-resistant, so they need to be protected from rain or wet conditions.

The package includes all necessary accessories like earpieces, chargers, belt clips, and straps, making it convenient to deploy right away. Not designed for the toughest environments, these radios still provide a solid choice for groups needing affordable, easy-to-use ham radios with good channel capacity and essential extras, offering long-range capability of up to around 5 km.

The BAOFENG UV-5RM is a solid choice for anyone looking for a versatile handheld ham radio that covers a wide frequency range including VHF, UHF, FM, AM, and NOAA channels. Its upgraded 10W power output, combined with a long high-gain antenna, supports stable communications up to around 10 miles under ideal conditions, which is great for outdoor activities like hiking or camping. The included 2500mAh battery with USB Type-C charging offers decent battery life, suitable for day-long use, though heavy users might want spare batteries for extended outings.

This model features a clear 1.8-inch color display that makes reading frequencies and settings easier compared to older models with monochrome screens. It supports a large memory of 999 channels, making it convenient to store and quickly switch between frequencies. The one-click frequency copy and scanning functions simplify setup, particularly helpful for users new to ham radios or in situations where quick channel access is important.

Durability is enhanced by a water-repellent design, though it isn’t fully waterproof, so some care around moisture is advised. The package comes with hand microphones, earpieces, and belt clips, which add to ease of use and privacy during conversations. The radio offers many features like VOX, DTMF, and power-on password protection, though using some advanced functions may require a bit of learning. The BAOFENG UV-5RM delivers good power, extensive frequency support, and user-friendly features at a reasonable price, making it well-suited for outdoor enthusiasts, amateur radio hobbyists, and those needing reliable two-way communication in various environments. Beginners may appreciate the simple frequency copy feature, but some patience might be needed to fully master all its capabilities.

The Baofeng GT-5R is a solid choice for individuals looking for a legal and compliant handheld ham radio, especially beginners who have recently earned their ham technician license. It operates on dual bands (144-148MHz and 420-450MHz), allowing for decent communication range with a maximum talking distance of about 8 miles, which can be extended when using repeaters. Its 128 memory channels provide ample space for storing frequencies, making it user-friendly for new operators.

The included six-way charger and programming cable are excellent additions, ensuring that users can keep their devices charged and easily program them either manually or via PC using CHIRP software. The battery life is quite impressive, given that it comes with rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, making it practical for extended use.

Durability is a concern as this model is not water-resistant, which could limit its usability in harsher outdoor conditions. While the display is straightforward, it may lack some advanced features that more experienced users might desire. The range of additional features like VOX, MONI, and SCAN is beneficial, but some users might find the interface a bit basic compared to higher-end models. For those who do not need ruggedness, the Baofeng GT-5R is a great entry-level option. Its compliance with FCC regulations makes it a safe pick for new ham operators, providing peace of mind in legal operation. Just remember that to use this radio, you will need the appropriate license. The GT-5R offers a good balance of functionality and convenience for casual users and newcomers to ham radio communication.