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-5R 8W handheld ham radios come in a pack of 10, making them ideal for groups like school teams or event management needing reliable communication devices. They cover both VHF and UHF frequency bands, providing flexibility for different communication needs. With 8 watts of power, these radios can reach up to about 8 kilometers under good conditions, which is decent for outdoor or team use, though not meant for extreme long-range communication. The 1800mAh batteries offer moderate battery life suitable for day-long use, and the radios include a power saver mode to extend usage.

The radios have 128 programmable memory channels allowing users to store many frequencies, which is a plus for versatility. The display is a simple LCD with adjustable backlight colors, making it easy to read in various lighting conditions. The interface provides several useful functions like VOX (hands-free talk), scanning channels, dual watch, and emergency SOS alerts, enhancing safety and convenience.

In terms of durability, these radios are lightweight but not water-resistant, so they require care in wet or harsh environments. The package includes headsets, chargers, belt clips, and straps, which adds good value and convenience when equipping a team. Some drawbacks include limited water protection and potentially complex initial programming for users unfamiliar with ham radios. However, the radios offer solid performance and features at a budget-friendly price point, making them a strong choice for beginners or groups needing multiple units for reliable short to mid-range communication.

The BAOFENG UV-25 Tri-Power Ham Radio is designed for ham radio enthusiasts and those needing reliable communication over long distances. With its 10W power output, users can expect solid signal strength and better penetration through obstacles, making it suitable for various environments. The broad frequency range allows for versatile usage across multiple bands, which is beneficial for both casual users and seasoned operators who require flexibility in communication channels.

One of its significant advantages is the long-lasting 5200mAh battery, ensuring extended use without frequent recharging. This is particularly useful during emergencies or outdoor activities where charging options may be limited. The user-friendly design, including large buttons and an easy-to-navigate interface, makes it accessible for beginners, while experienced users will appreciate the one-touch frequency search and programming compatibility with CHIRP.

In terms of weight, at nearly 5 pounds, it may not be the most portable option for all users, especially if they're looking for something light and easy to carry on long hikes. Yet, for those who prioritize power and functionality over weight, this radio could be an excellent fit.