10 Best Baofeng Radios 2026 in the United States

The BAOFENG UV-5RM is a solid choice for those looking for a versatile, affordable ham radio set, especially because this package includes two radios and plenty of accessories. It covers a broad frequency range of 136-512 MHz, supporting VHF, UHF, AM, and NOAA weather bands, which means it can handle most common ham radio communication and weather updates effectively. With 10 watts of power output, it offers good transmission strength that can reach up to 15 miles under ideal conditions, suitable for casual to moderately serious outdoor or emergency use.

Battery life is decent thanks to the included 2500mAh rechargeable batteries and multiple charging options like USB-C, which is convenient for charging through various devices including power banks and car chargers. The radios feature a large, 1.77-inch color screen and 999 programmable channels, making it easier to customize and store your preferred frequencies. The one-key frequency copy function and compatibility with CHIRP software simplify programming, which might otherwise be complex for beginners.

In terms of durability, while the radios come with tactical foldable antennas and solid build quality, they are not water-resistant, so extra care is needed in wet conditions. The included speaker microphone helps reduce background noise, improving call clarity. The package is well-rounded with cables, earpieces, and charging bases for both units. These radios are relatively heavy at over 3 pounds for the pair. This makes the BAOFENG UV-5RM well-suited for hobbyists, emergency preparedness, and outdoor activities where reliable communication and weather info are important. Beginners will appreciate the user-friendly features and multiple charging methods, but those needing rugged, waterproof radios might want to consider alternatives.

The BAOFENG UV-5G Plus is a versatile handheld radio ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, and those needing reliable long-distance communication. It covers a wide frequency range including GMRS, VHF, and UHF bands, supporting up to 999 customizable channels, which is excellent for users who want flexibility and extensive reach. The 5-watt power output provides solid transmission strength, capable of reaching up to around 7 miles under optimal conditions.

Battery life is improved with a 2500mAh rechargeable lithium-ion battery and convenient USB-C charging, allowing for easy power ups on the go via various power sources. This is a noticeable step up from prior models with smaller battery capacity, making it more dependable for longer trips. Durability-wise, it’s water resistant and built to withstand outdoor use, though it may not be fully waterproof for extreme conditions. The inclusion of two antenna options (8" and 15.5") helps improve signal reception depending on the environment.

Programming is user-friendly thanks to CHIRP compatibility and a new frequency copy feature, which simplifies setting up multiple radios with the same channels. The color display is larger than older models, making channel info easier to read, although it might still have a learning curve for first-time users. One downside is that it requires a GMRS license to access certain channels legally. Also, it’s not compatible with batteries from some other BAOFENG series, which limits accessory interchangeability. Taking these points into consideration, the UV-5G Plus strikes a good balance between power, customization, and portability, making it a strong choice for those needing a reliable two-way radio with advanced features without being overly complicated.

The Baofeng DM32 is a versatile handheld radio that supports both digital DMR and traditional analog modes, making it a solid choice for users who want flexibility in communication. It offers a wide frequency range and a powerful 10W output, which helps achieve a maximum talking range of up to 5 kilometers under ideal conditions. The included 3800mAh battery is a big plus, providing long-lasting use and standby time, which is great for extended outdoor activities like hunting or survival situations.

Its build quality is decent, featuring large buttons and durable dual-color molding, although it is not water-resistant, so extra care is needed in wet environments. The 2.0-inch display is clear and user-friendly, making channel editing and mode switching straightforward even for those new to radios. The radio also supports advanced features like SMS messaging in digital mode, GPS/Beidou location reporting, and emergency alarm functions, which enhance safety and communication options.

Programming is flexible with up to 4000 channels and customizable side keys. Charging is convenient with both a USB-C cable and a base charger included, allowing for easy recharging at home or on the go. This radio is well suited for hobbyists, survival enthusiasts, and those needing reliable dual-mode communication with strong battery life and useful additional features.