10 Best Baofeng Radios 2025 in the United States

The BAOFENG BF-5RH PRO GPS is a powerful handheld ham radio that covers a wide frequency range including VHF, UHF, 1.25M, aviation, and FM bands, making it suitable for various communication needs. With a strong 10-watt power output and a 2500mAh battery, it offers long-range transmission up to around 10 kilometers in good conditions, which is ideal for outdoor activities, emergency use, or team coordination. Its rugged IP54-rated build ensures reasonable water resistance and durability for field use.

The 1.8-inch color display is clear and supports easy access to numerous channels (up to 640 across 10 zones), although the menu system and abundance of features may feel overwhelming for beginners. The radio includes GPS and NOAA weather alerts, adding safety for outdoor adventures and disaster scenarios. Programming this radio requires using the supplied CPS software, but it does not support popular tools like CHIRP or Bluetooth programming, which might limit convenience for some users.

The interface includes tactical antennas and multiple accessories, enhancing usability, but the lack of Bluetooth and simpler programming options may be a drawback for those new to ham radios. This radio is particularly well-suited for experienced users or enthusiasts seeking a versatile, multi-band radio with long range and safety features, while beginners might find it complex.

The Baofeng K5Plus is a solid choice for adults looking for a handheld ham radio with good power and versatility. It operates in the 450-470 MHz frequency range and offers a respectable 10-watt power output with adjustable high, medium, and low settings, which helps manage battery life and signal strength. The included 2500mAh lithium-ion batteries provide decent endurance for regular outdoor use, and the device supports convenient USB-C charging alongside a desktop charger, making it easy to recharge on the go.

This model supports up to 999 channels, which allows for extensive customization, and features a 1.77-inch color display that is clear enough for navigating settings and monitoring channels. One neat feature is the ability to copy frequencies directly from another radio without needing a computer, simplifying setup for beginners or those without programming tools. The radio also includes useful extras like an FM radio, LED flashlight, stopwatch, VOX hands-free operation, and alarm functions.

In terms of build, the K5Plus comes with two types of antennas, including a high-gain tactical antenna, designed to extend range significantly—a big plus for outdoor activities like hiking or camping. However, it is not water resistant, so it may not stand up well to wet conditions or heavy rain, which is important to consider for rugged use. While it lacks an official warranty, the generally positive customer ratings (4.7 out of 5) suggest users find it reliable. This radio suits hobbyists or outdoor enthusiasts wanting a powerful, feature-rich device without needing advanced programming skills, but it might not be ideal for harsh environments due to its non-water-resistant design.

The Baofeng UV-9G GMRS Radio (2 Pack) offers a good balance of performance and versatility, making it a solid choice for outdoor enthusiasts and those needing reliable communication over long distances. The radios operate on a wide frequency range (GMRS 462.5500 ~ 467.7250 MHz) and have a substantial talking range of up to 5 miles without a repeater.

With the included RA-MD2 antennas, the radios are tuned specifically for GMRS use, promising better performance and clarity. The 1500mAh battery provides decent battery life, and the radios are rechargeable, which is convenient for extended use outdoors. Durability is a strong point, as these radios are IP67 rated, meaning they can withstand being submerged in up to 3 feet of water for 30 minutes without damage, making them suitable for wet conditions. The radios are also dust-resistant, adding to their ruggedness.

One notable feature is their programming capability with the included cable and support for CHIRP, allowing users to customize channels and settings according to their needs. The display and interface are intuitive enough for non-technical users, and the radios come pre-programmed with 30 GMRS channels and 11 NOAA weather channels to keep users informed about weather updates. However, potential drawbacks include the need for some learning curve to effectively use the programming and customization features if you are not familiar with such technology. Additionally, while the 5-mile range is impressive, it can be affected by obstacles and terrain, which might reduce effective communication distance in real-world scenarios. The Baofeng UV-9G radios are a robust choice for those who need reliable, long-range communication with the added benefits of water resistance and customization.