10 Best Handheld Ham Radios 2025 in the United States

The BAOFENG UV-5RM ham radio is a robust and versatile option for enthusiasts and professionals. With a power output of 10W, it offers a strong communication range, enhanced further by the included 18.5-inch tactical antenna. The device supports multiple bands, including AM, NOAA, UHF, and VHF, making it adaptable for various communication needs and emergency weather updates. The battery life is commendable, thanks to the 2500mAh rechargeable battery that supports multiple charging methods, including USB-C.

This ensures you stay connected even during extended use or in different charging scenarios. The large color display and user-friendly interface make navigating and programming the device straightforward. Additionally, the one-key frequency copy function and support for Chirp programming enhance usability and efficiency. However, it's worth noting that the radio is not water-resistant, which may limit its use in wet or harsh environments.

The package is comprehensive, providing two radios along with multiple accessories like speaker mics, earphones, and additional antennas. Its notable drawbacks include the lack of water resistance and potentially overwhelming array of features for beginners.

The YAESU FT-5DR is a versatile dual-band handheld ham radio operating on 144/430MHz with a power output of 5 watts. It features a real dual receiver design that allows simultaneous monitoring of two bands, ideal for users wanting to track multiple channels simultaneously. Covering a wide frequency range from 0.5 MHz up to nearly 1 GHz, it can receive many signals beyond just ham bands, though some restrictions like blocking USA cellular frequencies apply.

Equipped with a built-in lithium-ion battery, the radio offers decent usage time. It is rated IPX7 waterproof, meaning it can handle brief submersion in water, making it durable for outdoor or harsh environments. The modern touch screen display and large LED indicators enhance user-friendliness when navigating channels and settings. Additional features include Bluetooth support for hands-free operation with compatible headsets and a Band Scope function for visually monitoring nearby channels.

Advanced digital features such as automatic mode selection and group ID functions support group communications, especially in digital modes like C4FM. The package includes a holster, antenna, charger, and battery, making it ready to use out of the box. The radio weighs around 1.8 pounds, which may be heavy for some users, and beginners might initially find the extensive features overwhelming. It is a strong choice for intermediate to advanced ham radio operators seeking a rugged, feature-rich handheld with robust dual-band capabilities and digital mode support.

The Yaesu FTA750L is a handheld VHF transceiver designed primarily for aviation use, covering the airband frequency range of 118 MHz to 137 MHz. It’s well-suited for pilots or aviation enthusiasts needing reliable communication with NAV/COM and GPS capabilities integrated. With 66 channels and a maximum talking range of about 2 miles, it fits typical short-range aviation communication needs.

The radio runs on 6 AA batteries, which are included, offering decent convenience and flexibility – you can use rechargeable or alkaline batteries, though battery life depends on your usage and battery type. The unit weighs around 2.2 pounds and is somewhat on the heavier side for a handheld device, but it’s built tough with water resistance rated IPX5, meaning it can handle rain and splashes but should not be submerged. Its 1.7-inch color display features an icon menu and keypad voice commands, making it user-friendly even if you’re not tech-savvy. Additional features like weather alerts and a headset adapter add value, especially for outdoor or aviation environments.

This radio is specialized for aviation frequencies rather than general ham bands, so it’s not the best pick if you want a multi-band ham radio for broader amateur use. The modest 2-mile range is typical for handhelds but may be limiting in certain conditions. For those needing a rugged, aviation-focused handheld transceiver with GPS and reliable water resistance, the Yaesu FTA750L is a strong candidate, though its weight and focus on airband frequencies might not fit every ham radio user’s needs.