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10 Best Mobile Ham Radios 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Bundle - 2 Items - Includes Icom IC-2730A Dual-Band VHF/UHF 50W Mobile Transceiver and Ham Guides TM Quick Reference Card

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,388
Channel Memory
Display and Interface
Additional Features

Most important from
8 reviews

Channel Memory
The ability to monitor two channels and switch between them with a button press is very convenient.
Display and Interface
Incredibly easy to use and program, even without the manual.
Additional Features
The remote head includes a mic input, eliminating the need to plug the mic into the radio itself.

The Icom IC-2730A Dual-Band VHF/UHF Mobile Transceiver is a versatile and powerful mobile ham radio, making it suitable for both amateur and experienced users. It covers a frequency range of 144-148 MHz for VHF and 430-450 MHz for UHF, supporting most common communication needs. With a substantial power output of 50 watts, it ensures strong and clear signals over long distances. The modulation modes include UHF and VHF, catering to a broad range of communication scenarios.

The unit boasts 104 channels of memory, offering extensive storage for user preferences and frequently used frequencies. Its display and interface are user-friendly, though some users may find the white color less practical in various environments. Durability-wise, the transceiver is not water-resistant, which could be a drawback for outdoor use or in adverse weather conditions. On the positive side, the package includes a Ham Guides TM Quick Reference Card, which is useful for beginners.

This transceiver ranks well among fixed-mount CB radios. However, its weight of 5 pounds might be cumbersome for some users. This product is particularly beneficial for mobile ham radio operators who need reliable performance and extensive channel memory but may not be ideal for those requiring waterproof features.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,388
Channel Memory
Display and Interface
Additional Features

Most important from
8 reviews

Channel Memory
The ability to monitor two channels and switch between them with a button press is very convenient.
Display and Interface
Incredibly easy to use and program, even without the manual.
Additional Features
The remote head includes a mic input, eliminating the need to plug the mic into the radio itself.
#2

BAOFENG BF-F8HP PRO 10 W Tri-Band Two-Way Radio – UV-5R 7th Gen, 1000 Channels, GPS & NOAA Weather, Aviation/VHF/UHF/1.25 m Scanner, IP54 Rugged, USB-C Rechargeable Battery

Rating
9.8
Frequency Range
Power Output
Modulation Modes

Most important from
775 reviews

Frequency Range
Tri-band capability supports VHF, 1.25M, and UHF frequencies, providing flexibility depending on needs and location.
Power Output
It delivers the rated power output in the specs, with measured max power on VHF reaching 10.87W and UHF at 8.02W.
Modulation Modes
The radio offers airband scanning, though strong signals can distort due to lack of AGC.
Channel Memory
This radio allows great scanning flexibility with its 10 memory groups, each holding 100 channels.
Display and Interface
The display is easy on the eyes with customizable options for how information is displayed.
Durability and Build Quality
The IP54 rating ensures durability in outdoor conditions, handling moisture and dust with ease.
Additional Features
The internal GPS accurately reports longitude, latitude, and elevation, useful for wilderness navigation.

The BAOFENG BF-F8HP PRO (UV-5R 7th Gen) is a versatile mobile ham radio suitable for licensed amateur operators. It operates across VHF, UHF, and the 1.25M band, and with an 8W output, it offers strong, clear transmission. This radio supports up to 1000 channels, making it highly customizable for various communication needs.

Additionally, it includes advanced features like GPS, NOAA weather mode, and aviation band scanning, which are beneficial for emergency situations and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The dual-zone control feature is particularly helpful for managing multiple communication zones efficiently. The IP54 rating indicates decent water resistance, suitable for outdoor use, although it may not withstand heavy rain or submersion.

The USB-C rechargeable battery adds convenience, and the firmware updatable feature ensures long-term value by keeping the device current with new updates. However, its relatively complex interface might be a bit challenging for beginners, and it’s primarily beneficial for those who need advanced functionalities rather than basic communication needs. Also, while the build quality is decent, it may not be the most rugged option for extreme conditions. The BAOFENG BF-F8HP PRO is an excellent choice for advanced users seeking a feature-rich, flexible mobile ham radio with strong performance and good support from a US-based company.

Rating
9.8
Frequency Range
Power Output
Modulation Modes

Most important from
775 reviews

Frequency Range
Tri-band capability supports VHF, 1.25M, and UHF frequencies, providing flexibility depending on needs and location.
Power Output
It delivers the rated power output in the specs, with measured max power on VHF reaching 10.87W and UHF at 8.02W.
Modulation Modes
The radio offers airband scanning, though strong signals can distort due to lack of AGC.
Channel Memory
This radio allows great scanning flexibility with its 10 memory groups, each holding 100 channels.
Display and Interface
The display is easy on the eyes with customizable options for how information is displayed.
Durability and Build Quality
The IP54 rating ensures durability in outdoor conditions, handling moisture and dust with ease.
Additional Features
The internal GPS accurately reports longitude, latitude, and elevation, useful for wilderness navigation.
#3

BaoFeng BF-F8HP (UV-5R 3rd Gen) 8-Watt Dual Band Two Way Radio (136-174MHz VHF & 400-520MHz UHF) Includes Full Kit with Large Battery

Rating
9.6
Frequency Range
Power Output

Most important from
15222 reviews

Frequency Range
It handles various U.S. radio service bands well, including GMRS, FRS, MURS, and some ham frequencies.
Power Output
Power settings may not always match the specifications, but it's still a great buy for the price.

The BAOFENG BF-F8HP (UV-5R 3rd Gen) is a versatile mobile ham radio that offers significant upgrades from its predecessor. It features an impressive 8-watt power output, which is double the power of the previous generation. This allows for better signal strength and communication range, potentially up to 50 miles in ideal conditions. The frequency range covers both VHF (136-174MHz) and UHF (400-520MHz), making it suitable for various communication needs.

Users can also switch between high, medium, and low power settings (8W, 4W, 1W) based on their requirements. The inclusion of 1000 channels provides ample memory for different frequencies and settings. Additionally, the V-85 high-gain antenna enhances the radio's performance, ensuring clearer and more reliable communication. The product is designed with a durable shell and is waterproof, adding to its robustness and making it suitable for outdoor use. The user experience is a key focus, with an in-depth manual and USA-based customer support for easier setup and troubleshooting.

The larger 2100mAh battery promises extended usage times, which is beneficial for long operations. However, there are a few drawbacks. The radio may require a PC03 FTDI programming cable for easier PC programming, which is not included in the kit. While the radio is designed to be user-friendly, beginners may still find the initial setup and programming somewhat complex without prior experience. Additionally, although it's marketed as waterproof, it would be prudent to check the specific water resistance rating to ensure it meets your needs.

Rating
9.6
Frequency Range
Power Output

Most important from
15222 reviews

Frequency Range
It handles various U.S. radio service bands well, including GMRS, FRS, MURS, and some ham frequencies.
Power Output
Power settings may not always match the specifications, but it's still a great buy for the price.

Buying Guide for the Best Mobile Ham Radios

Choosing the right mobile ham radio can be a rewarding experience, especially if you know what to look for. Mobile ham radios are used for amateur radio communication, and they can be installed in vehicles or used as base stations. The right model for you will depend on your specific needs, such as the range you require, the features you want, and how you plan to use the radio. Here are some key specifications to consider when selecting a mobile ham radio.
Frequency RangeThe frequency range of a mobile ham radio determines the bands it can operate on. This is important because different bands are used for different types of communication. For example, VHF (Very High Frequency) is good for local communication, while UHF (Ultra High Frequency) can penetrate buildings better. HF (High Frequency) bands are used for long-distance communication. If you plan to communicate locally, a VHF/UHF radio might be sufficient. However, if you want to reach distant stations, you might need a radio that includes HF bands.
Power OutputPower output, measured in watts, affects the range and clarity of your transmissions. Higher power output can help you reach farther distances and improve signal quality. Mobile ham radios typically range from 5 watts to 100 watts. If you plan to use your radio in urban areas with many repeaters, lower power might be sufficient. For rural areas or long-distance communication, higher power output is beneficial. Consider your typical usage scenarios to determine the right power level for you.
Modulation ModesModulation modes refer to the methods used to encode information onto a carrier wave. Common modes include FM (Frequency Modulation), AM (Amplitude Modulation), SSB (Single Sideband), and digital modes like D-STAR or C4FM. FM is widely used for local communication, while SSB is preferred for long-distance HF communication. Digital modes offer advanced features like text messaging and GPS. Choose a radio that supports the modes you plan to use most frequently.
Channel MemoryChannel memory allows you to store frequently used frequencies for quick access. This is important for convenience and efficiency, especially if you switch between different frequencies often. Mobile ham radios can have anywhere from a few dozen to several hundred memory channels. If you participate in various nets or use multiple repeaters, more memory channels can be very useful. Consider how many different frequencies you need to access regularly to determine the right amount of channel memory.
Display and InterfaceThe display and interface of a mobile ham radio affect how easy it is to use. A clear, easy-to-read display is important for monitoring frequencies and settings. Some radios have backlit displays for better visibility in low light. The interface includes buttons, knobs, and menus used to control the radio. A user-friendly interface can make operation simpler and more intuitive. If you plan to use the radio while driving, look for a model with a straightforward interface and large, easy-to-use controls.
Durability and Build QualityDurability and build quality are important for ensuring your mobile ham radio can withstand the rigors of mobile use. Look for radios with robust construction and materials that can handle vibrations, temperature changes, and potential impacts. Some models are designed to be more rugged and may have additional features like water resistance. If you plan to use your radio in harsh environments or on off-road adventures, prioritize durability and build quality.
Additional FeaturesAdditional features can enhance the functionality and convenience of your mobile ham radio. These might include GPS, APRS (Automatic Packet Reporting System), cross-band repeat, and Bluetooth connectivity. GPS can be useful for navigation and location tracking, while APRS allows for real-time data transmission. Cross-band repeat can extend the range of handheld radios, and Bluetooth enables hands-free operation. Consider which additional features align with your needs and preferences.

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