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10 Best Baofeng Handheld Ham Radios 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Baofeng Radio AR-152 Ham Radio Handheld 10W Long Range Rechargeable Military Grade Two Way Radio with Tactical Antenna and Programming Cable walkie talkies Full Set(2 Pack)

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,347
Frequency Range
Battery Life
Durability

Most important from
168 reviews

Frequency Range
It supports a wide range of frequencies, though users should be cautious with FCC regulations on certain bands.
Battery Life
The battery life is exceptional, lasting up to two weeks with 10 hours of daily use on a single charge.
Durability
The Baofeng AR-152 is a rugged and durable radio, resembling military models like the PRC-152 and Harris Falcon.
Display and Interface
Large, easy-to-use buttons and a non-color LCD display make this radio user-friendly, even in bright sunlight.
Programming and Memory Channels
The AR-152 is easily programmable through its keypad and compatible with various programming software, though some issues have been reported with Chirp.

The Baofeng AR-152 handheld ham radio is a robust choice for those seeking a long-range communication device suitable for urban environments. With a 10W power output and the ability to penetrate materials like wood, steel, and concrete, it provides reliable connectivity over a considerable distance. The inclusion of foldable tactical antennas enhances the communication range, making it suitable for use in challenging settings. The radio supports up to 128 channels, broadening your communication options, and the programming cable included allows for easy customization of channels and settings.

One standout feature is the powerful 12000mAh battery, which delivers impressive longevity, supporting communication for 5-7 days and offering a standby time of 5-15 days. Additionally, the flexibility of three charging methods—car, USB, and wall charger—adds convenience.

The radio is not water-resistant, which might limit its use in outdoor or wet conditions. While the interface is functional, the lack of water resistance and somewhat bulky design might not appeal to users looking for a more compact or outdoor-friendly option. For those seeking a reliable, high-power handheld ham radio with extended battery life and strong signal capabilities, the Baofeng AR-152 is a strong contender, especially if used primarily in urban or controlled environments. Its military-grade build adds to its durability, although users should be mindful of its non-water-resistant body.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,347
Frequency Range
Battery Life
Durability

Most important from
168 reviews

Frequency Range
It supports a wide range of frequencies, though users should be cautious with FCC regulations on certain bands.
Battery Life
The battery life is exceptional, lasting up to two weeks with 10 hours of daily use on a single charge.
Durability
The Baofeng AR-152 is a rugged and durable radio, resembling military models like the PRC-152 and Harris Falcon.
Display and Interface
Large, easy-to-use buttons and a non-color LCD display make this radio user-friendly, even in bright sunlight.
Programming and Memory Channels
The AR-152 is easily programmable through its keypad and compatible with various programming software, though some issues have been reported with Chirp.
#2

Baofeng DM-1701 Dual Band Dual Time Slot DMR/Analog Two Way Radio, 3,000 Channels Amateur Radio/Free Programming Cable, Charger and PTT Earpiece, Support OpenGD77

Rating
9.8
Battery Life
Durability
Display and Interface

Most important from
478 reviews

Battery Life
Battery life is solid, with the radio retaining 70-80% charge after medium use each day.
Durability
The build quality of the Baofeng DM-1701 is a step above many other budget Chinese radios.
Display and Interface
The display is full color and high resolution, but struggles with readability in bright daylight and has poor viewing angles.
Programming and Memory Channels
The stock firmware is difficult to use, but installing OpenGD77 significantly improves the user experience.
Additional Features
The radio comes with all necessary accessories to get started, including a charger, programming cable, and headset.

The Baofeng DM-1701 is a versatile handheld ham radio that appeals to both amateur and semi-professional users. With a frequency range of 420-450MHz and support for both digital and analog modes, this radio is highly adaptable. One of its standout features is the impressive capacity for 3,000 channels, making it well-suited for extensive communication needs.

Additionally, it supports 10,000 digital talk groups and 120,000 contacts, expanding its utility for users who require extensive networking. The radio is also compatible with MOTOTRBO Tier I & II and other DMR radios, ensuring compatibility with various communication systems. This makes it a strong contender for users involved in diverse communication environments.

Rating
9.8
Battery Life
Durability
Display and Interface

Most important from
478 reviews

Battery Life
Battery life is solid, with the radio retaining 70-80% charge after medium use each day.
Durability
The build quality of the Baofeng DM-1701 is a step above many other budget Chinese radios.
Display and Interface
The display is full color and high resolution, but struggles with readability in bright daylight and has poor viewing angles.
Programming and Memory Channels
The stock firmware is difficult to use, but installing OpenGD77 significantly improves the user experience.
Additional Features
The radio comes with all necessary accessories to get started, including a charger, programming cable, and headset.
#3

BAOFENG 5RM Ham Radio Handheld: 10W Ham Radios Long Range 5RM PRO with GPS, 2500mAh Battery Rechargeable Multi-Band BAOFENG Radio with Programming Cable,Type-C Port, 2 Pack

Rating
9.5
Additional Features
Display and Interface
Programming and Memory Channels

Most important from
6 reviews

Additional Features
The GPS functionality is a standout feature, enabling users to accurately share and request locations, which is particularly useful for activities like hunting.
Display and Interface
The radio is user-friendly, making it an excellent choice for novice HAM radio users and ideal for family hikes or group off-roading adventures.
Programming and Memory Channels
Programming the radio is straightforward, and the specialized software adds convenience, allowing users to include contacts and utilize advanced features effortlessly.

The BAOFENG 5RM Ham Radio Handheld is a versatile and powerful communication device designed for both enthusiasts and professionals. One of its standout features is the wide frequency range (136-174 MHz, 400-470 MHz) which ensures excellent reception in various environments. The 10W power output allows for long-range communication, making it suitable for outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and hunting. It comes equipped with a robust 2500mAh battery that can be charged via a Type-C port, offering multiple charging options including from power banks and car chargers, which is highly convenient for users on the go.

The inclusion of two radios, antennas, batteries, programming cable, and other accessories makes this a comprehensive kit right out of the box. The advanced GPS functionality is a notable addition, enhancing safety by enabling users to share their location with team members easily. The radio supports up to 640 memory channels, which is ample for most users, and the frequency copy feature simplifies setup by allowing easy cloning from other radios. However, it lacks water resistance, which could be a drawback for users in wet or harsh conditions. The absence of a flashlight, which is present in some other models, might also be a minor inconvenience for some users. The interface is user-friendly, but new users may still need some time to familiarize themselves with programming and operation.

The BAOFENG 5RM PRO offers a robust, feature-rich handheld ham radio solution with excellent battery life, good range, and useful additional features like GPS, making it a reliable choice for various outdoor and professional uses.

Rating
9.5
Additional Features
Display and Interface
Programming and Memory Channels

Most important from
6 reviews

Additional Features
The GPS functionality is a standout feature, enabling users to accurately share and request locations, which is particularly useful for activities like hunting.
Display and Interface
The radio is user-friendly, making it an excellent choice for novice HAM radio users and ideal for family hikes or group off-roading adventures.
Programming and Memory Channels
Programming the radio is straightforward, and the specialized software adds convenience, allowing users to include contacts and utilize advanced features effortlessly.

Buying Guide for the Best Baofeng Handheld Ham Radios

When choosing a Baofeng handheld ham radio, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you get the best fit for your needs. Ham radios are used for communication over various distances and can be a vital tool for emergency situations, hobbyist activities, or professional use. Understanding the key specs will help you make an informed decision and select a radio that meets your requirements.
Frequency RangeThe frequency range of a ham radio determines the bands it can operate on. This is important because different bands are used for different types of communication. Common ranges include VHF (Very High Frequency) and UHF (Ultra High Frequency). VHF is typically used for longer distances and outdoor communication, while UHF is better for urban environments with obstacles. If you plan to use the radio in varied environments, a dual-band radio that covers both VHF and UHF might be the best choice.
Power OutputPower output, measured in watts, affects the transmission range of the radio. Higher power output can extend the range but also drains the battery faster. Handheld ham radios usually range from 1 to 8 watts. For general use, a radio with 4-5 watts is sufficient. If you need to communicate over longer distances or in areas with poor signal, consider a higher power output. However, always balance power needs with battery life.
Battery LifeBattery life is crucial, especially if you plan to use the radio for extended periods or in emergency situations. Battery life is influenced by the power output and usage patterns. Radios with higher power output will consume more battery. Look for radios with long-lasting batteries or the option to use external battery packs. If you need the radio for long trips or emergencies, prioritize models with longer battery life or the ability to swap batteries easily.
DurabilityDurability refers to how well the radio can withstand physical stress, such as drops, water exposure, and dust. This is important if you plan to use the radio in rugged environments or outdoor activities. Look for radios with a high IP rating (Ingress Protection), which indicates resistance to dust and water. For example, an IP67 rating means the radio is dust-tight and can withstand immersion in water. Choose a durable model if you expect to use the radio in harsh conditions.
Display and InterfaceThe display and interface of the radio affect how easy it is to use. A clear, backlit display is important for reading information in various lighting conditions. The interface should be intuitive, with buttons that are easy to press and navigate. If you are new to ham radios, look for models with user-friendly interfaces and clear instructions. Advanced users might prefer more complex interfaces with additional features and customization options.
Programming and Memory ChannelsProgramming and memory channels allow you to store and quickly access frequently used frequencies. This is important for convenience and efficiency, especially if you use the radio for different purposes or in various locations. Radios with more memory channels can store a greater number of frequencies. If you need to switch between multiple frequencies regularly, choose a model with ample memory channels and easy programming options.
Additional FeaturesAdditional features can enhance the functionality of the radio. These might include built-in flashlights, emergency alarms, VOX (voice-activated transmission), and dual-watch (monitoring two frequencies simultaneously). Consider what extra features might be useful for your specific needs. For example, a built-in flashlight can be handy for outdoor use, while VOX is useful for hands-free operation. Choose a radio with features that align with your intended use.

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