Are you looking for the best ham radio for beginners? We’ve reviewed the best ham radios of 2021, and we can help you decide which ham radio is the right choice for you. Here’s what you need to know.
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Best Ham Radios
Selecting the best ham radio helps you communicate over shortwave radio frequencies more effectively—so you can communicate with other hams in an emergency. There are countless ham radio options that will let you broadcast, sure, but which works best for a beginner getting started?
We reviewed and ranked the best ham radios. We set out to find the best one by thoroughly researching five of the most popular models.
Best ham radios for beginners:
- BaoFeng UV-82HP
- Wouxun KG-UV8D
- Radioddity GD-77
- Baofeng BF-F9 V2+
- Baofeng UV-5R5
Our Approach:
Choosing the best ham radio comes down to three things:
- Features
- Battery life
- Durability
In this ham radio review, we’ll look at some of the top ham radios for beginner hams and share what makes them the right choice. We’ll explore the pricing details of each ham radio, along with pros, cons, and more. By the time you finish reading this review, you’ll know which ham radio is best for you.
Our Top 5 Ham Radios:
- BaoFeng UV-82HP offers the best overall value because they offer the best features, are extremely durable, and have a good range with less white noise.
- Wouxun KG-UV8D is the best for scanning because they pick up signals easily and at far distances.
- Radioddity GD-77 is best for digital reception and transmission because it offers digital technology so you stay up to date.
- Baofeng BF-F9 V2+ is best for battery life because they let you talk all day long without needing a recharge.
- Baofeng UV-5R5 Ideal is best for affordability because it’s designed to do everything a beginner needs and is under $30.
Best for Overall Value: BaoFeng UV-82HP
BaoFeng UV-82HP is a ham radio we think you should check out. They are a good fit for outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, and backpackers who need a ham radio that communicates clearly outdoors delivers the best ham radio features and is not overly complicated to use.
BaoFeng UV-82HP features:
- Output power: 8W VHF(7W UHF) / 5W / 1W
- Selectable Dual or Single Push-to-Talk
- Frequency (VFO) Lockout Option
- Battery: 1800 mAh
- 128 User Channels
- Frequency step: 2.5, 5, 6.25, 10, 12.5, 20, 25, 30 and 50KHz
- Channel Spacing: 25KHz (wide band) or 12.5KHz (narrow band)
- Antenna Connector: SMA-Female
BaoFeng UV-82HP Battery Life:
The battery life of the Baofeng UV-5R5 is 12 hours from a full charge.
BaoFeng UV-82HP Durability:
One of the best ham radios is the Baofeng UV-5R5. It is extremely durable, but because of its price, this seems to be less concerning to buyers. This updated model has a metallic reinforcement that supersedes the strength of the previous models.
BaoFeng UV-82HP Price:
The BaoFeng UV-82HP has a list price of $50.00. This is affordable for most amateur radio broadcasters. A first-time buyer is in for a treat with this dual-band radio and its easy to use menu system. You do not need a base station to run the BaoFeng UV-82HP making the high quality hf radio more desirable.
Pros
- Easy to use for a beginner
- VHF and UHF
- Memory channels
- Good frequency ranges
- Low price
- Good output
- Multi band
- Digitally programmed with an adapter cable
- Several online groups to help you troubleshoot
- Bonus features like flashlight and alarm
Cons
- Confusing instructions
- Harder to program
Best for Scanning: Wouxun KG-UV8D
Wouxun KG-UV8D is a ham radio you will love if you need to communicate long distances. They are a good fit for mobile users and rural users who need a far-reaching ham radio. This ham radio will connect you with other ham radio operators more easily.
Wouxun KG-UV8D Features:
- 999 Memory Channels
- Dual Band
- 144-148MHz VHF Frequencies
- 420-450MHz UHF Frequencies
- Repeater Capable
- Cross-Band Repeat
- 4W/5W Transmit Power
- Li-Ion Battery Pack
- Rechargeable Battery Included
- Battery Charger
- FM Radio
- SOS Feature
- Memory Channel
- Channel Scan
- Priority Scan
- Dual Watch
- Dual Receive
- Duplex Work Mode
- Reverse Frequency Function
- CTCSS/DCS Tones
- CTCSS/DCS Tone Scan
- Large Color Backlit LCD Display
- Channel Name Edit and Display
- Battery Meter
- Low Battery Alert
- Power Saver
- Timeout Timer
- VOX
- Keypad Lock
- Voice Prompts
- Drop-In Charge Capable
- Audio Accessory Connector
- Cloning Capable
- PC Programmable (Requires Optional Cable)
- LED Flashlight
- Stopwatch
- DTMF Code
- 2.5k Channel Spacing
- Reset
- One Year Manufacturer Warranty
Wouxun KG-UV8D Battery Life:
The battery life of the Wouxun KG-UV8D lasts up to four days without a recharge.
Wouxun KG-UV8D Durability:
This ham radio is super durable. If you need a walkie-talkie that holds up well, this ham radio is it. Many users report that the distance and durability of this model is shocking even to old hams.
Wouxun KG-UV8D Price:
The Wouxun KG-UV8D has a list price of $140.
Pros
- Long distance reach capabilities
- Lots of features
- Easy for a beginner to program
- Long lasting battery
- Holds up well under continued use
Cons
- 2.5 hours to charge the unit
Best for Digital Reception: Radioddity GD-77
Radioddity GD-77 is a ham radio you will love if you need a radio that has fantastic digital reception and transmission. Not to worry if you like analogue, it comes with analogue as well. With an adaptor cord you can connect this device to a computer and easily program the channels as you like. You’ll be impressed also with the reception quality. Many law enforcement agencies use this exact model to communicate within the agency. The design and durability of this model fits any environment, business or out in the field.
Radioddity GD-77 Features:
- Programmable CTSS/DCS, Squelch, Busy Lock,TOT, VOX, Encrypt, Password Lock, Radio ID, Scan
- Belt clip
- Dual band receivers 2 meter
- Up to 250 zones, Message, Contact, Emergency Alarm
- Up to 128 received groups, Dual Ban, Side Keys
- ADD VFO, Contact ID(expanded from 256 to 1000), Scan list (expanded from 16 to 64)
- Channel list(expanded from 16 to 31), Supports Digital & Analogue Mode
- Dual Band, Frequency Range in VHF/UHF, Support DMR repeater function: both DMR Tier I and Tier II.
- Friendly Customer Service & Technical Support (email address)
Radioddity GD-77 Battery Life:
The battery life of the Radioddity GD-77 is 18 hours of use time, 48 hours standby time. Make sure you get the newer battery that now comes standard with this model. The power supply for this mobile radio helps its power output.
Radioddity GD-77 Durability:
This ham radio is solid and rugged feeling in the hand, having a well built casing. It is easy to use. For its price, this radio impresses with its quality build and features. It is a very sensitive radio for picking up signals but not sensitive in its build—it will hold up well if taken care of. You do not need a base station with this high quality radio. Run this handheld radio on low power and it will keep its battery longer. This is a high quality vhf uhf handheld transceiver.
Radioddity GD-77 Price:
The Radioddity GD-77 has a list price of $95. These are affordable handheld radios.
Pros
- Inexpensive
- Well built
- Clear transmission and reception
- FM radio reception
- Tri band handheld radio
- Strong frequency range
- Fair battery life
Cons
- Screen issues have been reported by users
- Charger issues have been reported by users
- Programming cable not included
Best for Battery Life: Baofeng BF-F9 V2+
Baofeng BF-F9 V2+ is a ham radio you will love if you need a long lasting battery. With this ham radio you can talk for two full days without needing a recharge. This ham radio is also capable of hitting ranges in excess of two miles. Make sure when you purchase it comes with the extended battery.
Baofeng BF-F9 V2+ Features:
- 128 Channels
- Dual Band
- 136-174MHz VHF Frequencies
- 400-520MHz UHF Frequencies
- Repeater Capable
- 4W/1W Transmit Power
- Li-Ion Battery Pack
- Rechargeable Battery Included
- Battery Charger
- FM Radio
- Emergency Alarm
- Channel Scan
- Skip Channel
- Dual Watch
- Busy Channel Lockout
- Call Tone
- CTCSS Manual Input
- Black Backlit LCD Display
- Backlit Keypad
- Power-On Display Message
- Channel Name Edit
- Battery Meter
- Low Battery Alert
- Power Saver
- Timeout Timer
- VOX
- Keypad Lock
- Audible Button Beeps
- Voice Prompts
- Drop-In Charge Capable
- Audio Accessory Connector
- PC Programmable (Requires Optional Cable)
- Flashlight
- DTMF Code
- Reset
- One Year Manufacturer Warranty
Baofeng BF-F9 V2+ Battery Life:
The battery on the Baofeng BF-F9 V2+ is 48 hours. This is a long time for amateur radio. If you are going to be hiking or think you may need it in an emergency where the power grid goes down you may want to purchase an amateur radio with a longer battery life. Make sure you understand the power settings and power output of your radio to ensure the handheld stays powered up.
Baofeng BF-F9 V2+ Durability:
This ham radio is durable considering the low price tag. It gets good range and hits boosters seamlessly and is perfect for hiking and biking greater distances. Customers seem to be satisfied with their purchase and how the handset functions.
Baofeng BF-F9 V2+ Price:
The Baofeng BF-F9 V2+ has a list price of $70. For a radio with such a great output this price seems more than fair. This is a better upgrade from the earlier 8 watt BF F8HP and Yaesu VX 6R radios and the price is around the same.
Pros
- Small
- Durable
- Good transmission
- Low price
- Easy to operate
- Great frequency range
- Tri band
- Memory channels
- Low power option
Cons
- Limited to 15 miles reach
- No GPS receiver
Best for price: Baofeng UV-5R5
If price matters the Baofeng UV-5R5 is one that is in most ham radio operator’s budget. It also has immense features that include a one year manufacturer’s warranty. This ham radio is reliable, has great customer reviews, and won’t put a hurting on your bank account, making it a shortwave radio for beginners.
Baofeng UV-5R5 Features:
- 128 Channels
- Dual band amateur radios (two frequencies)
- 136-174MHz VHF frequencies (
- 400-520MHz UHF frequencies
- Repeater capable
- 4W/1W Transmit Power
- Li-Ion battery pack
- Rechargeable battery included
- Battery charger
- FM Radio
- Belt clip
- Emergency Alarm
- Channel Scan
- Skip Channel
- Dual Watch
- Busy Channel Lockout
- Call Tone
- CTCSS Manual Input
- Backlit LCD Display
- Power-On Display Message
- Battery Meter
- Low Battery Alert
- Power Saver
- Timeout Timer
- VOX
- Keypad Lock
- Audible Button Beeps
- Voice Prompts
- Drop-In Charge Capable
- Audio Accessory Connector
- PC Programmable (Requires Optional Cable)
- Flashlight
- DTMF Code
- Reset
- One Year Manufacturer Warranty
Baofeng UV-5R5 Battery Life:
The battery of the Baofeng UV-5R5 is 12 hours, making it a great handset for 8 to 12 hour shifts.
Baofeng UV-5R5 Durability:
Reliably durable the Baofeng UV-5R5 is made to withstand accidental drops and regular handling. We don’t recommend running it over with a forklift, but if you’re biking and it falls out on a trail, chances are it will still run fine.
Baofeng UV-5R5 Price:
The Baofeng UV-5R5 retails for $26.99.
Pros
- Inexpensive
- Handheld
- Feature rich
- Reliable
- 20 mile range
- Easy to program
- Decent output
- Included power supply
- Entry level handheld
Cons
- Battery clip issues
Summary
Ham radios come in many styles, having a range of features and price points. The ham radios we present in this review cover a range of budgets, design styles, uses, and technology. Selecting the right ham radio depends on your individual needs and wants.
The best ham radio on this list is the BaoFeng UV-82HP. This ham radio has numerous features. The BaoFeng UV-82HP is priced much lower than many of the other ham radios on this list. This ham radio is also extremely durable with a long battery charge. This is why it is the best value for the money.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Ham Radio?
Ham radio is the amateur radio broadcasting used for hobby and times of emergency. A ham handheld transceiver makes it possible to communicate when the power grid goes down. Depending on the radio you purchase determines the frequency range, power output / power settings, vhf and uhf, and other features.
What does Ham mean
Ham is a term that was coined by amateur radio broadcasters in the early 1900s and really does not mean anything. It was a nickname that stuck. Today’s handheld radio users (ham radio users) operate around a frequency of 108 mhz. The radios have dual band (two frequencies) that have built in transceiver and multi bands.
What can Ham radio be used for?
A ham radio can be used to communicate when the power grid fails. These radios can operate on battery and are not dependent on cell phone grids. Ham radios are mostly used to broadcast with other ham radio hobbyists.
What frequency is Ham Radio?
Ham radio frequencies operate around 108 mhz at higher frequencies. Most radios are 5 watts or 8 watts and multi band. Think of a band as a channel used to communicate over. The best thing about transmitting and receiving over hf radio bands is that you must be licensed to operate a ham radio.
What is a display and is it important?
The radio display is the face of the radio where all the knobs, dials, buttons, and display items are located. This is an important part of the radio because it allows you to decide the output, change bands, change up the menu, select a different frequency range, and operate the two way. It is best to use your two way by first reading the manual. You should become familiar with the table of contents to find what you need quickly. Every radio is different, having a different programming cable and power settings. Pick a radio that is easy to use and as high quality as you can afford.
How much range can I expect with my Ham radio?
Most ham radios have a minimum reach of two miles / two kilometers. Uhf Vhf frequencies have fair range capabilities and handheld radios will vary range based on location. Hf short wave radios set up at a base station will have better or worst range depending on the external antenna and how close they are to boosters and other factors. The quality of the hf ham radio matters also. Better hf shortwave radios can reach across the nation, even internationally. Handheld hf amateur radios may vary in output depending on where you are using the hf shortwave radio.
What Rig would I buy?
The best rig is one that fits your purposes. If you just want a ham radio to have in case of an emergency pick one with a good range and battery life, preferably a handheld hf shortwave radio.
How do I get my ham radio license?
To get your ham radio license you’ll need to take a Federal Communication Commission (FCC) test. This test is 35 questions and covers a variety of questions. You can take the test online but the technology requirements are quite strict. Most ham radio beginners get their license at an in-person testing center. You can find more information out online. You no longer need to know Morse Code to qualify for a ham radio license.
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