The 10 Best Ham Ht Of 2024, Researched By Us

Harlan Ellison By, Harlan Ellison
Updated
BaoFeng UV-82C Dual-Band 136-174/400-520 MHz FM Ham Two-Way Radio
Image credit: Amazon.com

The Rundown

1. Also Great: BaoFeng UV-82C Dual-Band 136-174/400-520 MHz FM Ham Two-Way Radio

The UV-82C radios have a louder speaker, a solid case with larger buttons, and a new PCB board and chipset that exceeds previous BaoFeng radios in terms of range, accuracy, and output. This radio is not a reissue, but a completely new radio. Read Review

2. Best For The Price: Greaval Ham Radio Walkie Talkie (UV-5R 8W)

Greaval Ham Radio Walkie Talkie is a dual-band, half-duplex radio with 128 channels. It will operate in three power modes - high, medium and low power. The LCD display and keyboard can be used to set frequencies and other configurations. They're also waterproof and dustproof so they're perfect for outdoor use, home use or workplace use. Read Review

3. Best Powerful: BAOFENG BF-F8HP (UV-5R 3rd Gen) 8-Watt Dual Band Two-Way Radio

The BAOFENG BF-F8HP is a powerful 8-watt dual-band radio, covering both 136-174MHz VHF and 400-520MHz UHF frequencies. This radio is designed for use in North America where the legal limit for operation is 50 watts. It features a 2000mah Li-Ion battery with an output of 8 watts and extended range, a high capacity with up to 16 hours of operation on one charge. Read Review

4. Best Audio Performance: Tenway Ham Radio UV-5R Pro

This Tenway Ham Radio UV-5R is a professional radio that is inexpensive, lightweight and packed with features. With this radio you can program your ham portable radio using the easy to use USB cable, which also includes a remote directional mic and speaker. This provides high quality sound even in loud environments and ensures long range distance communication. Read Review

5. Best Sleek Design: Radioddity GS-5B Bluetooth Programming Handheld Ham Radio

Radioddity's GS-5B is a rugged, waterproof and Bluetooth enabled handheld ham radio. With an IP56 rating it's perfect for outdoor use in harsh environments. It has a micro-USB charging port, dual PTT and DTMF keypad which makes it easy to operate hands-free. The radio also includes 211 CTCSS and 51 DCS tones, as well as encryption making it perfect for use in emergency situations. Read Review

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You can count on our team of experts who have spent over 16 hours conducting surveys through 5,928 real customer reviews. Because of this, we came to the conclusion that the best-reviewed product is BaoFeng UV-82C Dual-Band 136-174/400-520 MHz FM Ham Two-Way Radio. And Greaval Ham Radio Walkie Talkie (UV-5R 8W) is another choice for you while keeping the product's quality and functionality.

Our Top Picks

  • FCC Part 90 Certified. The UV-82C is a UV-82 that has initial limitations applied in order to make it FCC approved. The radio will have a Part 90 label manufacturer applied. Requires programming via a PC for initial use. Software is available free from BaoFengTech. The PC03 FTDI Cable is recommended for easy computer programming - Uses CHIRP Software
  • Features: VOX Talk Around Mode Busy Channel Lock-Out (BCLO) Transmission Time Out Channel Receive Only (TX OFF) Frequency Reverse Squelch Tail Elimination (STE) Work Mode (Selectable VFO/ Menu Lockout) Alpha Numeric Channel Storage PC Programmable
  • High / Low Power Settings (5W/1W); Frequency Range:VHF: 136-174 MHz(Rx/Tx). UHF: 400-520 MHz(Rx/Tx); Broad (Wide) / Narrowband (Narrow) Selectable
  • BTECH is proud to be in the USA, which allows you to have the best available local support for any issue that may arise. BTECH only engineers and develops radio products. That brand focus allows you to have the best available radios and accessories with the most features, with real USA warranty and support.
  • Kit Includes: UV-82C Radio, 1800mAh Battery, V85 Dual Band Antenna, CH-8 Charger, CH-8 110V Adapter, Earpiece Kit, Wrist Strap, Belt Clip, User Manual
TOP Choice #2 Greaval Ham Radio Walkie Talkie (UV-5R 8W)
Our Score:
9.7
Greaval
  • Dual-band standby, Enables you to monitor and transmit on two channels at the same time. 128 channel memory, fully in compliance with the FCC part 15B and part 90 regulations, you may need to apply for a radio license to use this device.
  • Power Output: High /Medium /Low Power Switchable, Programmable Radio Supports Keyboard or PC programming (for Outdoor /Home /Workplace use, etc.)
  • Wide Compatibility: The Greaval UV5R Dual-band ham radio covers the most commonly used frequency range, compatible with many other radios such as the BF-F8HP/UV 82HP, etc. Bit-Trading is authorized by Baofeng officially through Amazon's Brand Registry. The Greaval UV5R is made by Baofeng on behalf of our trademark and compatible with other UV-5R models.
  • Complete Set: Package contains a full set of accessories, no more worry about looking for compatible accessories. Best choice for your business. We provide 30-day hassle-free return, 18-month warranty, hardware and tech-support provided.
  • Power Source: Rechargeable 2100 mAh Li-ion Battery, Supports 12-20 Hours continual use, one more extra battery supports non-stop communication, car charger adapter also included.
  • High / Med / Low Power Settings (8W, 4W, 1W); Frequency Range: VHF: 136-174 MHz(Rx/Tx). UHF: 400-520 MHz(Rx/Tx); Broad (Wide) / Narrowband (Narrow) Selectable
  • Upgrades from our Previous Generation UV-5R: Twice the Output Power (8 watts up from 4 watts output), New Hardened Durable Radio Shell, 30% Larger Battery, V-85 High Gain Antenna (Twice the Antenna Performance), USA Support + In-depth User Guide Included; A PC03 FTDI Programming Cable is Recommended for Easier PC Programming
  • BTECH is proud to be in the USA, which allows you to have the best available local support for any issue that may arise. BTECH only engineers and develops radio products. That brand focus allows you to have the best available radios and accessories with the most features, with real USA warranty and support.
  • Kit Includes: BF-F8HP, 2100mAh Battery, V-85 Dual Band Antenna, CH-5 Charger, CH-5 110V Adapter, Earpiece Kit, Wrist Strap, Belt Clip, User Manual
  • The BF-F8HP was designed in the USA and because not everyone is a radio-expert we really wanted to focus on providing an easier user experience! That starts with the new in-depth manual that guides you through the capabilities and customization of the BF-F8HP. On top of that the BF-F8HP also includes exclusive concierge customer help and warranty support. This concierge service is only available on select BaoFeng models such as the BF-F8HP, UV-82HP, and UV-5X3
4 Tenway Ham Radio UV-5R Pro
Our Score:
9.4
Tenway
  • 【Power Source:】 Rechargeable 1800 mAh Li-ion Battery, Power-saving Features to extend battery life; Low battery alarm advises you when to recharge or replace the batteries.
  • 【Tri-Power:】High /Medium /Low Power Switchable, Programmable Radio Supports Keyboard or PC programming (meets all your needs in Outdoor /Home /Workplace use, etc.)
  • 【Speaker Mic:】 Remote Directional Microphone & Speaker transmits high quality sound even in loud environments and helps to provide a really perfect long range distance communication
  • 【Antenna: 】VHF and UHF Dual-band handheld have High Gain Antenna.
  • 【Support CHIRP Programming USB Cable:】 Works with Windows 7/10 System,you can program your Ham portable radio using this durable programming cable!
  • 【After service:】 Fast shipping and 100% USA 1 Year Warranty and 30 days no reason return, any other problem please feel free to contact us.
  • More Features: Micro-USB charging, VOX delay, dual PTT, channel name edit, SOS function, DTMF function, 211 CTCSS and 51 DCS tones, 1750Hz tone, encryption and VOX for hands-free operation are all standard on this radio.
  • Rugged and Rainproof: Made of high-strength materials in the body and softer TPU material at the bottom, this radio is specially designed to be safe from drops. Rated IP56 waterproof is also a plus for outdoors, especially in harsh environments. Finally, the radio is orange, making it easier to locate and spot in low light scenarios.
  • Improved Display: This radio has a much-improved display that features a full color screen, a signal strength meter, and other features. With the inverted dark background, the display is easy on the eyes, even in daylight.
  • Professional Ham Radio: Dual band, dual watch, dual standby, up to 128 channels. Equipped with an 8.9-inch long antenna, this solid 5W radio can reach further and receives strong signals.
  • Bluetooth Programming: In addition to the traditional PC programming, the GS-5B can be programmed with the dedicated APP via Bluetooth. Compatible with both Android and IOS systems. There also is keypad programming for all settings and functions. It’s cool to program your radio anywhere anytime especially when you are traveling.
6 BAOFENG Two Way Radio
Our Score:
9.1
BAOFENG
  • 【Universal Use】Upgrades from our previous generation UV-5R, on top of that our walkie-talkie also includes exclusive appearance and exclusive sale. we focus on providing an easier user experience! That starts with the new in-depth manual that guides you through the capabilities and customization of the BF-F9V2N
  • 【Two Way Radio】BAOFENG portable radio that can do both transmit and receive a signal (a transceiver) A two-way radio (transceiver) allows the operator to transmit and receive to other similar radios operating on the same radio frequency (channel).Up to 128 channels for you
  • 【Larger Battery】Big real capacity 2100mAh battery meet you need(UV-5R only 1800mAh), up to 8 hours working, at least 20% longer battery life as well as to reduce your charging times. Such a powrful baofeng handheld radio, give it a try yourself?
  • 【High-teck Chipse with 8W Powerful】Baofeng 8 watt video came with all full kit. Great range and Clear transmissions, It will make you communicates well with others for jobsite uses. Great recommend this to those needing a reliable jobsite communication devise
  • 【After-sales Service】 CCTV-Pro is the authorized Baofeng US Distributor, all Baofeng radios we sell qualifies BAOFENG's 5 years warrant and support, which allows you enjoy high-quality professional services. If you have any question about Baofeng radio, Please via:1.Amazon Message Center 2.QA
  • ✔️Durable Rugged Shell:Completed with a hard case outside, supports using for years, especially for business and outdoor using, like at the construction field, security work, survival rescue.
  • ✔️Tri-Power & Long Range:TD-H6 ham radio have higher output power and TD-771 high gain antenna, greatly expands the signal transmission distance and enhances signal reception;Tri-power switch, allow you to choose between high power to maximize range or low power to conserve battery life.
  • ✔️All you need is in one box! Get Extended pack of ham radio with 2pcs 2200 mAh Batteries + CH340 Programming Cable + TD-771 High Gain Antenna + High Quality Radio Mic and more; No more worry about looking for compatible accessories.
  • ✔️96 Hours Battery Life:Rechargeable 2200 mAh Li-ion Battery, up to 48 hours standby time, one more extra battery supports non-stop communication, car charger adapter also included;Supports you longer, especially in outside activity.
  • ✔️Wide Compatibility:TD-H6 ham radio covers most commonly used frequency range, makes it compatible with many other handheld radio such as the baofeng uv-5r series and baofeng bf-f8hp series, baofeng uv-82 series.
  • ✔️This model has been FCC certified, FCC ID: 2AWL3TIDRADIOTD-H6;FCC Certification and Program Guide under the listing product guides and documents; Enjoy 60 days no reason to return including the accessories.
  • ✔️Easy Programming:More convenient to manual programming most of settings via the keypad, as well as PC programming with the cable in the box. TD-H6 is also compatible with CHIRP.
8 Radioddity GA-510 10-Watt Ham Radio
Our Score:
8.9
Radioddity
  • ✔ What's in the Box: GA-510 Radio, 2 x 2200 mAh rechargeable batteries, programming cable, dual band antenna, charger, adapter, belt clip, wrist strap, earpiece and user manual.
  • ✔ Dual Band, Dual Watch, Dual Display. Completed with a hard case outside, supports using for years, especially for business and outdoor using, like at the construction field, security work, survival rescue.
  • ✔ Easy Programming: More convenient to manual programming most of settings via the keypad, as well as PC programming with the cable in the box. SUPPORT CHIRP.
  • ✔ 96 Hours Battery Life: Come with two 2200mAh high-capacity batteries this radio has a continuous working time of 12 hours under 10W (high) power mode, 24 hours life under 5W/1W (med/low) power mode and 96 hours on standby. Supports you longer, especially in emergency situation.
  • ✔ Tri-Power & Long Range: A further and more impressive communication range comes from the 10W high power feature. The Radioddity GA-510 can be set in 3 power modes (high/medium/low) (10W, 5W, 1W) to give you the best talking quality under different circumstances.
10 AnyTone AT-D878UVII Plus Dual Band Radio
Our Score:
8.5
BridgeCom Systems
  • Dual band UHF/VHF radio on DMR and analog so you can have one radio for anything on the tech bands.
  • Up to 7w of high power transmitting so you can have maximum range using your HT.
  • Easy to use interface and programming software so that you don't have any trouble making new contacts.
  • The New AnyTone AT-D878UVII PLUS Has APRS Receive and Transmit, so now you can receive other users APRS Transmissions
  • Upgraded 500,000 Contact List instead of 200,000 on previous models so you can grow with the DMR community.
  • FREE AT-D878 course included on BridgeCom University with step-by-step video tutorials to get you on DMR and making contacts fast ($97 value).
  • Front face programable with VFO channels so you can punch in repeaters and other frequencies on the fly without having to use the included programming software.
Product Images, Product Titles, Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API

What to Look For in a best ham ht?

You may know that best ham ht is a kind of product many customers are hesitant to pay for. It is not due to its quality but the fact that there are many factors you must consider. Nevertheless, all your worry is not a problem for us. Our knowledgeable staff will help you with the right decision.

Tech-evaluated and high-rated products are available in our list of eligible items. Here are some indispensable things you shouldn’t ignore:

Emergency Features

Your two-way radio is a great tool for emergency planning, whether you are camping, hiking or hunting. An Emergency Alert radio sends an alert to all radios within your radio group in case you need immediate help. There are many types of emergency alerts available, and they vary from brand to model. Some alerts combine a beacon flashing S.O.S with international Morse Code, others send a loud alarm to members of the group. These alerts block any activity on radios and get louder until someone responds.

Maximum Range

When choosing a 2-way radio, the first thing to think about is how far you want them to travel. Consumer 2-way radios with a transmit power of 0.75W and the PMR446 frequency can travel up to 10 km. This could be possible only in the ideal circumstances: high above ground with no obstructions between radios. This range is unlikely to be achieved unless you use your walkie-talkies to connect between mountaintops. The maximum range in a dense urban setting is more likely to be lower. A good radio will provide sufficient range to reach the majority of people. You will require more power and range than that. They are more costly than the license-free model and require a license.

Battery Type

Many two-way radios can be powered with regular alkaline batteries. Others have rechargeable batteries that include a dock. Two-way radios should not be used for longer than one day without power access. A model that takes both regular and multiple batteries is a better option if you are going on camping trips. We recommend regular 2-way rechargeable radios. This is because used batteries are expensive and can cause damage to the environment.

Number Of Handsets

You will need as many handsets as you can afford when purchasing two-way radios. While a twin-set may suffice for camping trips, busy warehouses might need more to ensure everyone is connected. The price per handset drops when you purchase in bulk. To meet every customer's requirements, we offer many two-way radio packages. If you need to add more handsets, we also have single handsets.

Weight And Size

Both weight and size play a major role in carrying all you need. Two-way radios are small and lightweight, so they can be carried in a bag or attached to your belt. Although smaller units can be more affordable than larger models, they might not offer as many features or provide the same protection. Heavy-duty, impact-resistant two-way units that are heavier and more durable are a better choice for outdoor enthusiasts who want to be tough.

Weatherproofing

You can't keep your two-way hidden in your bag, but there is a good chance it will be exposed to other conditions than the cool, mild, early summer sun when there is a gentle breeze blowing. It is important to consider the weatherproofing of your two-way. If you reside in an area with moderate temperatures and light to predictable rains, some models can withstand splashing water.
An entirely waterproof radio is an option. Many models are waterproof and can withstand severe rain. Some models can be submerged up to 30 minutes without causing any damage. A model that floats will be your best option if your radio is used for fisherman, fishing or crossing open waters. If you drop your model accidentally, it can be easily picked up from the water surface.

Channels & Privacy Codes

Two-way radios that are license-free have a fixed frequency they can transmit on. PMR446 The majority of two-way radios without a license have 8 to 16 channels. These tune the frequency at which handsets communicate. There are usually privacy codes in addition to channels. These codes do not protect your transmissions, contrary to the title. They allow you to talk freely and without being interrogated by others. This can prove problematic if your use them in an area such as a ski resort, where many other two-way radios are in use.

FAQs

Can I Change The Frequencies On My 2 Way Radios?

Many commercial-grade 2 way radios can be programmed from either a computer onboard or via a PC. Although you cannot change VHF to UHF, the radio can be programmed with a PC or on-board programming. However, it can alter the frequencies in the band.

Why Do 2 Way Radios Have Multiple Channels?

Every channel can be programed at a different frequency. Most modern 2 way radios can have between 4 and 16 channels, although some radios may have up to 256 channels. Channel one will be the only channel that broadcasts on the frequency being used. It is beneficial for commercial applications to have different communication depending on the work group or whereabouts. Radios can be used by schools to broadcast the news. Teachers and administrators might prefer one channel.

Is VHF Or UHF Better?

The frequency band that a radio can operate within is called VHF (very high frequency), or UHF [ultra high frequency]. VHF operates between 136 and 174 MHz, while UHF operates between 400 and 512 MHz. Wave length is shorter the higher frequency. A signal will travel farther if it has a longer wave length. It is easier for the signal's to penetrate if the wave length is shorter. VHF broadcasts better over open water and from an unobstructed location to another. For broadcasting through buildings or other obstructions, UHF is better than VHF.

How Many Radios Can I Use One Location?

You can use as many radios at any location you wish, regardless of the license. To manage communication better, we suggest that the channel's users be limited to ten.

How Far Do 2 Way Radios Broadcast?

Broadcast distances of commercial-grade hand-held radios are generally between one and two miles. While VHF radios can broadcast further, they do not penetrate as far. UHF radios transmit a greater distance and have better penetration.

What Is The Life Expectancy Of A 2 Way Radio?

Two-way radios of commercial grade are made to comply with Military Specifications as well as Intrusion Protection standards. These radios can live for a long time if they are maintained and used in accordance with the specifications. Two-way radios can last up to 10 years. But radio batteries rarely last more than 3 to 4 years.

What Is 2 Way Radio VOX?

Voice activation is VOX. VOX promises hands-free operation. "Speak and the radio will open to broadcast your message." However, voice activation should actually be called sound activation. The VOX function on a 2-way radio can't distinguish between a call to help or the usual grunts, groans and grunts of normal physical activity. VOX may cause more problems than it solves. We do not recommend VOX being used in commercial applications.

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About Harlan Ellison

Harlan Ellison

Harlan Ellison is a writer and audio equipment enthusiast. He's particularly interested in home theater HiFi audio, and he has been the editor of The Audio Insights since its inception. Harlan is known for his sharp wit and scathing critiques, but he also has a great love of music and audio gear. When he's not writing or editing, Harlan can be found listening to music or watching movies with his wife.