The 10 Best Survival Ham Radio, Tested And Researched
The best survival ham radio is an essential tool for any preppers and survivalists. There are many situations where having a ham radio can come in handy, from reporting road closures after a storm to communications in the event of an emergency or natural disaster. Hams are great at keeping in touch with the outside world should it be cut off for some reason, or if there’s ever been an emergency situation in your area.
There are some common misconceptions when it comes to hams, so we’re here to clear them up once and for all. We’ll go over everything you need to know about ham radios so you can confidently pick one up as soon as possible.
Following extensive study and analysis, we've come up with the Tenway Ham Radio UV-5R Pro, which we hope will meet your demands. However, it is not the only thing on our list. We also show a full buyer's guide and a number of different options are available to help you find the most suitable.
RELATED: We researched 15,066 customers’ review in 2024 to find the best hand crank radio. Take a look at the top picks and buying guides to find the best one.
Our Top Picks
- 【Tri-Power:】High /Medium /Low Power Switchable, Programmable Radio Supports Keyboard or PC programming (meets all your needs in Outdoor /Home /Workplace use, etc.)
- 【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!
- 【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
- 【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.
- 【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.
TOP Choice #2
![Radioddity GA-510 10-Watt Ham Radio]()
- ✔ 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.
- ✔ 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.
- ✔ 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.
- ✔ 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.
TOP Choice #3
![Greaval Ham Radio Walkie Talkie (UV-5R 8W)]()
- 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.
- 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.)
- 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.
- 【Two Way Radio】A portable radio device (transceiver) 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
- 【Powerful Singal】High gain dual band antenna ensure you talk with your family,partner from garden to house,from middle of the hill to the top and etc.Portable radio providing you with just what you need to instantly reach your family and friends
- 【Kit Includes】UV-5 RA(New version),2100mAh Battery,V-85 Dual Band Antenna,CH-5 Charger,CH-5 110V Adapter, Earpiece Kit,Wrist Strap,Belt Clip,User Manual
- 【Warranty and Support】CCTV-Pro is the authorized Baofeng US distributor,all Baofeng radios we sell qualifies Baofeng's warranty,We offer 5 years after-sales service.If you have any question about Baofeng radio,Please via:1.Amazon Message Center 2.QA
- 【Capacity Upgrade】Let your walkie-talkie come alive! Powerful 2100mAh battery,beyond the original machine (only 1800mAh), greatly increase the use time,up to 8 hours working,and provide a long battery life!
- 💎5000 LARGE CAPACITY BATTERY: OnLyee battery powered radio upgraded to 5000 battery capacity, which has five times endurance than other outdoor portable solar radio. It has timeproof battery life and long lasting battery endurance than ever. This crank radio flashlight cell phone charger with large capacity battery can make it easier to provide emergency power to any tablet or phone in outdoor activities. No battery anxiety when emergency situation comes since Onlyee got your companion.
- 💎READING LAMP& FLASHLIGHT & SOS ALARM: This flashlight radio for emergencies with SOS alarm and 2.5W powerful speaker, great for the outdoor enthusiasts. Our radios portable am fm has a 3W LED flash light and 2.5W reading light which could helps you see and find stuffs you need in the dark during an emergency power outage. It also equipped with an emergency SOS button, which could activates a loud alarm and a flashing red signal light by holding it.
- 💎CUSTOMER SERVICE: This IPX6 waterproof portable radio comes with a compact compass. Package including: 1 * NOAA Weather Radio with Built-in Battery, 1 * Handy Braid belt, 1 * Carabiner, 1 * Compass, 1 * Micro USB Cable, 1 * User Manual. Our customer service is here for you 24/7 for anything you need. And all Onlyee products have 18-months Warranty!
- 📻NOAA WEATHER RADIO: Our weather radio is certified by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. You can be prepared and ready for all weather conditions. The radio receives the latest weather information about your located area from 7 NOAA stations, and broadcast with clear sound. Get items you need ready for emergency situations in advance, keeping you and your family safe with this emergency preparedness item.
- 💎5 WAYS TO POWER: The emergency radio has 5 Ways power backup in case of power outages. Built-in 5000 rechargeable battery offers extra long AM/FM radio, flashlight & reading light bright running time.Also, USB charging/Solar Panel/Hand-crank could supply the power for this flashlight radio works for days during the power outage.No matter what emergency situation you encounter, this hand crank radio can always provide endlessly power!Plus, 3 * AAA batteries work as the last power backup.
- 💎 【Never Power Outage with 5 Charging Ways】This 𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗿𝗴𝗲𝗻𝗰𝘆 𝘄𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝗿𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗼 with multiple power backup options is the best value for 𝘀𝘂𝗿𝘃𝗶𝘃𝗮𝗹 𝗿𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗼 in this market. 5 power sources - 5000 Large Capacity Built-in Battery, Solar, Crank, 5V USB Input, 3*aaa Battery. No matter what emergency you’re in, it never runs out of electricity! Also works with most USB powered devices, this 𝘀𝘂𝗿𝘃𝗶𝘃𝗮𝗹 𝗴𝗲𝗮𝗿 could provide enough emergency power for important calls.
- 💎 【Great Reception for 𝗔𝗠 𝗙𝗠 𝗦𝗵𝗼𝗿𝘁𝘄𝗮𝘃𝗲 𝗥𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗼】Added a 3.5mm headphone jack and adjustable antenna, this 𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗿𝗴𝗲𝗻𝗰𝘆 𝗳𝗹𝗮𝘀𝗵𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁 𝗿𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗼 helps you to enjoy the AM/FM/SW radio with crystal sound and good signal. The big tuning knob makes it easier to tune into your favorite channel manually. The dimension of this 𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗰𝗿𝗮𝗻𝗸 𝗿𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗼 is 6.69 x 3.74 x 2.36 inches and weight 1LB, which is surprisingly small and light to carry around.
- 💎 【Prepared Yourself Ahead with 𝗡𝗢𝗔𝗔 𝗪𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝗔𝗹𝗲𝗿𝘁 𝗥𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗼】PPLEE weather radio will keep your family safe through natural disasters like hurricanes, earthquakes, wildfires, Snowstorms, and so on! Select your local weather station, this emergency radio can timely report various life-threatening severe weather issued by National Weather Service, alert you with a loud siren and flashing red light, never miss a critical time to get prepared even at night while you are sleeping!
- 💎 【Light Your Way with High Illuminated Flashlight & Reading Lamp】It’s a smart choice to have this 𝗿𝗲𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗴𝗲𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝘀𝗼𝗹𝗮𝗿 𝗿𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗼 no matter for indoor or outdoor usage. Provides a 3W 𝗰𝗮𝗺𝗽𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗳𝗹𝗮𝘀𝗵𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁 and 2.5W 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁, this 𝗯𝗮𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘆 𝗼𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝗿𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗼 is designed to light up your darkness when emergencies, bug out, or power failure.
- 💎 【Solid Product with Strong After-sale Service】Our 𝘄𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗽𝗿𝗼𝗼𝗳 𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗿𝗴𝗲𝗻𝗰𝘆 𝘄𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝗮𝗹𝗲𝗿𝘁 𝗿𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗼 with versatile functions can be your life-savor! We also provide an 18-months Warranty, 24/7 customer service. Any questions, pls contact us via Amazon or our support email address. Add to the cart, you will never regret purchasing this 𝗰𝗿𝗮𝗻𝗸 𝗳𝗹𝗮𝘀𝗵𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁 𝗿𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗼!
- 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.
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 💪 【Advanced Technology】：With stronger usability, more mature technology and even better portability. The best walkie talkies support many advanced features, such as Auto squelch system, Auto memory function, Auto scan function, Auto power saving, Low battery alert, Voice activated(iVOX), Keypad lock, Adjustable power, Drop-protection(ABS), 22 channel each with 121 privacy codes, Large LCD screen with backlight, Compatible with most brands, NOAA's Weather Emergency Alert and so on
- 💪 【NOAA Weather Scan and Alert】：The super power walkie talkies 2 way radio support NOAA's National Weather Service, it can scan 10 NOAA radio channels transmitting in your area. If you turn on the weather alert function, the work walkie talkies will auto alert you the warnings from designated NOAA broadcast stations
- 💪 【USB Charging Walkie Talkies】：The rechargeable two way radios have USB charging cable and original fast charger, more convenient to charge anytime, anywhere, such as charged by PC, car charger or power bank. The 1800mAh rechargeable battery has high safety and long life, so you don't need to buy the batteries again and again
- 💪 【Support Team Communication】：The adult walkie-talkie has superior compatibility, super power and large capacity rechargeable battery(1800mAh), so you can not only make long-distance calls with all teammates at the same time but also keep connected all the time. The portable PTT walkie-talkies are perfect for women or men outdoor adventures, such as camping, hiking, hunting, boating, fishing, skiing and so on
- ▶【Power Source】Rechargeable Li-ion Battery packs:Equipped with 1pack Original 12000mAh Extended Battery+Battery Charger ,Support 5-7 days communication，Long standby time: 5-15 days
- ▶【Long Range Communication】Professional Ham Radio，Up to 128 channels.Output : :10W ,High/Mid/Low Tri-Power Switchover,FCC certificated,FCC ID:2AJGM-AR152,The signal waves have the ability to penetrate wood; steel and concrete; giving you better range and performance in urban environments and around buildings
- ▶【Three charging methods】The battery equipped with 2.5mm charging port can be directly charged, and it can be used for car charger, USB charger and wall charger. Allows you to charge anytime, anywhere, convenient and portable.(The wall chrager is standard, if you need car charger or USB charger, please see our other products link.)
- ▶【With AR-152 Tactical Antenna】With 25cm/9.84inch AR-152 Tactical Antenna,Connector Type:SMA-Female,Can enhance the signal
- ▶【Program After-sales Service】Program your AR-152 two way portable radio with a special firmware from radio shared!And provide technical guidance and after-sales service
- Made of strong premium impact-resistant and water-resistant ABS material, suitable for both indoors home/office use and outdoors recreational activities
- Works as an emergency mobile battery charger with built-in standard DC 5V USB output port for charging mobile devices, such as smart phones, GPS units, MP3 players, digital cameras, and etc. Other features include a 5-LED reading lamp, LED flashlight and a red LED S.O.S. beacon light
- Comprehensive coverage of AM, FM, 2-band shortwave and 7 pre-programmed NOAA weather channels for entertainment, sports, talk-shows, breaking news around the world, and 24/7 real-time weather forecast (USA and Canada ONLY) with PEAS (Public Emergency Alert System)
- 6-way powered portable emergency radio with hand crank generator, solar panel, compartment for 3 AA batteries (not included), 5V USB input, 5V AC/DC input with a wall power adapter (sold separately), built-in NiMH replaceable and rechargeable battery pack
- Telescopic antenna extends up to 14.5" for high sensitivity reception assisted by advanced semiconductor circuitry design and LED signal strength indicator for pin-point tuning accuracy, and built-in speaker delivers loud and crispy sound
Product Images, Product Titles, Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API
What to Look For in a best survival ham radio?
Buyers are frequently hesitant to purchase best survival ham radio. Certain factors should be considered while making a significant purchase. Our understanding and expertise with best survival ham radio will assist you in making the right decisions.
Please take the following points into consideration before selecting best survival ham radio:
Size
Experienced adventurers know it is best to travel light to save time and make your journey more enjoyable. A compact radio is the best option if you aren't looking to carry extra weight or want to save space.
You will get lower quality sound quality if your device is smaller or lighter. It's not necessary to have high-quality audio in order to enjoy a weather update.
You will get lower quality sound quality if your device is smaller or lighter. It's not necessary to have high-quality audio in order to enjoy a weather update.
Weather Alerts
If you're camping or out in the elements, it is crucial to stay informed on the weather. You can also use it if the weather is unpredictable or you are at home without power.
You should look for devices that have access to the NOAA radio channel. Up to seven radio stations broadcasting emergency warnings and weather information across the United States can be tuned in. You can even tap into the station that is most pertinent and switch on whenever a broadcast occurs.
You should look for devices that have access to the NOAA radio channel. Up to seven radio stations broadcasting emergency warnings and weather information across the United States can be tuned in. You can even tap into the station that is most pertinent and switch on whenever a broadcast occurs.
Power Efficiency
A radio's battery life, crank or solar panel does not guarantee that it can charge quickly or lasts long. You should verify the battery's average life before you spend any money. Any battery life that exceeds eight hours is good.
The time taken to produce meaningful power can vary between cranks. It can take up to two minutes for one minute of playback at the lowest end. You can achieve more than 10 times as many minutes if you work harder.
The time taken to produce meaningful power can vary between cranks. It can take up to two minutes for one minute of playback at the lowest end. You can achieve more than 10 times as many minutes if you work harder.
Extra Features
There are many features on emergency radios. These include SOS signalling and emergency buzzers, as well as table lamps and LED flashlights. Many radios can charge small electronics via USB. A larger battery is better if your phone is important.
These radios have emergency features that are essential. Make sure you look for one you can use to notify you of severe weather warnings from NOAA. A flashlight is a great option for emergencies.
Look for things that can help you find your way if you are trapped by floodwaters or in the woods. You can also use a flashing red LED light, flashlights that blink or have SOS or blinking functions, and an ultrasonic dog whistle or buzzer to help you locate your destination.
These radios have emergency features that are essential. Make sure you look for one you can use to notify you of severe weather warnings from NOAA. A flashlight is a great option for emergencies.
Look for things that can help you find your way if you are trapped by floodwaters or in the woods. You can also use a flashing red LED light, flashlights that blink or have SOS or blinking functions, and an ultrasonic dog whistle or buzzer to help you locate your destination.
Battery Life
However, it's less likely that the battery will need to be charged every hour. The larger batteries for emergency radios are typically between 2,000 and 2,600 mAh. This should provide you with a full day's use, before needing to recharge.
Radios that are smaller and lighter will be able to store between 850-1,999 mAh. This will allow for more frequent use or shorter emergency situations.
Radios that are smaller and lighter will be able to store between 850-1,999 mAh. This will allow for more frequent use or shorter emergency situations.
Price
These radios don't use expensive technology and are not designed to provide the best sound quality. Even the most advanced emergency radio systems are still affordable.
Durability
You need a radio that can withstand extreme conditions, especially if you are active. Most radios that we have looked at are water and shock-resistant. You can drop the radios on different surfaces or subject them to rain without any harm.
You need an IPX rating at minimum 4.
You need an IPX rating at minimum 4.
Durability & Waterproofness
You'll be more likely to drop your radio in an emergency situation or get it wet during inclement weather. You should look for radios made with durable materials such as bumpers or impact-resistant rubber skin.
Learn about the IPX rating system. It rates how water-resistant a device. This ranges between the device breaking down upon water exposure (IPX0), to being capable of enduring powerful water jets. (IPX9K).
Most radios we found fell within the IPX3 and IPX4 ranges. These are able to resist light rain or splashes coming from all directions.
Learn about the IPX rating system. It rates how water-resistant a device. This ranges between the device breaking down upon water exposure (IPX0), to being capable of enduring powerful water jets. (IPX9K).
Most radios we found fell within the IPX3 and IPX4 ranges. These are able to resist light rain or splashes coming from all directions.
Charging Methods
There's no way to be certain that the power will remain on in an emergency. It's likely it'll go out. Make sure you have multiple options for charging your radio. To recharge the battery completely, it is easiest and most efficient to do so.
Radios with disposable batteries are a favorite of ours. It is easy to stockpile and receive several days' worth of power with minimal investment.
Although solar charging can prove useful, it is slow and requires the sun to work. This can cause problems in severe weather. A hand crank is a good alternative charging option.
Hand cranks don't all work the same. Take note of what power each crank can produce. You want a radio with a high ratio of cranking and listening, such as 10 minutes per minute.
Radios with disposable batteries are a favorite of ours. It is easy to stockpile and receive several days' worth of power with minimal investment.
Although solar charging can prove useful, it is slow and requires the sun to work. This can cause problems in severe weather. A hand crank is a good alternative charging option.
Hand cranks don't all work the same. Take note of what power each crank can produce. You want a radio with a high ratio of cranking and listening, such as 10 minutes per minute.
Reception & Ability To Receive NOAA Alerts
An emergency radio's primary function is to inform you. Your radio should be able to pick up both AM/FM radio stations as well as NOAA weather stations. Although most emergency radios can do this, make sure you find one with solid reception. To better receive radio waves, you should look for radios with a telescoping antenna.
FAQs
How Long Do Emergency Radios Last?
A good emergency radio will last for 5-10 years if kept dry and clean.What Kind Of Radio Is Used For Emergencies?
Federal government suggests that you include a hand crank radio or battery-powered radio with NOAA weather access, alerts and notifications in your emergency kits.Emergency radios are tuned specifically to be able to listen to AM and FM radio, as well as access NOAA weather channels. In case of power grid failure, they can be used independently from wall outlets.
A radio that can alert you to NOAA's weather warnings is a good choice. It doesn't need a plug and will work at the minimum. While useful, some perks, like integrated flashlights and USB charging ports, can be helpful, but they are not essential to emergency radios.
What Are The Emergency Radio Channels?
Your location will often determine which emergency radio stations you have access to. You should find the local channels as well as state emergency radio stations and keep them in your emergency kit.The national weather service (NOAA), also has its own weather station. Non-weather updates will also be provided by the NOAA station.
When Will I Need An Emergency Radio?
A portable emergency radio is a vital tool in times of crisis, such as a tornado, hurricane, earthquake or power cut. You will probably need an emergency radio, with climate change increasing and disasters related to weather becoming more common in many places. It is better to have this radio than not using it.How Long Does A Crank Radio Last?
A crank radio generally provides 10-15 hours of radio talk time when fully charged. If other features are being used, the timeframe will be longer. You don't have to turn the radio on again to make it work.There is no definitive answer to how long a crank radio will last. However, it generally takes 500-1000 charges to charge a device. If you don't have frequent tornadoes, you can expect to get a couple of years, if not even decades, out of the unit.
How Do You Use An Emergency Radio?
You should make sure your radio is fully charged before you use it. You can access NOAA weather channels and your local radio station by charging your radio. Many radios also have a USB cable that can be used to charge the phone and act as a flashlight.Do Hand-crank Radios Work?
While not all models will work perfectly, crank radios can be trusted. You can turn a crank to charge a radio battery. I.e. It should be wound up.Although a crank radio is not as reliable or powerful as other sources of power, they can be used for a long time without needing to recharge.
The efficiency ranges from 2 minutes for 1 minute power to 90 seconds for 30 minutes power.
What Does An Emergency Radio Do?
There are many features on emergency radios that will help you in a crisis situation. Notifications and transmissions from NOAA can be received by emergency radios. They also double up as flashlights and phone chargers.What Is The Best NOAA Radio?
NoAA Radios that are the best in their class can receive NOAA alerts as soon as they go out. In case of a power outage, they can run on their own and have integrated solar chargers or hand cranks.Access to NOAA Alerts is one thing, but the battery life of a NOAA radio can be the most important. Although smartphones are useful, their battery life will not last more than one day. You can keep track of what's happening in your life with hand-crank radios.
You can simply turn the crank to start your radio, and you'll be able to keep up with all of the news. You can also save the battery of your phone and refill it in most cases.
We constantly update the list of best survival ham radio as new data becomes available. For the most up-to-date information, please visit our website regularly.
Please feel free to contact us if you have any queries or concerns with best survival ham radio. If you ask, we'll do our hardest to help you in any way we can!
READ NEXT: The 10 Best Tablet 13 Inch Of 2024, Tested By Our Experts
About William Shatner
