The Walkie Talkie Ham Radio For 2024
The Rundown
1. Best Overall: Greaval Ham Radio Walkie Talkie (UV-5R 8W) Dual Band 2-Way Radio
The UV-5R is a two-way radio with an integrated hand microphone and speaker, the radio has an easy to use interface with 10 levels of voice control. The hand microphone captures your voice clearly, and the speaker provides you with crystal clear sound. The UV-5R has a built in power saving design that automatically lowers the power consumption when there is no transmission. Read Review
2. Runner Up: BaoFeng UV-5R Pro 8W Walkie Talkies, Handheld Dual Band Two Way Ham Radios
If you want to walk the talk and talk the walk, the BaoFeng UV-5R Pro is the perfect handheld ham radio for you. This professional grade ham radio offers a full range of features to satisfy both professionals and amateurs. With it's huge range of broadcast frequencies (66 channels), this high power walkie talkie offers clarity far beyond that of a standard portable radio. Read Review
3. Best Design: TIDRADIO UV-5R Ham Radio Handheld Walkie Talkie
The TIDRADIO UV-5R is a handy little walkie talkie that can help you stay in touch in any situation. With a speaker mic, clear and high quality sound communications in the noisy environment can easily be achieved without holding your radio. The TD-771 high gain antenna greatly expands the signal transmission distance and enhances signal reception, so you can keep on working without delay even when there's no cell phone service. Read Review
4. Best Performance: BaoFeng Radio UV-5R Ham Radio
The BaoFeng UV-5R radio is a beginner-friendly radio which has multiple functions and is easy to learn and operate. This ham radio covers most commonly used frequency range, making it compatible with many other ham radios. The UV-5R comes with 6 pcs extra long antenna, which will greatly enhances the signal transmission distance and enhances signal reception. Read Review
Sometimes you need to communicate in an emergency, whether it be with search and rescue or just a quick radio check. A walkie-talkie is great in these situations but what if you need a little more? Instead of using regular radios, why not use Walkie talkie ham radio?
Ham radio is another form of radio communication that can also be useful in emergency situations. It’s still an emergency situation, so why not bring out the ham gear?
In the end, we concluded that Greaval Ham Radio Walkie Talkie (UV-5R 8W) Dual Band 2-Way Radio was the most highly recommended. Other options presented here are certainly worthy of your attention, and in order to assist you in making an informed choice, we have compiled a helpful shopping guide.
RELATED: We've researched 6,239+ real reviews in 2024 on top-rated best 2 meter ham radio to help you decide what to buy. See our top picks and ultimate guide here.
Our Top Picks
TOP Choice #1
![Greaval Ham Radio Walkie Talkie (UV-5R 8W) Dual Band 2-Way Radio]()
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Power Output: High /Medium /Low Power Switchable, Programmable Radio Supports Keyboard or PC programming (for Outdoor /Home /Workplace use, etc.)
- ⑤Wide application: LED flashlight and alarm for emergencies. Suitable for hunting, driving, hiking, camping, ski and other outdoor activities, can also as home radio or work use.
- ③Multi-function: The amateur ham radio is equipped with the programming cable for use with the CHIRP software to program, also supports computer and keyboard programming. It can receive standard FM broadcast band, and as a low band scanner as well as communicators.
- ①BAOFENG uv 5r radio: High /medium /low power(8W/4W/1W)switchable, transmit on the VHF and UHF frequencies, VHF: 136-174 MHz(Rx/Tx), UHF: 400-520 MHz(Rx/Tx). 128 channels.
- ④Long range communication: The Baofeng walkie talkie comes with an extended antenna to communicate in the distance. The reception to repeaters is crystal clear, strong and stable signal up.
- ②Long battery life&fast charging: Each hand held ham radio comes with 2pcs 1800mAh high-capacity rechargeable Li-ion batteries, ensures continuous use. Low battery warning reminds you of charging or replacing the battery. It takes about 3 hours to fully charge. Power adapter and car charger adapter included.
TOP Choice #3
![TIDRADIO UV-5R Ham Radio Handheld Walkie Talkie]()
- ✔️TD-5R radio is compatible with CHIRP; More convenient to manual programming most of settings via the keypad
- ✔️ Keypad setting and clearly LCD display will offer you more convenience when you need to change some functions
- ✔️Equipped with speaker mic; giving you clear and high quality sound communications in the noisy environment without holding your radio
- ✔️Upgrades from Baofeng UV-5R: 128 Memory Channel; 50 CTCSS/105 DCS; VOX Mode for Hands-Free; A/B band independent operation; Busy channel lock-out; Auto Keypad Lock. FCC ID:2AWL3TIDRADIOTDUV5R
- ✔️All you need is in one box: TD5R comes with programming cable, two 1800 mAh batteries, charger, earphones, hand microphone,car charger and TD-771 long antenna, no need to purchase additional accessories, more cost-effective!
- ✔️ Built-in high brightness LED that can be used as a flashlight or alert system for emergency situations
- ✔️ TD-771 high gain antenna: greatly expands the signal transmission distance and enhances signal reception.
- ✔️VITAHUI shop is the authorized US BaoFeng Distributor;Enjoy 60 days no reason to return including the accessories;FCC Certification and Program Guide under the listing product guides and documents.
- ✔️Receive frequency range: VHF 136-174 MHz and UHF 400-480 MHz;Transmit frequency range:VHF 144-148MHz and UHF 420-450MHz;Fully in compliance with the FCC part 15B and part 97 regulations; FCC ID: 2AJGM-UV5R.
- ✔️All you need is in one box! Get Extended pack of BaoFeng UV-5R radio with 12pcs 1800 mAh Batteries + 1pcs Driver Free Programming Cable + 6pcs TD-771 High Gain Antennas + 6pcs Radio Mic; Reasonable price is the ham radio user and business user top choice.
- ✔️Crystal clear audio make you not need yell to your partner,even in some noisy environment;Keep your hands free with the radio mic.
- ✔️Rechargeable 1800 mAh Li-ion Battery, up to 36 hours standby time, one more extra battery supports non-stop communication, car charger adapter also included;High Gain TIDRADIO-771 Antenna increase talking distance.
- ✔️High/Low power switchable meets all your needs in warehouse or outside activity; Programmable amateur radio supports keyboard programming or PC programming via CHIRP; Driver Free programming cable is included.
- ✔️Wide Compatibility:BaoFeng uv-5r ham radio covers most commonly used frequency range, makes it compatible with many other handheld radio such as the baofeng bf-f8hp and baofeng uv-82 series.
5
![TIDRADIO TD-H6 Upgraded UV-5R High Power Ham Radio]()
- ✔️[FCC certified and exclusive customer service]: This model has been FCC certified, FCC ID: 2AWL3TIDRADIOTD-H6; FCC Certification and Program Guide under the listing product guides and documents; We also provide exclusive customer service, we have technical staff assist, solve your questions.
- ✔️[Double Batteries]: Two Pcs Rechargeable 2200 mAh Li-ion Batteries, One for use One for backup. Each battery have up to 48 hours standby time. Non-Stop communication, no need to worry about suddenly running out of power on the road. Multiple charging methods, car charger and desk charger included.
- ✔️[Wide Compatibility]: TD-H6 ham radio handheld 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.
- ✔️[CHIRP Support]: Program TD-H6 with CHIRP by Choosing [TIDRADIO]--[TD-H6]. You can also customize your radio on our Manufacturer software using the included programming cable. We also provide detailed programming guide and video to walk you through your first programming.
- ✔️[10 Watt & Long Antenna]:TD-H6 ham radio have 10Watt high output power and TD-771 high gain antenna, greatly expands the signal transmission distance and enhances signal reception; Gives you a better communication experience compared with 5watt and 8watt Radios.
- ✔️[Multiple Features]: TD-H6 possesses features similar to those of the most popular baofeng uv5r radio: Dual-band display, Dual Freq. Display, Dual-standby; VOX; Busy Channel Lock-Out; Scan; Monitor; Voice Prompt; Emergency Alarm. Easy to learn and operate.
- ✔️[Upgraded from BaoFeng UV-5R]: The output power of TD-H6 is now twice as much as before (double output power from 5watt to 10watt), it also have longer antenna (comes with extra TD-771 high gain antenna that perform 30% better), tough and rugged shell, 30% larger 2200mAh battery capacity. Suitable for new ham radio users who want to get their first powerful radio.
- ✔️[High Quality Speaker Mic]: TD-HM060 Speaker Mic—Excellent sound quality, sturdy outer shell, convenient button design, stretchable and handy wire, rotatable back clip, better than those general speaker mic included in other bundles.
6
![BaoFeng UV-5R Ham Radio Walkie Talkie, Dual Band Two Way Radio]()
- Kit Includes: UV-5RA, 2100mAh Battery, V-85 Dual Band Antenna, CH-5 Charger, CH-5 110V Adapter, Earpiece Kit, Wrist Strap, Belt Clip, User Manual
- Two Way Radio: A 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.
- High / Med / Low Power Settings (8W/4W/1W)
- 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.Connect with your lover in secret.
- Cctv-pro is the authorized BaoFeng US Distributor, all Baofeng radios we sell qualifies Baofeng's warranty, we also provide our own 30-day hassle-free return, .If you have any question about Baofeng radio,Please via:1.Amazon Message Center 2.QA
7
![Mirkit 2X Ham Radios Baofeng UV5R MK4 8 Watt Max Power]()
- ✔️Lot is a pack of Two Baofeng radios: UV-5R MK4 Max Power Double Black Max Power with Programming Cable for flashing portable ham radios! Extra: A link for a special firmware MIRKIT- provided on request!
- ✔️Functions of UV5R radio: Dual PTT button, Auto Keypad Lock, Dual Band, FM radio, radio scanner, portable cb ham radio, goes with baofeng programming cable and suitable for flashing with chirp!
- ✔️Full 100% USA Warranty Coverage from MIRKIT Radio! No Need for Spending Time and Sending Your Baofeng Uv5r Mk4 Max Power MP Radios to China! As Well as Programming Cable Has Full USA Warranty too!
- ✔️FCC Part 15 Part 97 Certified. VHF/UHF 144-148 mhz / 420-450mhz. Max Power Radio: High/Medium/Low Power Settings!
- ✔️Sold by authorized Baofeng Distributor - Mirkit Radio, Top seller of the long range Baofeng and cb radios, programming cable and other Baofeng uv 5r accessories in USA!
8
![BAOFENG BF-F8HP (UV-5R 3rd Gen) 8-Watt Dual Band Two-Way Radio]()
- 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
- 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
- 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.
- 142 CTCSS/DCS PRIVACY CODES - The privacy codes give you up to 3,124 channel options to block other conversations.
- 2-WAY RADIOS - These walkie-talkies feature 50 GMRS (General Mobile Radio Service) channels, along with channel scan to check for activity. The JIS4 Waterproof Protection prevents splashing water from having any harmful effect on it (splash resistant).
- INCLUDED IN THE BOX: Radios (x2), rechargeable battery packs (x2), boom mic headsets (x2), belt clips (x2), 120V dual desktop charger, AC adapter, DC adapter, and an owner’s manual.
- 36-MILE RANGE - Longer range communication in open areas with little or no obstruction. Easy Voice and Sound Activation Transmission (eVOX) with 9 sensitivity levels for hands-free operation.
- NOAA WEATHER SCAN + ALERT - NOAA Weather Scan will automatically scan through 10 available weather (WX) band channels and locks onto the strongest weather channel to alert you of severe weather updates. NOAA Weather Alert will sound an alarm indicating that there is a risk of severe weather in your area.
10
![Radioddity GA-510 10-Watt Ham Radio Dual Band Handheld]()
- ✔ 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.
- ✔ 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.
- ✔ 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.
- ✔ 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.
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What To Know About The walkie talkie ham radio Before Purchasing It
There are numerous factors to consider buying a product. In the section below, we will give you some key points to pay attention to prior to buying a walkie talkie ham radio. Of course, It’s indispensable for buyers to do some research before making a purchase so that they won’t end up with something that can’t meet their expectations.
In this post, with our useful and available tips for shopping, we will make it easier for you to select and make the best decisions when tending to own the walkie talkie ham radio. Here is your area! Give it your attention and make it your assistant.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
RELATED: We've Retrieved 17,744+ Real Reviews In 2024 on Top-Rated walkie talkies for cruise ship use To Help You Decide What To Buy. See Our Top Picks of 2024.
FAQs
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.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.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.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.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.Conclusion
Hopefully, our sharing above will take you much closer with your walkie talkie ham radio. The model we suggested for you is equipped with all things you may need. Nevertheless, suppose you have a fancy for another one, we highly recommend BAOFENG UV-5R High Power Tri-Power Portable Ham Two Way Radio. To conclude, we wish you a pleasant shopping time. And if there is any problem related to this article that you wonder about, please contact us soon for timely answers. It's our pleasure to serve you!
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