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Updated Jan 24, 2023

Best Baofeng Radios Reviews (Updated 2023)

What is the best Baofeng radio?

Whether you want to upgrade to the latest version or you are a newbie starting your Ham experience, wondering which is the best Baofend radio is one dilemma that you may face.

Simply because Baofeng radios are a popular choice for both amateur and commercial users.

Unfortunately, the search is never easy. With lots of options and inadequate information to guide you, it’s easy to go round in circles.

So, which is the best Baofeng radio In 2023?

Best Baofeng Radios In A Glimpse:

1. BaoFeng BF-F8HP (UV-5R 3rd Gen) – Best Baofeng Radio
2. BTECH DMR-6X2 Radio 7-Watt Dual Band (DMR and Analog) – Best Baofeng DMR Radio
3. BTECH (UV-5X3) 5 Watt Tri-Band Radio – Best Value For Money
4. BaoFeng UV-5R – Best Budget Baofeng Radio
5. BTECH MURS-V1 MURS License Free Two-Way Radio – Best Baofeng MURS Radio
6. BTECH GMRS-V1 GMRS Two-Way Radio – Best Baofeng GMRS Radio
7. BaoFeng GT-3TP Mark-III Tri-Power
8. BaoFeng UV-82C Dual Band (136-174/400-520 MHz FM) Ham Two-Way Radio, Transceiver

The best Baofeng radio is the BF-F8HP which is also one of the best handheld ham radios . It’s a powerful Baofeng radio with a lot of features at an affordable price.

Best Baofeng Radios Comparison Table With Ratings

Images	Rank	Ratings	Price
	1. BaoFeng BF-F8HP	80%	Check Price
	2. BTECH DMR-6X2	78%	Check Price
	3. BTECH (UV-5X3)	77%	Check Price
	4. BaoFeng UV-5R	76%	Check Price
	5. BTECH MURS-V1	77%	Check Price
	6. BTECH GMRS-V1	77%	Check Price
	7. BaoFeng GT-3TP	77%	Check Price
	8. BauFeng UV-82C	76%	Check Price

Detailed Comparison Table With Specifications

Model	BaoFeng BF-F8HP	BTECH DMR-6X2	BTECH (UV-5X3)	BaoFeng UV-5R	BTECH MURS-V1	BTECH GMRS-V1	BaoFeng GT-3TP	BauFeng UV-82C
Output	8 Watts	7 Watts	5 Watts	4-5 Watts	2 Watts	2 Watts	8 Watts	5 Watts
Speaker Output	700 mW	1 Watt	1 Watt	700 mW	1 Watt	1 Watt	1 Watt	1 Watt
Frequency Range	VHF (136-174) UHF (400-520)	VHF (136-174) UHF (400-480)	VHF (130-179.99) 1.25M (222-225.99) UHF (400-520.99)	VHF (136-174) UHF (400-520) FM 65MHz-108MHz* *Rx only	VHF (151.820 – 154.600) FM 65.0MHz-108.0MHz* *RX only	VHF (136-174)* UHF (400-520)* GMRS 462 – 467 MHz *RX only	VHF (136-174) UHF (400-520) FM 65.0MHz-108.0MHz* *RX only	VHF (136-174) UHF (400-520) FM 65.0MHz-108.0MHz* *RX only
Push-to-Talk	Single	Single	Single	Single	Single	Both	Single	Both
Display	Tricolour	Tricolour	Tricolour	Tricolour	Tricolour	Tricolour	Tricolour	Tricolour
Size	10.5 x 2 x 2 inches	2 x 1.5 x 5 inches	2.28 x 1.26 x 4.33 inches	7.01 x 4.29 x 4.02 inches	2.28 x 1.26 x 4.33 inches	2.28 x 1.26 x 4.33 inches	4.5 x 1.4 x 2.3 inches	2.4 x 2 x 11.3 inches
Weight	10 oz	10.4 oz – 11.3 oz	8 oz	15.8 oz	8 oz	8 oz	16 oz	8 oz
Number of Channels	128	4000	128	128	15	128	128	128
Programmable	Via keypad and PC via programming cable	Via keypad and PC via programming cable	Via keypad and PC via programming cable	Via keypad and PC via programming cable	Via keypad and PC via programming cable	PC via programming cable	Via keypad and PC via programming cable	PC via programming cable
Battery	2100 mAh Lithium Ion	2100 mAh Standard Lithium Ion 3100 mAh High Capacity Lithium Ion	1500 mAh Lithium Ion	1800 mAh Lithium Ion	1800 mAh Lithium Ion	1800 mAh Lithium Ion	1800 mAh Lithium Ion	1800 mAh Lithium Ion
Tuner Technology	VHF/UHF	VHF/UHF	VHF , 1.25M, UHF	VHF, UHF, FM	VHF, FM	VHF, UHF	VHF, UHF, FM	VHF, UHF, FM
Voltage	7.4 V	7.4 V	7.2 V	7.4 V	7.4 V	7.4 V	7.4 V	7.4V
Antenna	V-85 Dual Band Antenna	SMA-Female 6″ Dual Band Antenna (Compatible with Nagoya SMA-Female Antennas)	V-85 Dual Band Antenna 220MHz Single Band Antenna	TIDRADIO 771 Antenna	MURS VHF Single Band Antenna	V-85 Dual Band Antenna	23CM (9″) High Gain Antenna	High gain Dual Band

Why Baofeng Radio?

Baofeng is a company with a proven record in making world-class radio communication equipment, mainly VHF and UHF walkie-talkie. It was founded in 2001.

Since 2012, Baofeng radios have passed the FCC certification and the European ROHS certification, paving the way for large-scale entry into the US & Europe markets.

Baofeng radios are the real deal because of the level of investment in R&D, production, sales and after-sales service.

Occasionally, they release improved versions of their radios giving users the pleasure of using the latest and most advanced Ham radios in the market.

But that’s not all. Baofeng radios are awesome for;

• Affordability- acquiring a Baofeng radio will not leave a hole in a pocket. The prices are a great bargain and you get a lifetime value.
• Multiple-use – They are versatile and can be used both for amateur and commercial use. You only need to get the right licensing.
• Ease of Operation—They are simple to operate even for starters. The package comes with a detailed user manual that is easy to follow.
• Powerful – They boast of output power of up to 8 watts. They also run on powerful batteries that are durable and never drains easily. You get more time to use the radio even in remote areas.
• Flexible: Their radios have channels as low as 2.5KHz, CTCSS and DCS tones, can either be PC or manually programmed, operate in both VHF and UHF frequencies.

You’re assured of getting real value with guaranteed performance and warranty.

Top 8 Best BaoFeng Radios Reviews

1. BaoFeng BF-F8HP (UV-5R 3rd Gen) – Best Baofeng Radio

Price	Range	Reliability	Functionality	Durability	Programming	Battery	Extras	Overall Rating
85%	80%	80%	80%	80%	65%	87%	80%	80%

Baofeng BF-F8HP is the best Baofeng radio. It’s an improved version of the UV-5R model with a maximum power output of 8w. It’s a very user-friendly radio with detailed operating instructions that make it a great option for beginners. It comes with a powerful 2000mAh battery and it’s very well priced.

It is a handheld dual band radio that’s designed in the USA and operates on a new chipset technology.

You can rest assured BF-F8HP exhibits the highest transmission power. It features 3 power setting levels that you can choose from depending on your preference. These include low which sustains a power of 1 watt, med sustains 4 or 5 watts and high which you can use for 7 or 8 watts.

BF-F8HP radio features a 7-inch dual band antenna that’s adequately powerful to capture and to transmit frequencies. This improves its overall performance index and enables you to get clear signals.

It has a tri-color display that you can customize to your liking for easy operation and navigation.

For increased efficiency, it operates on high-frequency ranges. These include; 65-108 MHz for commercial FM reception, VHF of 136-174 MHz, and 400-520 MHz. Also, these apply both in reception and transmission.

Another big plus is its 2000mah battery which is more than enough for most users and lasts up to 24h at 5watts power.

But there’s more…

BF-F8HP is made with all types of users in mind. So, whether you’re experienced or a newbie, this radio is made with you in mind. And it comes with a detailed manual that you can use as a reference.

Moreover, you will have access to customer support and help should you have an issue that needs to be addressed urgently. 

Baofeng BF-F8HP is frequently bought together with:

• BTECH PC03 FTDI Genuine USB Programming Cable. No Driver Issues, no old drivers needed, just plug and play
• BaoFeng, BTECH BL-5L 3800mAh Li-ion Battery Pack. Baofeng standard 2000mah battery is decent but with this battery you can easily double the time you can use it before you have to charge it again.
• Authentic Genuine Nagoya NA-771 15.6-Inch Whip VHF/UHF (144/430Mhz) to extend its range. This is a must for outdoor and camping usage.

Check out our review of the Best Handheld Ham Radios

2. BTECH DMR-6X2 Radio 7-Watt Dual Band (DMR and Analog) – Best Baofeng DMR Radio

Price	Range	Reliability	Functionality	Durability	Programming	Battery	Extras	Overall Rating
65%	78%	80%	85%	85%	70%	85%	85%	78%

DMR-6X2 radio is a versatile handheld and dual-band radio. It is made for both amateur and commercial use.

The radio has a large and bright TFT display that is 1.77 inches. This gives enough room for the display of all the necessary functions on the screen. What’s more interesting about the display screen is that it’s colored.

The radio has adequate storage space. You can store up to 4,000 channels, 10,000 groups and 200,000 contacts. With this radio, you don’t require extra storage space.

It operates on two frequency ranges of 136-174 MHz and 400-480 MHz. This gives you multiple options to choose from and you get access to lots of people around the world.

But here is more:

The radio exhibits high-performance capabilities and sustains a maximum power output of 7 watts on VHF and 6 watts on UHF. To add to this is an inbuilt GPS and can send APRS packets to beacons that are compatible so that other people can know where you are.

This radio is both dustproof and water-resistant. It’s a good choice for use outdoors, and even in severe weather. On a single charge, the battery takes up to 35 hours.

The other one of a kind feature of this specific radio is the “Store and Forward Repeater” mode. This mode uses the in-built recording chip of the radio. The DMR-6X2 then stores and routes calls on a similar band or as a cross band repeater.

With this technology, incoming audio data is recorded and forwarded to the designated frequency as soon as the signal drops.

Check This: Best DMR Radios

3. BTECH (UV-5X3) 5 Watt Tri-Band Radio – Best Value For Money

Price	Range	Reliability	Functionality	Durability	Programming	Battery	Extras	Overall Rating
77%	80%	75%	85%	80%	65%	75%	85%	77%

BTECH UV-5X3 Radio is designed in the US and well equipped to meet your Ham radio needs.

This is the only radio with a built-in firmware. You don’t have to always rely on a computer to program it.

And its updated menu makes it easy to use as well. You will find it reliable and convenient to use.

The radio features an LCD screen that enables the dual display of frequencies. From this, you can simultaneously have two important frequencies both on the primary and secondary display lines.

Scanning, adding, and removing channels is made easy with this radio model. This is attributed to its updated menu that allows you to perform these functions without necessarily needing a computer.

With UV-5X3, you can now scan frequencies in ranges. All you have to do is set the range you want on the display screen and let the radio scan just that. This saves you time and improves the efficiency of the radio.

UV-5X3 radio features a dual-band V-85 antenna that is powerful and enhances the transmission and reception abilities of the radio.  

Moreover, it supports external accessories such as earpiece kit which is essential if you want a secretive conversation over the radio.

Using this gadget should be easy as the package comes with a detailed user manual which even a newbie can follow through to get a better understanding of how to operate the device.

4. BaoFeng UV-5R – Best Budget Baofeng Radio

Price	Range	Reliability	Functionality	Durability	Programming	Battery	Extras	Overall Rating
100%	75%	75%	70%	70%	65%	80%	75%	76%

Baofeng UV-5R is a handheld and dual band two way radio that is pocket friendly.

UV-5R covers a frequency of up to 520 MHz which allows you to access multiple frequencies.

It features a long powerful TIDRADIO 771 antenna that ensures you access to all the possible frequencies for easy communication. The last thing you want is a breaking channel and this antenna takes care of that.

Baofeng UV-5R operates on squelch technology that is reliable and effective in voice commanding. With this, you’re guaranteed a clear sound even in a noisy environment.

This technology cleanses the wave frequency to give you a stellar and clear sound. Therefore, this will make communication easy even in areas with poor signals.

It has 128 channels that provide adequate room where you can save the frequencies that you frequently use.

For easy access, you can program the radio according to your specifications. The radio comes with a programming cable that you can use on a computer with the radio. However, you need to have a programming software installed on that computer.  

Additionally, it’s possible to reject irrelevant calls with this radio. This will enable you to stay focused and only take important calls.

It comes with a standby battery that you can use when you have drained power out of the primary battery. This will save you time that you’d otherwise use waiting for the only battery to fully charge.

Also, it has a power-saving function that enables you to use power sparingly. This is important when you’re in a remote place where power access is a challenge. Thus, you can stay active for long with this function.

Check out our review of Best Long Range Two Way Radios 

5. BTECH MURS-V1 MURS License Free Two-Way Radio – Best Baofeng MURS Radio

Price	Range	Reliability	Functionality	Durability	Programming	Battery	Extras	Overall Rating
87%	70%	75%	85%	75%	65%	80%	85%	77%

MURS-V1 is a handheld radio that can transmit and receive up to 15 MURS channels.

With this radio, you can select two power options. These are 2W for high power and 500mW for low power.

You will find this radio less sophisticated and easy to use. This is because it comes with already pre-programmed 2-way 5MURS channels that allow shared frequency use.

For uniqueness, the frequencies are tone separated and for enhanced privacy between users in multiple other departments.

What’s more: this radio doesn’t require licensing and you can use it for all purposes.

Also, you can synchronize the display to simultaneously show two channels. This enables you to see all the important channels at a go without switching from one to another.

The radio has an inbuilt FM radio that you can tune to for entertainment purposes. Occasionally, if you need to detract yourself, the FM radio proves invaluable.

It is highly compatible with other accessories such as BL-8 battery pack and Kenwood k1 speaker mics. And not forgetting SMA female antenna that increases its reception and transmission power.

At night or when in a dark room, you don’t need to have a flashlight. The radio features an inbuilt and powerful flashlight that can light up your way as you walk in the dark.

The channels are easy to program and with a computer and a programming software you’re set to go. The package includes a programming cable that you can use to connect the radio to the computer.

Check This: Best MURS Radios

6. BTECH GMRS-V1 GMRS Two-Way Radio – Best Baofeng GMRS Radio

Price	Range	Reliability	Functionality	Durability	Programming	Battery	Extras	Overall Rating
83%	75%	70%	83%	80%	65%	80%	85%	77%

The GMRS-V1 is FCC certified (Part 95A) for use on GMRS frequencies and for VHF/UHF scanning capabilities (Part 15B)

GMRS-V1 radio is designed and has its support system established in the US. This comes with a performance guarantee and should you experience challenges with your radio, you have a guaranteed product warranty.

This radio is a dual band and handheld. Besides, it supports both VHF and UHF band frequencies.

It features an inbuilt receiver that can monitor 2 different frequencies. This can happen on either VHF or UHF frequency bands.

With this radio, you will find channel scanning and modification simple. Relying on its channel skip feature, you can add or remove a channel from your existing channel list.

It’s also possible to skip nuance channels and settle on the channels that you want to save on your radio. This will help you to only save quality channels with clear sound.

Using this radio allows you easy link up with other Walkie talkies and radio users. This is possible as GMRS-V1 is compatible with GMRS (General Mobile Radio Service) and FRS (Family Radio Service). Also, it operates on 30 channels that serve different purposes.

It comes with a built-in FM radio that you can count on for entertainment and a flashlight that is effective, reliable and doesn’t consume much power.

Low-quality frequencies become a thing of the past when using this radio. It has a powerful SMA female antenna that helps in the reception and transmission of quality frequencies so that you get a clear sound.

The GMRS-V1 is one of the best and most capable GMRS handheld radios

Check This: Best GMRS Radios

7. BaoFeng GT-3TP Mark-III Tri-Power

Price	Range	Reliability	Functionality	Durability	Programming	Battery	Extras	Overall Rating
87%	80%	75%	75%	75%	65%	80%	75%	77%

GT-3 TP Mark III is an upgrade from GT-3 Mark II and it operates on tri-power mode.

This implies that it has up to three power settings that you can tap on depending on your preference.

Its highest power level is 8 watts, a mid-power level of 4 watts, and a low power level setting of 1 watt.

This feature makes the radio reliable and versatile when it comes to power usage.

It has a wide frequency transmission and reception range. By covering a wide area, you can effectively communicate with others over an 11 km radius.

It has a drop-resistant hard shell cover that protects the radio from damages in case it falls down. This also contributes to its agility hence you will find the radio durable.

And when the signals are poor, you will still get quality sound. The radio has an AGV switch that you can use to cancel noise whenever you have poor signal strength.

8. BaoFeng UV-82C Dual Band (136-174/400-520 MHz FM) Ham Two-Way Radio, Transceiver

Price	Range	Reliability	Functionality	Durability	Programming	Battery	Extras	Overall Rating
81%	79%	75%	75%	75%	65%	80%	75%	76%

This model is a pact, economical 2-meter, and 440 MHz amateur radio device. It has a one of a kind 65 to 108 MHz VHF reception band that has the periodic FM transmission band.

It has a double watch and dual reception and it gives you up to 128 channels when you purchase this portable ham radio. It’s among the most economical of BaoFeng ham radio.

The best thing about this radio is that it alerts you when the battery is low and also shows the amount of charge left in the battery. When you compare former BaoFeng radios with this new model, the latter has a louder 1-Watt speaker, a much stronger case with large buttons, and a recently made chipset.

It also has a circuit board that extends the range, performance of the former BaoFeng chipsets, and accuracy. Some of the pros and cons are outlined below. Let’s take a look!

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Best BaoFeng Radios Buying Guide

According to our review the clear winner is the BaoFeng BF-F8HP. Nevertheless prior to making a buying decision for the best Baofeng ham radio, you need to be aware of what to consider.

There are multiple radios in the market and without the right knowledge, you’re likely to mess.

The good news is that I have compiled a list of considerations that you should flip over before opening your wallet. Here are several factors you need to look out for when buying a BaoFeng Radio.

1. Power Usage

More wattage means more powerful signal and a longer radio range. For long-distance uses, wattage is crucial as it plays a big role when two appliances are far apart.

You should possibly purchase a higher wattage radio if those are the conditions under which you’re using a radio.

The average power output for the best radio should be 4 watts. However, one with more power output is recommended.

This is important because your radio efficiency depends on this. Also, you need to check that your battery power is powerful and can support the radio. 

A high power battery will enable you to use the radio for long before a recharge becomes necessary.

2. Range of frequency

First of all, check the frequency range you need for your radio. You will find that BaoFeng designs are generally mono, double and 3-band radios that support 3 frequency modes: VHF, FM, and UHF.

UHF vs. VHF

This is crucial in any radio. There’s more to be told about the differences between Ultra-High Frequency and Very High Frequency (UHF and VHF), but we will make it simplified for you.

In general, UHF radios do well inside a building, while VHF is best suited outdoors. This is because UHF waves can pass through obstructions; on the contrary, VHF waves need open distances for transmission.

3. Noise Control

At times, dealing with noise and poor signal reception is inevitable. However, if this goes on, you’re likely to have compromised audio quality.

The only way to take care of this is to have a radio that can cancel unnecessary noise so that you only get quality signals.

4. Speaker Output Power

The speaker goes a long way in ensuring you hear every word regardless of the environmental conditions.

This implies that a high power speaker remains useful even in a noisy environment.

Therefore, you need to check the power of the speaker before you purchase the radio. 700 mW is the minimum speaker power that’s recommended.

5. Radio Antenna

Antenna power is important if you want to transmit or receive signals over long distances.

Therefore, check the power of the antenna as it has a direct correlation with the efficiency of the radio.

6. Durability

This will determine how long you get to use your radio. Therefore, check that the radio has a sturdy cover that is resistant to damages in case it falls.

7. Programming

BaoFeng radios are commonly used for programming. They offer you the option of setting various transmission frequencies like weather tracking, law enforcement and many other departments that provide help in an emergency.

8. Model and Display

You will most probably come across troublesome situations outdoors at night. If you use a ham radio with indistinct light, it can be difficult. Therefore, look for the display option for the backlight. Furthermore, BaoFeng has several designs with a large 3-color display.

With a well-built metal housing, the radio is robust enough to endure breakage and destruction. It should be waterproof so that it continues working in conditions such as floods and rain.

Conclusion

That’s it with the best Baofeng handheld radio reviews. Choosing the best Baofeng models shouldn’t be a daunting task anymore.

By following this guide, you can rest assured that you’ll be at ease choosing the one that fits your needs.