Best Handheld Ham Radios (Updated 2023)

Top 9 Best Handheld Ham Radios

1. Yaesu FT 65R Dual Band Transceiver (Best Overall Handheld Ham Radio)

Key Features

• Sturdy and comfortable to handle with commercial grade build including an IP54 rating
• 1950 mAh battery life of around 9 hrs upgradeable to 11 hrs operating time with the 2500 mAh option and comes with 3.5 hr rapid charger
• Clear microphone and good audio quality 1 watt speaker
• Programmable VFO as well as channel and weather scans
• 3 power settings of 5 W, 2.5 W and 0.5 W allow
• Intuitive menu with 4 programmable keys to enable quick recall of most used settings

The Yaesu FT 65R is a less expensive version of the highly rated FT-60, and the features are more basic too on this more compact model. However, this dual band radio, which comes with weather alert and FM radio, is still a solid, comfortable handset of reasonably quality with an IP54 rating meaning it is relatively robust outdoors. It is one of the best handheld ham radios around.

The PTT button sticks out at a slight angle which may feel awkward to some but great to others, so this design feature comes down to personal preference. It has a 1-watt speaker with good audit quality and a clear, audible microphone. 

You can extend the operating time by a few hours by upgrading the rechargeable 1950 mAh lithium ion battery to a 2500 mAh battery.

The transceiver is computer and keypad programmable, but the programming cable isn’t included and has to be bought separately, however, once obtained, the handset can be programmed with a range of software. It comes with a basic but user-friendly manual though you have to download the more comprehensive programming instructions. 

Menu navigation using the keypad is relatively straightforward and intuitive, and the keypad includes four programmable keys to quickly access to your most used settings, which is fairly unique among the ham radio handsets reviewed.

The back lit LED screen seems basic with a default display setting showing a single VFO and battery status, but it can be configured to a dual band display.

It has the standard VFO/programmable memories as well as weather scans and you can set it to auto turn-off after a set period of time to preserve the battery. It comes with a stout antenna which is interchangeable.

If you’re tired of belt clips that snap or detach the battery from the handset, the transceiver comes with a sturdier belt clip design than many other models and the clip attaches to the body of the handset rather than a more standard attachment to the battery.

Overall, the functionality, reliability and quality compared to other models make it highly suited as a first ham radio for a ham radio operator starting out, as well as intuitive, easy-to-handle handset for the more experienced.

This dual band ham radio comes with VFO mode or you can scan by pre-programmed memory. Menu navigation and keypad programming is relatively intuitive, and the keypad includes 4 programmable keys for quick recall. Sturdy and compact, it is well suited to outdoors, especially with power saving features and the option to upgrade the battery.

2. Baofeng BF-F8HP Dual Band Two Way Radio (Runner Up)

Key Features

• Most Powerful Ham Radio
• Great price with many features
• Great sound quality
• Great Battery life
• Squelch settings work
• Transmit and monitor on all GMRS, FRS, Marine and Business bands

The Baofeng BF-F8HP is the editor’s pick for the best handheld ham radio. It is also the best handheld ham radio for beginners due to its affordability, ease of use and popularity among beginners as well as experienced hams.

It is a powerful handheld radio as it boasts of three power levels i.e low- 1 watt, medium-4/5 watts, and high-7/8 watts.

With this radio, it is possible to monitor two channels simultaneously, thanks to its Dual watch receiver, also known as semi-duplex. You do not have to worry about not having enough power when you have the 2000Mah power battery as your back up.

Why get bored when you can listen to the radio while monitoring radio channels?

Thanks to its FM broadcast capability. The best thing about it is, it can accommodate a total of one hundred and twenty-eight channels that are programmable and can be put to memory. There is the option of adding or removing channels, hence you get to choose what you want to listen to.

In addition, incoming calls will always be given priority over the FM broadcast radio. This ensures that you do not miss any radio calls while on the radio.

This is a ham radio that even a beginner can comfortably use.

This Baofeng radio is frequently bought together with:-

• BTECH PC03 FTDI Genuine USB Programming Cable. No Driver Issues, no old drivers needed, just plug and play
• 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.

Baofeng BF-F8HP User Manual

*Check our review of theBest Mobile Ham Radios

3. Baofeng UV-5R Dual Band Two Way Radio-Baofeng Ham Radio (Best Budget Ham Radio)

Key Features

• Versatile radio for amateur use
• Easy to use
• Small size, just the size of an iPod
• Good frequency range
• Durable and extremely strong
• High two colors LED definition display
• Dual Watch Receiver
• Group Tones supported

If you are looking to save some money this is the best budget ham radio. It is another Baofeng ham radio that can watch two channels at the same time.

It has a frequency range of 65-108mhz. Features high/low power settings of 4W/1W and contains a programmable radio. The FM broadcast radio can be used on amateur frequencies and can transmit on both the Narrowband (12.5 kHz) and wideband of about 25 kHz.

It has 128 programmable memory channels with the option of adding and removing at will. This gives you the option of customizing the channel names on the device. Not forgetting, its superior rechargeable battery.

The battery is 1800mAh Lithium-Ion with a power capacity of about 12 hours. When you are not in need of the power from the battery, it contains a save feature that saves power to be used when needed. It is one of the best cheap ham radio on the market.

Baofeng UV-5R User Manual

Read our review on the Best Long Range Two Way Radios

4. Yaesu FT-3DR C4FM/FM 144/430MHz Dual Band 5W Digital Transceiver with Touch Screen Display (Best Premium Handheld Ham Radio)

Key Features

• Wide receiver coverage along and APRS capability
• Simultaneous C4FM digital dual band (A and B) monitoring
• High resolution, full colour touch screen display allows for easy menu option selection
• 5-watt high power output as well as medium (2.5 watt) and low (1 watt or 0.3 watt) power options
• Bluetooth enabled
• Option to add an SD card that will allow recording of conversations and carry a back up of saved channel settings
• Small and compact

If you’re a ham radio enthusiast who’d like a transceiver that utilises more of current technology, the Yaesu FT-3DR is a premium, and yes, more expensive, version of the Yaesu FT-2DR. 

Its distinguishing upgrades compared to the Yaesu FT-2DR include a bright multi-colour screen, rather than monochrome, with touch screen capability meaning it is much easier to work your way around menu functions and switch between bands. The colour screen is slightly smaller than the FT-2DR which requires some deftness when using the touch screen. You’d think the more advanced screen would drain the battery faster, but the FT-3DR has proven to have excellent battery life (when not using Bluetooth).

This model is one of very few to come with Bluetooth capability meaning it can synchronise with the car and most headphones.

It has the option to be fitted with an SD card on which you can record inbound and outbound voice transmissions, and you can also use the SD card to save a back up of your preferred channel settings.

The compact size and built-in GPS leaves little space on the top of the handset, so it isn’t as easy to interchange wider based antennas. One solution is to add a BNC connector to attach other antennas.

The handset is compact and comfortable to carry by hand, belt-clip or pocket if you’re hiking and the GPS provides and gives access to real-time navigation. It is IPX5 water resistant so is suitable for outdoor activities. Combined with the navigation tools and decent battery life, you can make your way back to your start point if you get lost.

APRS capability seems a bit hit and miss, and the low sound capability may make it harder to receive some broadcasts and transmissions. Otherwise, this is a feature-rich premium ham radio and as this is an incremental upgrade you won’t need to replace all the accessories if you have an earlier model.

This dual band ham radio comes with touchscreen capability, Bluetooth and GPS while becoming even more compact and tactile than earlier models. Sturdy and water resistant, it is well suited to outdoors, with the ability to track, record, receive and transmit voice, data and location information.

5. Yaesu Original FT-2DR Dual Band Handheld Transceiver

Powered with an output of 5 watts, this Yaesu ham radio is one of the best handheld radio for beginners. Its battery boasts of a capacity of about 2200mAh which means that the user gets to enjoy more time working with it and less time charging it.

It has an in-built antenna with a magnificent GPS receiver. In case you get lost and you happen to have this radio, no need to worry. The GPS can, not only provide your location in real-time but also provides APRS information.

The FT-2DR comes with a navigation feature, which is considered smart due to its capability of performing in real-time. This makes it possible to constantly know exactly where you are at all times,  hence you get to enjoy your hike in the woods with no worries at all.

Last but not least is, there is the little camera located near the microphone. It is a small, handy piece of tool that can take a snapshot and the image is saved in a micro SD card for future reference.

Yaesu Original FT-2DR Dual Band Handheld Transceiver User Manual

6. TYT MD 380-DMR/Moto TRBO Ham Radio

It has a single band coupled with a dual mode capability. The receiver in this radio is one of the most sensitive receivers we have on the market today. The quality of the audio is quite high compared to other similar gadgets with superb frequency response. The thing about the TYT MD 380 that makes it unique is its multi-color display with remarkable resolution.

The speaker is not only loud, but is clear enough too, and is powered by a 5-watt transmitter which is more than sufficient. Its programmable keys are located on the side. Their main purpose is to scan all available channels

7. Tri-band Yaesu VX-6R Submersible Amateur Ham Radio

First and foremost, it is easy to use. With an output of 5 watts and a total of 900 alphanumeric memory channels, it is no doubt one of the most sought after ham radios. It features a triple band and possesses wide receiver capabilities.

Other additional cool features include a severe weather alert system. This comes in handy when you come across harsh weather conditions. Features an Emergency Automatic ID. This proves to be very useful.  In case of an emergency and for one reason or another, you are unable to press the switch. This feature will identify you as the authorized user and you will be able to make your call.

Yaesu VX-6R User Manual

8. Baofeng-UV82C Dual Band Baofeng Ham Radio

Key Features

• Inexpensive
• Light and compact.
• The white LED is handy.
• CHIRP programming
• Can be used on FRMS and GMRS and monitor weather.

This is one of the best baofeng radio models. With a v-85 antenna for optimum performance, this is one of the best ham radios on the market today. It has a switch known as a PTT switch. This comes in handy when you opt to transmit on two frequencies.

It also comes with a dual push to talk button. In addition to this, it has the capability of receiving two frequencies at the same time, at different bands. This is made possible by a feature known as a dual watch receiver.

So why else do we consider it as one of the best portable radio? To start, it boasts of FM broadcasting capability with the incoming call given first priority. This comes with a total of 128 programmable channels that can be programmed via software or manually.

The software considered best for this is CHIRP. It may take a while to learn how it works. But once you get the hang of it, it is a piece of cake. You will need a USB programming cable to make this happen. This enables you to program alphanumerically if that is what you prefer through the use of this software.

Lastly, its power settings can either below (1W), medium (4W), and high (7W).

Baofeng-UV82C Dual Band Baofeng Ham Radio User Manual

9. Retevis Ailunce HD1 DMR Radio

Key Features

• Capacity to store 1,000 priority contacts for convenient access and up to 100,000 contacts overall
• Up to 10 watt high power output as well as medium (5 or 4 watt) and low (1 watt) power options
• Accurate GPS locator and tracker makes it ideal for position and tracking during outdoor activities
• 3200 mAh battery with a long standby time
• Dust and waterproof to IP67 standards

The Ailunce HD1 DMR is a digital mobile radio built with radio ham operators in mind and is the first ham radio from Retevis. It has some features that set it apart from other ham radios including a larger 3200 mAh battery, higher wattage output and GPS functionality, but has some downsides that seem to be improving with firmware updates and hopefully future design improvements.

The 10-watt power outage gives it some extra range, and the large battery apparently lasts for days on standby, though the LCD display is effectively blank in this mode. However, with speaker output of 0.5 watts, the sound has a tendency to distort as the volume is turned up. In addition, the receiver sensitivity seems much lower to comparable handsets earning it a reputation as “deaf”.

This largish handset is designed with a GPS locator and tracking capability, and has a waterproof rating, so you’d think it is suited to those ham radio operators who are outdoor enthusiasts as well. However, functionality issues such as poor receiver sensitivity, lags in responsiveness of the selector knobs, and distortion, pull down the reliability rating of this model. You may be better off with something like the Tri-band Yausu VX6R if you want something you can rely on in survival or emergency situations.

You can program using the keypad or via computer, however the programming cable does not have a standard connector and does not automatically come with purchase. 

The software is similar to that of other radios but different enough to require a bit of a learning curve to get the hang of it. It is not compatible with that of other radios, so you have to set up from scratch if you want to replicate settings you have in other models. It has the capacity to store 100,000 contacts, which you can filter and select according to your requirements from the DMR database directory. 

This is a nice-to-have addition to your ham radios if you are a DMR enthusiast. Be aware though, of the functionality issues if relying on this handset alone for ham radio communications or in an emergency situation, especially as it is pricier and more complex to program than many other models.

This DMR ham radio comes with VFO mode enabling you to program and save by frequency, which is handy if you’re using it in analogue mode. It comes with a promiscuous mode, enabling you to listen and talk to multiple talk groups. Combined with GPS functionality and extended battery life, this waterproof handset is designed for outdoor use. 

Buyer’s Guide – Best Portable Ham Radio

Dual Band

This feature will give you the ability to monitor two different frequencies simultaneously. The dual-band function makes it easy for you to select the frequency you would like to transmit on. You should also be careful with the antenna that comes with the radio. A genuine antenna should have no problem, but the ones not bought with the radios are sometimes not compatible with the dual-band feature.

Programming

There are two questions you should ask yourself, can the radio be programmed manually as well as via the software. If it can be programmed via software, it is prudent to confirm that the programming cable is available and functioning. For a portable radio to be programmed manually, there needs to be a functional keyboard.

Rechargeable battery

After using the portable ham radio for a few hours, it should be recharged. It is paramount to confirm before making a purchase that it has an external DC connection. This will make the work of recharging easier and ensure that the radio has enough power for it to operate at all times.

A well-arranged user manual

In other words, find a handheld ham radio with a manual that is easy to understand. This comes in handy when you try to operate your device, but does not work in the manner you expected it to operate. When something like this happens, it is advisable you look for an easy manual that will help you get going in the shortest time possible.

Speaker quality

Sometimes the audio quality of the ham radio is directly affected by the nature of the environment. If you are trying to listen to your radio in the city or on a busy market, it might be difficult to understand whatever is said via the radio. This is why it is important you look for a device with a good speaker and an external earphone jack. If the outside world becomes too noisy, you just plug in the earphones and receive the information on the radio loud and clear.