The Top 5 Handheld Ham Radios for 2024!
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- Опубликовано: 24 июл 2024
- The Ham Radio Prep team has just put together our picks for the Top 5 Handheld Ham Radios for 2024! Ranging from great beginner radios to get started, all the way up to top of the line options that allow the use of powerful digital modes.
For more information about these radios and links to purchase, see our rankings here: hamradioprep.com/the-best-han...
Chapters:
0:00 The top 5 handhelds for 2024! 📻
1:09 The Baofeng BF-F8HP
2:34 The Yaesu FT-65
3:41 D-STAR: The Icom ID-52
5:19 Honorable Mention: Kenwood TH-D74A
5:37 DMR: Anytone AT-D878UVII Plus
6:54 FUSION: Yaesu Options
8:10 Which Digital Should I Choose? 🤔
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Great video. Love the Yaesu FT-65 It was my first HT, and still carry it daily. Only recently purchased an ICOM 2100DS to venture into NXDN as we have several linked NXDN repeaters in my area. The ICOM does analog as well. Best of both worlds.
Extremely helpful presentation!
Thank you!
Hey, Jim - thank you for this video. I used Ham Radio Prep to help me prepare for my Technician test, successfully on my first attempt. KQ41XD. Again, THANK YOU. My time is now being invested in preparing for the General test. Personally, HF is where I plan to spend my time, and the HF handhelds are rather scarce.
I'm partial to my Wouxun KG_UV9D Mate! 999 memory channels, Cross band repeater, 7 scanning bands total. Scanning of 2 bands at the same time (Superhetrodyne if I spelled that right). 10 watts and I swapped out the rubber duckie for a Diamond SRH320A tri-band anntenna for power to reach out and touch someone!! OH and around $160 depending where you look!
Thanks for this. Quite helpful.
Great video. Thank you Jim!
Great video. I also like the course in the link. It plugged me into substance of the exam right away. TY!
Thanks so much, glad we could help on both counts!
Hey Jim thanks for sharing this 👍
Love hear types of radios!
My HT is a TYT TH-UV88. I found it affordable, around $55 for the radio and an external speaker mic. Programming was rather simple once I got the programming cable that did not come with the radio. The radio is like the baofengs, it does 2m and 70cm and everything in between.
The Anytone BT PTT was the reason we bought them. Not only does it make possible to safely use a radio while driving a large Class A motor home, but if you have only one arm, it also makes it possible to use a radio while driving a car. Simply attach the PTT to the steering wheel.
That’s a GREAT callout.
Are you able to do 2m and 70cm with it as well?
@@gaylecoombs5510 Yes, but we use 70CM simplex while caravanning. We first got the radios to use in the Class A RV as it is much safer to have both hands on the wheel, but after my wife dislocated her shoulder on a trip, we set up Bluetooth in the car as well so she could communicate while driving.
So as a beginner, which one would be the most durable, waterproof one for when crewing sailing yacht deliveries across oceans or traveling in foreign countries in areas away from cities? I’ll be starting your course soon, great video, thank you
In my opinion, with all the handhelds I have owned, the Kenwood TH-D74 is my favorite.
For any occasion, the intuitive programming menu, makes for quick programming of channels whether for 2 meter, 1.25 meter and 70 cm bands. I have used it on 70 cm for winlink, D-star, 2 meter aprs, packet radio with kiss mode, and has a fairly decent HF shortwave receiver that includes SSB and am experimenting with FLdigi & VARA.
Agreed. Such a versatile radio. Thanks for the comment!
If I remember right this is took over the F6a
This
Any advice on mounting/installing an HT w/PTT in a late model midsize car? I don't see a lot of useful space in driver's position of my 2016 Kia Optima.
Excellent video Jim.
Thanks Joe
I just got the Yaesu FT-4X and for the money, it’s a great and simple heandheld.
Hey i just bought the same, 35 quid second hand from someone in the same group,
I own the FT3 and ID52…. If you can do without aprs, the ID52 is much easier to enter repeaters, organize repeaters and the GPS locating of nearby FM/DV repeaters is invaluable while traveling.
This is a very good video. I look at pricing more than anything; I won't spend any more than I have to, even though I'll soon have an Extra ticket and could afford to buy most any unit. The UV-5R will be my first radio because it can be had for less than $20 plus a TYT TH-7800 including the power supply for $229 plus tax. I always watch videos and see the comments that say you get what you pay for and that's probably true but at what cost!?!. HF is so high that I just automatically say no.
The icom id-52 is one of my dream handhelds. I just really like that HT. Gotta start saving up for one. Currently just using a tyt uv88
We haven't reviewed that one yet, or the Kenwood THD75, another good new option.
I've had no problem programming either the FT5DR or the TH-74D with the keypad.
Question because I’m not a ham operator, will something like the baofeng bf-f8hp run marine channels?
Atleast I have one on your list, the Anytone AT-D878UVII Plus.
Also have...
Wouxun KG-UV9PX (multiband listening)
TYT - UV88 (MTC mystery box) giving to my son plus a 80ch FM Uniden CB
Baofeng UV-S9 (keep in my car)
Baofeng UV-9R (keep in wife's car)
Not buying anymore HT's but if I had the money, I'd get the Icom 52a.
Great informative video.👍🍻🤠
Which radio do you like more out of the anytone 878 and the wouxun uv9px?
Very nice video.
Fortunately or unfortunately my Elmer didn't like Yeasu radios, so I've been scared for life. All my radios are/have been Icoms.
I just got a ID-52A, I like it very much! I've ordered a signal stick for it.
Thanks for your video.
K7EMU
Everyone will have their personal favorites. My first Elmer favored Yaesu, so I got my feet wet on Yaesu, but in reality any of the big three (Yaesu, Icom, Kenwood) is going to be at least decent.
I applied for a 2x1 (AB1W), got it, and ended up going back to 2x2 call I got when I made Extra (AC1KQ) - I had made the old 2x2 my identity, and felt weird without it.
Perhaps an analog vs digital plus D-Star vs DMR vs Fusion primer would be helpful for new folks?
Great idea!! We need to make that one.
I use the 8hp with a comet amount. I can hit repeaters 15 miles away.
Has anyone noticed that there is suddenly very few HTs for sale in the Ham market? Everything seems to be discontinued
For a inexpensive entry level DMR radio, you missed a good one. The TYT MD-UV380. DMR and 2 meter/440. And dual watch. So you can listen to a DMR frequency, and either 2 meter or 440. I've had one for a few years not, and its a good radio. And I think I paid about 120 dollars for mine off of Amazon.
great call out - THANKS for sharing this!
how about TYT MD UV390?
The B-Tech DMR6X2pro is a cheaper than Anytone AT D878UV II+. Fully supported in the US, and has a few more option than the Anytone. Anytone built the DMR6X2por to the B-Tech standard, so it's not a cheap clone, but an Anytone, if fact they are 97% compatible and it will even take a Anytone code plug. But you cant use an B-Tech code plug with a Anytone radio.
Sadly you missed the Wouxan KG-UV9 series. Great radios!
I'll look it up 👍 I am interested in becoming a new Ham and trying to do some research as I am/would be a total newbie Ham.
Going soon for Technician license. Considering FT-60 and FT-65, among others. Is there any big advantage to FT-60 over FT-65? Or should I consider something a little more expensive.? Most repeaters in my usual roaming area support System Fusion, but that isn't a huge consideration since I'm just starting.
I'm looking hard at the ft-60. I believe a radio used in the field should not be hard to program by hand. My old ft-411 and ft-470 are dead simple. Hit "Vfo", punch the freq in, hit "rpt" to turn on offset, hit "tset" to select tone, hit "tone" to turn it on, hold function button and select channel number to save. Can program a channel in 10 seconds all with keys on the front panel. No menus to scroll through. It looks like the ft-60 might be similar in that regard
FT60 is fantastic entry HT
I used to easily be smart enough to learn new things. Now I'm like my dad in 1985 trying to program the VCR.
You don't need a programming cable for the FT5D. You can use a microSD - SD adapter (if you don't have a microSD reader or a microSD slot on your computer) and program the radio that way. That's how I did it: no need to shell out for the spendy programming cable.
73,
KN6NPZ Daryl
It is an option, but not a simple one for beginners. Thanks!
I can't believe Quansheng UV K5(8) didn't make it on the list. Super cheap, highly modable 5W radio with USB charging. Way better than Baofeng UV-R or BF one.
It's in consideration for our 2024 list! Good call.
The FT5DR does not require a cable for serious setup. I use the SD card and programming software to do the exact same thing you would with a cable. I don’t own a cable and using their software have programmed the radio many times. I actually find it more convenient and don’t have to fiddle with drivers etc.
This is helpful information. Thank you.
The FT5DR does not require a cable for serious setup. It is very easy to front panel program - no SD card or programming software necessary. Just start programming your radio from the front panel, and then you will know how to make changes out and away from your computer when necessary!
@@tecdive8045 ❤
Hello everyone, I'm a newcomer to the world of HAM radios. I'm in search of a reliable backup communication method that can facilitate connections within a 25 KM radius. Could you kindly recommend the appropriate equipment for this purpose?
25k is tough for a handheld unless you rely on a local repeater. Distance depends on elevation and LOS unless you go mobile then vehicles or base stations that go 50/100 watts.
2meters VHF has more range than 70cm usually. K5EDG
My friend, can I use the Yaesu FT5 as a mobile rig with a diamond antenna? Otherwise, what's the point of buying a handheld if the rubber ducky gives you 1-2 mile radius?
You can swap out antennas on ham radios to anything you want. You can also change the adapter type to one that suits your needs better
Baefeng, the yugo of radios
I love ❤️ the part when you said we are not sponsored. most of reviews today are just paid actors
so true! Most RUclipsrs are paid commissions for product videos.
More importantly, what are the top 5 mobile radios that's NOT single band radios AND capable of Digital AND can double as a base/repeater.
We haven't done a top 5 mobile radio video yet. Thanks for the suggestion, we'll add it to the list for future consideration.
Was the anytone do 2m and 70cm?
It will! However the big draw of the anytone is the DMR and APRS tx/rx, so keep that in mind. 73!
@@HamRadioPrep yeah I want aprs not sure how many dmr repeaters are in my area
My only issue with the Anytone UV-878 is its analog receiver. It is not as good as the other HTs that I have.
i just visited the site and was looking at the courses. the level 1 states its been updated
for 2022. um.........its 2023. when will the course be updated for 2023?
The Technician course is from 2022 - 2026. It's valid until 2026!
We'll update the website to be more clear - thanks for calling this out!
@@HamRadioPrep
Thank you. I want to get involved too but been waiting on your reply here.
Sure there are other courses folks are offering but I like what I'm hearing here
@@yakfishin4912 we hope you do! We work around the clock to make sure our courses offer the best in class education for our students, and our support staff is available to help you anytime. Thanks for your interest and reach out anytime to support@hamradioprep.com.
It's June 2023 and your info on a Google search question points still says 2022, but the app info on Google play has a comment that says you updated for 2023. Seems more places need updated info saying you do, indeed have the new questions. I was ready to buy the course, but decided some research first was a good idea. If the info had said your data was up to date I would have already purchased. Hope someone can update that page link soon
My knowledge of radios and electronics is somewhere less than zero, but I am interested in getting a license. When I watch these videos I usually stop them out of complete frustration. All of you presenters speak in a foreign language full of acronyms and terms that have no meaning whatsoever to me. I get that this is a new adventure for me but I get the feeling you assume people know what you are talking about when they don't. A video that focuses on the definition AND explanation of these terms and acronyms would help. Is there a book or list that contains this information?
Hey Benicio - first off, thanks for checking out our videos. We totally understand. Our goal is always to make this as easy to understand as possible. It’s a big problem in ham radio, but here at Ham Radio Prep we’re dedicated to making it as easy to understand as possible. Actually, we have a video on our channel which I’ll link here to teach you the Slang and Jargon! We also offer online license classes that break everything down into easy to understand lessons. Cheers!
Here’s a free guide to the slang and jargon! ruclips.net/video/zl37-QKAsq0/видео.htmlsi=Xmwj2A16liqV4LZD
Yes there are great videos and tutorials on the interweb and books galore at the local library. Find an Amateur group in your area and go introduce yourself. There are the nose snubbers, but most Hams are just plain good folks willing to help you understand what is going on. Good luck and 73's.
Hey man, I’m studying for my Tech and Gen License tests. I know the feeling you’re going through. It can be frustrating or overwhelming sometimes.
There are plenty of online resources for you to use, including this YouTune channel, as well as Glam Ham on RUclips and TikTok, W4EEY on RUclips, and other places.
I hope you stick with Ham Radio - it’s an interesting community and not half as toxic as a lot of the stuff you’d find on social media.
Let the brainless masses commune on antisocial media. All Hail the Ham.
I hope to chat with you on the air once we both get our licenses. 73 my man.
Just passed my tech exam and all I used was the Ham Radio Prep course. Follow the course and you'll pass!
Yaesu FT-60 and FT-65 the great Japanese radios zero spuries
What's a bit annoying for a complete Newbie are all the technical terms you use, w/o detailing what you're speaking of "DTMF/Echolink,IRLP" etc ..
these all sounds like chinese to me , well i guess i'll research them all one after the other...to know what they are and do ..!
This guy picks according to digital stuff, not everyone is interested in digital. And he ignores tribands, what few there are in HT.
Keep it cheap. Slipping a UV5R into your bug bag will make it almost one pound lighter when you ditch it.
Buy two.
In Norway is all dead now in the year 2023 all is Digtal now,we cant not almost get a singel Am broadcast in here now,its like the dark edge here in Norway,if you are not are a real amateur radio listener with expensive large antennas and expensive ham radios.
So your top five choices are:
Baofeng. A radio from a company that the FCC has slapped down because they didn’t meet minimum standards for filtering. They splattered all over the band they transmitted on.
They CLAIM 8 watts. When you TESTED, was that VHF or UHF, or both? I suspect you didn’t test, you’re just highlighting what they claimed.
Yeasu. “It has a single VFO which is a good trade off for durability…” So my FT2D that has dual VFO has one that gets damaged. The other still works. That makes it LESS durable than a radio with a single VFO?
In what world? Please, demonstrate how a radio with dual VFOs is LESS durable than one with a single VFO.
The other three are easy calls. They’re all flagship models. How does it take any experience to tell someone pick a flagship model for one of the three biggest sellers on the market. And realistically you only picked from two because the Kenwood isn’t available new anymore.
How about “spend a year with an inexpensive USED analog dual VFO radio (and hasn’t had the FCC come after the manufacturer, looking at YOU baofeng). Figure out what you like and don’t like about it. Then identify the most common digital system you can reach from your home QTH. Find the handheld from the manufacturer that supports the most common digital system near you, and has the features you identified you need/want. Then you’ll have something you are happy with. When you get that new handheld, donate the old one to a new young ham. You’ll be surprised how you change their life for the better, all because of a handheld.”
Nice radios, but $600 for an HT really isn't practical, and let's face it, the Baofeng UV-5R is really no longer viable. The keys on the keyboard tend to flake off with use. The Baofeng UV-82 5W/8W replaced the 5R a long time ago. I have a 3800mAh battery on mine.
How about durability? My UV-82 keys don't flake off pieces of rubber, plus the UV-82 has a dual PTT button that fully enables great communication. Oh, and the UV-F6 and other iterations of the 5R are small, plus they have larger rubber keys and better flashlights. The downsides are 1) they won't take the larger UV-82 batteries and 2) they're a bear to put in the charging cradles.
I've seen many of the Baofengs last several years and they're still kicking, so if you have a UV-82 5W/8W radio, you can expect them to be very durable, lasting for six years or more. One Baofeng I bought and wasn't crazy about was the UV-9RPlus. They were sold as 10-18W radios, but are really only 5W radios. But over the last year or so, I really did a complete turn around on them. The quality seems to be outstanding. The things that turned people off was the elaborate claims of power (again, it's 5W). And they had an unfortunate stamping of "Digital Mobile Radio" on the front which wasn't true; so sales plummeted.
But over the last year, just using it, I found myself just coming to love the radio. It's got weight to it, the PTT button is far better than that found on other Baofeng radios, the sound is better and yeah, the FM radio has an annoying click on it, but the internal guts to it are seemingly better. I'm able to get contacts with it that my cheaper 8W radios can't, and I'm unable to explain that. My 8W radios should be able to, so who knows? It's a mystery. I reached someone on my repeater on LOW power with a 7-inch Retevis antenna. How was that even possible? Yet my contact replied, saying I was coming through with some hiss.
I shouldn't have been able to make a contact out of my yard!
So don't sell these Baofeng HTs short. The UV-82 are UV-9RPlus radios are better than anyone has a right to expect. It has a decisive click when it's turned on and the quality on the UV-9RPlus exceeds expectations, and the UV-82 replaced the UV-5R a long time ago.
Very good call out.
😞 P r o m o S M
No ham shack is complete without a Feng'
Too many acronyms with no explanation. Because of that, I have no idea what you're talking about. GMRS? DMR? Meter?
this video is called, "... TOP 5 Handheld Ham Radios ...", and considering the title, it is kind of lame and misleading. all it did was compare advertised features. there was no bench testing to compare actual specs, or any real world comparison tests. If there had been any, then they would have shown that the only radios with decent receivers in this test were the Kenwood and the Icom. How can you take a recommendation seriously if they haven't tested the radios they are recommending against each other, and then presented the results? And some of the statements are just false, like the one about the FT-5DR programming. They also glossed over how poor the displayed information is on all the radios mentioned here - except the Kenwood and the Icom. Also, recommending 8 dirty spurious Beaufeng watts next to your head probably isn't a good idea - if it even actually puts out 8 watts - which I doubt - in which case why would you recommend a radio that falsely advertises it's specs? This video is nothing more than listing advertised features. and how do I know? because I owned all these radios ... and consequently got rid of most of them. Also there was no mention of Motorola ... which should tell you something ... considering this is a "Top 5" video ...
Quansheng UV K 5 nothing else in 23 💪😜 whit jailbreak 🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉