Best Handheld Ham Radio of 2023 | Top HT Radios

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  • čas přidán 1. 07. 2024
  • What is the best HT Ham Radio for 2023? These 12 picks are my top choices of HT Ham Radio for 2023, take a look and let me know what you think!
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  • Jak na to + styl

Komentáře • 445

  • @BryanDaniel42
    @BryanDaniel42 Před 8 měsíci +84

    there's no reason that any new handheld radio designs should have anything other than USB-C for charging, data, etc. No USB-A, Barrell Connector, programming through the mic/speaker ports, etc. Anything else should be discarded and not even considered.

    • @HamRadio2
      @HamRadio2  Před 8 měsíci +14

      I don't think I agree with that, but I see where you are coming from.
      All of the current Yaesu HTs charge directly from 12V, so you can put powerpoles on the end of a bare-wire cable and charge them from the battery box that you are already using to power your radio. Nothing wrong with that....

    • @BryanDaniel42
      @BryanDaniel42 Před 8 měsíci +17

      @@HamRadio2that’s a good point. But for data transfer nothing but USB-C from here on out.
      But with USB-C 3.1 it supports up to 48v.

    • @HamRadio2
      @HamRadio2  Před 8 měsíci +16

      @@BryanDaniel42 Agreed, USB-C needs to be more common

    • @johnmossy3757
      @johnmossy3757 Před 8 měsíci +4

      @BryanDaniel42 I couldn’t agree more. USB charging or atleast a backup power source is the most important thing to me. For me I’ll take a lesser radio except a Baofeng anyday over a radio that gives me portable charging. I wouldn’t even keep my ft60’s as good as they are if it didn’t have a double aa battery case for it. Just cradle charging today is unacceptable.

    • @Howard_Roark
      @Howard_Roark Před 8 měsíci +1

      Agreed!

  • @jdnell
    @jdnell Před 8 měsíci +8

    Like a lot of other older hams, I have several HTs. My go-to HTs are the Yaesu FT5DR (purchased during Dayton-price this year) and the cheapie Baofeng UV-17r. Although, for PS events I typically use the Yaesu FT-60R. When I'm feeling nostalgic though, I break-out the ole' Yaesu FT-530. Love'em all!!

  • @fm71450
    @fm71450 Před 8 měsíci +5

    Jason, as always, thank you. My UV-5Rs are still useful, and have me ready to jump into digital radio. In S.E. Tennessee there are lots of opinions about which digital “style” (DMR, Fusion, Dstar) to use. There are digipeaters for all in this area. Your praise for the YAESU, #2 on this list, is pushing me in that direction. Anyway, it is all appreciated. Hope to hear about the new Kenwood when you get one. All the best, 73

  • @Henri_P
    @Henri_P Před 7 měsíci

    Thank you for comparison. I just got my station license and I was buying first Ham radio with your guide. Finally I ended up to Wouxun KG-UV9D Plus as it was discount on local web shop.

  • @georgecook1374
    @georgecook1374 Před měsícem

    thnx for all the info Jason, just starting to study and investigating radios to consider all this info is super benificial to me............. I am leaning towards the Wouxun KG-Q10H Quad as I like the idea of having access to all the bands till I learn what works best in my area.

  • @Davidjb37721
    @Davidjb37721 Před 8 měsíci

    Thanks for your input

  • @bobkopf227
    @bobkopf227 Před 8 měsíci

    I’ve been waiting for this list thanks for sharing

  • @robertmeyer4744
    @robertmeyer4744 Před 8 měsíci +1

    great video. love the information. love the new Kenwood HT. I have many Baofeng HT even GMRS/MURS ones. some Retevis HT radios a old Alinco 2 meter HT . even the UV-5R new battery comes USB C on battery ! looking at the Anytone tri band and the 4 band HT. stuck between the 2 so i may get both . the 4 band antenna for HT is a hard find. maybe you can make a best portable HT antenna video. so many now . look at end fed half wave ether a kit or ready made many to pick from. some do more bands . also love the kit build video's live them antenna's you and Frank make together . hope to see more . 73's

  • @1polonium210
    @1polonium210 Před 8 měsíci +2

    I have a FT-5DR and a 52A. Both are outstanding HTs. I lean toward the 52A as my go-to HT but not by much. I am very interested in the Wouxun KGQ10H, because of the 6-m capability of the radio.

  • @jjyork01
    @jjyork01 Před 8 měsíci +1

    Anytone 878, love it! Just got FT5DR too.

  • @johnclark2149
    @johnclark2149 Před 8 měsíci +2

    I use the Ft5 and the vx6r. Love them both. I can’t wait to see the new kenwood come out.

  • @mitstax
    @mitstax Před 8 měsíci +2

    1st radio was a baofeng uv5r bought in 2015 before I got licensed and it is still working, I have had 3 uv5r's and all still function. Bought a wouxun uv-9d mate in orange and loved the radio. Issue with it is the sound stopped. I see it receiving but no sound either through the headset or speaker and no help from manufacturer. I have the anytone 5888 and love if. Works seamlessly.

  • @JoeFramo-uw9fp
    @JoeFramo-uw9fp Před 5 měsíci

    Thank you Jason educating us on these wonderful radios ❤

  • @Skydancer_1
    @Skydancer_1 Před 8 měsíci

    I have the QRZ Explorer.
    Got one for free bought another for my Son. Both do 6 Watts on 2M and 5 on 70Cm. Very easy to use.
    Good for starter radio

  • @hamradiobasics
    @hamradiobasics Před 8 měsíci +1

    Excellent list Jason. I've got the Yaesu FT-5DR and thinking about the ICOM ID-52A. The Kenwood TF-D75A sounds so tempting - would love it to come out around Christmas.

  • @Wowfacter
    @Wowfacter Před 8 měsíci

    Thanks for this top 12 listing

  • @vanes9574
    @vanes9574 Před 6 měsíci

    Fantastic info, thank you....ahhh, i can always update my Baofeng uv-5r...that KG-Q10H looks good!

  • @tulrich2
    @tulrich2 Před 8 měsíci +6

    Great video. I bounce between a Yaesu FT1DR (for YSF and APRS), Yaesu VX6R (for hiking/camping), an Alinco DJ-MD5 (for DMR), and of course a Yaesu FT60R (for awesomeness). (There’s a Baofeng UV82 and a TYT MD-UV380 sitting in a drawer someplace, too.)

  • @AntonioClaudioMichael
    @AntonioClaudioMichael Před 7 měsíci +1

    I really like the KG-UV9GX super nice radio and the KG-UV9D plus is a great previous model as well @12:10 @Ham Radio 2.0

  • @thomashardy9994
    @thomashardy9994 Před 8 měsíci

    I was looking out for the Yaesu FT 70 to go on sale, but saw the 5D discounted during hamvention and grabbed it. Glad I did.

  • @cbtaylor10
    @cbtaylor10 Před 7 měsíci +1

    My daily HTs are a BTech UV-5X3 for around the house and the VX-6R for when I'm out & about running errands, etc. You will notice that both are tri-banders.

  • @paulfromneohio1596
    @paulfromneohio1596 Před 8 měsíci +1

    I like and own the Yaesu FT-5DR. it is my go to radio any time I need an HT. I was also surprised you did not list the FT-70D. I know many new HAMs that got one because of the economical price. I also use my VX-8 and AnyTone AT-D878UV. 73. KD8BXY

  • @walteredwards544
    @walteredwards544 Před 8 měsíci +1

    I have the Yeasu FT 60, Yeasu FT 3D, Anytone u/v first version and a set of tidradios. I'm saving my money money for that Kenwood D-75. If it's as good as the reviews of the previous versions, I'll have a winner. Thank you for this video. Many radios that I didn't know had all these desirable features.

  • @Rusted_Link
    @Rusted_Link Před 8 měsíci +14

    Well, that would be the Anytone 878.

  • @RandyNester
    @RandyNester Před 8 měsíci +1

    FT-5DR and FT-70DR as well as a couple Baofeng radios stashed in various locations for backup.

  • @unclemikeyplays
    @unclemikeyplays Před 7 měsíci

    Thank you for this. I'm an old nerd but only just now an aspiring ham, studying for Technician, and starting to figure out what sort of equipment is going to make sense for me! This round up gave me a good idea of the range available!

  • @k9rka489
    @k9rka489 Před 8 měsíci +1

    Recently upgraded from an FT2D to FT5D. So far enjoying it. Picked up an ID51 anniversary editition for the near repeater function. Updated the repeater list, but it shows less than half the repeaters in my area. It could be a great feature if it had a full list for your area.
    Looking forward to the new Kenwood. Never used the 74 but like what I’ve read so far.

    • @edmatarazzo
      @edmatarazzo Před 6 měsíci +1

      I have the 5100 and you can manually set them in. It would be cool if you can cross band DV but i don’t have a dv hand held to try that out.

  • @maggiesmith9987
    @maggiesmith9987 Před měsícem

    Ooo! Thank you!!!❤️

  • @JoeInMemphis
    @JoeInMemphis Před 8 měsíci +1

    I’ve got the 878, the FT5D, the D 74, and a few others, for ease of use the FT5D is the way to go thanks to the touch screen, if you want 220, then it’s the Kenwood.

  • @user-wy8lh5wj2n
    @user-wy8lh5wj2n Před 7 měsíci

    I use an Anytone AT-518uvii every day for work. It is part-90 compliant with dual band and 200 memory channels for less than $100. My second ht is an Anytone AT-878uvii without Bluetooth. The 878 is awesome on dmr. When hooked up to the base antenna I can reach my 'local' dmr repeater 37 miles away. The farthest dmr repeater I've used is 110 miles away using 7 watts

  • @Slowmotion_Photography
    @Slowmotion_Photography Před 8 měsíci +2

    The qrz1-explorer is discounted if your still a new licensee. Tax and shipping was $32.00 for myself

  • @slackleashdogtraining3598
    @slackleashdogtraining3598 Před 5 měsíci

    I use the Yeasu FT5D; I use the scope quite a bit to nose around, and I do like the: touch screen, sound recieving and sending, overall quality of buttons and the interface. Small size, robust performance used just about every day.

  • @kennygraves489
    @kennygraves489 Před 8 měsíci

    I have a bff8hp not on list. But I do have the qrz-1 explorer and I am about to purchase ft65r lightly used with extra batteries, Antenna and more from a friend at a good price.

  • @AntonioClaudioMichael
    @AntonioClaudioMichael Před 7 měsíci +1

    The Anytone AT-D878UVII plus is a Sweet Radio i need to grab me one love the features 19:40 @Ham Radio 2.0

  • @user-xq3lx3bm6e
    @user-xq3lx3bm6e Před 6 měsíci

    I love my BR-549 and Q-36 space modulator.

  • @ralphbailey736
    @ralphbailey736 Před 7 měsíci

    I have a VX7R and plan on taking a good look at the D75 on the list for buying but will see. Thanks for sharing your list.. N7ZXG

  • @rossvandeen1207
    @rossvandeen1207 Před 8 měsíci +1

    Yaesu FT-3DR & VX-6R are my favorites.

  • @ke0dc
    @ke0dc Před 8 měsíci +3

    My two go-to HTs are the Anytone 878 and the Yaesu FT-5DR. Depending on where I am will depend on which one I use (DMR or YSF/WIRES-X repeaters in that area).

    • @thecarys563
      @thecarys563 Před 8 měsíci

      I carry the same radios (but FT3D) for SOTA

  • @blairsmith201
    @blairsmith201 Před 8 měsíci +4

    Great video, always fun to see if what I bought made the list!! UV9XP, 878UVII Plus and of course a UV5R!!

    • @HamRadio2
      @HamRadio2  Před 7 měsíci +1

      Thanks for sharing!

    • @blairsmith201
      @blairsmith201 Před 7 měsíci

      @@HamRadio2 I have since bought a UV-17R. Why? Well why not....

  • @ArthurHerronW6HER
    @ArthurHerronW6HER Před 8 měsíci

    I got 5 of the 12 listed.... ID-52A/FT-5DR/AnyTone 878UVII+/FT-65/Baofeng UV-5R😀

  • @andycampbell8476
    @andycampbell8476 Před 6 měsíci +1

    I love my D74 and my 878 (though I have the Mark 1 with the half-a**ed APRS). The cool thing about the 878, though, is that even as a visually impaired ham, I find the 878 actually easier to program from the front panel than from the CPS, because the 878’s display *rocks*. I retire in January, so maybe I should sell the old 878 and grab a new one.

  • @matthennagersguitarlessons
    @matthennagersguitarlessons Před 6 měsíci

    I'm falling in love with my VX-6R!

  • @Siskiyous6
    @Siskiyous6 Před 8 měsíci

    I like the Anytone, and its companion mobile model.

  • @Ross13ful
    @Ross13ful Před 8 měsíci +2

    Great Video And Ht List

  • @ralphnunn3
    @ralphnunn3 Před 8 měsíci

    FT-65r here. I also have the FT-5D's older brother - the FT-3Dr. I also have a Baofeng, or two...

  • @briantalley8415
    @briantalley8415 Před 8 měsíci +1

    Lessee...for HTs, I've got a bunch of UV-5Rs (which is the gateway drug for new hams), a Kenwood TH-F6a in good condition that's a really nice little radio (but the display is pretty poor relative to newer radios), an Anytone D868UV which is one of my favorites - I have thousands of repeaters and other freqs programmed into it and it's in my go-bag, and a Wouxun KG-UV9PX which is my newest HT and my current fave. The receive sensitivity on that thing is amazing with a Signalstick! And I'd like to try operating satellites with it soon.
    If I used 2m/440 more, I might go for a new Kenwood, but the appeal just isn't there right now. Maybe if they drop the price as the holidays approach, I could talk myself into buying one.
    Thanks, Jason - great video as always.

  • @bettersaferadio
    @bettersaferadio Před 8 měsíci +2

    Thanks for the mention of the Wouxun KG-UV9D Plus+ and the KG-UV9PX HTs Jason, I appreciate it! I'm happy to answer any questions anyone might have about these top-shelf radios. 73!

    • @chrispy6313
      @chrispy6313 Před 8 měsíci +1

      Had both my uv-9's (HAM & GMRS) out at a club display this weekend, they had a lot of interest & positive comments. Thanks BSR and for your prompt support, K3EJP.

    • @galloPinPin
      @galloPinPin Před 4 měsíci

      @@chrispy6313 Is is true that the wouxun uv9d screen is difficult to see at broad daylight ?

    • @chrispy6313
      @chrispy6313 Před 4 měsíci +1

      @galloPinPin Yes. In full sun it can be difficult. I can usually place my hand over it to see. But I have successfully used it at outside events. I live in Pennsylvania, so not often full sun. 😂😂😂 I'm hoping the 9PX helps this.

  • @kchutch357
    @kchutch357 Před 7 měsíci +1

    Recently upgraded from the Chinese made radios to a Yaesu VX-6. Couldn’t be happier with it. Tri-band capable and I can hit several of the 1.25m repeaters from my house with it.

  • @ccchas2
    @ccchas2 Před 8 měsíci +8

    My new TIDRadio “TD-H8 Ham Radio” works well. I measured a true 10W output on 2m and 9w output on 70cm. There is a Bluetooth programming app for the smart phone. My Amazon package was under $100 and included a second battery (USB-C charging) and a speaker mic. The best things: high power, Bluetooth programming and a bright color screen, unlike many HTs this is usable outside in bright light.

    • @thesecretasianman6014
      @thesecretasianman6014 Před 8 měsíci

      It's my new "go to" HT because of the features you mentioned and it's CHIRP compatible. Importing repeaters via bluetooth connection is also pretty convenient when traveling.

    • @robertlyman9789
      @robertlyman9789 Před 8 měsíci

      Soo.. you can load up Freq thru app?

    • @ccchas2
      @ccchas2 Před 8 měsíci

      Yes you can define a new channel as needed, freq, offset, tone etc.

  • @ManuelPinner
    @ManuelPinner Před 8 měsíci

    I have the Yeasu FT5D, and a Alinco DJ-MD5 DMR HT,

  • @georgekg5okf178
    @georgekg5okf178 Před 8 měsíci

    I only have a small collection of HTs: Baofeng UV-5R, Wouxun KG-UV8D Plus, ICOM ID51A. I;m considering Wouxun KG-Q10H, and/or the TYT TH350. Christmas wish list would have to be the Kenwood TH-D75A.

  • @arupian666
    @arupian666 Před 8 měsíci

    27:41.... mind. blown. I want that radio, soooo bad. I was thinking of "upgrading" from my FT-3DR to the 5DR, I was also thinking of snagging the iCOM 52A, not cos I'm into D-STAR, but it just looks sooooo cool.... now ? All my pennies are going into a jar for the $999 Kenwood, haha

  • @dans2788
    @dans2788 Před 8 měsíci

    I just bought a HT last week. Baofeng UV-5RX3 tri band with a 3800mAh battery and 1800mAh battery for 34.99

  • @valentinchiriac9117
    @valentinchiriac9117 Před 8 měsíci +1

    GT-3TP Mark-III. 8W measured. FRS and GMRS channels.

  • @billwallace7713
    @billwallace7713 Před 8 měsíci

    i have a couple rfinder radio,s..the b1 and h1,,they both work perfectly

  • @user-ub3dm1ri8y
    @user-ub3dm1ri8y Před 8 měsíci

    Jason what do you think about the yaesu Ft-50D radio with it seen like a good one

  • @CJ-eb8ee
    @CJ-eb8ee Před 26 dny

    I'm considering the purchase of "Walker's Disrupter Bluetooth Earbuds." Any idea if these will work pairing to a handheld GMRS/ham radio? If SHTF & I don't want to give away my position. If not, recommendations?

  • @billisnice
    @billisnice Před 8 měsíci +9

    I would like to see Yaesu move all radios in addition to the cradle to USB-C charging.

    • @HamRadio2
      @HamRadio2  Před 8 měsíci +1

      All Yaesu HTs are 12v chargeable, so honestly I don't see a point to adding USB-C. Sure, it might be more convenient in some ways, but you already have a battery box for your HF radio right on the table - plug your 12V Yaesu charger into that. Done.

  • @larrybragg7406
    @larrybragg7406 Před 8 měsíci

    I have the Yaesu FT1D, Anytone 878UVII plus, and the Anytone 878UV, along with the Baofeng UV5R, and the Wouxun KGU1p which is a dual band 2M and 220 I won in a raffle.

  • @bitrage.
    @bitrage. Před 7 měsíci

    What are your opinions on the QUANSHENG UVK58, TIDRADIO TD-H8 HAM, MALAHIT DSP2????

  • @Craigeek
    @Craigeek Před 8 měsíci +13

    Technically speaking the Anytone D878UVII+ is now also USB-C rechargeable with the new USB-C battery which is made by the same company who makes the stock battery. I am a fan of the Anytone D878UVII+. I took it along a 210 mile thru-hike segment of the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail and activated never before SOTA peaks along the way. I was surprised by the distance for some of the qsos in the Southern Colorado San Juan mountain range! It got great battery life, about 1 week between charges although I wasn't running APRS unless near a SOTA peak. I have gone way into the weeds and customized the boot screen and home screen with my own custom screens. I really think this company got it's name however because they let you program **any tones** you want for talk permit, call radio, idle channel, etc.

    • @thecarys563
      @thecarys563 Před 8 měsíci +2

      I'm a much less capable hiker than you are but I think of the 878 as my getting there radio. I've carried it on every activation. I also use the FT3D because when I bought the 878 analog APRS was not available on it. We have a great DMR linked repeater system in SoCal and I have used the 878 to spot via DPRS.

    • @Craigeek
      @Craigeek Před 8 měsíci +2

      @@thecarys563 that's fantastic! I really enjoy it's multi-mode capability. Some day I hope to own a Yeasu HT but not until they fix their QA issues with plastic case cracking. I bet when the day comes and I hike the PCT, my D878UVII+ or it's successor is in my pack and I can check out that DMR network in CoCal. The D878UVII+ it's a rock star especially with a proper half-wave antenna on it!

    • @notsure7874
      @notsure7874 Před 6 měsíci

      @@thecarys563 I actually regret my 878 purchase in a way because its the older one that's only got aprs transmit. It's an alright radio in a lot of ways, but I hate it when I buy a premium product, and its advertised features are half assed.

    • @AndrewSchott
      @AndrewSchott Před 5 měsíci +1

      Ty for the 878 usbc battery heads up. 30 bucks just burnt :)

  • @robertlyman9789
    @robertlyman9789 Před 8 měsíci +1

    Are they all MARs capable?

  • @user-steve723
    @user-steve723 Před 4 měsíci

    Hello there Josh & greetings from MT.

  • @cellis64
    @cellis64 Před 7 měsíci

    Are any of the lower priced DMR handhelds work with Wires-X?

  • @kd5you1
    @kd5you1 Před 8 měsíci

    I've been using an Icom IC-92AD for close to 15 years IIRC and its been a really great radio. I have a Heil headset and an Icom speaker mic, so if I ever replaced it, I would probably get another Icom. I wouldn't really be up to investing in a new set of accessories for a different brand. If I did get a different brand, it would probably be Yaesu or Kenwood. I've used old Kenwoods in the past and all of them had good audio quality. I'm not sure about HT's, but ham radios with monochrome screens tend to be a lot easier to see in sunlight than the fancy color displays. 73 KD5YOU

  • @derbemobile
    @derbemobile Před 4 měsíci

    Thanks for the video

  • @n6dl321
    @n6dl321 Před 8 měsíci

    AT=D878UVii + with a SkyBridge MAX. Hope to have it mobile on the Spyder RT shortly when I resolve the helmet interface

  • @paulsylvester1394
    @paulsylvester1394 Před 8 měsíci +1

    I am in a special class of radio user. I operate vintage trolley cars at two different museums. We use radios for control, safety, and general communications. One museum is on VHF in the railroad portion of the band and the other is on UHF. So a dual band radio is a must. And it must be easy to program. Memories are mostly a don’t care as we mainly need only 4. Good sound really helps. Most volunteers can afford more than a UV5R and will want a plug in microphone. This review really helps! Thank you!
    We operate only at the museums under the museum license. Typical use is under controlled communications where air time is sparse and transmissions end with the call sign. So users develop good radio habits. 5 watts is fine though some extra margin helps.

    • @bettersaferadio
      @bettersaferadio Před 8 měsíci +1

      It sounds like a dual-band like the Wouxun UV9D Plus+ with True Dual Receive (2 superhet receivers) would be perfect for you, so you can monitor both of your active channels at the same time (not just dual watch, but simultaneous receive, if desired).

    • @thecarys563
      @thecarys563 Před 8 měsíci

      878 is the loudest radio I've heard. Very readable display day or night. Easy to program from the menus or software. Also capable of xmit outside ham bands for applications like yours.

  • @BurtonChristmasLites
    @BurtonChristmasLites Před 8 měsíci

    Do any of these radios transmit DTMF tones via some sort of "macro". I need something that will transmit a A,B,C, and D. Robert KD4YDC

  • @user-yo3bh4nx4m
    @user-yo3bh4nx4m Před 2 měsíci

    Great video and Information

  • @0icu812100
    @0icu812100 Před 2 měsíci

    Jason, really enjoyed the useful information. I currently own a pair of Quan Sheng radios. They were very inexpensive but surprising how far they can talk when I hit my local repeater tower. I will be looking to buy a little higher-quality set and your information about the USB charging port. Makes a lot of sense. Thank you for the intel. 04/22/2024

  • @Thomas-ZET
    @Thomas-ZET Před 8 měsíci

    Have the Yaesu ft5 would like DStar so will have to get the Kenwood when it’s released

  • @craigcarnahan7210
    @craigcarnahan7210 Před 8 měsíci +8

    Since the vast majority of Baofeng radios end up on non-ham frequencies, you should know that the new UV-17R radio is firmware locked to ham radio only frequencies. There is no modification available to unlock it. Just a FYI for those considering it.

    • @HamRadio2
      @HamRadio2  Před 8 měsíci +2

      I'd question "vast majority" but good info, nonetheless.

    • @blairsmith201
      @blairsmith201 Před 7 měsíci +1

      I just bought a UV17R and UV21R, both came as "unlocked" as a UV5R and I have had them less than 30 days.

    • @craigcarnahan7210
      @craigcarnahan7210 Před 7 měsíci +1

      Consider yourself extremely lucky, as all six units that I have purchased (or additional units that customers brought us for programming - including two more just yesterday) were all locked with no unlock mods available from Baofeng.

    • @matthewdavies2057
      @matthewdavies2057 Před 6 měsíci +1

      Where did you buy the unlocked radios?

    • @blairsmith201
      @blairsmith201 Před 6 měsíci +1

      Amazon

  • @ScannerJunkie
    @ScannerJunkie Před 8 měsíci +1

    Have one of those 17r and a 17pro gps radios

  • @kdonoghue
    @kdonoghue Před 7 měsíci

    I am looking for a GMRS or Ham handheld that has Bluetooth capable of pairing with a motorcycle helmet comm kit like Sena or Cardo. The only one I have found is the Anytone DMR radio or the Oxbow radio, both are more than $150. I am looking for an HT that has this bluetooth capability and is under $100. Any help is appreciated!

  • @timoittner1641
    @timoittner1641 Před 5 měsíci

    Just got mine for 21$ included the software and cable . All that required was a new tech license in the last 6 months

  • @terran33
    @terran33 Před 7 měsíci +4

    Based on Japanese sites, the Kenwood TH-D75 will be released next January with around 600 dollar price tag. Also, if you buy the Icom ID52A in japan using the Yen converted from USD, you can save around 160 dollars due to the price & currency difference.

    • @dustoff499
      @dustoff499 Před 6 měsíci

      If that’s true, at $600+, I’ll be purchasing one. Looking forward to January.

  • @buzman1985
    @buzman1985 Před 7 měsíci

    HT: Handie Talkie (was a Motorola trademark that dates back to the 40’s)

  • @ac7fd
    @ac7fd Před 7 měsíci +3

    You should add the Quansheng UV-K5 / UV-K6 to your list. It's the latest disposable radio and already got awesome features in custom firmware. It's the same harmonics nightmare as all the other disposable radios but useful even as a cheap $22 SSB capable wideband scanner (needs the excellent custom firmware)

    • @FirstLast-vr7es
      @FirstLast-vr7es Před 6 měsíci +1

      I agree. I got a UV-K5(8) and really like it for what it is. The cheapos get a lot of hate for whatever reason. They really open up access to the bands though. I only got my ticket after I saw how cheaply people can pick up a HT these days. I wasn't prepared at the time to drop the better part of a grand on a hobby that I didn't even know if I would like or not. And ICom nickel and diming me over even the most basic accessories for one of their models some time later really left a bad taste in my mouth. $375 mobile unit. Didn't even have a bracket in the box, much less a head unit bracket, bluetooth module or programming cable. An additional $300+ to get all that... That was my first impression with the big boys. My only real gripe with these cheap radios is that I'd like to start seeing digital modes.

  • @Sonicgott
    @Sonicgott Před 28 dny

    For now, I have a Baofeng UV-5RPro, which, for its price, isn’t a bad little performer. It’s analog only, and transmits pretty well. It’s “the little radio that could,” and it’s definitely a good starter radio, or for someone who is frugal.
    I like it.

  • @mikepowell5488
    @mikepowell5488 Před 8 měsíci +2

    I have the FT-5dr and the Ft-3dr, the IC-52A, yaesu Vx7rb and just got my first Baofeng Uv5r. I'm waiting for the Kenwood TH-75D. I don't know if you have but a video on the differences of the digital platforms, dmr, dstar, fusion could be good.

    • @HamRadio2
      @HamRadio2  Před 8 měsíci

      Sure - czcams.com/video/oBYjPkXJFa8/video.htmlsi=ScYswCZ41zN-m2Mu

  • @OrganicNetworker
    @OrganicNetworker Před 4 měsíci

    First and foremost, great videos. Very intuitive and informative. I do have a quick question on the range of operation on any of these models. I was about to buy the RapidRadio but after watching your video, (thank you) I'm now going to read more about them before making a such purchase. This is for a doomsday so I need the best that doesn't require dependency on LTE or cellar network.
    Please let me know.

    • @HamRadio2
      @HamRadio2  Před 4 měsíci

      Hard to answer that question

  • @ericblair3009
    @ericblair3009 Před 8 měsíci +1

    My EDC radio is a Baofeng UV5R that has seen daily use for 15 years..... like Timex it is still ticking --- but I concur that it is not near as good as my VX6

  • @DominicMazoch
    @DominicMazoch Před 8 měsíci +1

    I think Giga is ahead of the game with the new ham handi and working with the RB/Overland/Off-road communities

  • @AntonioClaudioMichael
    @AntonioClaudioMichael Před 7 měsíci +1

    I like that the icom can be charged with USB cables

  • @rondonato7443
    @rondonato7443 Před 8 měsíci

    I have a Yaesu Ft3dr and love it. Despite a few gripes with it, do I need to upgrade to the ft5dr?

    • @HamRadio2
      @HamRadio2  Před 8 měsíci +1

      I have both. The 3D is great and I don't really see much need to upgrade.

  • @derbemobile
    @derbemobile Před 4 měsíci

    The Quansheng UVK5 and 6 multiband have a firmware update that give you a spectrum analyzer on the display

  • @adamjhuber
    @adamjhuber Před 8 měsíci +3

    The UV-5r radios last a long time. I bought three UV-5r HT’s for the family (we all have ham licenses) when they first came out years ago. We have used them A LOT. Never had a problem and they still work great.

    • @HamRadio2
      @HamRadio2  Před 8 měsíci

      They just don't sound as good as other radios.

    • @thecarys563
      @thecarys563 Před 8 měsíci +1

      Battery does not run down in storage!

    • @ItsEverythingElse
      @ItsEverythingElse Před 8 měsíci

      @@thecarys563 Lithium batteries.

    • @thecarys563
      @thecarys563 Před 7 měsíci +1

      @@ItsEverythingElse the the physical power switch I think. No current needs to be spent checking if the power button was pressed.

  • @rockymountainjazzfan1822
    @rockymountainjazzfan1822 Před 8 měsíci +5

    I'm a 30+ year ham radio operator and I have been using commercial two-way radio equipment for about as long. What is most important to me are two things: 1) Real world selectivity and sensitivity performance, and 2) 2.5 mHz tuning capability for monitoring commercial channels. Sadly, the latter requirement knocks nearly every Japanese amateur HT out of the running. My best overall performer in selectivity and sensitivity in HT radios that I own, aside from Kenwood and Icom commercial HT radios that own, is the Wuoxun KG-UV6X HT. Mine is about a decade old now. As for the Anytone D878UVII+, I own one and its analog sensitivity and selectivity performance is BELOW AVERAGE. When I spoke to a radio tech about that, he stated that I was correct in my assessment--he said that the radio is designed primarily to perform well in DMR, with analog performance lower in priority. There is a lot that I like about the 878, but the lackluster analog performance means it sits in a drawer most of the time.

    • @HamRadio2
      @HamRadio2  Před 8 měsíci +1

      I think you'll find that most of the Japanese HTs that have digital capabilities will do the 2.5khz tuning option since digital modes are 6.25khz narrow

    • @BruceWolfe-Profile
      @BruceWolfe-Profile Před 6 měsíci

      Please describe your Anytone analog experience. Just saying "selectivity and sensitivity" is not enough. Folks want to know how it affects real world usage.

    • @rockymountainjazzfan1822
      @rockymountainjazzfan1822 Před 6 měsíci

      @@BruceWolfe-Profile Without getting clear down into the weeds, the D878UVII does relatively poorly in receiving weak analog signals--much worse than the commercial single-band VHF radios that I own, even worse than a Uniden BC-125AT scanner. The 878's reception performance is a just a bit better on UHF than VHF--that seems common with many of the Chinese radios. (I have done the tests with multiple antennas to rule out a bad or poorly tuned antenna as the culprit in the poor reception.) As far as selectivity goes, the radio has some problems with strong nearby signals overwhelming its front end, making the radio deaf when it occurs. I have, on a few occasions, gotten some bleedover when trying to receive weak signals with the squelch pretty open. It's really too bad that the radio doesn't perform better--it has a lot of other nice features.

    • @BruceWolfe-Profile
      @BruceWolfe-Profile Před 6 měsíci

      @@rockymountainjazzfan1822 But that is what I'm asking for...the weeds...because selectivity and sensitivity are scientifically measurable.

  • @theecstatic9686
    @theecstatic9686 Před 6 měsíci

    Good overview man...

  • @turkeyslayer63
    @turkeyslayer63 Před 5 měsíci

    My goto is VX-7 or my FT-60 with SRH77CA antennas but I would like to find some batteries that will hold a charge I got some from Amazon that have lasted not even a year when the first ones kept recharging and lasting a normal discharge for almost ten years.

  • @KS0JD
    @KS0JD Před 8 měsíci +1

    I have 3 or 4 of those top ones. I am sure K8MRD will be buying the D75. He is really into APRS! 73

  • @alzwicky156
    @alzwicky156 Před 8 měsíci

    Got a kenwood d74 wouxan uv9p and 878 for DMR stuff

  • @njjeff201
    @njjeff201 Před 7 měsíci

    $20 HT’s! I’ve been out of the hobby too long. I think my TH-78A cost $300 in the ‘90’s. Thank you. 73. N2ZNN

  • @keathrhymer5449
    @keathrhymer5449 Před 8 měsíci +1

    I am haoy with my good old ft60r and my new tidradio H8 with bluetooth

  • @amels4620
    @amels4620 Před 15 dny

    And the best ht for any Fear The Walking scenario is- - That Baofeng UV series radio with keypad, flashlight and a fm radio to boot. And its sensitivity on VOX is unbeatable. When my security surveillance cams are down, I use mine (B) to monitor activity in my rig while I'm in a restaurant or shopping and use (A) to monitor local police, fire, etc, or many department store security chatter. You'd be surprised! Every American should have 2ea Baofeng (keypad versions) and accessories, including the 1 in and the 15in whip antennas per family member. More if shtf!

  • @mainetomass99
    @mainetomass99 Před 8 měsíci +8

    Yaesu VX-6R. Done and done. Stick with a bombproof Analog only HT and ditch the digital nonsense! :)

    • @HamRadio2
      @HamRadio2  Před 8 měsíci +2

      Yes, I probably should have included that one

    • @johnmossy3757
      @johnmossy3757 Před 8 měsíci

      If it had a larger battery I would definitely get a vx6. My buddy can have maybe a 1 hour convo with light use on a repeater before the battery is depleted.

    • @mainetomass99
      @mainetomass99 Před 8 měsíci

      @@johnmossy3757Buy an extra battery! Ha. Also, time for him to get a home and/or mobile rig. Nobody needs to chat on a repeater with an HT for an hour :)

    • @darylcheshire1618
      @darylcheshire1618 Před 18 dny

      still using the VX-5R, a couple of years ago, I bought a new battery.

  • @BR20276
    @BR20276 Před 8 měsíci +4

    Surprised you didn't mention the Yaesu VX-6R. A capable little try-band HT radio. Submersible also. Extensive receive frequency coverage. $249.00 Older technology as the Ft-60 but seems to be bullet proof. I have one and really like it!

    • @HamRadio2
      @HamRadio2  Před 8 měsíci +2

      I've been chastised for that a couple of times, lol. But yes, I have one too, and it is great.

    • @notsure7874
      @notsure7874 Před 6 měsíci

      I like mine, it's got some quirks though. Small battery, no available larger battery, and I'm not nearly as thrilled with the 6m or wideband RX part. I thought it'd be cool to listen to HF in the field, but practically it's useless and detracts from its sensitivity on the vhf/uhf bands. Not having a battery meter other than on startup is silly too. I reprogrammed the "Wires" button to show battery voltage, but I still have to remember what the top and bottom voltages are. Is 7.4 20% or 80%? I'd rather have a "fuel gauge" type display and not have to reprogram a button to get it.
      Overall my favorite HT, but the battery life irks TF out of me, so I'm still looking for that "perfect" HT. The IC-50 is promising but damn it's costly!

  • @justruth886
    @justruth886 Před 6 měsíci

    Ok,my family and I have no experience with ham radio. We hope to keep in touch with each other….myself and a couple of my children. We can work on licensing but I was told you don’t have to be licensed to listen or get an emergency connection. Also, are there any hh ham radio that transmits more than 100 miles? My son birthday in a few days, id appreciate any help.😊

  • @kitchrose1
    @kitchrose1 Před 3 měsíci

    Where do i get the info to get certified/ licensed?