Top 11 Best Handheld Ham Radios 2024

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EMERGENCY PREP

9/11/20244 min read

Top 11 Handheld Ham Radios for Emergencies: Stay Prepared and Connected

In an emergency, reliable communication is essential. Whether you're dealing with natural disasters, power outages, or off-grid situations, portable ham radios offer a critical lifeline. Here’s a list of the top 11 portable ham radios that combine power, range, and functionality, ensuring you stay connected when it matters most.

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Emergency Planners and Ebooks

1. Baofeng UV-5R

The Baofeng UV-5R is the go-to entry-level portable ham radio. Known for its affordability and reliability, this dual-band radio (VHF/UHF) operates on both 136-174 MHz and 400-480 MHz, making it versatile for various emergency situations. It offers 128 programmable channels, a 4-watt transmission power, and a compact design, perfect for those new to ham radio or looking for a backup device.

Key Features:

Dual-band VHF/UHF.
Long battery life.
Programmable via PC software.

2. Yaesu FT-60R

The Yaesu FT-60R is a durable, high-quality ham radio designed for emergency use. This dual-band radio (VHF/UHF) covers a wide frequency range (108-520 MHz), making it ideal for scanning local emergency services or contacting other ham operators. Its robust build, long battery life, and weather resistance make it a solid choice for tough environments.

Key Features:

Strong, rugged build.
Extended reception range.
1000 memory channels.

3. Kenwood TH-D74A

The Kenwood TH-D74A is a premium ham radio packed with advanced features like GPS, APRS (Automatic Packet Reporting System), and D-STAR (Digital Smart Technology for Amateur Radio). It operates on three bands: VHF, UHF, and 220 MHz, making it highly versatile. Though pricier, it's an excellent choice for those who want top-notch performance during emergencies.

Key Features:

GPS and APRS functionality.
D-STAR digital mode.
Full-color display.

4. Icom IC-705

The Icom IC-705 is a high-end portable ham radio with an impressive range of features, including HF, VHF, and UHF band capabilities. With a lightweight design and built-in GPS and Bluetooth, it's designed for serious ham operators who want to stay prepared for emergencies. It’s great for both casual and advanced operators looking for a wide range of functionalities.

Key Features:

Covers HF/50/144/430 MHz.
Compact and lightweight.
Built-in GPS and Bluetooth.

5. BaoFeng BF-F8HP

An upgraded version of the UV-5R, the BaoFeng BF-F8HP delivers 8 watts of power, offering better range and signal strength. It's still compact and affordable but provides enhanced features like a longer-lasting battery and improved reception. The BF-F8HP is perfect for those seeking a step-up in performance without a huge investment.

Key Features:

8-watt transmission power.
Tri-color display.
Long-lasting 2000mAh battery.

6. Yaesu VX-6R

The Yaesu VX-6R is a rugged, submersible ham radio with a 5-watt output, ideal for emergency situations in harsh weather conditions. It covers the VHF and UHF bands and features wideband reception for monitoring a variety of frequencies. Its water-resistant design and tough build make it a reliable choice for outdoor and emergency use.

Key Features:

Waterproof and submersible (IPX7).
Wideband reception.
Robust and durable design.

7. Icom IC-2730A

The Icom IC-2730A is a mobile ham radio with a detachable faceplate, making it more versatile for both home and portable use. It covers both the VHF and UHF bands and offers 50 watts of power, ensuring long-range communication during emergencies. While it’s not as compact as handheld models, its power and range make it worth considering.

Key Features:

Dual-band VHF/UHF.
Detachable control head.
50-watt power output.

8. TYT MD-UV390

For those interested in digital modes, the TYT MD-UV390 offers both analog and digital DMR (Digital Mobile Radio) capabilities. This radio is water-resistant, making it perfect for outdoor or emergency scenarios where reliability is key. It operates on VHF/UHF bands and features encryption for secure communication.

Key Features:

DMR and analog modes.
Waterproof design (IP67).
GPS and encryption capabilities.

9. Yaesu FT-3DR

The Yaesu FT-3DR is a feature-rich dual-band handheld ham radio that offers both analog and digital communication. It includes a GPS, APRS, Bluetooth, and a bright, easy-to-read touch screen. Ideal for serious operators, this radio combines advanced features with portability, making it a great choice for emergency situations.

Key Features:

Dual-band VHF/UHF.
Bluetooth and GPS built-in.
Touch screen interface.

10. Wouxun KG-UV8D

The Wouxun KG-UV8D is a powerful and affordable dual-band radio that offers 5 watts of power on both the VHF and UHF bands. Its large, easy-to-read display and user-friendly interface make it a solid choice for beginners or as a reliable backup radio for emergencies. With 999 memory channels and cross-band repeat capability, it’s a versatile device.

Key Features:

999 memory channels.
Cross-band repeater.
Dual-band VHF/UHF.

11. BTECH UV-5X3

For those needing tri-band functionality, the BTECH UV-5X3 adds a third band (220 MHz) to the popular UV-5R series. This ham radio is compact, affordable, and versatile, making it a great choice for emergency preparedness. The UV-5X3 is also compatible with a wide range of accessories, enhancing its usability in the field.

Key Features:

Tri-band (VHF/UHF/220 MHz).
Compact and lightweight.
Affordable and feature-rich.

Conclusion

When preparing for emergencies, a reliable ham radio can make all the difference. Whether you're a beginner looking for an affordable option or an advanced operator seeking a feature-packed radio, this list of the top 11 portable ham radios offers something for every need. With the right ham radio in hand, you can ensure you're never left without a way to communicate when it matters most.