Best Baofeng Radio in 2023 [Expert Picks & Ultimate Guide]

The very first thing that people say in response to someone recommending them baofeng radios is- why baofeng? Aren’t there other kinds and brands of radios available in the market? The answer to that is that there are indeed multiple kinds of radio brands available in the market. But what makes baofeng standout is the price. 

Baofeng radio is affordable. Generally, their radios are less than half the price of typical radios. But just because their price is less doesn’t mean that that compromises on the quality in any way. It must be said that baofeng has such a good reputation because it works so well. So with baofeng radios, you will get the features but at a lesser price. 

Among the features, you will get a good battery life, a good chunk of channels to communicate over, and great VHF and UHF frequencies. Along with these, other notable features come with this device. We will get to know all of them in the list below. 

The list below in fact contains a list of the very best baofeng radios available in the market. After all, there are a lot of baofeng radios available in the market. So to help you choose the very best from them all, we are here with this well-curated list. 

Best Baofeng Radios in 2023

Baofeng radios are affordable and come with great features that will help in any kind of emergency. With the help of these radios, you will be able to call your friend and get assistance. So here are the very best of baofeng radios: 

Image	Product	Features	Price
	BTECH DMR-6X2 (DMR and Analog) 7-Watt Dual Band Two-Way Radio	Product Dimensions: 2 x 1.5 x 5 inches Item Weight: 1.8 pounds Band: Dual. VHF is 136-174MHz and UHF is 400-480mhz	Check Price on Amazon
	Baofeng UV-5R Two Way Radio Dual	Package Dimensions: 7.05 x 5.55 x 4.02 inches Item Weight: 1.17 pounds Band: Dual	Check Price on Amazon
	BAOFENG BF-F8HP	Product dimensions: 10.5 x 2 x 2 inches Item weight: 10.1 ounces Band: Dual	Check Price on Amazon
	BTECH MURS-V1 MURS Two-Way Radio	Weight: 8 ounces Product Dimensions: 2.28 x 1.26 x 4.33 inches Band: Dual	Check Price on Amazon
	BTECH UV-5X3 5 Watt Tri-Band Radio	Product Dimensions: 2.28 x 1.26 x 4.33 inches Item Weight: 8 ounces Band: Dual	Check Price on Amazon
	8-watt baofeng Radio Upgraded Baofeng UV-5R Ham Radio	Item Weight: 6.09 pounds Package Dimensions: 19.5 x 7.5 x 5.3 inches Band: Dual	Check Price on Amazon
	BaoFeng UV-82C Dual-Band FM Ham Two-Way Radio	Product Dimensions: 2.4 x 2 x 11.3 inches Item Weight: 8 ounces Band: Dual. VHF is 136-174 MHz and UHF is 400-520 MHz.	Check Price on Amazon
	Baofeng BF-888S Two Way Radio	Product Dimensions: 15.5 x 12 x 10 inches Item Weight: 6.2 pounds Band: Dual	Check Price on Amazon

1. BTECH DMR-6X2 (DMR and Analog) 7-Watt Dual Band Two-Way Radio

• Product Dimensions: 2 x 1.5 x 5 inches
• Item Weight: 1.8 pounds
• Band: Dual. VHF is 136-174MHz and UHF is 400-480mhz

This radio is equipped with both UHF and VHF bands. On the VHF band, you will get frequencies of 136-174MHz, while on the UHF band you will get frequencies of 400 to 480 MHz. Apart from this, you will find that this sturdy radio can be used for both commercial and amateur purposes. On VHF you will get an output of 7W whereas on UHF you will get an output of 6W. 

It comes loaded with a large display which is 1.77″ in size. Note that the display features colored TFT. Here you will be able to see various stats like battery level, the channel being used, signal strength, and other such information. One unique feature of this display is that you will be able to adjust it in dark more or light mode. The light mode is a vibrant blue whereas the dark mode is black. In the radio itself, you will get to use 200k contacts, 10k talk groups, and 4k channel. 

As is mentioned in the name, this DMR radio works with both tier one and two. Know that you will be able to upgrade this radio using the firmware available. Since this model comes with a programming cable so you will be able to upgrade the device by just using your Windows PC. 

You will be able to monitor all kinds of DMR traffic which goes through the channel being used. Along with this, the Digital Monitor feature will let you hear about all kinds of DMR traffic irrespective of the time slot, color code, private/group call, etc. You will even be able to assign any channel you want as analog, digital, or split. Know that the radio itself can automatically detect any channel as digital or analog.

2. Baofeng UV-5R Two Way Radio Dual

• Package Dimensions: 7.05 x 5.55 x 4.02 inches
• Item Weight: 1.17 pounds
• Band: Dual 

This radio comes with a dual-band as well as dual display. So you will be able to use both VHF and UHF frequencies. Know that the device allows a facility for 128 groups-channel storage. So you will get the option to choose from while connecting with someone over the radio. 

The radio comes with an emergency alarm too. With the help of this, you will be able to get the assistance you need in times of need. Apart from this, know that the display on this radio will show the battery strength, signal strength, the channel being used, and other such stats. Know that if you ever suffer from low battery issues then the radio will let you know that you need to plug in the device. 

The device comes with a vox option as well. What this means is that you will be able to operate the radio using just your voice commands. This is a feature that will come in handy during emergencies. The device also comes equipped with a keypad lock that will prevent you from accidentally changing channels while talking. 

The radio comes with FM services as well. You will get to tune into the frequency of 65.0MHz-108.0MHz here. Apart from this, the product is fitted with a LED flashlight as well. This will help you see in the dark. You will even be able to easily program the device using your PC.

3. BAOFENG BF-F8HP

• Product dimensions: 10.5 x 2 x 2 inches
• Item weight: 10.1 ounces
• Band: Dual

It is not every day that you come across a new and high-quality Baofeng radio in the market. However, if you are looking for a product that you can product boast around, this is hands down the best choice that you can get into.

The exterior of the radio is built with a hardened durable radio shell that supports up to 30% longer battery life, something that you need to make the most out of the situation, especially if you are stuck in the middle of nowhere.

The BAOFENG BF-F8HP was designed and developed in the United States and made by local manufacturers to ensure better sustainability. The product is integrated with 2100 mAh battery life, something that you won’t regret splurging out on. 

As for the user experience, everything is easy to handle and doesn’t come with complicated features and a detailed user manual, making it a lot easier for you to operate it even if you are a complete novice with such devices.

4. BTECH MURS-V1 MURS Two-Way Radio

• Weight: 8 ounces
• Product Dimensions: 2.28 x 1.26 x 4.33 inches
• Band: Dual 

With the help of this radio, you will be able to connect with your friends and business partners. These radios can be used during an emergency or for everyday business tasks as well. Note that MURS channels are not the same as those used by commonly known walkie talkies or children’s radios. It is the lack of this interference which makes it good for commercial and business tasks. 

Know that this radio will work with other MURS radios as well. It comes with privacy tones that will eliminate the need for guesswork between brands. What this means is that even if other users aren’t in the know about the privacy tone being used, but you will indeed be able to scan for it. 

Using this radio you will be able to view dual channels simultaneously. The twin channels can easily make use of the independent PTT-side-keys to address the corresponding channel. You can further simplify the operation by synchronizing those side-keys present there as well as the display to make use of just one channel. 

The model comes with a keypad lockout feature that will prevent you from accidentally changing channels while talking. Know that this radio comes with FM radio as well. So you will never be bored. There will always be some channels you can tune in for entertainment. Additionally, this device comes equipped with the vox feature as well. So you will be able to activate the radio using just voice commands.

5. BTECH UV-5X3 5 Watt Tri-Band Radio

• Product Dimensions: 2.28 x 1.26 x 4.33 inches
• Item Weight: 8 ounces
• Band: Dual

This radio comes with an LCD. But it’s not an ordinary display, instead, it’s a dual-line display. Before, using dual-display would have allowed you to carefully monitor dual frequencies at once. Here you will get that feature but if you don’t want that then the screen will show you all the needed information and more. This will be done to synchronize and connect the whole display. As a result, the LCD will end up showing the name of the channel as well as its frequency. 

The radio comes with a menu which will ensure that you can remove and add the channels you want from your scanning list. This entire process is easier now because before you need to have a computer to edit your list. Also, note that using this radio you will be able to scan easily through a whole frequency range. 

The model comes with 128 memory channels, all of which are programmable. As for power levels, the device can give you powers of 5-watt max. With this, you will be able to adequately choose just how far it will be feasible to communicate. If you use the CHIRP software then you will even be able to set those VFO limits as well. 

The device comes with a vox feature that will allow you to operate the device, using only voice commands. Such a feature can very well save your life during an emergency. Do note that you will even be able to make use of the work mode to carry out menu lockout and selectable VFO.

6. 8-watt baofeng Radio Upgraded Baofeng UV-5R Ham Radio

• Item Weight: 6.09 pounds
• Package Dimensions: 19.5 x 7.5 x 5.3 inches
• Band: Dual 

This radio comes with a frequency range of 144-430Mhz. Know that it supports a dual-band of VHF and UHF. Do note that the device comes equipped with the scanning function that will allow you to find the channels you will be able to easily communicate on. 

Know that this radio comes with the important vox feature. Due to vox, you will be able to activate the radio using just voice commands. In an emergency where your hands are otherwise occupied, this will come in handy. 

Know that along with the above features, this device comes with a battery saving function as well. This means that the radio will go into battery-saving mode if there’s no communication or usage for some amount of time. Due to this your battery will last longer. 

Baofeng is a Chinese company so know that you will be able to get your voice prompts in Chinese as well. Of course, you will get them in English too. Additionally, the model comes with the needed emergency alarm feature as well. If you press the button then people will get notified about your position. As such this can end up saving your life. 

You will be able to program this device by using your PC. The device comes with a battery of 1800mAh that will be able to power the model for a full 8-12 hours. This should suffice for short hiking or camping trips.

7. BaoFeng UV-82C Dual-Band FM Ham Two-Way Radio

• Product Dimensions: 2.4 x 2 x 11.3 inches
• Item Weight: 8 ounces
• Band: Dual. VHF is 136-174 MHz and UHF is 400-520 MHz. 

Know that this radio supports dual bands of VHF and UHF. On VHF you will get 136-174 MHz, while on UHF you will frequency of 400 to 520 MHz. The device comes with a vox feature that will allow you to activate the device without using your hands. For this, you will just have to give voice commands. 

Know that the radio is PC programmable. This means that you will be able to update it with a programming cable. Also, note that this product comes with the Work mode feature too. With that, you will get a menu lookout and selectable VFO. 

The device is powered using a 1800mAh battery that will give you around ten hours of battery life. With this, you will be able to use it for short camping trips and such. If you are having trouble figuring out how to work the device then know that it comes with a detailed and easy-to-understand user guide. 

Know that the radio comes with additional types of equipment too. Most notably you will get a belt clip and wrist strap. You will be able to store the radio there so that your hands remain fatigued free for other activities.

8. Baofeng BF-888S Two Way Radio

• Product Dimensions: 15.5 x 12 x 10 inches
• Item Weight: 6.2 pounds
• Band: Dual 

Whether you work in a supermarket, as a security guard, in a construction area, or are planning on going hiking or camping, this radio will help you in all such spaces. If you are thinking of packing that one thing which will ensure your survival in an unknown jungle then take this radio if nothing else.  

You will get 16 channels with this device. Not to mention that you will get a frequency range of 400 to 469.995 MHz. So you will get a wide channel to communicate. As for battery backup, this device comes with a 1500mAh power battery. 

The device comes with 105 CDCSS and 50 CTCSS that will help you maintain confidentiality and secrecy while talking to your teammates. A great additional feature is that the model is equipped with the vox function. With the help of this, you will be able to operate your device using just voice commands. 

Know that this product comes with a voice prompt which will allow you to navigate it better. Note that the device is PC programmable. So you will be able to easily upgrade it this way. Along with all such features, there is another important one that this device comes with. This is the emergency alarm feature. If you are in danger then one push of this button will allow others to know of your location. 

The device comes with a low-voltage alert and battery-saving function. If no communication is being carried out through the radio then its battery usage will be lowered. Thanks to this your battery will last longer. Also, it must be mentioned that the product comes with a flashlight as well. This will enable you to see under low light or in the dark.

Ultimate Buying Guide to Choose right Baofeng Radio in 2023

Baofeng radios are reliable and trustworthy. These radios are cheaper than many other radio brands. But just because the cost is low doesn’t mean that their quality is. Baofeng is used and has been able to maintain its reputation because it has consistently produced high-quality radios at low prices. 

So when buying baofeng radios, it’s not a question of quality, but a preference. So, you need to figure out which kind of radio will be perfect for you. To help you make that decision, here’s a list of the major features you need to consider before buying a baofeng radio: 

1. Band

Make sure that the radio you are getting supports dual bands of VHF and UHF. Moreover, at the very least the VHF frequency range should be 136-174 MHz and for UHF it should be 400-480 MHz. With this, you will get a better range to communicate. Not to emotion the fact that you should get a radio which comes with space for a lot of channels. There should at least be space for more than a hundred programmable channels. 

2. Vox feature

Vox feature means that you will be able to operate the radio without using your hands. You will be able to do this by instead giving voice commands that the radio will receive and carry out. Having a radio which is vox enabled is important. It is a great security feature that will help you during emergencies. 

3. Emergency alarm

Along with the above vox feature, make sure that your radio comes equipped with an emergency alarm as well. To activate the alarm you will have to press the designated button. After that, your location will be sent to your emergency contacts. If you are getting a radio for use during camping, hiking, and such then make sure that the device you are buying comes with this feature. After all, in dire situations, one press of the emergency button might very well save your life. 

4. Battery

If your radio doesn’t come with a good battery backup then no matter how many amazing features it has, it will all go to waste. So ensure that the radio you are buying comes with a battery power pack of 2000+ mAh. With this, you will get a radio that will work for around 20 hours more or less. Know that if you don’t get a radio with a 2000+ mAh battery then get a radio which has at least 1800 mAh. With this, you will get around fifteen or so hours. If your radio comes with battery-saving features then the hours will get increased. 

5. Keypad lock

Make sure that the radio you are buying comes with a keypad lock. After all, you certainly wouldn’t want to accidentally change the channel while you are in the middle of having a serious conversation! A keypad lock will prevent exactly such a situation from taking place. Also while you are looking at keypad locks, ensure that the device you are buying comes with a large LCD. It will allow you to know all your radio stats constantly so that you can determine the next steps to take easily.

Recommended:

• Best Handheld Ham Radios for Survival & Beginners
• Best Radio For Long Distance AM Reception
• Best Walkie Talkies For Survival

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Best Baofeng Radio in 2023

1. What to do is the LCD breaks?

If the LCD of your device cracks then you should take it to the service center. If you don’t know where the service center is then there’s no need to worry. Just call the online customer service and tell them about your issue. They will guide you and give you the assessment of the service center that can solve your issue. 

2. Do you have to buy a programmable cable?

If your radio allows for firmware upgrades through PCs then you will need a programmable cable to get that upgrade done. But before buying one, it’s advised that you check if your radio model comes with one already. If not then you can buy it. 

3. Are baofeng radios waterproof?

Generally, they are not. But some radio models very well could be. If you want to be sure then check the user manual and the online sites where such information is given. Keep in mind that if it’s not explicitly mentioned that radio is waterproof, it’s better to consider that it’s not. 

4. For what period warranty is given?

Warranty is given by baofeng for a year to a year-and-six months generally. But if you want to be sure then check the warranty period of the radio you have bought or are planning to buy. If your radio breaks within this period then you can get it fixed without paying anything extra for it. 

5. Are knobs better or LCDs?

It truly depends on preference. Some people are comfortable using knobs while others prefer LCDs since all the important information is mentioned there neatly. Choose the one which you like. Although it must be said that knobs are more preferred by visually impaired people. If you are suffering from such a condition or are planning to gift a radio to someone with a similar condition then keep this in mind.

6. Which is better: BaoFeng UV-5R or UV 82?

The in-hand experience of UV 82 is excellent. If we talk about the body, 

It appears that 82 is better than the 5R; the only negative point is that it is not waterproof. UV 82 comes with sharp edges, and a 1′ taller body than 5R is a plus.

7. Can Baofeng be used as a walkie talkie?

Anyone can use the radio as a walkie-talkie; you just have to set the frequency. In addition, they are not made for using them on FRS, or we can say walkie-talkie channels. So technically yes we can use Baofeng as a walkie-talkie.

8. How far can a Baofeng reach?

With the help of a few tricks/tips and ideal conditions, a Baofeng talkie with VHF can reach over 30 miles. A powerful and high-frequency radio with a license is needed to reach the hundreds of miles.

Recommended:

• Best Portable Radio For FM Reception
• Best Radio for AM DXing
• Best Long-Range Two-Way Radios
• Best Walkie Talkies For Road Trips

Conclusion

Overall, baofeng radios are some of the very best in the market. You will find that such radios are very high in quality. Also, note that they come with a lot of features that make the radios attractive for use. But perhaps the best part is that these radios are affordable. You won’t feel like paying for one drained a good chunk of your savings. As such whether it is for use in supermarkets, construction sites, or hiking, baofeng is reliable and won’t easily let you down. 

Recommended:

• Best Portable Radio For Camping
• Best Ham Radio Kits for Beginners
• Best Dual-Band Mobile Ham Radio
• Best Walkie Talkies for Emergencies