Ham radios and hand-held radios are pretty prevalent these days. Many outdoor goers--especially those who are into fishing, boating, hunting, and other expeditions--always pack this device with them. It is an impressive amenity that allows communication even without the presence of telecommunication satellites and towers.
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Among all the radios that you can use today, the units from BaoFeng can provide simplicity and ergonomics to you. Many are pursuing the best BaoFeng radios today because of these perks. Moreover, radios from these brands are mostly at the entry-level price range. Anyone interested in getting radios for their next excursions should seriously consider the devices that are released by this brand.
In this article, I will showcase some of the finest Baofeng radios that you can get today. To save you from the time and hassle of searching for one, I did the honor of researching on your behalf. All you need to do is to check these radio units and see which one suits your requirements.
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Best BaoFeng Radio On The 2022 Market
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One of the most exceptional BaoFeng radios that you can get today is the BaoFeng BF-F8HP. It is an upgrade to the previous UV-5R, which is a fantastic radio already. The output power of the BaoFeng BF-F8HP is already twice than its predecessors. From the conventional 4 watts, this radio already possesses up to 8 watts of power. Because of this, you can guarantee that the connectivity and the transmission of this radio are always at the peak.
The battery of this radio has been upgraded as well. Compared to the previous model, the size and capacity of the battery of the BaoFeng BF-F8HP are 30% larger. Such improvement is already significant and impactful. During emergency and survival situations, the radio won't die down on you immediately. Of course, the radio has a hard shell construction to ensure that the elements can't penetrate it. You can also expect its durability to fit on unfavorable scenarios.
There is a high-gain antenna that has been installed on this BaoFeng radio. It has a powerful performance, which allows it to capture signals of different strengths and ranges. You can also adjust the power setting of this device for performance modification. It is usable in receiving commercial FM radio receptions, too. Overall, the ergonomics and usability of the BaoFeng BF-F8HP are genuinely top class.
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Just like the first BaoFeng radio, the BaoFeng UV-82HP is also a second-generation radio. The design and model have been derived from the classic UV-82 series. If you are familiar with the latter, then you already know that the quality of the UV-82HP is already reliable.
One of the new features of this unit is its selectable power configuration. You can adjust its wattage depending on your needs and situation. The highest output is 8 watts, and that is powerful enough for transmitting and capturing radio frequencies.
The VFO/ MR (Frequency Mode) of this radio can be configured via specialized software. The software can also be used to synchronize the dual-talk function of this radio to improve the simplicity of its usage further. Meanwhile, a high-gain V-85 antenna is installed on this radio to maximize its reach and coverage. The antenna guarantees that you will rarely experience choppy conversations.
The BaoFeng UV-82HP also features extensive memory channels. Each of them is programmable to your desired preferences. You have the option to add or delete these channels in the scanning list through the use of the BaoFeng software that I mentioned earlier. This radio is compatible with various external accessories. It has a built-in FM radio, emergency alarm, and even a flashlight. It is a perfect outdoor gear that you can also include in the essentials of your kayaking checklist.
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You can always consider the BaoFeng BF-888S as one of the most basic hand-held radios ever released by this company. A pair of these radios don't even cost that much, which signifies that it is indeed an entry-level device. However, the affordability of this item doesn't really discount its quality nor performance.
This radio is suitable to be used on different applications. You can use it on your working site, in outdoor activities, or to your other errands. The simplicity of its interface makes it work all the time!
Each of these units has an earpiece that comes with them. While it is true that these earpieces are not the best out there, they still do work. I just find the wires of these accessories quite flimsy, but you can always upgrade them anyway.
The coverage and reach of this radio are not as powerful as compared to other BaoFeng radios that I have listed here. But if the application is not that extensive, this radio should be enough. Keep in mind that the frequency range of this device is UHF 400-470MHz.
The power output of the BaoFeng BF-888S is fixed at 5 watts. There are no adjustment settings for this so better keep this in your mind. The lifespan of the battery is 8 hours or less. Therefore, you can't bring it on extended trips unless you can find a way to recharge it.
Fortunately, this unit has a power-saving feature that lessens its chunk while operating. Flashlights and LED indicators are also integrated into its system. Some of its aspects are programmable in your computer, too. I do find the simplicity of this radio perfect for kids!
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The BaoFeng Walkie Talkie is a ham radio that is worthy of your attention. It is a dual-band unit that has received a lot of reception in the market. Many outdoor workers and adventurers took advantage of this device because of its given power and functionality. Specifically, this one is a second-generation unit that has received multiple firmware upgrades on the recent years. The performance of this walkie talkie has been elevated to a point where it is no longer comparable to its predecessors.
The device features a switchable high and low power output setting. You can crank it to either 4 watts or 1 watt. It just depends on your needs. This radio is programmable, too, through the software that BaoFeng provides. Through the software, you can edit channels in the scanning list and configure their names as well. The frequency range of this radio is 64 to 108 MHz, but only scopes commercial FM radio frequencies.
Meanwhile, the battery life of the BaoFeng Walkie Talkie UV-5R is almost comparable to the BF-888S. It will never run straight one straight day. Based on my test, the lowest power output setting of this radio will extend its lifespan for up to eight hours. I already used the battery function on my test, so I guess that's its battery limit.
I also noticed that the keypad of this radio has a locking mechanism. When inserted in your pocket or other tight spaces, such a feature will prevent you from accidentally mashing the overall configuration of your device.
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The BaoFeng Black UV-5R V2+ Plus is an upgrade of the UV-5R model. This one was constructed to accommodate heavy-duty applications and extreme conditions. It features a rugged metallic housing that is impervious to physical deterrents. It is ultra-tough can even be used while raining or snowing. In fact, you can even use it while you are kayaking.
The LED screen, although not big, is bright and visible. Even in low-visibility settings, you can still read the display.
Both the UV-5R 3800mAh and 3600mAh batteries are compatible with this unit. As long as you have an extra pair of these batteries, this unit will remain usable for days. Aside from its power-saving feature, this radio has a large battery capacity. It can last for more than ten hours and stay functional even on low battery status. But just like the rest of BaoFeng units,t the UV-5R V2+ remains slim and compact. It is not a bulky radio, which makes it easier to pack and transport.
The micro-miniature FM transceiver installed on this device has an extensive frequency coverage. It doesn't miss any spot. Even in areas that are studded with physical interferences, it can still catch frequencies and signals from other radio users. The monitoring capacity of the BaoFeng UV-5R V2+ Plus is also peerless. It ensures that it can scan and capture compatible frequencies in your area. All the control buttons and knobs of this radio are not quirky. Their placement is strategic so that you can easily access them whenever it is needed.
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It is hard to miss the upgraded version of the BF-F9. I swore to myself that I would never finish this list without this unit being featured. If you think that the original BaoFeng BF-F9 is strong already, your jaw will drop with its big brother.
I always consider this unit as one of the best BaoFeng radios out there. Aside from its given durability, this radio has a huge power tank. It can last for ten hours or more, especially if you will just configure it on its lowest setting. You will never have to worry that this device will get drained you in the middle of your work or adventure.
This radio has an unrivalled transmission power of 8 watts. The manufacturer even claimed that this is one of the most powerful ham radios they have created in their history. Moreover, the frequency range of this unit has been expanded to ensure that you can get as many channels as possible. In conventional radios, varying signal intensity can cause static noises, especially when transmitting signals on 50Hz to 55Hz. But on this radio, such a thing has been addressed, thanks to its anti-noise chipset.
Meanwhile, the tri-color display ensures that you can read the radio even in different brightness settings. Unlike other BaoFeng radios, the BaoFeng Radio US BF-F9 V2+
can be programmed without the help of your computer. You just need a repeater system to make the configuration. Interestingly, I discovered that the radio is compatible with various accessories of the UV-5R model.
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Bottom Line
These are some of the best BaoFeng radios that I can recommend you. Using any of these units will undoubtedly optimize your means of communicating with other people. They can also help you reach essential frequencies for emergency alert services and weather updates. The information delivered through your radios are often necessary to ensure that your expedition is safe and free from any potential dangers.
BaoFeng has really come a long way from being a second-grade brand. Today, it is already a respected manufacturer of ham radios, walkie-talkies, and other communication devices. The innovation they put in their products is one of the compelling reasons why choosing them is never a wrong move.
If you have questions, drop them in the comment section below.
Sure enough, the importance of radios cannot be undermined. There are essential pieces of communication, especially in areas and situations where modern phones can't keep up. You should see the best waterproof walkie talkies, marine GPS, portable AM FM radio, marine radios, BaoFeng radios, marine stereo, handheld ham radios, satellite phones, CB antennas, CB radios, marine VHF antenna, long-range two-way radios, long-range walkie talkies, and walkie talkies for cruise ships. Any of these devices can maintain your connectivity with the world even if you are in the fringe already. Also, better check the best walkie talkies here.