Best ham radio: 9 top rated for quick communication

1. TYT TH-9800 Quad Band (Best for in-Car)

These days, you can find a good amateur radio for virtually any purpose, including staying connected when you’re on the move.

TYT TH is a popular brand in the radio market, revered for its high-quality components and fantastic reception.

The TYT TH-9800 Quad Band is a top ham radio for in-vehicle use. You can mount the equipment under your dash and access all the features of a much bigger radio.

The TYT TH-9800 even provides a stable 50 Watts high power output thanks to the careful circuit design.

Another feature included in the TYT TH-9800 radio is AM and FM radio broadcasting. Plus, a native USB port can be found on this radio to support PC connectivity with a single cable

For a price of around $204, features include:

• Stable 50W output
• Full twin display and receiver
• Access to AM and FM radio stations
• Remote mountable faceplate
• CTCSS, DCS, DTMF
• Incredible broadcast clarity
• Support for VHF and UHF
• Support for active tuning antenna system
• 800 channels

Despite being wonderfully versatile, it’s worth noting that this handheld radio does have a few downsides. The menu is difficult for beginners to understand, and it will take a while to figure everything out.

If you’ve never worked with a ham radio before, you might need to set aside time to develop your skills before jumping in with the TYT TH-9800.

Pros:

• Suitable for in-car use
• Excellent cross-band repeater
• Fantastic range of features
• Powerful broadcast signal
• 800 memory channels

Cons:

• Difficult for beginners to use
• Expensive

2. Zastone X6 (Best Portable)

Portability is among the most important considerations when choosing a ham radio. You want something that you can take with you on the go without having to worry about weight or size concerns.

The Zastone X6 Ham Radio is the perfect choice if you’re looking for an ultra-compact option that doesn’t compromise quality. 

A quick look at the reviews for this product on Amazon confirms that it’s an excellent option for those who need a lightweight device.

Besides the reviews on Amazon, we went in to confirm whether it delivers what is promised. As one of the best two-way radios, the Zastone X6 operates on the ultra-high frequency (UHF) band for clarity.

With a longer frequency range of UHF 400 to 470MHz, this radio has the ability to cover wider distances. It also has a low power consumption feature, making it possible for the battery to last for a long time.

We also liked the fact that this is among the few walkie-talkies with pre-programmed channels. Therefore, you won’t waste much of your time on programming the radio at all times.

For a cost of around $35, features include: 

• Low power consumption
• 16 Pre-programmed channels
• Long frequency range
• Built-in Mic
• Lightweight and compact design
• High-quality audio transmission
• Earpiece
• High-quality built-in speaker
• Up to 30 floors of transmission range
• UHF bandwidth
• Highly waterproof
• 1100mAh rechargeable lithium-ion battery

The Zastone X6 is among the few ham radios with phenomenal battery life on this list. Depending on your transmission frequency, a fully charged battery will serve you between two and five days.

With a falling resistance of between 1 and 3 meters, this product guarantees durability.

Pros:

• Lightweight and portable
• Long frequency range for better coverage
• Pre-programmed channels for easy setup
• Long-lasting rechargeable battery
• Loud and crystal clear audio output

Cons:

• Limited power output (three watts)

Zastone X6 Rechargeable Long Range Two-Way Radios with Earpiece 2 Pack 3W 16-Channel UHF Walkie Talkies

• Small and convenient size;it easily fits on your hand;9.6*5.5*2.2cm/3.7*2.1*0.8inches;Net weight:113g/0.25lb;solid built;water-resistant;easy to operate for all ages;3 Wattage power output; each radio has a removable belt clip and charger
• Frequency range is UHF 400-470MHz;16 pre-programmed channels;each radio has identical frequency on each of the 16 channels out of the box;16 position mechanical rotary switch channel selector;when you turn the knob to change the channel,a synthesized voice will tell you the channel number;channel frequency is programmable within the frequency range;you can program any of 50 CTCSS tones and 105 CDCSS tones on each programmed channel
• Each radio comes with a 1100mAh rechargeable Li-ion battery,it takes about 3 hours to fully charge; standby 2-5 days depending on how much you transmit
• High quality built-in speaker on the radio provides loud and crystal clear sound; Push-to Talk button and built-in mic on the radio;each radio comes with a single-earbud style earpiece with a microphone built in and a Push-to-Talk button;when you plug in the earpiece,all sound goes to the earpiece and the radio speaker is silent;the radio has a VOX function
• Falling-resistant 1-3M,tested transmission range up to 30 floors,less in congested area;work great in a commercial construction or around the house;suitable for security team;maintenance team;construction team;fire department;warehouse;factory;kitchen staff;hotel;retail store;at the school;events communications;roadtrip while driving in different cars;family camping and hunting;on a cruise ship;in mountains;it works worldwide;you can add as many as you want and they work great together

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3. Topsung M880 FRS (Best Smart System)

The Topsung M880 FRS is a two-way ham radio with incredible features. It’s among the best bets for an all-in-one device with advanced functionalities.

This FRS device is an excellent contender for the best ham radio options thanks to its multiple smart systems. These systems include auto quelch, auto memory, auto monitor,  auto power saving, auto scan, and low battery alert.

With the above smart systems, you can easily personalize your radio communications and enhance the user experience. Plus, these features make it an exceptional radio for outdoor and indoor experiences.

The Topsung M880 FRS is your best option if you work in a noisy environment. This ham radio has a noise-canceling feature that provides clear audio transmission and reception. 

The best part is that with the latest Federal Communications Commission (FCC) certification, you can use this radio without any legal restrictions. Additionally, this certification means you can return for replacement in case of any issues within 30 days.

For around $24, features include:

• 22 channels
• 121 privacy codes
• Up to 4 days of standby time
• Noise reduction feature
• Easy to carry design
• Low battery alert
• Different smart systems
• LCD screen with backlight

The hands-free VOX function of the Topsung M880 FRS allows you to receive calls easily. Its belt clip with a lanyard hole makes it your ideal companion for road and camping trips. You won’t have to struggle with carrying this radio.

With a weight of 2.9 oz, it can easily be carried around your waist without feeling any discomfort.

Pros:

• User-friendly design and smart systems
• Small size for portability
• Clear audio transmission
• Can be used even by young people
• Hands-free VOX function
• Long standby time
• Highly convenient
• Quality assurance with the latest FCC certification

Cons:

• Limited range of up to 16 miles

Sale

Two Way Radios for Adults, Topsung M880 FRS Walkie Talkie Long Range with VOX Belt Clip/Hands Free Walki Talki with Noise Cancelling for Women Kids Camping Hiking Cruise Ship (Orange 2 in 1)

• 【Smart System】: Auto squelch system, Auto monitor function, Auto memory function, Auto scan function, Auto power saving, Low battery alert
• 【Main Parameters】：22 main channels and 121 privacy codes(2662 Combinations), Long range in different terrains(Up to 1/3/5 miles), Long standby time(Up to 3-4 days), Power by 3 AA batteries(Not included)
• 【Friendly Design】：Palm size, Lightweight(2.9oz), Hands free function(VOX), Keypad lock(Channel lock), Adjustable power and volume, LCD screen with backlight, Belt clip with lanyard hole, 2.5mm Earpiece jack with dust plug, Durable and environmentally friendly materials(ABS)
• 【Various Occasions】：Topsung adult walkie talkies are easy to operate and carry even for kids. So they are suitable for indoor and outdoor activities, such as home, mall, cs games, camping, hiking, cycling, cruise ship, road trip, etc. With Topsung adult walkie talkies, you can keep talking with all family members or all your travel partners at the same time
• 【Professional Service】：All Topsung adult walkie talkies have got the latest FCC certification, so you can return for replacement with any reason in 30 days. Please contact us by email without hesitation if you have any question, we will not let you down

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4. Greaval UHF VHF (best ham kit)

If you’re keen to start exploring a new segment of radio history with ham technology, it may be worth investing in a complete kit. 

The Greaval UHF VHF kit is an excellent starting point, offering a 2100 mAh battery for reliable performance. 

You can use this device for up to 20 hours with no problems. This ham radio also comes with access to many of the most commonly used frequencies. 

The package offered by Greaval comes with a set of accessories, including a handheld microphone, an earpiece for listening on the move, and a belt clip too. 

For a low price of around $40, the Greaval makes it easier to jump into ham radio for beginners with unique features such as:

• 12-20 hours of battery life
• Broad compatibility with popular frequencies
• 18-month warranty
• Hardware and tech support
• FM radio access
• Keypad lock and belt clip
• LED flashlight included
• Easy-to-read backlit display
• Various accessories

Although this isn’t the most advanced ham radio on the market, it’s a brilliant choice for people who want to get started without spending too much. 

You get a wide range of tools to explore and a bundle of accessories, so you don’t need to buy anything separately. 

As you develop your knowledge of ham radio, you might want to upgrade your microphone and earpiece, as the ones included here are extremely basic.

Pros:

• Great selection of accessories
• 18-month warranty included
• FM radio access
• Flashlight and belt clip included
• Works with a range of frequencies

Cons:

• Not the best microphone or earpiece
• Antenna is flimsy

UV-5R 8Watt Ham Radio Handheld Long Range UHF/VHF Radio with 2 Rechargeable Battery, Portable Radio for Adults with Earpiece, GV-771 Antenna, Programming Cable (3rd Gen)

• Power Output: High /Medium /Low Power Switchable, Programmable Radio Supports Keyboard or PC programming (The distance can reach 10 miles in open areas such as rural areas).
• Power Source: Rechargeable 1800 mAh Li-ion Battery, Supports 12-20 Hours continual use, one more extra battery supports non-stop communication, car charger adapter also included.
• Dual-band standby, Enables you to monitor and transmit on two channels at the same time. 128 channel memory, fully in compliance with the FCC part 15B and part 90 regulations, you may need to apply for a radio license to use this device.
• Wide Compatibility: The UV5R Dual-band ham radio covers the most commonly used frequency range, compatible with many other radios such as the BF-F8HP/UV 82HP, etc. Bit-Trading is authorized by Baofeng officially through Amazon's Brand Registry.
• Complete Set: Package contains a full set of accessories, no more worry about looking for compatible accessories. Best choice for your business. We provide 30-day hassle-free return, 18-month warranty, hardware and tech-support provided.

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5. BTECH Mobile UV-50X2 (best mobile) 

Designed to offer a fantastic entry-level option for the top ham radios, the next of our ham radio reviews, the BTECH UV-50X2, is another great pick for beginners. 

This single-band mobile transceiver comes with a fully customizable LCD screen, so you can view your ham information however you choose. 

There are 200 memory channels to explore, and you can add or remove channels from your list in seconds. 

The UV-50X2 basically offers access to multiple radios in one, with the option to set a main band while watching other frequencies. 

There’s also the option to switch between high and low power settings, and you can explore a selection of recommended accessories too. 

For a price of around $220, features include:

• 50-watt dual-band base
• Excellent frequency range
• Auto scanning
• Channel mode editing settings
• Variable frequency scanning
• Radio and mic brackets included
• Auto power off function
• Randomized privacy mode

The UV-50X2 is an excellent device to use on the go, with dual simultaneous display options and multiple privacy options to make scanning more secure. 

You can edit channels on the move and explore a host of functionalities without having to find space for a huge device in your car or home. 

One possible issue is the instructions included aren’t very clear. You might need to search for some videos on YouTube instead. 

Pros:

• Excellent range of features
• Dual-band base
• Randomized privacy mode
• More power-saving options
• Multiple scanning options

Cons:

• A little expensive
• Difficult to use at first 

BTECH UV-50X2 (Second Gen.) Mobile 50 Watt Dual Band Base, Mobile Radio: VHF, UHF Amateur (Ham)

• The UV-50X2 has been upgraded with Audio I/O support through the RJ45 Microphone Port. Included is also a K1 Audio adaptor. The K1 accessory jack is the most common radio accessory jack in the market. This means the UV-50X2 has the widest support of aftermarket audio accessories allowing you to find the best accessories for however you use your radio.
• The UV-50X2 includes all of the necessary mounting hardware to easily wire into any vehicle. You can use the UV-50X2 as a base station at home or in the office with the optional RPS-30M power supply (not included).
• Recommended Accessories: Pair UV-50X2 with the Nagoya UT-72 Magnetic Mount Antenna for easy installation. The PC04 FTDI Cable is recommended for easy computer programming
• The UV-50X2 operates as multiple radios in one, with either 144 MHz or 430 MHz as the "Main" TX/RX band, while simultaneously watching up to 3 other frequencies or channels; and, if you like, you can configure your UV-50X2 for simultaneous VHF-VHF or UHF-UHF operation, too!
• Kit Includes: BTECH UV-50X2, RJ45 to K1 Audio Adaptor, Speaker Mic, DC Cable, Radio & Mic Brackets, Mounting Hardware, and User Guide

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6. BaoFeng BF-F8HP (best battery life)

This is a brilliant, high-performance device designed by the team at BaoFeng. 

The BF-F8HP is a portable, durable handheld solution for those searching for the best ham radio. 

The device is an upgrade from the previous mode, offering more battery life and incredible performance. There are three power levels to choose from, as well as access to the latest N5R-340A firmware. 

You can use this product for up to 24 hours with no problems. 

Like many of the leading products from the BaoFeng brand, the BF-F8HP comes with a massive instruction guide to teach you how to use every part of the radio. 

Keep in mind that reading this guide might take up a large chunk of your day. There’s also a range of accessories included too. 

For a price of around $70, features include:

• Massive 24-hour battery life
• Lightweight and portable
• Multiple power options
• Excellent high-quality firmware
• Belt clip and hand strap
• User manual
• Tri-color display
• Excellent high-gain antenna
• Massive instruction manual

Though this BaoFeng model is one of the more affordable options we’ve seen, it also has a lot of functionality to offer. 

For such a small device, you get an excellent frequency quality and lots of great features to check out. 

The sound quality isn’t perfect, and you can’t accomplish much in terms of volume.

Pros:

• Brilliant battery life
• Great for portability
• High-performance firmware
• Excellent display
• Good antenna

Cons:

• Volume and sound quality aren’t great
• Can take a while to learn how to use

BAOFENG BF-F8HP (UV-5R 3rd Gen) 8-Watt Dual Band Two-Way Radio (136-174MHz VHF & 400-520MHz UHF) Includes Full Kit with Large Battery

• Upgrades from our Previous Generation UV-5R: Twice the Output Power (8 watts up from 4 watts output), New Hardened Durable Radio Shell, 30% Larger Battery, V-85 High Gain Antenna (Twice the Antenna Performance), USA Support + In-depth User Guide Included; A PC03 FTDI Programming Cable is Recommended for Easier PC Programming
• High / Med / Low Power Settings (8W, 4W, 1W); Frequency Range: VHF: 136-174 MHz(Rx/Tx). UHF: 400-520 MHz(Rx/Tx); Broad (Wide) / Narrowband (Narrow) Selectable
• The BF-F8HP was designed in the USA and because not everyone is a radio-expert we really wanted to focus on providing an easier user experience! That starts with the new in-depth manual that guides you through the capabilities and customization of the BF-F8HP. On top of that the BF-F8HP also includes exclusive concierge customer help and warranty support. This concierge service is only available on select BaoFeng models such as the BF-F8HP, UV-82HP, and UV-5X3
• Kit Includes: BF-F8HP, 2100mAh Battery, V-85 Dual Band Antenna, CH-5 Charger, CH-5 110V Adapter, Earpiece Kit, Wrist Strap, Belt Clip, User Manual
• BTECH is proud to be in the USA, which allows you to have the best available local support for any issue that may arise. BTECH only engineers and develops radio products. That brand focus allows you to have the best available radios and accessories with the most features, with real USA warranty and support.

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7. Xiegu G90 (best with detachable display)

The Xiegu G90 is one of the best ham radios we’ve seen.

This durable and high-performance product has a radio body that detaches from the display. That means you get a portable and a full-size ham radio in one. 

There’s a wide range of automatic tuners that help you find information fast and a color LCD screen. 

The quick mode buttons mean you can turn functions on and off quickly and easily. 

With a one-year warranty for peace of mind, the Xiegu offers an excellent range of functions for ham enthusiasts. 

The company frequently updates the software for this ham radio over the cloud, so you get a better performance. There’s an FM mode, so you can listen to your standard radio too. 

For price tag of just under $500, features include:

• 24-bit digital architecture
• Automatic tuner
• Excellent transmission and receiving performance
• Removable display head
• Great functionality in a compact machine
• FM mode available
• Access to ham bands
• LCD color screen
• One-year warranty included
• Easy to use

Although, like the best handheld ham radios, the Xiegu does take a little time to get used to, it’s one of the more intuitive options we’ve seen so far. 

The option to set quick buttons will make your life a lot easier. 

One downside is that the screen is a bit flimsy when removed from the rest of the kit, which makes damage more likely. 

The instructions are okay – but they’re not great for beginners. 

Pros:

• Removable display head
• Excellent automatic tuner
• High-performance software
• Easy to use for beginners
• One year warranty

Cons:

• Poor instructions
• Screen can easily break

Xiegu G90 HF Radio Transceiver 20W SSB/CW/AM/FM SDR Structure with Built-in Auto Antenna Tuner

• Detachable Display Unit - The display unit and the radio body can be separated. This allows you to place the head remotely.
• Wide Range Auto Antenna Tuner - Unlike other QRP radios, the G90 has a wide-range internal automatic antenna tuner so you can load up your favorite field antenna! The G90 also comes with a built-in mediumwave (AM broadcast) high-pass filter.
• Beautiful Color LCD Screen - All vital operating information is clearly visible in daylight conditions. 48KHZ wide spectrum display with waterfall gives you excellent awareness of the signal conditions around you.
• Easy to Use - You can use the Quick Mode button to turn on or off various functions. Instead of setting up different functions in the menu, you can directly adjust them by pressing corresponding function keys.
• We provide a 18 months warranty on Xiegu G90. As usual, if you modify the radio's hardware, the warranty is void. [Latest Firmware Version] - Firmware V1.8 is available on Radioddity official.

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8. Topsung 2-Pack Radio (Best for Weather Alerts)

The Topsung 2-Pack Radio is another top contender for the best ham radio options on this list. It’s a high-performance walkie-talkie that allows you to stay connected with your friends and family, no matter where you are.

We featured this product on this list due to its unique features. Among these features is the automatic weather alert function, which gives you real-time information on incoming storms or other emergencies.

The Topsung 2-Pack Radio comes with NOAA weather channels, making it an essential device for your outdoor activities. You can use these channels to keep track of the current weather conditions and plan your adventures accordingly.

We also loved the fact that this radio has a longer stand-by time thanks to its 3000MAh NI-MH AA rechargeable batteries. These batteries guarantee a standby time of up to 63 hours.

Moreover, since it’s compatible with any radio, you can communicate efficiently with other FRS radios, provided you’re on the same privacy code and channel.

For about $39, features include:

• Long-lasting rechargeable AA batteries
• NOAA weather alerts
• Sound and voice activation transmission (eVOX)
• 18 sensitivity levels
• Micro USB cable
• 10 call tone settings
• 8 adjustable volumes
• 98 DCS privacy codes
• 38 CTCSS privacy codes
• 22 channels

The Topsung 2-Pack Radio is among the few options with a wide range of uses. From biking, hiking, and camping to cruise ships and road trips, this radio has got you covered.

Pros:

• Multiple features for convenience and versatility
• Long battery life
• Wide usability
• Compatible with any FRS radios
• Automatic weather alerts for safety
• High sensitivity levels to pick up even the faintest signals

Cons:

• Not weatherproof

Topsung Walkie Talkies for Adult,Rechargeable Long Range Walky Talky with Batteries and Charger,Portable Two Way Radio with NOAA Weather Alert for Hiking Camping and Skiing(Blue and Purple 2 Pack)

• 【Longer stand-by time】 Each radio comes with 3*1000MAh NI-MH AA rechargeable batteries.The larger volume provides longer standby about 63 hours.With the micro-USB cable, you can charge the radio by power bank or vehicle adaptor when you are outdoors.
• 【Compatible with Any Radio】 You can communicate with other FRS radios regardless of brand by being on the same channel and privacy code. Easy Voice and Sound Activation Transmission (eVOX) with 18 sensitivity levels for hands-free operation
• 【Wide use】This radio provides long range communication and clear sound for hiking, biking, camping trip, road trip, cruise ship and so on. It is also a great communication tool for kids and the elder to talk to others at home.
• 【NOAA WEATHER ALERT】NOAA Weather Scan will automatically scan through 25 available weather (WX) band channels and locks onto the strongest weather channel to alert you of severe weather updates. NOAA Weather Alert will sound an alarm indicating that there is a risk of severe weather in your area.
• 【More features】Push to talk (PTT) button; 8 adjustable volumes; 10 call tone settings; Keypad lock (only PTT button work); Scanning function for busy channel; 22 channel, 38 CTCSS privacy codes and 98 DCS privicy codes; Great customer shopping experience.

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9. President Lincoln II (best for extra bands)

Convenient and compact, the next of our ham radio reviews, the Lincoln II comes with a 12-meter band added and extra programmable options for the user. 

There’s an excellent 35-watt power output, and the device offers robust performance throughout. 

Manual squelch is included, along with a VFO mode and continuous scanning. 

The multi-functional LCD display also comes with 104 DCS codes and 38 CTCSS tones.

With dual watch performance, key locking, and a time-out timer included, there are plenty of ways to customize your ham radio here. 

However, the wide range of functionality options means it has a steep learning curve. Therefore, you’ll have to spend more time learning how to use it, especially if it’s your first time to use an amateur radio.

On the plus side, you get a fantastic transmission and an incredibly quiet receiver with minimal noise disruption. 

For a price of $319, features include:

• Extra channels added
• Rotary switch and channel selector
• Multiple modes, including AM, FM, and USB
• VFO mode with constant scanning
• LCD display with multiple functions
• Excellent memory
• Dual watch function
• User manual
• Compact and ergonomic design

There are a lot of things to love about this ham radio, from the fantastic DIN size to the power output that remains reliable no matter what. Even the sensitivity is great, with brilliant tone detection. 

The CW does come with a few bugs, and the microphone isn’t ideal. 

Pros:

• Excellent range of channels
• Good power output performance
• Fantastic sensitivity
• Reliable performance 
• Decent price tag

Cons:

• Lots of features to explore at first
• Microphone isn’t great for quality

President Lincoln II Plus 10 and 12 Meter Ham Radio

• Same as LINCOLN II but 12 meter band added, key "CH19/9" replaced by "Emergency Channel 1 and 2" programmable by user; HF output power 35W PEP SSB instead of 31W PEP SSB, 35W FM instead of 28W; AM is same 12W RMS 48WPEP.
• Rotary switch and Up/down channel selector; Volume adjustment and ON/OFF; Manual squelch and ASC; RF Power; MENU function key; Dim; Mode switch AM/FM/LSB/USB/CW.
• VFO Mode w/ continuous scanning; Multi-functions LCD display; Frequencies display; S-meter; Channels and memories scan; 6 Memories; CTCSS (38 tones); DCS (104 codes).
• Public Address; Vox function (hands-free); ANL filter, NB and HI-CUT; RF Gain / Mic gain; Clarifier; Roger Beep; Front microphone plug; External loudspeaker jack.
• Dual watch; Key locking; SWR (Power Reading/SWR); Preset emergency (EMG 1/2); TOT (Time Out Timer) adjustable.

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