Best Ham Radio For Beginners (2023)

Ham radios, also known as amateur radios, are a popular way for enthusiasts to communicate and stay connected during emergencies. These versatile devices allow you to engage in two-way conversations, pick up various frequencies, and even participate in public service events. For those just starting in the world of ham radio, selecting the right equipment can make all the difference.

As a beginner, you might feel overwhelmed by the variety of ham radios available in the market. However, there are some key features and factors to consider when purchasing your first radio. Some important aspects include ease of use, affordability, programming options, and available channels.

While going through the process of selecting a ham radio, be sure to keep in mind your specific needs and preferences. Do you want a handheld radio that’s easy to carry around, or a more powerful base station for extended range and versatility? The range of accessories you can use and the radio’s compatibility with other devices will also play a role in your decision.

We’ve spent many hours evaluating a range of ham radios to identify the best options for beginners. By considering the critical factors, we’ve compiled a list of the top choices that make starting your amateur radio journey both enjoyable and efficient.

Table of Contents

Top Ham Radios for Newbies

We’ve rounded up the best ham radios for beginners like you. Dive in and check out our top picks to kickstart your emergency preparedness game.

Radioddity GD-73A DMR/Analog Two Way Radio

The Radioddity GD-73A is a reliable and beginner-friendly ham radio worth considering for its compact design and impressive battery life.

Pros

Lightweight and easy to carry
Long-lasting 3600mAh battery
Customizable function keys

Cons

Programming might be challenging for some
Audio quality reported as tinny
Not ideal for high-power use

The Radioddity GD-73A is a compact and lightweight ham radio that’s perfect for those just starting with DMR technology. Its small size and clear LCD screen make it intuitive for one-handed operation, making it suitable for various situations, including for business use or emergency situations.

One of the standout features is its 3600mAh battery, which supports up to 48 hours of standby time and 12 hours of continuous use. You’ll appreciate not having to worry about recharging it during long days of use. Also, the GD-73A comes with two customizable keys, allowing you to assign four different functions (from a total of 21) to suit your needs.

Programming the GD-73A, however, can be challenging for some users. While the user manual is detailed and helpful, the learning curve might be steep for newcomers to DMR technology. You might also experience less-than-favorable audio reports, as some users have described the sound quality as tinny. This radio is best for use with personal hotspots and is not designed for high-power transmissions.

In summary, the Radioddity GD-73A DMR/Analog Two Way Radio is a great choice for beginners looking for a compact and long-lasting ham radio. With its customizable keys and convenient USB connectivity, it is worth considering despite some potential challenges in programming and audio quality.

BaoFeng UV-5R 8W High Power Two Way Radio

A fantastic choice for beginners in ham radio, thanks to its ease of use, affordability, and versatility.

Pros

Great for short-distance communication
High/Mid/Low Power settings
Dual band, dual display, dual standby

Cons

Needs an upgraded antenna for better range
May require frequency knowledge
Limited local activity for some users

Right out of the box, the BaoFeng UV-5R is a breeze to handle – even if you’re a newbie to the world of ham radio. Its simple, economical, and practical design allows you to jump into short-distance communication without any fuss. Plus, the High/Mid/Low power settings enable you to tweak the radio’s power consumption according to your needs.

While using the BaoFeng UV-5R, you’ll appreciate its dual band, dual display, and dual standby capabilities. These features make it easy to navigate and communicate on different frequencies. However, it’s essential to note that you might have to brush up on your frequency knowledge to maximize your radio’s capabilities.

Now, about that range – the radio’s stock antenna could use an upgrade for a significant improvement. Users have paired it with the upgraded AR-771 antenna (included in the package), and the range boost was remarkable. In fact, it was so good that they could talk to someone over 600 feet away, even with them being deep underground.

BTECH UV-5X3 Tri-Band Radio

A solid choice for beginners looking for a versatile and user-friendly ham radio.

Pros

Tri-band capability (VHF, 1.25M, UHF) for extensive communication options
Advanced features for tailored communication and remote control
USB-C charging for convenience and compatibility

Cons

Slightly bulkier than some other beginner ham radios
Some users may find the interface challenging at first
Additional antennas may be needed for optimal reception

When you’re starting with ham radio, you’ll want a device that’s flexible and adaptable to your needs, and the BTECH UV-5X3 Tri-Band Radio fits the bill. Its ability to operate on VHF, 1.25M, and UHF frequencies means you’ll have an extensive range of communication options right at your fingertips.

One of the most significant advantages of this radio is its advanced features, such as Display Sync and selective frequency scanning. These make it much easier for you to customize your communications, ensuring you’re always able to connect with others in a variety of situations. Plus, remote control functions like Stun, Kill, Revive, Inspect, and Monitor offer a remarkable level of control, even when you’re not physically near your radio.

Charging is a breeze with the BTECH UV-5X3, as it comes with a USB-C rechargeable battery. This means you can use any USB-C cable to charge your radio, eliminating the need for dedicated proprietary chargers. Just plug it in, charge up, and you’re ready to get back out there.

However, it’s worth noting that the UV-5X3 is slightly bulkier than some other beginner ham radios. While this won’t be a dealbreaker for many, those looking for a more compact option may need to look elsewhere. Also, some users may find the interface challenging at first but with a bit of practice, it becomes more manageable.

Keep in mind that for optimal reception, you may need to invest in additional antennas. While the included antennas are useful, you might find that upgrading your antennas can make a significant difference in your ability to connect with other operators.

BAOFENG UV-17R Two Way Radio

A reliable and feature-rich ham radio for beginners eager to explore the world of radio communication.

Pros

Wide frequency range for diverse communication scenarios
Wireless frequency copy for easy programming
User-friendly DTMF customization for enhanced control

Cons

Not compatible with CHIRP programming software
Included antenna is decent but not exceptional
Slightly complicated programming for some users

The BAOFENG UV-17R is an upgraded version of the popular UV-5R handheld ham radio. It offers a wide UHF/VHF frequency range for versatile communication, allowing you to stay connected in different environments. Unlike some other radios, its wireless frequency copy feature simplifies programming by enabling quick cloning of frequency configurations between devices.

The UV-17R has a user-friendly DTMF customization system, which grants you greater control over your communication experience. By pressing the ‘#’ key, you can easily edit dual-tone multi-frequency signals without fuss. Also, this radio offers compatibility with both wide and narrow bandwidth settings, providing flexibility in various communication scenarios.

Although the BAOFENG UV-17R delivers impressive performance, it does have some drawbacks. One notable con is its incompatibility with the popular CHIRP programming software, which might make programming a bit complicated for some users. The included antenna is okay, but not outstanding. As a beginner, you might want to upgrade to a better antenna for improved reception.

TIDRADIO TD-H8 Ham Radio

TIDRADIO TD-H8 is the go-to choice for beginners looking for a high-power, user-friendly ham radio with handy features.

Pros

Self-upgradable through TIDRADIO software
10 Watt output power with dual-power tubes
Functions easily programmable through Odmaster app

Cons

Possible problems with initial audio quality
May require customer service engagement for replacements
Limited to 199 channels

As a beginner in the world of ham radios, you’ll appreciate the TIDRADIO TD-H8. This powerful little device offers 10 watts of high output power while covering both UHF and VHF frequencies. What sets it apart from the rest is that it can self-upgrade just by using TIDRADIO software. That means you don’t have to buy a new radio every time an upgrade comes along, saving you time and money.

Programming your TD-H8 is as simple as using the Odmaster app. Forget about complicated software, drivers, and cables. The app covers everything from frequency editing to finding and importing nearby repeaters. Plus, it’s a social hub where you can connect with other radio users.

Some users have faced initial audio quality issues, requiring them to engage with customer service for replacements. But once that’s resolved, the two 2500mAh rechargeable batteries and the long TD-771 antenna ensure uninterrupted communication over long distances.

Though limited to a total of 199 channels, the TIDRADIO TD-H8 still packs quite a punch with features like dual band, dual watch, NOAA weather mode, CTCSS/DCS, scanning, and VOX. Maintaining that balance between power and user-friendliness, it’s a solid choice for anyone starting with ham radio communication.

Buying Guide

As a beginner, choosing the best ham radio can be a bit overwhelming. Let’s have a look at some key features you should keep in mind while making your decision.

Frequency Coverage

Make sure you know the frequency bands you want to operate on. Ham radios typically cover VHF (Very High Frequency) and UHF (Ultra High Frequency) bands. Some radios can also cover HF (High Frequency) bands, but they can be a bit more complicated for a beginner. To start, stick with a dual-band radio that covers both VHF and UHF frequencies.

Modes of Operation

There are three main modes of operation: FM (Frequency Modulation), SSB (Single Sideband), and CW (Continuous Wave). FM is the most common mode used at VHF and UHF frequencies. SSB and CW are typically used for long-distance communication on HF bands. As a beginner, you’ll likely be working with FM most of the time, so focus on finding a radio that supports this mode.

Power Output

The power output of a ham radio determines its signal strength and range. Generally, handheld radios have lower power output, around 5-8 watts, while mobile and base station radios can output 50-100 watts or more. As a novice, a handheld radio with around 5 watts should be sufficient for local communication. However, if you plan on communicating over longer distances, a higher power output may be necessary.

Ease of Use

As a beginner, you’ll want a radio that’s user-friendly and easy-to-learn. Look for a model with a clear display, intuitive controls, and a well-written manual. Some radios even come with programming software that can simplify the process of setting up and managing frequencies.

Battery Life

Keep in mind that the battery life of a ham radio can vary greatly, so consider your usage habits and needs when choosing a model. Some radios have replaceable battery packs, while others have built-in rechargeable batteries. You may also want to look for a radio that can be charged via USB, which can be convenient for on-the-go use.

Overall, selecting the best ham radio for beginners involves considering your specific needs, such as frequency coverage, modes of operation, power output, ease of use, and battery life. With these factors in mind, you’ll be well on your way to finding a radio that fits your requirements and helps you jump right into the world of amateur radio.