Best Ham Radio Handhelds In 2022

Here is my listing of the best ham radio handhelds available in 2022. This list is based on my objective practical testing and subjective feelings from using the radios.
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[@proudtex]

Ahhhhh, the venerable VX-6R very capable out of the box with Tri-band and broad band receive. It really shines as a SHTF radio when you MARS Mod it! It not only broadens the Ham bands to add MURS on low end of VHF and GMRS on high end of UHF like most radios, but it also enables transmit on 6 Meters, Air, and Marine bands. I have a few different antennas for mine because of this. It's an amazing radio, well worth every penny. Would love to see a video testing transmit power on those "other" bands. (dummy load of course)

[@Ammed_KN6STX]

Great video as always Josh. When I got started with amateur radio a bought an Anytone 878 and the Hotspot. I then came to realize that if the internet goes down that system DMR is pretty much dead in the water. So, I have now gotten into HF radio and have passed my General test, and am studying for my Extra test. HF radio is never needing to rely on the internet to get on the air. KN6STX, 73!

[@fyrearm]

You can do DMR Simplex as well as local DMR repeater.. just keep that in mind. Do love my Anytone but you are correct, DMR via the Internet isn't going to be the goto for EMCOMMs

[@devildog17013]

I still have my first HT, which i got in 2017 after getting my license - Yaesu FT-65R (the FT-60's 'replacement'), and I still love it. It's still the only HT I have and I keep it with me everywhere I go.

[@JPA66]

My current favorite HT is the Yaesu FT-65. The size, price, performance, display and ease of use make it the perfect fit for me. It’s not expensive so not as worried about it getting banged up. Has the options I want ie… fm radio, noaa and it hits the repeaters I talk on most.

[@ke8mattj]

Was going to make this same comment. It's also MARS moddable (input via secret code in a certain menu). I keep one as my backup to my FT3D.

[@ExtremeSquared]

@@ke8mattj FT3D and FT5D are pretty easy to MARS mod, too.

[@hardwired3640]

The VX-6r is actually a quad band radio. It will do 1 watt on 6m FM after the MARS mod. Just FYI

[@scottasanagi]

Love your work!! Bought FT5DR from you recommendation and loving it. New Ham also studied from your videos! 73

[@dr_bnc]

The closed captions when you mention Baofeng are priceless! "battle fang" "bow thing" and more. :)

[@jdecar1]

LOL @ "battle fang". Perfect! It should have always been called that. 😄

[@OmarHassan-wp6dt]

Not to mention those "Gay Sue" radios.

[@josephgomes8543]

I currently own 4 HT's and I haven't been able to program even one of the Baofengs to work on repeaters. I bought 2 UV8 I think ( I bought em for the 8 watt output), a GT 5R and even the Orange WOUXON you like. I tried to program the Baofeng 8 watt radios using Chirp, that didn't work at all. So now I'm afraid to try the GT5R or the Orange babe cuz I don't wanna screw it up. It would be great if you'd video a programming session on the WOUXON. Love your vids, Josh.

[@TAVAAR7]

@Ham Radio Crash Course Hey Josh, what are your thoughts on the Yaesu FT-65R and FT-70DR vs those you mentioned in the vid and others you've used? I'm looking to expand up past the UV-5R, but not go whole hog command center lol. Thanks for any input and advice you can offer.

[@bryanrocker5033]

Some decent testing in real world conditions. What I would really love to see is what products are made in America. I have no problems with imports per say but I prefer to buy American when I can.

[@sinatralala]

Great video as always. I was surprised, however, that you did not include the Yaesu FT70 D on your list. It's a real workhorse at an amazing price point.. Fantastic transmit and receive audio on 2meter and 440 as well as on system fusion. It sounds amazing on the air as thousands of users will attest to.

[@forgetyourlife]

Battery life was short and two handed volume adjust keeps that radio off a lot of lists.

[@sinatralala]

The FT70 D should definitely have just one button for the volume, but it's just not that big of a deal. It's not like I'm having dinner and I need that other hand for the fork. In the scheme of things, it's just fine. As far as battery life, goes, it's actually pretty good. I use mine a lot and have never had battery issues. I also charge it everyday, which I'm betting a lot of hams just do not do. Bottom line is that when you compare these two issues with the performance of the radio, the FT70 D in my opinion, is the best value on the HT market today.

[@forgetyourlife]

@@sinatralala well, I’ll just have to disagree. I owned one and being active on a bicycle the volume was a real issue. As for the battery, I’ve read comments about it over and over again even here. The radio is a thirsty one and I couldn’t make it through an 8 hour day simple scanning.

[@jacobKC3MRA]

I agree I expected the FT70 to be on here. The volume thing is annoying but overall it’s a great radio.

[@MrBracey1970]

Yaesu FT 70D has always been good value,and I think the Icom IC-T10 is a upgrade

[@AFluffyMobius]

The FT-70D is a real good bargain for the feature set, but the only issues ive had was the battery longevity. As in, charging a battery and keeping it either in the radio itself or on its own in a safe location. Either will deplete after sitting for a month or two. I bought three extra batteries from HRO and they all did the same thing. Sold it all at a loss and got the VX-6R and the battery longevity on it is much, much better. I can keep it in my backpack and take it out a month later and the battery still works plenty fine.

[@johnkaelberer237]

Check out the reviews on the Icom IC-10T, good quality but not near as user friendly and full featured as others for less $$$. For the same price, the Yaesu VX-6 offers much more.

[@howardkarse9915]

@@AFluffyMobius I found same issue with the battery in my FT-70D. When driving it is running off the vehicle, otherwise I have a power bank I carry that power the radio via the DC input same as when mobile. Other than that - I find it a good value and good performance. Your VX-6R is a great choice - enjoy it!

[@AFluffyMobius]

@@howardkarse9915 that's good to hear! Other than the battery, the 70D was a well built, good sounding, and well performing radio with wires-x. Loved the buttons on it and the trigger-style PTT.

[@Hogdriver88]

Very torn between the FT5DR and ID52. Prefer the FT5 for APRS, more Fusion availability near me, and price - and ID52 for DStar and overall radio quality and operation. I understand about the Signal Stick antennas, but what are the other flexi antennas I see you use on these HTs?

[@doodlethebeagle2078]

20:10 Hi, just getting started, thanks for the details. Am looking for a quality long distance handheld that can reach my family over 100 miles away. Will skip cheapo Amazon. Cheers

[@animeniac978]

I wonder how much of the receive quality issues of the baofeng are due to the speaker it uses? I have no complaints in that area, but then I'm listening to an f8-hp through the ear cups built into an aviation helmet, directly wired, and don't have any other radio to compare against.

[@jtoast]

So how do you feel about the baofeng DM-1701 DMR from rodioddity

[@N4EJM]

Well Randy could help you with the Motorola stuff.

[@darylnd]

The music is distracting. I don't know why KZbinrs want to do this, but it's common. Like you, I'm not a fan of DMR. It's a commercial standard, and it's clunky for ham use. The RFinder might help in that regard, but $$$$ for a several-generaions outmoded Android phone! The ID-52 appeals to me because batteries are interchangeable with my IC-705. That price, though, and Icom DPRS instead of standard APRS. In terms of “a radio being a radio," though, I’m just going to have to bite the bullet on this one. 73 de KN6NPZ

[@sonyabeam292]

Big problem,some places that have little "ham coverage" generally do not have internet,wifi or so called hotspots.

[@HamRadioCrashCourse]

You don't need the internet for ham radio, so that's a moot point.

[@sonyabeam292]

@@HamRadioCrashCourse sure a point that block one from participation would be moot to you it would seem

[@HamRadioCrashCourse]

@@sonyabeam292 You can get on ham radio without the internet. That was my reply. What's your issue?

[@falcorthewonderdog2758]

Recently bought a Baofeng BF-S5plus that is a 70cm / 1.25m / 2m tri bander handheld used at a ham swap meet. Can't find any valid info on it. Anyone else know of this model?

[@KE0RGP]

I'm curious. Is there any way, that the all metal (coated) park bench you were sitting at doing all the testing, could, or may have interfered in any of the tests?

[@HamRadioCrashCourse]

If it did. Would it effect all radios and antennas equally?

[@KE0RGP]

@@HamRadioCrashCourse Not sure, because you also did tests using different antennas too. But I would think that like antennas, and their positions, would have been the same. Maybe sometime, take a few steps away and see it it makes a difference

[@mikelezo1031]

hello,what's your callsign?

[@markr.1984]

I am an old Ham that has not been into it much in many years, I don't keep up with the latest tech. Nor do I actually transmit and talk to anyone on any frequency. But I'd like to know if any of these HTs are true FM any more of just PM? I have an old Radio Shack 2 meter classic around the house that still works and it's true FM. While I may not be "into" ham any more, I feel it's important to keep my license renewed every ten years (almost due again now) and at least have something in case of emergency. I had to learn code to get the old Advanced class license back in the early nineties. I feel it's too easy to get licensed up nowadays.

[@DanielQwerty]

Harmonics in music: 😁 Harmonics in radio: 😡

[@ragheadand420roll]

Kc6ubp says he likes to have an ht that transmits on 5mhz so he can talk to wwv

[@troyanderson8879]

I am still learning and studying to get my HAM license. Researching as to what my first radio should be. Thank you.

[@yuriys.6352]

In Ukraine our military prefer Motorola or at least Hytera.

[@thuff3207]

The Kenwood TH-D74 is my carry everywhere radio because of APRS and the near repeater feature. It also has a built in equalizer that helps lots. What surprised me was the ICOM IC52. If it only had APRS that would be wonderful.

[@TheGhostfaceKLR]

Agreed. If the IC52 had APRS, I would't own an FT5

[@mikemandell132]

I really don't understand the importance of APRS when you are out of repeater range in the wild. APRS doesn't work there, either. For monitoring positions of your group, an even better method is D-PRS (Dstar encapsulated APRS data) and D-Rats. Easier to setup and run for an event that APRS-IS32 or whatever. All the same functionality with the addition of actual chat (no text limit), files, logs, etc. APRS works well where there are digi's and where there are not it's pretty limited in function.

[@thuff3207]

@@mikemandell132 Digipeater are easy to set up and deploy from about anywhere. Dstar is a full repeater that is not easy to set up and is limited. Using a good high powered radio and with a TNC with a mast you can have a Digipeater working to connect to an igate just about anywhere. We do that for large bike event with portable Digipeaters to see sag vehicles. We link to an igate to help with messaging. You would have much harder time with Drats since I cannot as easily extend the Dstar repeater like you can with a Digipeater. It’s just simple and works.

[@mikemandell132]

@@thuff3207 sure, we do the same. However DStar and Drats mapping does pretty much the same as APRS with or without a repeater. Drats was designed for simplex. Can't digi peat DStar data, so simplex is more limited, unless you use internet and a ratflector.

[@tsbrownie]

Sad that my FT11 and FT51 did not make the list ;)

[@jimbefit3073]

*** ID 52 USERS?? Well, I "guess," ill take your word for it, BUT!- TO ME... with the icom ID52, it sounded like you were overdriving the speaker ... TO DISTORTION. That extra amplification comes WONDERFULLY handy when you have a weak signal and barely intelligible, audio- your stuck. A little extra amplification and sometimes you can hear/make out the conversation. Then again, maybe its Always like that. Ill take your word for it. Icom ID52 users comment?

[@john3kbs]

My favorite is the VX-6R. Mine is modified and works well on 6 meters also. It is indeed an great radio. I like the fact that I can transmit in AM if I ever want to, and can receive shortwave too. It does so much more than I use on a regular basis - however when I need the features they are there. It goes everywhere I go. The Baofeng's are just toys, and also serve as a radio which in an emergency I can toss to someone and won't mind if I don't get it back.

[@john3kbs]

@RAMBO RICHIE yes- it can transmit on AM.

[@myballwilson]

I think you missed some features of the KG-UV9 T MATE. It's a true dual band that works for satellites. It has 7 bands receive. Also superheterodyne technology on both bands. It has 999 memories, is easy to program and has great sound. At $139 it's definitely the best value under $400. It's easy to forget when you have so many radios.

[@johnbarrington4137]

It's an amazing radio for the price. I have an icom and kt blows it out of the water over a distance. I did a test on our local repeater from 40 miles comparing my mobile set with a SG 7500 on a mag mount and my KG UV9D Mate and no one could tell the difference

[@bettersaferadio]

Or the UV9PX, which adds in 1.25m RX and 3 new dark screen modes, among other tweaks. :)

[@EdwardGriffin]

The Best Ham Radio Handheld in 2022 is still the one that you will use everyday to be active on the air. An expensive HT that goes unused isn't better than a cheap one that you will use often because you don't care about the wear and tear. Likewise an HT that you use for APRS, satellites, and/or digital modes that you are interested in is better than another that you don't use because analog simplex and repeaters don't interest you. Buy something that matches your motivations and is going to get used regularly.

[@JasonRasmussen]

Like the question, what's the best camera? It's the one you keep on you.

[@johnkaelberer237]

Very good point. My FT-60 has been my daily carry radio for a number of years now. It's built like a brick and has been through hell and back and just keeps coming back for more. It is my go to when I don't want to risk harming my FT-3D. I just can't do the slow scan of the cheaper radios. They are the ones that are a back up to the FT-60. Have not needed one yet.

[@devildog17013]

I agree completely. It's like when someone asks me what is the best pistol for concealed carry. I tell them it is whichever you are comfortable with and will actually carry with you. The same can be said for just about any tool, I would imagine.

[@BryanTorok]

@@devildog17013 Wow, a CCW handgun comparison to an EDC ham radio HT. I'm going to be very interested in the replies you get and the ratio of up/down. Thumbs up! Well done sir.

[@tecdive8045]

The “I use a cheap radio because I don’t care about it getting wear and tear” argument is SUPER LAME! Because the rest of that statement could be, ‘but if I could carry a more expensive radio, I would because I miss the advantages the more expensive radio has’. If that is the case, then you should just carry a more expensive radio and enjoy it’s added benefits! And so what if a more expensive radio gets a ding or a scratch on it! It was made to be used and enjoyed, so the concept of protecting it and then never using it is dumb! The Yaesu and Icom radios are tough! How do I know? Because I put my ID-51 through hell and it still works great! And I can’t imagine all the enjoyment I would’ve missed out on if I had chosen to carry a cheap radio, just to save the ID 51 from a few scratches. Having my ID 51 with me all the time allowed me to use all its benefits that made me want it in the first place. So I think you are wrong Edward. I think you should get the radio that you want, and then use it. Buying a cheap radio to carry regularly, so your more expensive Radio doesn’t get a scratch, is like buying a Cheap car to take off road and leaving your 4 x 4 in the garage, and then not going on any of the trails you would’ve gone on had you brought your 4 x 4.

[@RonanCantwell]

You're pretty much spot on with this list, Josh. Good point about the ft2d and 3d being good alternatives to the 5d although they're not as weather proof. The transmitted audio from my ft2d is waaaaay better than the thin/weedy audio from the ft5d. Not sure why the 5d is so bad, but it is... Top marks for including the VX6. It's a fantastic all-rounder and a very good airband receiver too.

[@ChrisBeiting]

It’s the waterproofing. That will effect the speaker output usually.

[@falcorthewonderdog2758]

Yaesu FT60R is still competing as a top contender 2m / 70cm handheld after all these years. So much higher quality than a 25 dollar Baofeng. I love the cast aluminum body.

[@HOAHamRadio]

Thanks Josh for all the effort put into this. I own several of the HT's you highlighted. I do not yet own the ID-52 and was hoping for a comparison like this to make an informed decision -- now its on the wish list.

[@mainetomass99]

Big fan of my Yaesu FT-5DR. But, I don’t like dragging it with me on SOTA outings as it’s a costly radio to drop and beat up. Picked up the Alinco DJ-VX50T. Solid little SOTA radio. Really durable and IP67 rated. I mostly do HF on SOTA, but I can grab the local contacts while packing up on 146.52 without worrying about beating up/dropping/losing my favorite Yaesu HT.

[@mandaloresmercy]

Baofeng gang! I'm new and these are amazing for me to learn with. I will be gifting my brother an affordable Baofeng too to learn on! I just cant get past the price tag for their GMRS & HAM radios. It makes it so approachable to get an advanced radio for off grid usage. Maybe some day I'll be able to get a nicer radio, but for now Baofeng has allowed me to try out a hobby I had thought was too expensive to see if I'd like.

[@johnbarrington4137]

Best value and all round performance for me is the wouxun. It blew my icom out of the water over a long distance, couldn't believe it.

[@careycraig4360]

Great Video! I feel the opinions you have expressed to be NOTABLE and VALUABLE. New Hams especially find that video's of the type this one is are Very Helpfull. Older Hams whom have been in the Hobby for a few Decades are going to form their own unique opinions on so many different aspects of the Ham Radio Hobby. I really enjoy listening to video's like the ones you have been producing. I always come away a little bit smarter on the subject being discussed. 73's

[@peterkunka2694]

I understand, money is tight everywhere... but, skip the $10 coffee daily and save for a good radio. It's worth it. My buddies eat out and spend $25+ daily while I brown bag my lunches and snacks. I know they complain about not having spending money, but, I take my time and am enjoying my Icom ID-51A Plus for HT everyday carry, while having an Icom ID-5100 in my Jeep, also for everyday while driving and camping on analog and D-Star. Might be switching to Yaesu to get more into APRS, but, we'll see. I use a Baofeng GT-3 for scanning, then switch to the Icom for transmitting when something hits. Just like everything, it's all in smart shopping for the best performance out of the product you buy. Cheers! Pete - KI7LIL

[@AJ9FE]

Why does ICOM hate APRS?

[@NatesRandomVideo]

It’s really too bad Kenwood has essentially exited the HT market. I still daily drive a TH-F6A. What a powerhouse of a tiny little rig. Sounds good, does way more than it should for the size.

[@tomstrum6259]

Very Informative helpful video...Besides the Mandatory easy "On the fly" Keypad Programming Usability feature, Which of these featured HTs have the "Superhet" or Equivalent Selectivity designed Filtering for best Receiver Selectively performance ?? What your choices ? Even typical Moderate priced 80's & 90's scanner HT radios had really good Filtered design. A Lot of today's even pricey radios (Ht & Mobile) have Crapy cheap ill-filtered receiver designs despite & Hidden within the glitzy "Features" ads.....Big thx for mentioned this ! .

[@Matt-qq8dh]

Great video. Very informative. I use an FT-60 for daily carry. It's really very easy to enter the frequency and set the tone in the field. Granted it is only analog, but it works fine for what I need, ie. an emergency or general communications.

[@mikemandell132]

Glad you covered the Baofeng front end. What some don't realize is that the better the antenna you put on one, the worse it gets. The stock Baofeng antenna is terrible at transmit, but acts as an attenuator on receive :-). Funny, my very first ham radio was also an FT60, which still works with the original battery. I've had the original Icom ID51 several years and just sprung for the 52. I appreciate Icom standardizing batteries, jacks and stuff in recent years. APRS is OK (Bob Bruninga helped me set up my solar on my house....he was more into that than radio in recent years) but shortly if not already your phone can be used to SMS over satellite, so when you're out in the desert with Randy in his Jeep you can phone home out of repeater range. Not that I'm advocating cell phones.....it's coming, though. TMobile and StarLink, iPhone and ? (works, apparently).

[@hipal2271]

My first radio was the FT-60. Now I am in a ham radio dead zone. I have multiple radios now. My go to radio is still the FT-60. Tried, tested, and just works.

[@B.Murphy]

Great video! Reminds me how glad I was I bought the TH-D74a when I did. My favorite HT but man do I have to baby it...

[@proudtex]

I'm surprised no mention of the FT-70. Under $200 least expensive radio with a digital mode. Yaesu System Fusion.

[@HamRadioCrashCourse]

Not a fan of that battery.

[@howardkarse9915]

@@HamRadioCrashCourse I don't think anybody is, very short operating time. Mine is mostly for mobile use around town, so I keep it powered via the 12V outlet. Seems that my 5D gets better battery life even with the higher current draw of the display. Might be more due to how the HT itself manages power vs the battery itself. The battery is the only downside I see to that radio - otherwise a great entry level HT with YSF.

[@sinatralala]

Well, just my opinion, you shouldn't be using an HT on a bike. Not very safe, period. What can I say, I'm very picky about battery life and I'm very happy with the FT70 D. I do appreciate you getting back to me on my comments though. Be well.

[@sinatralala]

One last thing. I think that in many but certainly not all cases, it’s actually the battery life sensor that is not accurate more so than it is the battery. 73

[@phornax9]

Great video ! Are all Baofengs bad with spurrious emitions? Even the more expensive/beefy ones?

[@jdecar1]

Someone needs to test the uv82-hp.

[@Sonicgott]

I have and use a Baofeng UV-5RPro, and as much as I like it, you bring up great points. I should save up for an Icom or Yaesu. Budget is always a concern, but a quality experience is priceless.

[@DonzLockz]

I would be happy when I can get the ID-52a and a IC-7300. I think commercial Motorola's are up there with the ID-52A. I have a pair of Motorola GP328 HT's, no screen, only 4 channels but amazing audio quality and range.

[@LWRC]

Absolutely!! I went directly from a UV-5R to XTS5000 hand held both VHF & UHF!!!

[@jimbefit3073]

Josh, not all the radios were at the same volume. im being technical, but i dont think you were intentionally being UnFair on the audio tests. 😊 PLEASE TRY THIS- adjust the volume up until the speaker or audio amplifier distorts-then back it up. This will show HOW LOUD the radio can go without straining to understand whats being said. ***ACTUALLY do 2 volume levels to show which models have "extra headroom?" Thank you.

[@erwinancer6138]

Thanks for an extensive review … even though its 2years old now … Makes sense… i recently got my foundations on 13 Dec … been using my Quansheng uv 5 R plus with much front end poor quality.. as well as my TYT MD UV380 … im not so overwhelmed with DMR too …i use echolink and Allstar on my iPhone through an app called Repeater Phone .. i find that the most beneficial at this stage till i can get a antenna up and hopefully a better transceiver.. Hope to work your station soon on one of your repeaters.. let me know which one.. Happy new Years VK3EAN

[@mr.unknownuser7235]

$249.95 Yaesu VX-6R 2m/220/70cm FM Heavy-Duty Tri-Band Ultra-Compact FM HTs- DX Engineering Now. Out of stock

[@Screamingtut]

Josh, I got two notifications from KZbin about this video.

[@Orvulum]

Motorola radios are way more expensive for what you get as compared to amateur radio gear, however, so far as durability goes, they can't be beat. Also, I have yet to see any amateur repeater that comes close to the reliability and robustness of a Motorola.... So, for repeaters, if you can afford it, even a second hand Motorola can be an excellent and even superior choice! (Examples: MTR2000, MTR3000, or any of the XPR or SLR series).

[@ddivinia]

Good lord the audio is so much better on the ID-52. The VX-6R is also good. I have a VX6, vx7, and a couple FT3DRs. I think I need a ID-52 also.. Nice reviews. D.

[@johnkaelberer237]

Josh, please do a video on the "Emergency" APRS menu item on the Yaesu radios that do APRS. Really neat feature if you're having a very bad day.

[@dont4450]

BEWARE OF EBAY. MOST PEOPLE ARE SELLING USED RADIOS FOR WAY OVER THE BRAND NEW PRICE. ONE SELLER HAS A VX-6R FOR $800.00, AND HE GOT UPSET WHEN I SIMPLY ASKED IF THE PRICE WAS CORRECT. I WENT TO HRO, AND BOUGHT ONE, BRAND NEW, FOR 249.00.

[@whollymindless]

A Baofeng is better than no radio. And anyone that buys one radio will buy more. It's an addiction. A Baofeng is like Rock Skis, there is a time to pull out the one you don't care about.

[@Paul-yy9hx]

Why does the Yaesu vx-6 have a "Standard" logo on the top of the radio display rather than "Yaesu". I was browsing on eBay and wasn't sure about the difference.

[@hamradiobasics]

Josh excellent video. I would hope all new hams (and all hams for that matter) who are considering purchasing a HT watch this. Your audio testing was spot on. If you can't be heard clearly or can't listen clearly than what good is that radio? Great points on the Baofeng's - as my dad used to say you get what you pay for. Bill.

[@5x9dev]

Honestly I'm looking forward to a radio that can do analog and the open source M17 digital mode. Ideally it would be packaged into something like a VX-6 or that specific radio or an FT-65 that could be modded.

[@doesstuffoutside]

Dang, that ID-52 sounds good. I'm in a VHF/UHF poor environment so I'll probably never go beyond my FT-60, but that sound quality is impressive. Have to agree on the improved quality on other radios in the Sub-$200 bracket compared to the feng. I have a couple of baofengs for reasons, but even my FT-65 feels nicer, receives better, and is way easier to program on the fly. The FT-60 was my upgrade from that, and it's the only one I look to grab now when I decide to take an HT somewhere. I think the FT-60 is as far above the FT-65 as the Ft-65 is above the Baofeng.

[@Mxyzptlk21]

The 52 sounds even better in person :)

[@doesstuffoutside]

@@Mxyzptlk21 I bet it does. But given that I haven't keyed up the mic on a vhf/uhf radio in two or three weeks, and hardly ever hear traffic just riding around listening, I'm not about to drop FT-891 money on an HT. I can't even justify a good mobile for my car at this point. Just putting all my ham radio points in to HF.

[@Mxyzptlk21]

@@doesstuffoutside that’s too bad. There is lots of 2m traffic around my area.

[@shandybrandy5407]

Hi Josh, a great video indeed. Just wanted to know how is the Yaesu VX8 and is it still available. Thanks

[@johncadwallader8495]

Kg uv 9D mate nice indoor radio. Hard to read display outside in sunlight. I sold mine because of that because I’m outside a lot.

[@markkoehler5110]

I am currently studying for my ham radio certificate and this channel is definitely turning me off on that endeavour… especially the comments … full of their own goodness .. i will still complete it and find my own path

[@Nacho.100]

Man, you need to try the Quansheng tg-uv2 Plus. Its way better than any baofeng and maybe better than the FT4-XR. Its receiver is great, the output power is great, the battery is awsome and is as rugged as that Yaesu for a similar price tag. It dont have any special feature like aprs, but as a daily radio is my favorite. Its always with me in my bagpack. 73, Ca3imf

[@kchaney56]

Wow, the quality of the ID-52 really is heads and shoulders above the others.

[@MrBenEye]

Thanks!

[@MrBenEye]

My EDCs are the Yaesu FT3D and of course the Icom IC52A. Always glad to get your thoughts Josh! 73, Ben KN6NDM

[@tomstrum6259]

How do you afford to buy all you Dozens of multi $100 radios ?? ....Are you a millionaire or something ??

[@HamRadioCrashCourse]

I've been buying radios for over a decade. So that helps.

[@DARTHDANSAN]

UV5R with extend battery and signal stuff antenna and pico APRS

[@aj2isotadxing]

The d74 is THE best handheld for a few reasons. 1 , it does usb/lsb rx. No other handheld can say that, useful for SAT rx and listening to HF 2. It is the best aprs handheld, it can decode packets when a FT2/3/5 can’t. 3. It does 220 and tnc modem support. Why did Kenwood stop making them? Some say a factory fire , some say they weren’t selling well , either way it’s a great radio and the only one of my many I will never sell.

Perhaps parts they couldn't get during the pandemic-driven chip shortages. They have now announced its successor, the D75; it's not shipping yet.

[@RonDicken1971]

I wish I knew what the hell you were talking about in this video. So many initials.

[@gregrush6570]

Thanks to the Tech Prepper, the Yaesu VX-6R is on my "to buy list." Being a tri-bander is a great feature, being impervious to rain and submersion, it's ability to work with a digital interface, very fast scan rate, multiple memory banks, ability to charge via direct DC input, and receive shortwave coverage (WOW!), this will soon be in my kit. My only poo poo is the battery size. I would pay extra for an extended battery not only for it's extended usage, but also because it does truly make the radio fit in the hand better in my opinion. I also like the way this can interface with a Digirig kit to a portable tablet, laptop, or home PC to perform some digital communications. Tech prepper has demonstrated this with a some field exercises, but I also think maybe an APRS text demonstration using a cell phone. As for that Baofeng frontend filtering that is breaking the squelch, yeah I hate that as well. The Baofeng was my tooth cutter radio as a Tech, but now stepping up my game. I'll hang on to those UV5Rs though as they still serve some purposes like handing out to a neighborhood watch team during power outages and setting them up to listen to local EMS and Fire while only transmitting on MURS.

[@patrickgerth4570]

The Finny thing about the Baofang is you end up spending more money on an antenna.

[@rabidscallion9947]

I "TRULY" thank you for your guidance :)

[@kyfisher3662]

the ft5dr is $1000 here in australia, id be scared to take it out hiking haha

[@brianhind6149]

Hi Josh: I have watched maybe three of your videos since you started your site. I found you irritating to listen to, & opinionated almost to the point of arrogance ! (sounds as though I am describing myself !(grin ) I watched this video, & please accept my abject apologies for my initial impressions. I thoroughly enjoyed your presentation, & thought it was objective & balanced. I did NOT find you irritating & certainly not arrogant....exactly the opposite was true. I have no excuse nor explanation for my previous impressions. I intend to watch your videos as they come along. I own 4 handhelds, all high end Icoms that likely could be presented to the Smithsonian Institute by reason of their age. I have not used any handheld for at least 10 years & consider them all to be "load test" units for testing batteries ! Once again Josh, I apologise (as a Canadian I use British spelling) for thinking ill of your efforts. Cheers! Brian Hind, VE6XX/VE7CRA

[@HamRadioCrashCourse]

Hi Brian! Thanks for giving me a second shot!

[@1vegasdood]

Chicken or the egg? With my new Jeep passion, and, now wanting to get a HAM license, it seems a person should buy a radio first to assist in the study and initiate testing? What do you think?

[@HamRadioCrashCourse]

I absolutely agree! Your only issue with having both a Jeep and ham radio interest is not going bankrupt. 🤣💸

[@blairsmith201]

Great video!! It really comes down to what is the best radio for what your needs. I have some of the better Wouxun radios and a few Fengs. The Fengs are toys for me and the GMRS are toys for me and my grandsons. I also have the anytone 878 UV II+ and it is also a great analog radio. As many have said here, the best radio is the one you will use so we keep the Amature Radio alive and well.

[@californyaeh]

Hello, just a quick POV; As a completely newbie in the world of HAM radio, wishing to learn and Start, a lot of acronyms; DMR, PTT, etc etc , which are kinda foreign language, ..Maybe a once in a while development of what those means, with Beginners like me in mind, would be nice.. Thanks

[@HamRadioCrashCourse]

I have done that in my playlist “are you new to ham radio start here”. Also you can Google these terms.

[@dt8694]

I use a Motorola xpr 7550e but looking into an icom

[@lanceriffle4841]

Love your reviews. Just wanted to point out the Alinco MD-5 for about half the price of the Anytone's. Works great IMHO and is all you need (I need) to cover the DMR spectrum in my area.

[@timking2194]

Great video seems yaesu makes a lot of great handhelds

[@mdfogarty]

15:08 you keep saying "compact flash," but I think you mean "SD." Compact flash is an old standard.

[@HamRadioCrashCourse]

It’s true. I am le old.

[@robertheintz8017]

Don't take offense to my question, but I always ask those giving out advice on KZbin what their qualifications are?

[@HamRadioCrashCourse]

I’m an software and systems engineer by trade of nineteen years in that time I have developed for software defined radios for satellite payloads and ground stations and I’ve been a ham for fifteen years.

[@dalerobinsuk]

The VX6 has absolutely the worst frequency stability out of all of those radios. It can swing +/- over 1KHz on an over which isn't good. It is a shame as it is a really cool radio and I do like them apart from that. I've thoroughly tested these and I have lab calibrated equipment with tracable certification. The FT60 IMHO is the best all round analogue hand held dual band radio.

[@johnkaelberer237]

Never seen this or even seen anyone complain about freq shift with a VX-6. Maybe yours needs repair ?

[@dalerobinsuk]

@@johnkaelberer237 I've had a few of these on the bench and they all behave the same. It's due to the size of the radio and the metal chassis, the crystal oscillator is easily affected by temperature. Another issue with the VX6 and the VX7 is ceramic filter failure. These both lack DC blocking capacitors on the ceramic filter and will suffer from electromigration causing the sensitivity of the receiver to gradually decrease.

[@johnkaelberer237]

@@dalerobinsuk First I've seen on this. I am not doubting you. I'm not an electronics tech. Thing is, no one seems to complain about it. What kind of temp variations cause this problem ? I 100% agree that the FT-60 is the best analog, two band radio on the market. This is why it has stood the test of time and has to be one of the most popular radios that does not have the name Baofeng on it. Can't stand Baofengs. Other than junk front ends and transmitters, the scanning speed is pathetic.

[@dalerobinsuk]

@@johnkaelberer237 I just realised in my first comment I'd said 1MHz (It was typing the comment half asleep in bed as I warching this video), it's actually in the KHz range but that's still way too much and deviates far too much outside of the channel spacing. I first noticed this when I was using my VX-6R for satellite work and data modes. I decided to thoroughly check it and the stability was awful, far worse than any radio I've seen. I've tested other VX-6's and they all behave the same. I rang Yaesu and had a discussion with them about this, I even sent a video which was sent over to Japan and they said this behaviour was normal for this model. I'll upload a video to my channel shortly and you can see the swing over 1kHz with it transmitting for a short time. Because it has a solid metal chassis and its very compact the temperature from the final transistor and other components affects the crystal oscillator. They should have used a TCXO really.

[@dalerobinsuk]

I ran out space to type more so replying to myself. The absolute best handhelds available are Monobanders, the Yaesu VX170/FT270 is an absolutely amazing radio, it has a superb receiver and is very resilient to intermod and interference from strong RF sources, it is also nearly indestructible. That is the first thing I will grab to take out for SOTA Operation. And the Kenwood TH-K20 is last ever decent superhet monobander that was made. I have one of those too that I use for Satellite, DATA and SOTA.

[@davidnelson2065]

Nice video quality, good audio, good job narrating/explaining. Keep 'em coming. 🙂

[@HamRadioCrashCourse]

Thank you!

[@AzPauly]

Josh, great video-thanks for the content/effort involved..wish I saw it earlier.. still have my orig Alinco DJ-180 that works FB, but looking for something with more punch to take on my dualsport rides, as my Wouxun bit the dust, I just picked up a UV5R-largely based on one of your earlier videos praising the little cheepie and out of curiosity mostly..for the price but in my heat of hearts, I should of ponied up for the FT60 or FT65...may still, but I'll give the lil UV5R a shake down first.. ;)

[@HamRadioCrashCourse]

Thanks for watching!

[@AzPauly]

@HamRadioCrashCourse. ? who won what?

[@N0SSC]

Me: cool video. My adhd: that feng is sending morse code and I’m gonna decode it 3 minutes later: ok it’s not morse code and also I just missed 3 minutes of video. 6 minutes later: lol he literally said it was just being overloaded 😬

[@Pseudoswede]

15:09 Why is CompactFlash still a thing? SD is so much more prolific/logical.

[@HamRadioCrashCourse]

It’s not. I’m stuck in the past and mix the two up. PTSD maybe.

[@OffSurfaceAdventures]

I just passed my test and was about to buy an Anytone but just found out that they are on the blacklist in Switzerland plus the setup handling is quite bad. Now my go to is the Yaesu FT5D which looks like a perfect starting point with used prices around 300-350 $ is reasonable. Thanks for the comparison, it helped a lot. The TH-D75 for about 1000 $ as a new ham - no way 😄.

[@TictacAddict1]

I've owned 2 FT-60s and still own one. If Yaesu made them with Lithium batteries, I'd buy 4 of them tomorrow and give away my BaoFengs.

[@Niteskate1]

Hello Josh, enjoyed the video. I am curious what your comments are on the ICOM IC-V86 handheld. Thanks very much and 73 from VE7WNO.

[@RobertLeeAtYT]

You have some misconceptions about receiver architecture. As architecture that can be practically implemented, direct conversion as a class is superior to superheterodyne. The reason why the $35 Baofeng, a direct conversion radio sucks is because their cost of manufacture is $10. Hitting that $10 target means hugemongous corners cut, like missing RF frontend filtering, choosing a radio ASIC that’s just this side of being good enough, etc. In that overload demonstration, I bet if you take that $350 Anytone, a direct conversion implementation you’ll see it reject out of band interference as well as the superhet Yaesu.

[@dougdaniels]

Other than being waterproof, is there anything the VX-6R can do that the TH-F6A (which we both own) can not?

[@forgetyourlife]

Morse code trainer.

[@shandybrandy5407]

Wide receive of general broadcast radio stations

[@riaanbuys6891]

If jou can be useful, wat radio's wil you review. Hour information are useless.

[@riaanbuys6891]

You gave lost it 2 genoratioins back.