Top 3 Reasons Why I Bought Six Baofeng Radios

[@sircracked]

A radio you can afford and have onhand is infinitely better than one that's still an image on a website. All the specs in the world on the datasheet are beaten out by specs of a radio you actually have.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Completely agree. I believe the same rule applies to cameras. The best camera is the one you have with you.

[@micwell2247]

right thinking ...rock on

[@kantadevi5260]

😮😊​@@TheTechPrepper

[@mindshelfpro]

I keep a pair of FRS/GMRS radios with extra batteries in the car for unlicensed folks and a personal 8w Dual Band HT for EDC that includes the FRS/GMRS frequencies programmed.

[@bendeleted9155]

I bought a dozen used FRS radios and set them to talk to each other without hearing stray traffic. They work great for handing out to the volunteers at events and in convoys getting there if we stay close, but they will also get handed out to neighbors if other comms go down in a severe weather event, etc. I think I've only got $140 into the lot of them.

[@vorteco7692]

Once you program them for the community, you can lock out certain settings with CHIRP. That way they cannot accidentally mess it up.

[@Samc6127]

A B8HP was my first. Still have it. Not sure if you know, but Btech (the American version that puts their twist into the bafeng’s) makes a battery now that has usb-c charging.

[@micwell2247]

Yep BTECH is very helpful in customizing your Baofeng

[@larrybushman1]

Got about 20 Baofengs 888 must be about 10 years ago to hand out to our small prepping group. Pleased to say all radios are still working 100% yes they do have their place. Many thanks for the video. Larry

[@TheTechPrepper]

Well done. Glad to hear that you were way ahead of the curve and they're still kicking.

[@terrycheek4097]

Great channel, I have been prepping for about 20 yrs. Been HAM licensed since 2012, currently general class and considering Extra (KK4IXE). I found your channel while updating my QRP comms. Thank you for the content.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Cheers to another ham. I am quite new to the hobby (~4 years on air), but it's been a blast sharing the comms journey with you and the community. Welcome to the channel. 73 de KT7RUN

[@wquon2007]

they now have extended batteries that charge via USB C.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Yep. I showed those near the end. I have 6 arriving tomorrow.

[@davidhawkins847]

​@TheTechPrepper I was going to ask about that. I don't see keeping an alkaline battery adapter on hand when we have so much support for direct USB chargable lithium batteries.

[@ajaygajbhiye7346]

A t c,

[@DominicMazoch]

​@@TheTechPrepperBoafeng Tech has the large battery with the USB C port already built in!

[@wquon2007]

@@TheTechPrepper theres also a few mods out there. the most popular ones that ive seen are adding an O ring to the volume to make it a bits stiffer, and a shroud/guard for the PTT on the side (help prevent hot micing). theres also some neat holders for them, but I think thats beyond the scope of your project. to keep them topped off, you could probably create a cradle for the USB Cs and have them on a timed charger. i havent seen anyone automate their battery storage recharge/topoff.

[@DominicMazoch]

I have a UV5R in my small sling with my cell phone and it's charger. Have Signal Stuff 2/.70M orange ant. Large battery and backup. So even if something happens even on METRO Transit, I have back up comms. USB charging cable for large battery good idea!

[@peterkunka2694]

Hey Gaston! I have a couple of the UV-5R's, got them upgraded with the USB batteries, and added ExpertPower antennas on them for 2M/70cm. I've also obtained a GMRS license, and did the Mars Cap mod on the 5100 in my truck. If I can "legally" transmit on my iPhone through Echolink for Ham radio, or through Zello for GMRS, then the FCC shouldn't really care that I'm not using a "band appropriate" radio for the band that I'm transmitting on, as long as I don't cause any interference in communication, which makes these Baofeng's genius radios to use across a wide spectrum of bands (Ham, GMRS, FRS, MURS, off-road Rugged Radio freqs, etc..). I mostly monitor, but, if someone needs an answer to a question, or help, other than a signal report, then I'll power up and reply with an answer to help them, no matter what radio or power setting I need to do so. As we all should. Cheers! Pete in Arizona - KI7LIL / WRXY843

[@micwell2247]

Just a PS here, as I didn't see anything in the comments ...add a ground plane wire to the unit will be an unbelievable (at least for me) reception distance increase... I used a 22 g solid strand wire ( don't know if stranded wire is better). Put an eyelet on the one end. Screwed it with one of the screws on the radio. Worth the time? Worked/works well for me... *(wire has to be exactly 19 in long)* Also, Hooked a ground only to the house ground (only) port for a wall outlet, Alligator clip on the other end and clipped it to the/a, NAGOYA NA-771 VHF/UHF antenna, and, walla turned mine into a super receiver. I hear clear from several counties over from me, EMS and Police... and a tons of FRS's, repeaters and alike.... Rock on

[@TheTechPrepper]

You'll notice for this application, I kept the antennas stock. A tiger tail is always a good idea to improve performance. I personally run a few with an eyelet that fits over my BNC adapters.

[@kerbalairforce8802]

The same reason to pick up a couple of cheap bolt action rifles with 4x scopes. To hand out to buddies and give *some* capability to a group instead of *no* capability.

[@TheTechPrepper]

This is a great idea. I never considered this.

[@snoopymec]

Hey Gaston! I agree with you. Baofengs have their place. I own a couple of UV-9R and use them quite often. Also I have some training sessions with my kid to allow him to get used to comms protocols. Thanks for another great video!

[@TheTechPrepper]

Glad to hear that you've also found a place for these entry-level radios. I've heard good things about the UV-9R. If I recall, those are IP67 rated? If so, that may be a better option for most people. In my case, I wanted to stick with what I knew and that was my old UV-5R. In a few hours, I had everything cloned. They are patiently waiting on the shelf and second vehicle to be called to use when stuff goes sideway. Good luck getting your kid up to speed.

[@snoopymec]

@@TheTechPrepper , yes, they are IP67. I've used them under heavy rain, and wet conditions. No problems so far. With the 9W high power level I can talk far away (up to 30 miles with a magnetic 1/4 wave in the car). My kid loves using the radio. For him it is more like a play than training. It's a lot of fun. PS: As I'm writing this comment I'm playing with the Windows 10 configuration you showed us. Thanks for the tips. 73 de SA5PEN

[@mrbyamile6973]

​@TheTechPrepper I have a half a dozen uv5r for the very reason you do. Bought the UV-9R for ATV coms. They get wet and covered in mud and grime but still work. They are about $35 each instead of $25 for the 5R but if I buy any more Baofeng radios it will be the UV9R. Only thing I find different in programming is you have to power on and off holding a button to switch from memory mode to VFR

[@MGAC1701]

I am very glad to see this video, as I have done something similar, with a bank of Baofengs on deck and ready to go. I have experience with Kenwood, Motorola, and other "high-end" radios. I've had every brand fail me at one point or another. When they did, replacing the units took several hundred dollars because they could not be repaired. Not to mention, proprietary (at the time) programming software...if software was even available. I now own numerous Baofeng radios in various models. Without exception, the Baofengs have operated flawlessly in a host of conditions. Flawlessly. When the inevitable day comes when one fails, it can be replaced with another identical unit for $20 - $60 and cloned with CHIRP. Baofeng radios are the best bang for the buck on the radio market, without comparison.

[@philrab]

I bought four radios because I have a group to outfit and I am apparently going to be the “radio guy” for that group.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Nice work. Good luck.

[@pwanlass]

What foldable “tactical” antennas do you recommend for 1) a GMRS handheld, and 2) for a CB handheld? Thank you.

[@david-w9tax797]

Off Topic - West Mountain Epic PWRgate I noticed the power supply behind you is set to 13.8 volts output. If you want the PWRgate to charge a LiPo4 battery (according to the instructions) you will want a voltage around 14.63. There should be a small potentiometer inside the power supply to allow the adjustment of the output voltage. Most radios are fine with the slightly higher voltage.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Thanks for the tip. I saw that in the manual. The PWRgate is a new piece of gear in the office. We actually had a power outage yesterday and the shack continued to run without interruption. I adjusted the output voltage on the power supply. Good eye. 73

[@DarkShadowCustoms]

The Baofeng UV-5R is a great loaner or beater radio. I started in ham radio with the UV-5R and haven't seen the need to upgrade my HT since I rarely ever use it after getting a 50 dual band mobile in the truck and a 50 watt dual band mobile in the home shack. About the only time I use an HT these days is when I am cooking on the grill.

[@HeadphoneHarvey]

+1 for the BF-888! Remarkable radio for ten bucks. Not as versatile as the UV5R but very suitable for the uses described here.

[@TheTechPrepper]

I don't know how the Chinese make any money on these radios. It's simply amazing that you can get a radio for $10 USD.

[@demonslayer9551]

I got 3 of them that I just keep in my jeep. It is super convenient to just be able to hand them to family when we are camping.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Cheers to another Jeep owner. Happy 2016 2-door Jeep JK owner over here.

[@demonslayer9551]

@@TheTechPrepper I have a 2016 JKU 4-door Willy’s. Still running strong and gets the job done. I love it. Big fan of your channel. It’s led me on the path to transitioning into DMR radios

[@TheTechPrepper]

@@demonslayer9551 You have good taste. Check out the AT-578. It's a very capable DMR radio.

[@PrimeTime345]

i prefer not to leave anything with lithium ion batteries in a hot car. but i might use the AAA battery pack with the baofeng and just keep some NiMH rechargeable batteries in it. good video

[@mikemcdonald5147]

I have 6 of them myself with the charger. I can program them all easily and hand them out to people who aren't radio operators but need comms. They are cheap and if they break or lose them I won't cry.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Likeminds. Glad to see others already doing this.

[@bruehlt]

I have a couple of these as well. I haven't used them in a long while. I checked the batteries and was surprised at how much charge remained! DEFINITELY a great beater to have for SHTF purposes!!

[@TheTechPrepper]

I observed the same thing. Their charge life is surprising when not in use. Most of my other radios have a parasitic draw that will drain pretty quickly when not in use.

[@mrbyamile6973]

Yep. Went to put a UV-5R in a travel bag that hadn't been used for a year, found it already had on in it from the last trip 14 months prior. Battery still showed full. I had just charged the new one so I swapped them out and charged the old one but it didn't take long for the light to turn green on the charger.

[@chuckcrizer]

Let's hope those radios don't have a back door that allows them to be bricked remotely or become a beacon.

[@jackjohnson291]

100%. I’ve done similarly for the same reasons. First I’ve seen of the gang charger though. I’ll have to pick one of those up!

[@TheTechPrepper]

The charger is surprisingly sturdy and well built. I'm a fan as most of the Chinese gear is usually flimsy. Enjoy.

[@Marty48034]

Yep. Give-away radios. Perfect. Cheap enough to pass them out. Program for specific frequencies and local repeaters (and GMRS) and hand them out. Perfect.

[@TheTechPrepper]

At this price point, it's a no brainer. Cheers.

[@Marty48034]

@@TheTechPrepper I completely agree and have done the same. (Similar with PSA for AR.)

[@MrThisIsMeToo]

Baofeng are also good for randomly turning on and off my Z-Wave outlets and switches throughout the house. Gotta love dirty radios.

[@mindshelfpro]

Rtl_433 mqtt with home assistant secured with some codes? That's next up for me after I configure an SMS gateway on my HA box

[@thrash99er]

These are great, and I used to have the same thing, but replaced them with the Tidradio TD-H3, more functions, scanning for other frequencies, built in USB-C for charging and bluetooh programming. i would take a look at those.

[@TheTechPrepper]

The Tidradio TD-H3 seems to be a popular choice based on the comments. Personally, I will not be using them personally for day-to-day use so I went with what I already had experience with. It was a matter of just cloning the VX-5R and putting them on the dock. The USB-C a nice option and much more modern.

[@thrash99er]

@@TheTechPrepper Yeah. I have a ton of the Baofengs, including some of the newer ones that have come out. I have switched out my emergency stuff to use the Tidradio because of USB-C and a few other features. You might want to get one, and take a look. The frequency monitoring would be very helpful to clone frequencies of other people you run into easily.

[@ukfan-0146]

Do you have examples of the laminated cards you use for emergency coms plans posted anywhere? I would like to make similar kits for my family

[@electromech7335]

If you keep your uv 5rs in your car inspect the batteries for swelling. I had that issue and had to replace them before they popped.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Great tip. I've seen this with my GoPro batteries, but haven't seen swelling on the UV-5R battery. I'll continue to monitor. Thanks.

[@electromech7335]

@@TheTechPrepper I noticed it on the battery sticker . It started to dome up slightly.

[@TroyMurphy-p1n]

They make those larger battery packs to be charged via usb-c for around the same price as the radios. Not sure if you saw those or went with the other option for the cheaper route. Otherwise, I love my UV-5R, been a great little started radio. Installing a Kg-1000g+ in my truck this weekend!

[@TheTechPrepper]

That's exactly what I went with. I picked three 2-packs of the extended 3,800 mAh USB-C batteries. Thanks for double checking.

[@ke8mattj]

Great content as always, Gaston! Your thoughts on things are always valuable and 100% worthy of consideration. Just my opinion: might want to think of switching the UV-5Rs to TYT UV-88's since the newer ones come with a battery that can be recharged with USB-C. You used to have to replace it with the Radioddity GM-30 GMRS radio battery (the battery for it will fit it), but not anymore. They're only several dollars more, and you don't have to buy the extended battery plus it can be unlocked for extended frequencies. You can save that money and buy a USB battery bank and use that battery bank for charging multiple devices. Like with me, that same bank can recharge other things like my cellphone and flashlights, which all I've had to used since we're getting more power outages here. Reason 3 is the main reason why I have a major fleet of them with only a few out in case of emergency and the others in faraday bags inside a faraday cage. The same with USB battery banks. Otherwise, I'm done with buying radio comms. I'm where I want to be at and have backups in case of bad times. Focusing more on food back-up. Freeze dryers are worth the costs like electricity, mylar bags, and O2 absorbers! God it has saved so much weight and the shelves are no longer in danger of collapsing from the weight of all the canned food.

[@boxspringbandicoot9554]

They are great radios for the money

[@pale_2111]

I'm like most new hams in the last 4 to 6, maybe more years. Started out with Baofeng UV-5R and got a couple models, including the tribander. Eventually, upgraded to Yaesu, Icom and more recently, the Kenwood D-75. If one isn't interested in digital voice, aprs, shortwave listening and scanning through the HF bands (only on the D-75A to my knowledge), then a Baofeng is more than enough to do the job. If one wants a radio with more capabilities, then expect to pay more. With digital voice modes like D-STAR, C4FM and DMR, that's another way to keep conversations almost private. On the other hand, not everyone likes the same digital voice mode.

[@JohnGillaspy]

When are we going to get the video on obtaining your business license? I would LOVE to get one, but I'm not sure where to start....

[@micwell2247]

Unlocked they are unbeatable ...for listen purposes, program in Ham, GMRS, MURS, FRS, police, EMS and fire in ...all which can be scanned all at once..yeah you've got weather there too. Hooked to your Walker's head set while on surroundings (area) amplification. You now know your surroundings/areas...but for listening on only...unless of course as with any radio for a legit emergency ... Hoping though, that a 27 meter capability could be added, With proper positioning and antenna works great ...even at resorts and events....that way you know what you want to know should you have to vacate an area....you have the head start...rock on...

[@TheTechPrepper]

That's pretty much how I have all my radios programmed. Most of our first responder admin traffic is all unencrypted analog so these little guys do a great job as inexpensive scannes.. You may want to check out the video that I mentioned on how I program my radios. It's 90% identical to your approach, but I have a few more radio services in the mix. Take care and happy listening.

[@vestale4]

Quansheng uv-k5 has similar price range, but USB-C charging port from the factory, more RX bands. Baofeng UV5R are already from the previous decade.

[@wheeler7973]

I keep a couple Baofengs around for the same reason. They get passed out to the kids/family or thrown in the truck for what ever we may need

[@qrcline]

Did you ever do a video on getting your business frequencies? I’m interested in getting this to use for my comms.

[@TheTechPrepper]

I briefly discussed the high-level approach on a member live stream earlier in the year. My recommendation is just to have a local LMR dealer handle it for you.

[@RobCanada]

Could I suggest the Tid Radio H3, $20 as they are USB-C chargeable straight into the battery (no special lead required). There is a good chance the people you will loan them to will have a USB-C at home / car but not AA batteries. I've recently bought 3 of these and use them everyday and can't fault them (I have Yeasu VX8 etc)

[@DominicMazoch]

If the 6 battery charger can take 12v barrel connector, you can build an Anderson Power Pole adapter cable.

[@TheTechPrepper]

That's exactly how I'm running it--14 AWG barrel to Anderson Power cable. It goes straight into the 12VDC RigRunner distribution block.

[@BobBob-il2ku]

That’s actually cool I thought it was 120v only

[@EgonSorensen]

I would recomment taking a look at the TidRadio TD-H3 - it has LOTS of options, clean output, bluetooth, usb-c to mention a few nice

[@elitecombatfitnesscentral6170]

Could you do a tutorial on an Antone D578 using and explaining a Digirig setup?

[@TheTechPrepper]

Doing a video is likely, but I don't have any timeline. I actually just ordered a DigiRig cable for my AT-578.

[@elitecombatfitnesscentral6170]

@@TheTechPrepper which one did you order and why?

[@haxwithaxe]

So much for no new radios this year :P I got a bunch of FRS radios for neighbors to use in grid down situations. I wish I had gone with cheap ham radios. I mostly use them to monitor wx alerts when tornadoes are likely. If you went with uv-k5s you could have gotten some modded and people could monitor HF for NVIS transmissions. You can also use baofengs to make a crossband repeater small enough to hoist up a tree.

[@TheTechPrepper]

In reality, these are really not for my personal use and certainly not for daily use. My daily drivers are still the three radios that I discussed back in January. This is basically an inexpensive prep item that has utility for when things do not go as planned. The programming on these is done and they are sitting in the charging dock and in the bag in the car. Other than charging the two in the vehicle every two months, these radios are not on my daily radar. There will be no more content on the UV-5R. I EDC the VX-6R, use the AT-878 for the business, and the FT-818ND is my daily driver.

[@haxwithaxe]

@@TheTechPrepper I'd be interested in seeing what the batteries are like after August in AZ in a car. Maybe a short if the batteries don't fare well?

[@Cr0cket20]

Great video!

[@yamez69]

Are your neighbors showing signs of taking heed of the prepper dude? 😉Baofeng HTs are great value for the monthly, short range simplex use, they get for rounding up livestock and for off cell/mobile coverage when hunting. Australia has 80 UHF, license free channels limited to 4W.

[@TheTechPrepper]

We're fortunate to be in a rural area. Nearly everyone here is like minded and self-supporting. The entire community is on wells and most of use grow a portion of our food, raise chickens and have livestock. I've noticed that the licensing model is very different in Australia than in the US. I am particularly drawn to Australia's use of mobile HF in the bush. Good stuff.

[@spr00sem00se]

I have 5 baofengs in that same charger for shtf. That charger did it for me. 12v. Charge 6 at a time. Baofeng is great for local comms. I use mine rurally several km. I have the newer kaoshegs or whatever theyre called. The modem for sms use is very good. But they dont seem as reliable.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Thanks for sharing your use of the 6-way charger. That's actually what sealed the deal for me to purchase 6 more Baofeng's. Check out "Rattlegram" on iOS or Android. It's a force multiplier with these radio for quick digital messaging. No wires necessary. Just hold down the PTT and send your data using the app. It works very acoustic coupling.

[@spr00sem00se]

I have used rattlegram with an audio cable to good effect. If you use the mic you need to hold the phone off the table to avoid the sou d being hurt. Shred pix also works well. Same dev. Check it out.

[@rdsmith334]

I’m a 50 year HAM and but Baofengs… lol

[@Cognosapien]

Very valid points all around. Another amazing video.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Much appreciated!

[@MourningConstitution]

Thanks!

[@genemcphee8053]

This meets my prepper/survival philosophy of" Always have a Plan B".

[@TheTechPrepper]

Plan A is great, but when you don't have your fancy radio, there's nothing wrong with a $25 dollar backup.

[@genemcphee8053]

@@TheTechPrepper absolutely. I have several El Cheapo HT's. Placed together they look like an antenna farm! LOL!

[@blueskies_solutions]

Great advice!

[@TheTechPrepper]

Glad it was helpful!

[@proudtex]

6 x UV-9R Pro to hand out. Slightly mor robust and water proof. I don't expect the people I'm handing them out to, to be very careful with them. Have them for the same reasons.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Good call on the UV-9R as they're roughly the same price and IP67 rated.

[@norumbenzschawel]

you’re literally my comfort person i love you kislux !

[@nine7295]

Have you tested the harmonics on them?

[@TheTechPrepper]

Nope, and for $22 I don't plan on it. Other KZbinrs have done these tests. It's time to move on to other projects. These are programmed and standing by. No more tinkering with the Baofeng.

[@dougdaniels]

"not a huge fan of the DC adapters" - could you elaborate?

[@TheTechPrepper]

I rarely run the DC cigarette-style battery eliminators as they keep you tethered to the vehicle.

[@milwman1958]

I’ll post a comment before I watch and see if I’m right best thing about them is they’re cheap enough to throw out a rock if they quit working

[@TheTechPrepper]

Winner, winner, chicken dinner.

[@mrbyamile6973]

That's the reason I have a half a dozen of em. One in every car, go bag and ATV. I don't loose sleep worrying they will get stolen or broken.

[@jamesdean80]

I know Baofeng is not the best. 1 is none. At least it's something like you said.

[@calvinrichland3812]

What happened to your plan to stick to a couple radios to get into this year for content? Was looking forward to anyton 878 content? You still using those?

[@TheTechPrepper]

Yes, I'm still using them for encrypted use on the business license. The only video left in that series was setting up the single frequency repeater. That project was put on the back burner due to other priorities.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Also, the plans are changing based on the current political climate. Supporting local comms with community trumps the original plan set at the beginning of the year. SIGINT wasn't in the plan, but it is now. Neither was encrypted email over radio, but it was prioritized ahead of other topics.

[@calvinrichland3812]

​@TheTechPrepper I need to look back over your e mail video. Have you tried getting your neighbors into radio? I feel like if anyone could convince them you could vs having handouts ready to go.

[@markhaywood7307]

why the UV5R and not the UV82

[@haxboi5492]

As much as i hate hoy they feel in hand, they're super cheap and the most moddable radio

[@christophervayo3530]

get the baofang usb-c batteries

[@TheTechPrepper]

They arrived a couple of days ago. They also work with the same gang charger which is handy.

[@DesertRat.45]

Those cheap chinese radios are a world better than the cheap japanese radios from the 1970's.

[@TheTechPrepper]

I'll take your word for it. I came into the radio scene very late in life. So far, I am really pleased with the durability and build quality of all the Japanese radios produced over the last 10-20 years.

[@DesertRat.45]

​@TheTechPrepperyou know more about it than I do. I just remember the things when I was a kid compared to today.

[@DonzLockz]

A great idea but I think you must be planning for WW3 or something. Lol

[@TheTechPrepper]

It never hurts to have a plan B. In the end, it was less than a $200 investment to help the community or get myself and wife out of pickle while on the road. Take care.