Best Ham Radio Handhelds In 2022

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Best Ham Radio Handhelds In 2022

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Жыл бұрын

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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Пікірлер: 347

@dr_bnc Жыл бұрын

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

@jdecar1 Жыл бұрын

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

@OmarHassan-wp6dt Жыл бұрын

Not to mention those "Gay Sue" radios.

@troyanderson8879 Жыл бұрын

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

@proudtex Жыл бұрын

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)

@hipal2271 Жыл бұрын

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.

@thuff3207 Жыл бұрын

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 Жыл бұрын

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

@mikemandell132 Жыл бұрын

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 Жыл бұрын

@@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 Жыл бұрын

@@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.

@mandaloresmercy Жыл бұрын

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.

@john3kbs Жыл бұрын

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 Жыл бұрын

@RAMBO RICHIE yes- it can transmit on AM.

@devildog17013 Жыл бұрын

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.

@johnbarrington4137 Жыл бұрын

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.

@Ammed_KN6STX Жыл бұрын

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 Жыл бұрын

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

@mikemandell132 Жыл бұрын

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).

@falcorthewonderdog2758 Жыл бұрын

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 Жыл бұрын

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 Жыл бұрын

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.

@JPA66 Жыл бұрын

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 Жыл бұрын

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 Жыл бұрын

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

@hardwired3640 Жыл бұрын

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

@kentemple6498 Жыл бұрын

Brand new tech here, KE8WAA. I got my call sign on 11/16/22. Bought the Yaesu VX-6R almost a year ago after doing a lot of research. It’s my first radio and it’s so good to here your review. I feel justified in buying it. Thanks.

@B.Murphy Жыл бұрын

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...

@careycraig4360 Жыл бұрын

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

@Sonicgott Ай бұрын

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.

@EdwardGriffin Жыл бұрын

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 Жыл бұрын

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

@johnkaelberer237 Жыл бұрын

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 Жыл бұрын

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 Жыл бұрын

@@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 Жыл бұрын

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.

@ronammologist16 5 ай бұрын

Brand new to HAM. looking for 1st radio, thank you!

@myballwilson Жыл бұрын

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 Жыл бұрын

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 Жыл бұрын

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

@RonanCantwell Жыл бұрын

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 Жыл бұрын

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

@signalscout6020 Жыл бұрын

I don’t have experience with most of these, but I am in agreement on a couple of major points: the VX6R absolutely rocks, and DMR leaves me a little cold. It’s a lot of effort for relatively little reward, and I actually *do* live in a sparsely populated area. I can still reach several good, solid analog repeaters from my house.

@kchaney56 Ай бұрын

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

@Matt-qq8dh Жыл бұрын

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.

@peterkunka2694 Жыл бұрын

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

@gregrush6570 Жыл бұрын

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.

@xenia5101 Жыл бұрын

Thanks for the breadth of your handheld coverage. I am a two days into my Technician license

@HamRadioCrashCourse Жыл бұрын

Good luck! You can do it!

@davidnelson2065 Жыл бұрын

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

@HamRadioCrashCourse Жыл бұрын

Thank you!

@hamradiobasics Жыл бұрын

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.

@raymondmartin6737 Жыл бұрын

Excellent video. I agree, having the Icom ID-52, while expensive, is a great HT as you have shown. I also have the Yaesu FT-3D, and the Anytone AT UV878 Ii Plus. 73 de W2CH Ray New Hampshire, licensed since 1962.

@thomasbradley9012 8 ай бұрын

As someone looking from the outside in, i said "bro you have too many radios"- but you obviously know what you are doing so carry on.

@doesstuffoutside Жыл бұрын

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 Жыл бұрын

The 52 sounds even better in person :)

@doesstuffoutside Жыл бұрын

@@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 Жыл бұрын

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

@ddivinia Жыл бұрын

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.

@villyb Жыл бұрын

I got the Anytone and the Ft5dr and recently i got the "old" TH-F6 and this is my favorite handheld... its a small Beast...

@TomSP9TL Жыл бұрын

The ICOM has a massive speaker! Nice! Thank you yet again for this another summary/comparison! Good stuff! 73!

@blairsmith201 Жыл бұрын

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.

@BusDriverRFI Жыл бұрын

You mentioned QA. That stands for Quality Assurance. That is the factory's group that looks at systemic issues with returns so that manufacturing processes may be improved or special operating instructions updated. QC stands for Quality Control. That group is involved in production and not post production. They test production units to assure they conform to engineering specifications.

@OffSurfaceAdventures 8 ай бұрын

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 😄.

@scottasanagi Жыл бұрын

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

@503Nick Жыл бұрын

Just got the notification at 9:25 pm Thursday night. Same time zone as you

@archer1483 Жыл бұрын

Just starting in ham . Have six uv5r and other variants. Looking for a much better experience. You have surely piqued my interest in the yaesu ft60. Thanks for that!

@tomstrum6259 Жыл бұрын

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 ! .

@johncadwallader8495 10 ай бұрын

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.

@miriamsmith7135 Жыл бұрын

Great video. I got one when they came out in 2005 and it still works great. I do use it as my go to radio. My husband uses the Alinco DJ VX50 as his. I did look up the VX6 and RigPix says it's already discontinued. My husband does have an Ft1DR he bought at a local swap meet they had here last year. Works great and he got it for $50. Have a great weekend. N3YMD.

@aj2isotadxing Жыл бұрын

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.

Жыл бұрын

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.

@johnkaelberer237 Жыл бұрын

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.

@dc5723 11 ай бұрын

I didn't get into DMR as well. Sold my Anytone 878 but still use digital via C4FM and D-Star.

@tsbrownie Жыл бұрын

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

@lanceriffle4841 Жыл бұрын

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.

@josephgomes8543 Жыл бұрын

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.

@Djs13va Жыл бұрын

Good video. I would like to suggest a unique video that you may be best positioned for. Look at the eco system for the radios. How well does a manufacturer integrate a handheld, QRP, mobile and base station, repeaters, etc. and accessories maybe into an ecosystem. From what I can see there are gaps in each of DStar, Fusion, DMR and even analog. Perhaps look at ease of use between radios (I.e. can I find the item in the menu in the same or similar place? Is the nomenclature similar?), ability to swap accessories between units, etc. The big manufacturers are looking at this model but we are not seeing how well they are doing. Could be a very revealing and interesting series.

@erwinancer6138 7 ай бұрын

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

@rabidscallion9947 11 ай бұрын

I "TRULY" thank you for your guidance :)

@MrBenEye Жыл бұрын

Thanks!

@MrBenEye Жыл бұрын

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

@TAVAAR7 Жыл бұрын

@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.

@jimbefit3073 10 ай бұрын

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.

@martirjd Жыл бұрын

I agree about that yaesu vx6r. It also has shortwave channels. Makes a good prepper radio.

@DARTHDANSAN Жыл бұрын

UV5R with extend battery and signal stuff antenna and pico APRS

@GregEmburyK4GTE Жыл бұрын

Great review Josh, man I need that ID52 !

@5x9dev Жыл бұрын

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.

@AzPauly Жыл бұрын

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 Жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching!

@AzPauly Жыл бұрын

@HamRadioCrashCourse. ? who won what?

@NatesRandomVideo Жыл бұрын

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.

@Screamingtut Жыл бұрын

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

@phornax9 Жыл бұрын

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

@jdecar1 Жыл бұрын

Someone needs to test the uv82-hp.

@geraldcampbell6834 Жыл бұрын

To my ear the ID52 sound the best both transmit and receive! One thing I wish Icom did would add more display customization like changing text colors and size maybe not on the radio but in the programming app!

@LU7HQW Жыл бұрын

My first radio was a Yaesu FT-411R bought in 1992. Several HT models and brands has been passed through my hands (love portability). Motorola never going to make amateur equipment. They are the "Apple" of radio communication. It's like Apple wants to make models of iPhone with Android. Not enough control and profits. DMR is underestimated. You need to learn the basics of digital voice first, before decide what DV standard to use and if you really want to do it... DMR was made for commercial and safety use, the ham community adopted the standard to amateur use. The learning curve on DMR it's more complicated than others standards, because have a lot of services and possibilities in the mode. Want to "taste" digital voice? Try Yaesu System Fusion, very easy to use. It's like Echolink 2.0. Best HT radio? First, you have to ask yourself what you want to do with the radio. Then you'll find the right one.

@proudtex Жыл бұрын

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

@HamRadioCrashCourse Жыл бұрын

Not a fan of that battery.

@howardkarse9915 Жыл бұрын

@@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 Жыл бұрын

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 Жыл бұрын

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

@sinatralala Жыл бұрын

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 Жыл бұрын

@@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 Жыл бұрын

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

@David-kg1hc Жыл бұрын

Just bought my first ft60!

@brucemurray2520 Жыл бұрын

Great survey of current HT gear.

@DonzLockz Жыл бұрын

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 Жыл бұрын

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

@bryanrocker5033 Жыл бұрын

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.

@paulcarcamo6992 Жыл бұрын

Thank you for the video excellent I did learn something today thank you very much again

@stevenjones3356 Жыл бұрын

Agree on the Yeasu FT60 as a great EDC for new hams. Also agree on VX6. $80 overpriced since no one is on 220 but still a great deal.

@ChrisRomp Жыл бұрын

Compact flash card?? 😉 I love my VX6 (EDC) and my first HT is my FT3. Agree with your takes on both.

@markkoehler5110 9 ай бұрын

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

@ronschreiber7764 Жыл бұрын

Josh did they chain you to that tree ?? (love your videos very informative thanks )

@AJ9FE Жыл бұрын

Why does ICOM hate APRS?

@TheGhostfaceKLR Жыл бұрын

Hah! Yeah...DMR. I went deep into it, created my own custom codeplugs, etc. but at the end of the day, I couldn't deal with the audio quality and wildly variable volume levels.

@kd7tda Жыл бұрын

Hey, thanks for the great comparison! It would be interesting to hear the FT-60R audio as well as an IC-V86. The ID-52 sounds amazing! I still have my original HT from when I first got my license. It was a great radio and still surprisingly works intermittently after it came off my belt while crossing a creek and took a dip. It's an IC-W2A. I also have a VX-7R which I'm thinking about selling. I don't really need all those bands in our area.

@HamRadioCrashCourse Жыл бұрын

Thanks for the idea!

@weshawkins7165 Жыл бұрын

I have been a ham for 30+ years but very inactive so I need a handheld that is a good quality radio but simple to use. Sounds like the FT-60 might be the ticket. I have the beofong that I take with me prospecting/metal detecting just to communicate with guys I’m within a hundred yards from.

@HamRadioCrashCourse Жыл бұрын

The VX-6R might also be good to consider

@skeeterk7trd158 Жыл бұрын

The FT-60 is my first and only HT( about 13 years), would like something newer with aprs, Tough choice.

@matsherwood6277 Жыл бұрын

My baofeng uv82 might as well be deaf compared to my yaesu vx6r. I love my yaesu! Such a good quality unit.

@twistedsaltypretzel7727 Жыл бұрын

That is such a cruel comparison. The UV82 was one of the first decent Baofengs. UV5 radios were tragic, the UV82 had actually improved some areas and the dual PTT was an interesting addition on something so thoroughly cheap. They are $30 radios though... I would be rather worried if the $300 yaesu didn't humiliate the lil cheapie. Different beasts. As a disposable SHTF radio, the UV82 is pretty nuts for the money. Make subtones your friend, if at all possible. The Yaesu is a different animal entirely. Glad you are enjoying it :p

@Nacho.100 Жыл бұрын

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

@timking2194 Жыл бұрын

Great video seems yaesu makes a lot of great handhelds

@codyhunt8896 Жыл бұрын

man most of this video went right over my head ..maybe i should learn the basics

@shandybrandy5407 Жыл бұрын

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

@kyfisher3662 5 ай бұрын

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

@dakotahrickard Жыл бұрын

Since it's important to a surprisingly large selection of hams, I'd like to know what the accessibility features are on these handhelds. Voice guidance and/or prompts for blind hams ought to be standard, and I'd be interested if manufacturers are getting the memo at all. Keep in mind that voice guidance can help sighted operators who are driving or who want to use their eyes to watch HF waterfalls or whatever as well. It's not such a niche feature as might first be believed.

@yuriys.6352 Жыл бұрын

In Ukraine our military prefer Motorola or at least Hytera.

@don_cc123 Жыл бұрын

A little late to the party, but I 100% agree - DMR is not my thing either. It's like listening to a bunch of robots talking. Analog may not be as spectrum or battery efficient, but it is so much more enjoyable to actually use.

@jimedwards9310 Жыл бұрын

Nice video sir that icom sounded great P

@DXAMedia Жыл бұрын

I've ordered VX-3 hehehe. Fits any pocket and has a "style". I can reach most repeaters in SoCal. For carry around i love my FT-3DR. Well not really mine anymore as it was stolen from the car. I thin 5DR is the same. The screen is so easy to read frequency on the big high contrast screen, especially in the car or walking. I think next one will be mentioned ICOM. It charges over USB, i wish it is an USB-C PD, but at least not a scary data port from Yaesu.

@TictacAddict1 Жыл бұрын

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.

@MrBracey1970 Жыл бұрын

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

@AFluffyMobius Жыл бұрын

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 Жыл бұрын

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 Жыл бұрын

@@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 Жыл бұрын

@@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.