Baofeng UV-5R Handheld Dual Band Ham Radio
- Talking range maximum: 5 kilometer
- Connectivity protocol: VHF/UHF
- Tuner type: VHF/UHF 144-148 Mhz / 420-450mhz
- Frequency range: VHF/UHF 144-148 Mhz / 420-450mhz
Last refreshed Sep 7, 2026 · Based on the Amazon listing and published specifications, not hands-on testing.
A capable dual band ham handheld at a low price, but the frequency lockout means you need a license before you can transmit on it.
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ASIN: B074XPB313Model: UV-5R+Category: Two-Way Radios
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Overview
The Baofeng UV-5R is a dual band handheld transceiver covering the 144-148MHz VHF and 420-450MHz UHF amateur bands, with 128 programmable channels and a 1800mAh lithium-ion battery. It is a ham radio, not a license-free walkie talkie, and the listing states it will not transmit outside that frequency range.
Baofeng built its reputation on this exact radio: a cheap, rugged, endlessly programmable handheld that hobbyists reprogram with CHIRP software rather than the stock keypad. Because it only opens on amateur bands, actually transmitting on it in the US calls for a valid ham radio license, though receiving does not.
- 144-148MHz and 420-450MHz dual band
- 128 channels, 50 CTCSS / 104 CDCSS tones
- Keypad lock and busy channel lockout
- Built-in LED flashlight
Who it's for
Licensed or soon-to-be-licensed ham operators who want an inexpensive second or backup handheld, plus preppers who want a monitoring radio and plan to get licensed. Not a fit for anyone who wants to key up on FRS or GMRS channels straight out of the box.
Pros and cons
- Dual band VHF and UHF in one handheld
- 128 channels with CTCSS and CDCSS tone support
- Programmable by keypad or CHIRP software
- 1800mAh battery for extended field use
- Only transmits on amateur bands, a ham license is required
- Keypad menu programming is slow without CHIRP software
Performance notes
Dual band VHF/UHF coverage with A/B independent band operation lets the radio monitor one frequency while transmitting on another, and the tri-color backlight and 0-9 VOX levels are set through the keypad or a PC via CHIRP. High/low TX power selection and busy channel lockout are aimed at operators who already understand repeater offsets and CTCSS/DCS tones rather than at first-time buyers.
Specifications
| Brand | Baofeng |
|---|---|
| Model | UV-5R+ |
| Dimensions & fit | |
| Item dimensions d x W x h | 1.2 × 2.1 × 10.2 inches |
| Capacity & performance | |
| Talking range maximum | 5 kilometer |
| Frequency range | VHF/UHF 144-148 Mhz / 420-450mhz |
| Power & efficiency | |
| Battery average life | 72 hours |
| Voltage | 4 volts |
| Construction & materials | |
| Color | Blue |
| Compatibility & installation | |
| Connectivity protocol | VHF/UHF |
| Compatible devices | UV-5R Series Accessories |
| Included components | |
| Number of packs | 1 |
| Unit count | 1 |
| Other details | |
| Tuner type | VHF/UHF 144-148 Mhz / 420-450mhz |
| Water resistance level | Not Water Resistant |
| Waterproof Rating | IPX7 |
| Number of channels | 128 |
| Mfr Part Number | 2698812239 |
| Additional features | Keypad Lock |
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a license to use the Baofeng UV-5R?
Yes. The radio only transmits on 144-148MHz and 420-450MHz, which are amateur bands, so a valid FCC amateur radio license is required to transmit legally, though listening does not require one.
Can the UV-5R be programmed from a computer?
Yes, it supports manual keypad programming and PC programming, including CHIRP quick programming.
How long does the 1800mAh battery last?
The listing does not give a runtime figure, only that it ships with the 1800mAh lithium-ion pack; actual hours depend on transmit time and backlight use.