$40 BaoFeng UV-5R Dual-Band Handhelds
- Thread starter mhiscox
- Start date
sixbennetts
Adventurer
They're all pretty much the same internally, so just get one of the latest ones, and choose by cosmetics!
The Baofeng UV-5R is definitely a great deal. It's my first handheld ham radio, and honestly, I don't understand why some people talk badly about it. It's tough, inexpensive, and gets the job done.
Some people have had problems programming it manually, however, with some quick practice it isn't very hard. You just have to get used to the menus. Here is some good info: Baofeng UV-5R radios. There is a programming guide, etc. Great little radio!
Some people have had problems programming it manually, however, with some quick practice it isn't very hard. You just have to get used to the menus. Here is some good info: Baofeng UV-5R radios. There is a programming guide, etc. Great little radio!
RobRed
Explorer
I have one. It's not nearly as well constructed as my Yaesu hand helds but for $40 it's expendable. The programming is difficult with out software/cable. There is no external DC port for power or charging (must use the base charger) No instruction manual for operation is included.
spressomon
Expedition Leader
sxharr05
Adventurer
That plugs into the base charger. From prior experience, I can say that it is not he best method. Is it doable? Sure, but you've got to secure the base. Also, as the radio does not fit real tight into the base, you've got to constantly make sure it's actually charging. I have seen replacement battery packs that have the cord/plug, but I don't know if it operates when unplugged and the cord is not removable.
spressomon
Expedition Leader
^ On the cusp of ordering a couple of them and it sure would be nice if the 12v charger was more svelte. Thanks for the head's up! But for ~ $40 it goes with the territory I suppose.
DaveInDenver
Middle Income Semi-Redneck
I think the way they expect vehicle powering is by use of battery eliminators.
http://www.amazon.com/Etekcity-Battery-Eliminator-Simulator-BAOFENG/dp/B00AI95DI2
Eliminators are nice when you power the radio full time in a vehicle, although having the choice to use an external DC port is handy.
http://www.amazon.com/Etekcity-Battery-Eliminator-Simulator-BAOFENG/dp/B00AI95DI2
Eliminators are nice when you power the radio full time in a vehicle, although having the choice to use an external DC port is handy.
RobRed
Explorer
Mine doesn't have an extended battery.
Bottom line is that it's cheap and corners were cut. I feel like I got good value for my 40 bucks but it's not a vx8.
Yudda
Adventurer
What sucks about them?
I was planning on buying the AA adapter and the car adapter.
Thanks.
Frank
Explorer
After a few different antennas, this thing has made my radio go totally nuts
Get the 'SMA' connector
http://www.wouxun.us/item.php?item_id=245&category_id=47
I also have this antenna, and it works but not as well as the longer antenna
http://www.wouxun.us/item.php?item_id=286&category_id=47
Get the 'SMA' connector
http://www.wouxun.us/item.php?item_id=245&category_id=47
I also have this antenna, and it works but not as well as the longer antenna
http://www.wouxun.us/item.php?item_id=286&category_id=47