Dual band handheld radios
As the market is flooded with inexpensive dual band handheld radio gear, radio enthusiasts are racing to there favorite online web sites and amateur radio shops to purchase the latest greatest thing coming in from China. At the time of this writing there are at least three dual band handheld radios that are worth mentioning. The Baofeng UV-5R The Wouxun KG-UVD1p The Yaesu FT-60R |
| Baofeng UV-5RE dual band HT |
The Baofeng UV-5R series of radios come out of China, and are general purpose VHF/UHF radios not aimed specifically at the Amateur radio market. They are usable on any service within the VHF/UHF radio services. Although it may not be legal to use them for the Family Radio Service (FRS) they can still be used for GMRS and Marine service as well as public services like Police and Fire departments. Be careful with these radios as you can get yourself into trouble if you interrupt communications with public service agencies. They can also be used to monitor these services when used as a scanner with dual band watch. One thing to watch with the Baofeng radios is the reverse SMA connector for the antenna. You will need an adapter to use it with existing equipment or an antenna with a reverse SMA type connector if you want higher gain than what comes stock with the radio. The Baofeng also comes in a 2M/200 model with the UV-5RAX. Find great deals on the Boafeng UV-5R series of radios at Amazon. Great deals on Baofeng radios
The Wouxun KG-UVD1P has been around a bit longer but are not quite as popular as the Baofeng radios simply because of the price tag. The Wouxun dual band HT's come in at a little over $100 U.S. but are a bit more rugged and user friendly radios that cover the same bands as the Baofeng radios. The difference is a bit better quality of radio. The case is made with a metal frame whereas the Baofeng radio mostly come with plastic shells. They are also a bit more professional looking than the Baofeng radios. One other thing to mention is that the Wouxun radios have a normal SMA type connector that is found on modern dual band amateur radios so they can be used with existing equipment and antenna systems.The Wouxun also comes in a 2M 220 model. You can get the best deal on the Wouxun KG-UVD1p and accessories at Amazon
The Yaesu FT-60R is a full blown dual band handheld amateur radio made Yaesu radio's and accessories
in Japan. The Yaesu brand has been around for many years in the ham radio market making quality VHF/UHF as well as HF radio equipment. The Yaesu FT-60R covers the 2M and 440 bands only, but can be modified for use in other VHF/UHF services. It is aimed squarely at the ham radio market. The Yaseu FT-60R has all the features that an amateur radio operator would need for everyday operation. The radio also has a multitude of accessories that are available. The difference with this radio is that you can expect to pay close to $200.00 U.S.