11 Best Mobile Ham Radio to Consider

There are specific tools that are not only necessary but also really cool to use.

You have seen on TV how cop cars or the guy in Jurassic Park movies has a ham radio to connect with other people. And if you have thought about owning one of those, then you cannot be blamed. A ham radio is a terrific device that offers a variety of features in a compact tool.

With it in your possession, you can not only treat yourself to FM but also connect with someone even if they are far away. Now, you may ask about mobile phones, but can your phone operate without a mobile network? This is where ham radios come in handy, all you need is to set the right frequency, and you are good to go.

So, to help you choose the ideal product, we have curated a list of the 11 Best Mobile Ham Radio to Consider.

Best Mobile Ham Radio to Consider

1. QYT KT-8900D

This is a very affordable model that comes with several desirable functions. The QYT KT-8900D is small in size but delivers a powerful performance. It is a two-way radio system with a bright blue display and an all-black ensemble that makes it eye-catching while offering a range of features.

No products found.

Why Did We Like It?

It is compact, which translates into a portable model, allowing you to take it from place to place comfortably. Along with this, it is a two-way radio that comes at an affordable price, which is sure to please the customers. Moreover, it transmits on two amateur radio bands – the VHF and the UHF.

While the VHF gets 25 watts, the UHF gets 20 watts, so you do not need a lot of power to operate it. Moreover, you can power it using your car’s cigarette outlet, and you do not even have to wire it to your vehicle, making it highly efficient. 

On top of this, it includes a programming cable that ensures you can program the radio with a computer app like CHIRP. Finally, it has excellent sound quality so that you can receive and transmit signals with ease and enjoy an efficient performance.

What Could’ve Been Better?

It does not include an antenna, which means that you have to spend extra, which may not be the best option for many buyers. Besides, the knobs are not of high quality, which could impact its performance in the long run.

2. Kenwood TM-281A

This is one of those products that have stuck to the basics without trying to be too fancy. The Kenwood TM-281A keeps things simple, but that does not mean it compromises performance. It has an orange display and large buttons that ensure you have the utmost comfort while operating it.

No products found.

Why Did We Like It?

Its beauty lies in its simplicity. The designers have made sure that whatever it offers is of the best quality, thereby making it an excellent acquisition. To start with, you can receive and transmit signals in a 2-meter band, thereby reducing the clutter of having too many groups.

Furthermore, it has two power modes – low and high. The lower power mode works at 25 watts even if you connect it to your vehicle’s cigarette lighter. On the other hand, the high-power mode needs to be directly wired, but in return, you get a massive output of 65 watts. 

Apart from this, if you add an antenna, then you will be able to contact repeaters placed over 100 miles away. Additionally, it is a durable product so that you get the optimum performance for a long time. This is possible because it is made from high-quality polymers and aluminum that are both vibration and shock-resistant.

What Could’ve Been Better?

It also does not include an antenna, which may be an inconvenience. Most users prefer their model to come equipped with all the features, which is a disadvantage. Along with this, it is restricted to only a single band, which could be a limiting factor for many.

3. BTECH Mobile UV-50X2

This is one of the most popular devices in the market, thanks to several features. If you like to tinker with your model, then the BTECH Mobile UV-50X2 could be suitable. It is a two-way mobile radio that has a white display and orange light-up buttons.

Why Did We Like It?

It includes many features that are sure to provide you with a powerful performance. In keeping with this, it is a two-way radio that is ideal by ensuring that there are numerous ways in which you can use it. For one, it has a digital display that allows you to customize it with nine different colors.

On top of this, you can add alphanumeric names to the channels while watching and monitoring four channels in one go. Such is its efficiency that you can also monitor channels as you are scanning through the frequencies. 

You can either add channels or remove them from the unit, and you can plug it into a computer that will allow for more accessible programming. Moving along, it has two broadcast modes – high and low power. The high-power mode broadcasts at 50 watts while the low power does so at 10 watts.

What Could’ve Been Better?

It has an expanded frequency range that offers you better coverage, but you must be careful not to pick up any restricted signals. This could pose legal problems. In addition to this, the screen could have been bigger, making it easier to see.

4. ICOM 2300H 05

This is one of the most versatile products in the market that is sure to pique your interest. The ICOM 2300H 05 has several unique features that guarantee excellent performance for many years. This has allowed it to quickly climb the ladder and cement its place as a top brand.

Why Did We Like It?

If it is small, it must pack a punch, and that is where this device outscores its rivals. Firstly, it is compact, which means that it is lightweight and can be easily carried from one place to another. You can also fit it into tight spots without much difficulty.

Furthermore, it is versatile, too, and you can easily mount it on the dashboard of your car without having to fret over the build or model. It is compatible with almost all vehicles. Moving along, it offers a wide range, which is backed up by several features that ensure you get fantastic performance. 

Apart from this, it has a 207 display that shows numbers and alphabets. This display then allows you to scan it, even under different conditions. This is because the LCD screen monitor is customizable between green and amber while allowing for different scan functions.

What Could’ve Been Better?

It is restricted to a single band and could be a limiting factor while transmitting or tuning into channels. Thus, you may opt for any of the other models on offer. The programmable cable is not included, and many of you may not prefer to purchase it separately.

5. Kenwood Original TM-V71A

This model sports a dynamic design with a multitude of functions that is sure to make your job easier. Kenwood is a well-known brand, and the Kenwood Original TM-V71A adds to its reputation. It has almost all bases covered, which means that you will get a reliable performance under most circumstances.

Why Did We Like It?

It comes with 440Mhz frequency, which ensures that you can use it for a 2-meter range. This is well complemented by the different power ranges that are on offer, meaning that you get reliable performance. This power is available to you as 5-watts, 20 watts, and 50 watts.

Thus, you can use it for a variety of purposes, depending on your needs. Moreover, it is equipped with GPS that shares accurate information as well as messages for better output. Therefore, you can place it in your car and need not worry about getting lost. 

Along with this, it offers excellent frequency, which you can use to get up to 1000 channels. This means that you can get not only radio stations but also weather updates to help you stay safe. Finally, it is user-friendly, too, and the TFT display allows you to easily read the settings.

What Could’ve Been Better?

There are a few downsides to using it. For starters, the microphone is a bit heavy, which is not something that most of you will prefer, given that you may need to carry it around. On top of this, the programming cable remains on, and so you need to be watchful.

6. TYT TH-9800 Plus

This is one of the highest-rated products in the market, and the range of features it offers is easily visible on the large display. The TYT TH-9800 Plus is a quad-band radio that can transmit and receive signals at several frequencies. This will allow you to use it as per your requirements.

No products found.

Why Did We Like It?

Just like the Yaesu Original FT-8900R, this, too, is a quad-band model that can send and receive signals on HF, UHF as well as two VHF bands. Moreover, you can also get radio transmissions on those bands along with frequencies of 108-136 MHz, 320-399 MHz, and 750-950 MHz.

When it comes to power, it uses 50 to 5 watts for transmitting in VHF while the maximum output you get from UHF is 40 watts. Furthermore, it is a full-duplex model that has a cross-band repeat function. Along with this, it has 809 channels and 256 memories to ensure that you do not lose your settings. 

Apart from this, it is user-friendly too, and so programming is easy whether you want to do it on the radio or use your computer. To allow this, it comes with a programming cable and proprietary software that is compatible with CHIRP.

What Could’ve Been Better?

There have been reports that the fuse may be blown, causing it to stop functioning. So, you will have to dedicate extra time to fix it, not the ideal scenario. Also, there are problems with the transmission, which may prompt you to consider other brands.

7. Kenwood TM-D710G

This is the second model from this brand, and it comes with several improvements. The Kenwood TM-D710G also adds several innovations that ensure you can cater to a range of tasks. It has a sleek and elegant look that conveys a sense of reliability, which has endeared it to customers.

No products found.

Why Did We Like It?

This dual-band option is equipped with VHF and UHF, which makes it a highly versatile device. Added to this, it comes with 1000 multifunctional memory channels as well as a five-in-one programmable memory so that you do not have to worry about losing your settings.

Moving along, it has dual reception ranging from 118-534MHz and 800-1300Mhz. This means that you will have no trouble either in accessing or transmitting channels with other ham operators. However, the critical update includes a built-in GPS, which you can also use as your car GPS. 

Thus, you will be able to find the best path to travel without much difficulty. Apart from this, it has a compact design that can easily fit into your car, where you can make use of the EchoLink Memory and EchoLink Sysop Mode. Finally, it has an easy-to-read LCD screen that can be used in green or amber.

What Could’ve Been Better?

It does not have any mic extension, which many buyers prefer, and this could lead to its popularity taking a hit. Thus, you will have to purchase it separately. Besides, the ARPS carrier makes a lot of noise, which could be an inconvenience while you are listening or transmitting.

8. ICOM IC-2730A

This, too, is an affordable device, but at the same time, it offers you a powerful performance. The ICOM IC-2730A is smaller compared to the other models, but it is loaded with features that make it suitable for use even on the road. It has big dials and an easy-to-read display to make your job easier.

Why Did We Like It?

It is seldom seen that an affordable model offers you high power to function your device. But this model is different as it comes with three output power options of 5-watt, 25 watts, and 50 watts. This allows you to use it according to your needs and ensures that you stay connected.

Furthermore, it has RX frequencies that range from 118-174MHz and 275-550MHz so you have no trouble with connections. On top of this, it has 1052 memory channels, of which 50 are scan edges, and 2 are all channels. This provides you with the much-needed versatility that is often lacking in other models. 

As it is a dual-band tool, you can receive and transmit signals in VHF and UHF. Making this process easier is a large screen that is brightly lit, which clearly shows the channels and frequencies. Therefore, you can handle all the settings with aplomb.

What Could’ve Been Better?

There are a couple of issues with it, one of which is that the speaker is quite small, which many of you may not prefer. The designers could easily have incorporated a slightly bigger speaker to solve this issue. Besides, there is no provision to mount the control head, which is an inconvenience.

9. ICOM IC-718

Have you ever seen those old radios in classic movies that blurt out news or songs in a nostalgic setting? Well, at first sight, the ICOM IC-718 looks just like that. Its size is the first thing that grabs your attention, and it is adorned with several buttons that perform numerous functions.

No products found.

Why Did We Like It?

The best thing about this is that it comes with a range of features, but keeping the buyer in mind, the designers have made it simple and user-friendly. Along with this, it is very durable, thereby enabling you to get the desired output for a long time.

You can access VHF, UHF, and HF along with base stations which makes it more versatile than the other brands in the market. On top of this, despite all of these features being quite costly, the price of this unit is within reasonable limits, which makes it an attractive option. 

Additionally, you get 101 memory channels, which means that you do not have to worry about losing your settings. Moreover, it has a superior receiver that makes sure you can send and transmit signals without any disturbances. Finally, it is excellent for outdoor use as well, even when on road trips or expeditions.

What Could’ve Been Better?

It isn’t quiet when compared to other models, and this could be a cause for concern. You may not like all that noise while listening or during transmission. Besides, it does not have an auto-tune function, which means you have to do it manually, which could take more time.

10. Yaesu Original TH-9800AD

It is one of the most flexible models in the market, which has already earned positive feedback from users. The Yaesu OriginalTH-9800AD has a fancy name and features to back it up. It is a quad-band radio that has a large orange display.

Why Did We Like It?

This is a quad-band option, which means that you can transmit signals on four bands – a 10-meter HF, a 6-meter VHF, a 2-meter VHF, and a 70-centimeter UHF. This makes it a highly versatile device that is sure to endear it to users.

Staying on the topic of power, you get a maximum output of 50 watts for HF as well as VHF transmissions. And when it comes to UHF transmissions, you get 35 watts of power. The significant addition is the inclusion of FM radio at 700-985 MHz and other bands around expanded frequencies.

Moreover, it has a cross-band repeat function that makes sure you can make calls from a handheld unit. To achieve this, the speaker and microphone are of excellent quality to ensure that there are no disruptions during transmission. Therefore, people down the line will be able to hear from you quite clearly.

What Could’ve Been Better?

It is expensive in comparison to other brands, and this could be a deterring factor. Most of you will not be willing to spend a considerable amount on it, given that there are so many options. Apart from this, it has no antenna you have to purchase, which drives up the cost even further.

11. AnyTone AT-5888UV

As is evident from the name, this is a versatile model that allows you to use it in many ways. The AnyTone AT-5888UV is a dual-band model that includes features rarely seen in some of the other products. It has a yellowish display and pink light-up buttons that ensure you have no problem while working.

Why Did We Like It?

It is a dual-band radio that comes with a 2-meter as well as a 70-centimeter band. Added to this, you get four power options that allow you to choose how much power you need to contact your listener. This ensures that there are no disruptions, and you do not end up hitting everyone around you.

Thus, the maximum power that you get is 50 watts, or 40 watts if you are using it for UHF operations. The minimum power, on the other hand, is 10 watts, thereby offering you a wide range. Furthermore, the connections are user-friendly as it comes with non-proprietary CAT5 plugs.

Thanks to this, you can add your accessories with ease. On top of this, there is even a USB port allowing you to charge your phone directly from this device. Also, the display screen ensures you can watch two channels at the same time.

What Could’ve Been Better?

This is not the most durable of models, which means that it could break down after continuous use. This means that it does not provide the long lifespan that most buyers expect. Besides, the scanning speed is slow, and you will have to wait a little longer to tune into your channels.

Radio Ham Buyers’ Guide

After narrowing down the products you have set your sights on, how do you pick one from the rest? Here too, we have done the work for you by listing the essential elements that make an excellent ham radio.

If you keep the following points in mind, you do not need to wrack your brain to single out a quality unit that is best suited to your needs. The demands may vary, but the essential features that make an excellent tool remain the same.

1. Durability

Any product that hopes to make an impact on the market must be long-lasting to serve its purpose. Buyers spend a lot of money to purchase it, and in return, they not only expect quality output but also hope that their tool can survive the test of time.

If it breaks down, that will inevitably bring your work to a stop, which is an unpleasant scenario. Neither is it viable to buy devices one after the other in a short period. So, the manufacturers must use quality materials to make sure that it is sturdy and robust to handle the demands.

2. Versatility

Gone are the days when you bought something to focus on just one particular task. With newer and better models taking to the market, your tool must be versatile to be used in several ways.

It must be flexible enough to be compatible with different electrical devices. There will be limitations, but it must never be limiting that you cannot use it as per your needs.

3. User-friendly

And finally, it must be designed such that users have no difficulty operating it. You are already under a lot of stress in the workplace, and you do not need the added burden of getting to know the functions.

Even if it has many features, it must be simple yet effective so that performance does not take a hit. You must be able to efficiently work out what each element does and how to get the most out of your model.

Radio Ham Verdict

Having gone through our list, we hope that you may have some idea of how to pick the right product.

There are numerous options available, but it is not worthwhile if it is not the best. Therefore, for us, the BTECH Mobile UV-50X2 takes the cake with some stunning features that are sure to impress you. If you want to go for something else, they might consider the Yaesu TYT TH-9800D if money is not your concern.

Apart from these, the Kenwood TM-D710G is a fantastic option as well, as it can significantly improve your work experience. Thus, there is a lot out there that you can choose from, and ham radios are sure to have a positive impact on your work even when you are outdoors.

So, pick and order your ideal product to make light work of your tasks. Happy transmitting!

Related Articles

10 Best Jobsite Radios on the Market Today 

13 Best Outdoor Antennas Buyer’s Guide

13 Best Punch Down Tools Right Now