Stay connected when everything else fails. The proven budget dual-band handheld for preppers, emergency preparedness, and amateur radio. 128 channels. VHF/UHF. Under $25.
Get Yours NowTrusted by thousands of preppers • Instant ship from Prepper Shop
Single Radio — Ready to use out of the box
Buy the UV-5R
Need a programming cable?
Shop UV-5R
30-day returns on Prepper Shop • Ships fast
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Frequency Range | VHF: 136–174 MHz / UHF: 400–520 MHz |
| Transmit Power | 4W (High) / 1W (Low) |
| Channels | 128 programmable memory channels |
| Battery | 1800mAh Li-ion (up to ~12 hours) |
| Display | Dual-band LCD with dual watch / dual standby |
| Features | CTCSS/DCS, VOX, FM radio, LED flashlight, emergency alert, keypad lock |
| Programming | Manual or free CHIRP software |
| Weight | ~250g with battery |
| Use | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| National Simplex Calling | 146.520 MHz | Most popular 2-meter calling frequency |
| NOAA Weather | 162.400–162.550 MHz | Receive only — no license needed |
| FM Broadcast | 88–108 MHz | Receive only |
| 70cm Simplex | 446.000 MHz | Common UHF calling frequency |
Always follow local regulations. A Technician license is required to transmit on amateur frequencies in the US.
| Model | Power | Best For | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| UV-5R | 4W | Beginners & preppers | Under $25 |
| UV-5R Plus | 4W | Color options | Slightly higher |
| UV-5RTP | 8W | More range | Higher |
| BF-F8HP | 8W | Higher power users | Higher |
Transmit and receive on both VHF and UHF. Monitor two channels at once with dual watch.
Store local repeaters, emergency frequencies, and more. Program easily with free CHIRP software.
1800mAh battery plus desktop charger. Reliable for extended use in the field.
Fits in any bug-out bag. Built-in flashlight and FM radio for added utility.
Yes for beginners and as a backup radio. At under $25 it remains one of the best value dual-band handhelds with strong CHIRP support and a huge user community.
You can listen (receive) on all frequencies without a license. Transmitting on amateur radio bands in the US requires a Technician-class FCC license. Always operate legally.
In open terrain users commonly report 5–10+ miles. Dense forest, buildings, or hills reduce range. A better antenna improves performance.
Use free CHIRP software with a programming cable, or program manually via the keypad. See the full guide linked above.
Yes. It is compact, affordable, dual-band, and widely used in emergency preparedness kits.
Radio, 1800mAh battery, desktop charger, AC adapter, antenna, belt clip, hand strap, and manual.
Yes, it can receive NOAA weather broadcasts along with the standard amateur and commercial FM bands.
The 1800mAh battery typically provides up to 12 hours depending on usage.
Get the radio that preppers trust. Stock is limited.
Secure Your UV-5R Now
