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Emergency Radio Comparison
Compare radios side-by-side to find the best fit for your needs and budget.
🏆 Best Budget Overall
Baofeng UV-5R
Under $40. Perfect for learning, scanning, and emergency backup. Ham license required for TX.
Read Review →👨👩👧 Best for Families
Midland GXT1000VP4
GMRS/FRS certified, no programming needed. $35 license covers whole family.
Read Review →🏕️ Best Rugged/Outdoor
Baofeng UV-9R Plus
IP67 waterproof, 8W power. Handles harsh conditions. Ham license required.
View in Shop →| Radio | Type | Price | Power | Waterproof | Best For | Actions |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Baofeng UV-5R | Ham | $37 | 5W | ✗ | Beginners, Budget Prep | Review |
| Baofeng BF-F8HP | Ham | $65 | 8W | ✗ | More Power, Better Build | Review |
| Baofeng UV-82 | Ham | $45 | 8W | ✗ | Dual PTT, High Power | Review |
| Baofeng UV-9R Plus | Ham | $75 | 8W | ✓ IP67 | Outdoor, Harsh Conditions | View |
| Baofeng UV-5G | GMRS | $45 | 5W | ✓ IP67 | Budget Legal GMRS | Review |
| Midland GXT1000VP4 | GMRS/FRS | $75 | 5W | ✓ | Families, No Programming | Review |
| Midland MXT500 | GMRS Mobile | $450 | 50W | N/A | Vehicle, Max Range | Review |
| Yaesu FT-60R | Ham | $150 | 5W | ✓ MIL-STD | Reliable, Quality Brand | Review |
| Yaesu FT-65R | Ham | $130 | 5W | ✓ IPX5 | Quality Entry Ham | Review |
| Icom IC-V86 | Ham (2m) | $200 | 7W | ✓ IP67 | Premium VHF | Review |
| Kenwood TH-D75A | Ham Tri-band | $700 | 5W | ✓ IPX5 | APRS, D-STAR, GPS | Review |
| Uniden SDS100 | Scanner | $700 | RX Only | ✗ | Monitoring, Digital | Review |
| Uniden BC125AT | Scanner | $200 | RX Only | ✗ | Budget Analog Scanner | Review |
📋 How to Choose
- Just starting out? Get a UV-5R to learn on. It's disposable-priced but teaches you the basics.
- Family comms, no test? Get GMRS radios like the Midland or UV-5G. $35 license covers everyone.
- Serious about radio? Get your Ham license and invest in a Yaesu or Icom for reliability.
- Monitoring only? A scanner or receive-capable radio needs no license at all.