Baofeng UV-5R Mini

Well, all I can say about this radio is big things come in small packages! I am seriously impressed with this transceiver!

Out of the box it's even smaller than its predecessor, the UV-5R. But don't let the size fool you, it has been updated with better SDR software which makes this little guy fun to use and has a ton more features than standard dual-band radios.

My only complaint is that this radio isn't tri-band. It does handle VHF and UHF bands quite well, but it would be nice if it also covered the 1.25 meter band. That being said, it does make up for it in features -- especially if you're not within range of a 222 MHz repeater.

The Mini comes with a rather large color screen, which is very much easier to read than the old LCD screen of the original UV-5R. Added extras include preset NOAA stations (just hold down the 0 key), commercial FM radio receive (88 MHz to 108 MHz), AM aircraft bands, and wireless programming with the Baofeng app on your phone or tablet. Personally, I prefer programming directly through the faceplate -- but it is another nice option to have outside of CHIRP, no programming cable required!

Another great plus is the gooseneck antenna. I'm personally amazed with the reception as it compares well with the 15" whip antenna I use on my 5RM. 

The key takeaway for this radio is its size -- it is seriously small (in fact, the smallest I've ever used!) and will fit in your pocket. It is convenient, dare I say fun to use, and for the price you don't have to worry about dropping it in a lake or smashing it with a hammer.

Now it is a 5-watt radio, so you're not going to have quite the range that you would with an 8 or 10 watt handheld. But I still hit my repeater over 38 miles away with a little effort. The trick with 5-watt handhelds is location. In the backyard I can hit my favorite repeater just about anywhere with my 10-watt 5RM. With this little guy, there's just a few spots. I basically walked around hitting the PTT button until I found a spot where the repeater kerchunked. But even at that, 5 watts will carry and to be able to go 38 miles is quite impressive!

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Baofeng UV-5R Mini single-pack:

https://amazon.com/47D0Yf9 

Baofeng UV-5R Mini two-pack:

https://amazon.com/4nqhjs1