Review of Baofeng UV-5R V2 Dual-Band Two-Way HAM-Radio

Baofeng U-5R V2+ is a dual-band FM transceiver that operates as a ham two-way radio with a broad frequency coverage that supports efficient 2-way, local area communication, as well as provide superb monitoring capability. As a ham radio, it can be used by either amateurs or professionals. Its high-power transceiver is a micro-miniature electronic communication device that has a multiband FM capability. This affordable gadget offers the user distinct benefits, but it also comes with a few bottlenecks which are highlighted below. This is followed by a reasoned verdict and an elaborate Review of the product.

Overview of product features

Baofeng U-5R V2 with hands free accessories.

Baofeng U-5R V2+ is an upgraded version of UV-5RA, which is in turn based on the older standard UV-5R model. U-5R V2+ features an enhanced solid construction, with its durable housing featuring a metallic upgrade. It comes with an auto-band detection feature which limits the need for using the band button frequently. This high-power two-way, dual-band transceiver model is designed, manufactured, tested, and power-rated by Baofeng.

This lightweight, the compactly-built hand-held device weighs about 1.2 pounds, and is 6 inches tall, while its rectangular base is 4 inches long and 2 inches wide. The color scheme is black. Its antenna is well-designed and properly-positioned on the top.

It’s compact solid construction features a belt-clip that allows the transceiver to be conveniently clipped onto the trouser belt, or pocket. This also frees the hand, hence making this a convenient easy-to-use product that can be carried around even when not in use.

It also comes with a wrist-hand strap that allows the user to easily band the gadget around the wrist, hence allowing the user to talk
directly into the radio even when climbing ladders, or participating in other activities that require the user to use both hands while
still talking or listening to instructions. This makes it well-suitable also for emergency situations.

Themodel U-5R V2+ is a powerful transceiver whose multi-band, micro-miniature FM transceiver can provide broad frequency coverage through its dual-band frequency range. These 2 frequency ranges are the 136-174MHz range and the 400-480MHz range. This allows for local-area 2-way communications.

The learning curve is low and the model is easy to use.

Also, due to its simple design and easy-to-use features; amateurs, or beginner communication specialists can easily use this model as its learning curve allows for quick mastery of how it works, and how it can be operated efficiently. This transceiver also provides superb monitoring capability. That is essential in survival situations as it allows you to stay aware what is happening.

This transceiver is designed to maximize user convenience, and this reflected through its display design. Its front-side LED display has been upgraded to a bright and easy-to-read two-color display. Along with the LED display, the buttons are also positioned at the front panel.

This model is designed to work with the following types of UV-5R extended Lithium-ion batteries; the 3800 mAh (milliampere-hour) and the 3600 mAh batteries. Each of these 2 extended batteries can provide a maximum voltage of 7.4 volts. This voltage rating, alongside their power rating, allow either of these batteries to run the transceiver for longer periods (without the need for recharge) as compared to the older UV-5RA and UV-5R models.

This model comes with a charging dock for a Li-ion battery. Charging can be done using either direct-current (DC) or alternating current (AC) so long as their power supply allows 5 volts to flow at a current of 500 mA.

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How does it work?

It is a high-power transceiver that uses a single-combined circuit housed inside a durable casing to transmit, as well as receive communication across considerable distances within a specified area by using radio communication technology. This
portable, hand-held model is designed to support extended batteries which power its transceiver.

Price-Benefits Assessment

It is reasonable priced and durable, suitable for emergency situations.

The product retails for a very reasonable price. With this cheap price-tag, the customers acquire a powerful, compactly-designed dual-band portable transceiver whose durable construction endows it with a long lifespan, while its transceiver technology allows it to support 2-way communication across 2 distinct frequency ranges.

What do customers say?

One of the online marketing platforms of the product is Amazon.com, where its sales-page features a customer review section where customers can comment on the state and functionality of this gadget. Most of the customer who has commented have praised this dual-band transceiver for being a cheap, yet powerful dual-band ham radio. Others value it for being an easy-to-use communication gadget. Still, others praise it for being compatible with extended-life Li-ion batteries.

What kind of guarantee it has?

The product comes with a 12-months manufacturers warranty.

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Summary

Pros

• High-power transceiver.
• Two-way, dual-band transceiver
• Compatible with extended 3600 or 3800mAh batteries.
• Durable housing.
• Compact, solid construction.
• Has a wrist strap, and a belt-clip.
• Two-color LED display.
• 12-months warranty.

Cons

• Frequency coverage limited to only 2 frequency ranges.
• Cannot call specific stations without authorization.

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Final Recommendation – Is this good for emergency situations?

Baofeng U-5R V2+ is a high-power, dual-band FM transceiver with auto-band detection capability that provides two-way ham radio communications across 2 frequency ranges, hence supporting an efficient 2-way, local area communication, along with authorized monitoring of radio communication. It is available at multiple colors and extra accessories.

If you require a ham radio that supports 2-way communication across a dual-band frequency range, it is a good choice for any prepper for emergency situations as well as for camping etc. communication needs.

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Recommended reading: Why you need a survival HAM-radio? Find out more information about essential survival gear.