TIDRADIO UV-5R Ham Radio Handheld- Upgraded of Baofeng UV-5R, Dual Band Two Way Radio, Walkie Talkies with 3800mAh Extended Battery, Programming Cable, Long Antenna, Earpiece- Full Kits of 2 Pack

My radios will not transmit. They will receive properly. Tried contacting number they gave inside box and I get no answer. Sent email still waiting for reply. I am over the return date timeline. So I would like to get these to function. Update spoke with seller, they replaced the units quickly and without any issues. New radios work well! Thank you

The one downside is the programming software is not included. You must sign up on a website (it only needs an email & a password, so no big.) to download the CHIRP software. It would be nice if this was included without having to sign up. Oh, and I highly suggest turning off the voice prompt. She seems nice but is rather annoying. Other than that. . .The UV-5R Pro is loaded with options and probably the best HT I've used so far; time will tell. It has just about every option (no trunking) you could ask for in a portable radio. Per FCC regs, the U.S. version is set to only Transmit 144-148 & 420-450 MHz and Receive 136-174 & 400-480 MHz HOWEVER, a "simple" factory reset will open up 136-174 (173.9975) & 400-520 (519.9975) MHz for RX & TX. "Simple" meaning pressing PTT + MONI + VFO/MR while turning the Power on. Yup, you kinda need three hands to do it, but it works!

I recently purchased the TIDRADIO UV-5R 8Watt Ham Radio Handheld, and while it has many strong points, it does fall short in a critical area: signal strength. Despite this, the radio offers several features that still make it a solid choice, which is why I’m giving it four stars. Here’s my detailed review:Build Quality and Durability: The TIDRADIO UV-5R is well-constructed and feels robust in hand. The sturdy casing and quality buttons give confidence that this radio can withstand the rigors of regular use. It's built to last, which is a significant plus for any handheld device.Battery Life: The battery life is impressive. Even with frequent use, a single charge lasts quite a while, which is particularly handy for extended outdoor activities or emergencies. The included battery and charger are reliable and efficient, ensuring that the radio is ready when you need it.Ease of Use: This radio is user-friendly, with an intuitive interface and clear, concise manual. The controls are straightforward, and the display is easy to read, making it accessible even for those new to ham radios. Programming the radio is also relatively simple, thanks to the helpful guidance provided.Features: The TIDRADIO UV-5R comes loaded with useful features, including dual-band operation, multiple channels, and a customizable interface. The built-in flashlight is a practical addition for nighttime use or emergencies. The wide range of frequencies it supports makes it versatile for different communication needs.Signal Strength: Here lies the primary drawback. Despite being marketed with 8 watts of power, the signal strength can be disappointing. In areas with obstacles or dense buildings, the reception is often weak, leading to poor communication quality. This can be frustrating, especially when reliable signal strength is crucial.Customer Service: The customer service from TIDRADIO has been commendable. They were quick to respond to my inquiries and provided helpful support, which adds to the overall positive experience with the brand.Value for Money: Despite the signal strength issues, the TIDRADIO UV-5R offers good value for money. It’s packed with features typically found in higher-priced models and is constructed with durability in mind. For many users, especially those in less obstructed areas, it can still be a very effective tool.Room for Improvement: The most significant area for improvement is undoubtedly the signal strength. Enhancing the antenna or the radio’s ability to handle obstructed areas would elevate this product significantly. Addressing this issue would make it a top contender in its category.

Make sure you do a factory reset to get the extended frequency band.

When I paid the price I assumed these would be a good pair of ‘walkie-talkies’ for the ranch and the grandchildren when they visit. The ‘HAM’ radio part seemed too good to be true. Well flash my BIOS and call me Uncle Ezra! Some guy from Australia asked me what kind of market I had for my sheep this last year! I bought extra batteries and they come with short close-in antennae and a 6m whip antennae (coil type is about 10” long) and they REACH THE MOON AND BACK! (Figuratively speaking)….they literally reach from the NW USA to Perth, Australia with clear signal and little gain issue.These are absolute high quality gems that will meet the needs of the Amateur Radio licensee on the go. Clip one on your belt and mail the other one (and an extra separately purchased 220v charger) to your friends in Zoomeroo, Habitapolko and follow the rules of the air and you will be a happy camper! I was WRONG! They are well made, heavily constructed, packed with extras…anything you think you’ll need to buy extra…WAIT UNTIL YOU’VE OPENED ALL THE BAGGIES IN THE BOX TO SEE THE WONDERS OF A VERY THOUGHTFUL MANUFACTURER!I cant say much more without just blathering on so before radio silence I will just say…if you’re looking for portable HAM radio that can also be used as standard local walkie-talkie radios with the switch of an antennae…STOP RIGHT HERE AND ORDER THESE NOW! My kids just moved onto a homestead and I’m ordering them two sets to keep parents and kids in communication on VERY rural acreage. Now I can talk to my 90 y/o HAM enthusiast dad in the next town over! I’m beginning to eye my I-phone and wonder if I still really need it!

Work great with 771 antenna. Need double male adapter to use with mag antenna.

Had to switch from Tidradio H8 due to color screen giving out too much RF noise when on my local repeaters. Good old UV5R just WORKS. And thank God it's still unlockable.

Good quality radio. Great ear pieces. Easy to program with the computer connection. Good power for a handheld.