Josh, great test! I have to say, I've had the Alinco DJVX50 since about a week after I got my license last October, and I've low key fallen in love with it. First, it was quite easy to program from the front of the radio, which is important since in my time on the road, I don't keep a computer with me. With this radio, I can just open up the repeater book app and start punching in the repeaters closest to me. Second, it's waterproof, so I don't have to worry about getting caught in the rain while building trail miles from any kind of shelter - or that's what I told myself when I paid the extra couple bucks over another option I had at the time. A year of usage (clipped to my backpack in the woods, being bounced around on an excavator or a motorcycle, rained on, covered in dust, etc) has proven it's a tough radio without me having to worry about how much it costs. Lastly, I've NEVER had the battery die on me in just the course of one day, and that includes at times being on for 12+ hours and having at least 10-15 minutes of transmit time during that period. I've recommended this radio to a LOT of people that have asked about HT's that aren't 'Fengs but still won't break the bank.
I have two UV-88 and I love them. So far, I've been asked 5 times on nets, by the hosts, what radio I was using. Some thought I was using a base radio and were intrigued when I mentioned I was using a handheld. I guess the signal is good enough.
Nice to see some quality alternatives to the Baofeng. In my opinion, if you are going to spend money on a radio it should be a good quality radio. Great video Josh. 73!
I really like these real world comparisons Josh. It's good to see statistical data and actual audio for us to choose from. I plan to get some signal sticks at some stage but not just yet.🍻👍
Thanks for the video. Can you do the same exact thing and measure intermod rejection? Which one has the best front end? I would imagine these are all direct conversion so it probably won’t be great but get to a high rF environment/overload spot and see which one can copy a weak signal.
I really appreciate the testing process you've come up with. While it's almost impossible to 100% objective, I feel like you are doing a process that is as good as it can be. Keep doing the reviews like you have been, and I think you'll set yourself up as a leader in objective and real world results reviewer. Thank you, and keep doing what you are doing.
What I notice the most in terms of ‘cheap’ or Chinese vs. quality radios is the receive sensitivity. Would love to see you conduct a test like this in reverse, testing the receiver’s of the popular HT’s. I’ve really enjoyed these comparison videos! Mike - N7CCD
Josh, you do a great job in your videos, but it would have been a more complete review if you also included some of the Baofengs (i.e. UV5R/F8HP). Your test setup is great, but unless all these are tested under the same conditions, it's impossible to determine how all these budget radios compare. I've owned a F8HP for several months now, and it would be nice to see how well it performs compared to the others. Thanks!
Personally, I bought 4 Yaesu FT-60 dual banders. For $150 you get a radio, a battery, and a drop-in charger. I have balance issues, and fell on a concrete sidewalk onto one of them, and the plastic was...cosmetically damaged, but the unit still worked great. These have been on the market for YEARS, and I can see why. Also, you can buy a AA battery pack for it that lets you transmit at FULL power. You're not supposed to use rechargeables in it, but if that's all you have...And I topped them with Diamond SRH77CA antennas. You can buy a cloning cable that lets you program one radio, then transfer all that data to all your other radios. For it's day, it is also reasonably water-resistant, but I did not push my luck on this. 73, KB5AVP
I really like my Yaesu FT-4X, but the transmit audio leaves something to be desired. Unless I really close talk it, the audio is low. I wish it had a TX audio adjustment.
Love the objective testing on SNR. Would be curious to see a frequency response curve for the speakers to make that part of the evaluation a bit more subjective. Would love to the the SNR numbers for other radios with similar conditions. How much of a difference does price make?!
For me it is the Ailunce HD1 by Retevis. Still a cheap radio but IP67, doing DMR and analog, fully programmable from the front and the audio is a beast! Also doing 8W on UHF and 10W on VHF. Great video and have a great day!
@@g-whiz286 Which is fair but you aren't getting a much different radio. The question is if it's even worth it at that point. Unless you need a second radio of course. I see the HD1 for around 170 usd which is doable for the cheap end and you are getting a DMR AND analog radio. I think it's fair to consider.
My HD1 has horrendous gain switching noise on receive. I don't remember this when I first got the radio so can only assume it's developed a fault. It's had very light use.
The nice thing I like about the Yaesu FT-4X is that you can very easily "MARS Mod" without having to whip out a soldering iron or use special software. Do to the same on the Alinco DJ-VX50, you need special software.
I guess I'm the weirdo that prefers the feel of taller, thinner HTs in hand. The short, squat size of many newer HTs doesn't appeal to me. A UV-5R with extended battery is a great size, and the 878 isn't too bad. But nearly all of the current short, fat Yaesu HTs feel awkward to me, especially when using the thicker extended batteries. Given they're usually within a few bucks of each other, I'd easily prefer the FT-65 over the FT-4X just for the size. But it also has a bigger battery, better display, and a more typical keypad, which makes it a big win to me.
Hey, thanks for the video. I jumped from Motoxxx Talkxxx to Baofeng about 9 years ago. Some of your videos inspired me and today I received my first Japanese FT65… let’s play!
I just wish you had used the BarfWang to compare with the others... I have 2 FT-4XRs purchased about a year ago, both made in Japan. I believe initially they were made in china, but the newer ones seem to be made in Japan. Very nice radios if one were inclined to input a certain code and run them as GMRS HTs... They really are a great small radio!
Alinco is an underappreciated brand. I have a DJ-G7 (two meter, 70 centimeter and 23 cm) I also had an Alinco HF radio, the DX-SR8T. It was a very solid but very basic 100 watt radio.
I bought four Retevis RT85 radios, which are identical to the TYT UV88. They've clear sound, very low spurious, full 5 watts, and two year warranty. A pair sells Amazon on for $59.99-$10.90 coupon; end price $49.99+ tax. IMHO, they're the best bang and you I didn't my bo funged.
I have a UV-5R. It has been a paperweight for several years since it won't turn on (soft switch is somehow screwed up--I've cleaned the contacts several times with no luck). If you know of a fix, please let me know!
I own a TYT UV88 and it is a great radio. plus the fact that you can buy battery packs that use usb c makes it a win for me. i have several expensive hts but the uv88 is my everyday carry. its cheap so dont care if it gets banged up and it charges via usb c. its a win win.
It would be interesting to see how the radios that you are testing deal with a strong local signal while they are receiving the test audio from your house. I've seen Baofeng's suffer from desense on 2m and not hear the repeater's output when another radio that was on the repeater's input (.600 away) was transmitting within 20-30 feet.
Baofeng I tested start to desense when it receive signal more than (-40dBm) within +/- 20 MHz. so not suited for outside antenna, but for rubber duck it probably just fine. AG6JU
I have the FT-4X, picked up from MTC with a bunch of other stuff, getting the price down to about $50. At that, it's an absolute beast. The QRZ-1 has also surprised me, allowing me to hit repeaters well above 5 miles away (in hilly, wooded country), good audio reports, great receive, and all on the rubber ducky.
@@HamRadioCrashCourse It's almost definitely a private label or redesign of the UV88. I'm thinking it's likely just a different label. If so, the UV88 is pretty incredible for $35.
Were you keying your home testing device with a VX-6r? The VX-6R was my first HT. Very rugged, water tight. Unfortunately, it was also not the use case I needed, so it partly funded my purchase of my FT3DR when I sold it. It worked for me.
Josh! Which one do you recommend I buy, Yaesu FT65R, or the Alinco? I want a robust walkie with good sensitivity and sound. I do not ask for more. One question, does the s-meter measure well "at the same level more or less as yaesu?". I wish the Alinco also had a good reliable s-meter. Please help me. I've been looking at comparisons for hours and I can't make it clear😮💨. 🙏 Thank you!
I also was wondering how these radios compared to a Baofeng.. Maybe Josh can do a follow-up video showing the results of the same tames using a Baofeng from the exact same location.
Good video. I think what it really showed was that a $100. radio is not much better than a $30. radio. If you want to see a difference, you have to get closer to $200. Take for instance the Yaesu FT-60. At about $155. it offers a front end that is far superior to any $100. radio. Much, much faster scan speed, many more channel storage options, wider scan range and a little better audio. Much tougher and just higher overall quality. I have cheap radios and quality radios. The cheap radios are the ones I don't care about. If they get broken or lost, it's not a huge loss. I have a bunch of UV-5R's to hand out if necessary, not for daily use in most cases. My quality radios are the ones I use on a daily basis. I've grown to very much value the operation, options and better electronics they offer. I'm at the point that cheap radios only disappoint me and wonder why I left the quality radio at home. Life is too short to use cheap radios. Buy once, cry once. Plus, I won't bet my life on a Boafeng or other cheap radio. My FT-60 is like a Timex watch, it's been through hell and back for the last 11 years and keeps coming back for more. Takes a lickin' and keeps on ticking. It doesn't have to be a FT-60. There are many other quality radios, some with many more features. You will pay for these things, but the juice is worth the squeeze. Something to think about. New to the hobby ? Buy that low priced radio to see if Ham Radio is your cup of tea. If so, don't buy another cheap radio, buy quality. You'll be far ahead in the long run.
Thank you for your information on the radios. Where & how can I get the antenna a long black wired looking antenna for the handheld radio? As you mentioned a link. Thanks Gerry
I know a lot of companies start to use Part 90 version of those similar designed radio for their commercial use. price of those Chinese made part 90 radio are significantly less compare to Japanese manufactures. US$30 to $50 stead of US$300 to $500. so the company can buy 10 radios for the price of 1. employees lose or drop , broke handheld radio always anyway. so cost is issue. I have difficulty convincing business owner who are buying 100 handheld that they should pay $300 x 100 = $30K, stead of $30 x 100 = $3000. $27k difference. AG6JU
Hi Josh, I like how you are quantifying their output power by receiving their signal with the discone at home. Did you mention the distance the park is from home? You and the family stay safe. 73 WJ3U
Good info. But it might be worth seeing if the SNR pecking order is sensitive to which of several antennas is used. None of these compromise antennas is going to be 50 ohm resistive. The manufacturers know this, and probably design for particular back off versus mismatch strategies. It would be good to throw a 50 ohm antenna into the mix, like one of the Ed Fong J-poles. There may also be different strategies for keeping battery life up. They will probably all do better on external power, but how much. And beyond apparent transmitted audio, there's possibly a difference in spectral purity (splatter, etc.). And then there's adjacent and one off channel de-sense in the receivers. Has the ARRL Lab evaluated all of these? Just because I know that you're looking for extra work to do. ;^) And viewers should keep in mind that different units of the same model may perform differently. 73, KE1G
Hi there, that's all fine and dandy (Go Jim Dandy Go) but how about the programming of each...I have 2 Baofeng UV5X3 and 1 Kenwood 74A and both work equally well surprisingly. Programming? The Baofeng...
I'm surprised on the Yaesu SNR aspect. I have a two TYT radios I use as crossband repeaters (UV9800D Plus and UV8000D) and the SNR is acceptable except when transmitting with a UV5R through it. I was undecided on changing my backup EDC HT to the Yaesu FT4X and FT65R. Both have similar prices. Is the FT65R similiar in results to the FT4X?
Holly cow! Nobody talks about S-meter. I got addicted to work over the satellites, and my first radio (Baofeng) haven't it. Then I made mistake and ordered Anytone AT-318UV. On Wimo page there is only picture with something resembling S-meter, but nothing is said in the operating manual. Now I see that with extra few dollars it is better to buy Yaesu FT4XE. Not a single youtuber mentioned that. Pointing antenna at the satellite by listening amount of noise, or better said lack of it - is not the best indicator where to point antenna actually. S-meter may help a little bit.
I wouldn't even "throw around" a cheap radio. Though I do admit that I would much less lament the loss or damage of a sub $100 radio compared to say a Yaesu 2DR, 3DR, or 5DR. It would someday be nice to see a comparison of "workhorse" radios in the FT60 class. Are the workhorses really all that durable or are they just heavy?
That was well done, I like when you do these types of vid, it helps me make good reasonable choices. Just asking, how come you did not include in your test the UV-5R and the BF-F8HP, just curious, because I have both and would have like to seen how they held up. Again, thank you for the time and energy that you put into your content, my family and I have learned so much from you. 73
Missed one, Josh. I have a Radioddity GA-510. Nice little easy to grok HT for travel, walk-about &c. Two batts, antoona, cable, CHIRP-able. $70. Easier to figure out than the two TYTs I’ve tried. Small & lightweight, too. 73 de W8IJN
@@HamRadioCrashCourse Capisco bene, amico. Yeah: There's only so much time in life ;-) And now there are more radios than you or I have time to fiddle with. Y'all stay sane. 73 de W8IJN
Are there any low(er) cost HTs that are NOT SDR? I am so tired of horrible selectivity and a non-functional squelch that all of these SDR radios seem to have. I know Wouxun makes some superhetrodyne radios. Are any of their HTs superhet?
This is a big question with a ton of variables but. What would be a real world possible distance between two handheld ham radios. To be clear my expected usage, I'd be using them in Alaska.
Hi nice thanks I am not a handy guy but do have icom,s and a Yaesu vx-6 complicated, arlinco is on my DO NOT want list so is the Bofangs just do not like,Pieter
I have a receiving interference on open frequencies question I have 4 different models (all Baofeng) VHF and UHF, when I'm in heavily wooded areas National Forest with no electronics around, I pick up annoying interference too high that the squelch doesn't block out. Will a higher end radio, Yaesu, Icom or another stop having the interference problem? I don't know what the interference is from just constant burst fast or slow every few seconds and nothing is around me for several miles.
The Yaesu FT-60 has one of the best front ends of any HT period. Try one. If it does not solve the problem, nothing will. Many hams use the FT-60 when working on mountain top repeater sites as they are one of the few radios that don't overload from all the RF at these sites.
One comment and one question. In doing your signal strength test for the multiple radios do you think it matters at all that you were sitting at a metal picnic table? Now my question… I am interested in buying a handheld ham radio Most likely not as a hobby but for emergency purposes. For instants,I’m out four wheeling by myself in the middle of the Pennsylvania wilds and get stuck. I do have a UV5R which strikes me as being woefully inadequate for being able to contact somebody in civilization. What sort of radio should I be looking for for that purpose? Does it even exist?
Re: your comment, since I apply all radios to the same environment I feel that variable isn’t worth worrying about. To your question. It all depends on the range you want to communicate and budget. If you just want a solid upgrade to the baofeng, check out the Yaesu VX-6r
Yes price range is probably in that area… $2-400. Cheap is great but if it doesn’t get me out of a bind in the woods then it does me no good. My understanding is that handhelds generally don’t transmit beyond five watts? I guess then the question is which frequency would give me the greatest direct range if I’m not using a repeater? I say not using a repeater because I doubt I’ll have any of the repeater frequencies programmed in for wherever I am which will vary. So being able to directly communicate is the most important thing If that does make a difference is the Yaesu you recommended still the most appropriate? I guess another and more important question is am I possibly looking for something that can’t be achieved with a handheld? I know I could get a 50 W mobile unit that I could plug into a 12v socket with an external antenna but I’d prefer to have a handheld if they are capable of transmitting say 30 or 50 miles on their own? That might be a pipe dream … I just don’t know. Thanks again
What is your opinion of the yaesu FT-65 vs the yaesu FT-4x they're both 144/440 and about the same price point. I didn't notice a review of the FT-65 on your channel.
Josh good video but you completely missed the elephant in the room. I'm assuming the Yaesu and Alinco radios have superheterodyne receivers and the Chinese radios have direct conversion. That is where the huge issue lies, both in weak signal reception as well as interference rejection. I love my Chinese radios, but frankly they all suck when it comes to pulling in weak analog signals. If you tested receiver sensitivity, I think there would be a couple of clear winners here! N9PDL
@@HamRadioCrashCourse FT65 has bigger battery, more programmable keys, better display, IP54 water/dust resistance, and mil 18C/D/E shock resistance. FT4X has no water or shock rating. Guts may be similar but they are not the same radio.
Hey josh youre using 146.400 if you used a pl of 103.5 You wouldve been on 147.435 repeater Was just a goof tho Rightttttt say it like eliot offen rightttttttt 😅
Thank you for your tests. I use to test my HTs in a different way: I look for the most distant Repeater where just the radios with the best sensitivity and selectivity can hear. The FT-4X didn't pass my tests and I guess NONE of the radios in this video will pass. A hint: when you look for a radio, avoid radios with "Direct-Conversion" receiver and look for "Superheterodyne". IMHO the best cost-benefit radio is the "QuanSheng TG-UV2Plus".
I'm probably going to become unpopular here but the FT-4X sounded like trash on transmit compared to the TYTs. I say this and I own Yaesu mobile and HT radios.
![[ ออกกอง ] วัยหนุ่ม 2544 โลกหลังลูกกรง..ทัวร์กองถ่ายหนังใน "คุกของจริง" | JUSTดูIT.](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/vB--aOkZCpw/mqdefault.jpg)
Josh, great test! I have to say, I've had the Alinco DJVX50 since about a week after I got my license last October, and I've low key fallen in love with it. First, it was quite easy to program from the front of the radio, which is important since in my time on the road, I don't keep a computer with me. With this radio, I can just open up the repeater book app and start punching in the repeaters closest to me. Second, it's waterproof, so I don't have to worry about getting caught in the rain while building trail miles from any kind of shelter - or that's what I told myself when I paid the extra couple bucks over another option I had at the time. A year of usage (clipped to my backpack in the woods, being bounced around on an excavator or a motorcycle, rained on, covered in dust, etc) has proven it's a tough radio without me having to worry about how much it costs. Lastly, I've NEVER had the battery die on me in just the course of one day, and that includes at times being on for 12+ hours and having at least 10-15 minutes of transmit time during that period. I've recommended this radio to a LOT of people that have asked about HT's that aren't 'Fengs but still won't break the bank.
I have two UV-88 and I love them. So far, I've been asked 5 times on nets, by the hosts, what radio I was using. Some thought I was using a base radio and were intrigued when I mentioned I was using a handheld. I guess the signal is good enough.
The Alinco was my first HAM HT, and I still love it because it hears indoors almost as well as my base and is easy to program.
I was shocked at how well my alinco received.
I've bought (and sold) many handhelds over the years, always appreciated my Alincos for quality. They are sturdy and reliable.
Thanks for the video. Please could you do a receive audio comparison between FT-5 vs FT-60 vs ID52
Thanks for the video Josh. I am a big fan of my Alinco handheld. It also receives air band. Sound quality is great and menus are easy.
Careful when uncoiling the Signal Stick antenna as it can hurt your hand. I love this antenna.
Nice to see some quality alternatives to the Baofeng. In my opinion, if you are going to spend money on a radio it should be a good quality radio. Great video Josh. 73!
I really like these real world comparisons Josh. It's good to see statistical data and actual audio for us to choose from. I plan to get some signal sticks at some stage but not just yet.🍻👍
I've always been impressed with Alinco handhelds. Own several and they take a beating - great products.
Thanks for the video. Can you do the same exact thing and measure intermod rejection? Which one has the best front end? I would imagine these are all direct conversion so it probably won’t be great but get to a high rF environment/overload spot and see which one can copy a weak signal.
I really appreciate the testing process you've come up with. While it's almost impossible to 100% objective, I feel like you are doing a process that is as good as it can be. Keep doing the reviews like you have been, and I think you'll set yourself up as a leader in objective and real world results reviewer. Thank you, and keep doing what you are doing.
Jamming the radios up to the camera mic was unnecessary I thought, bit loud.
I do like the FT65 which is just an upsized version of the FT-4x.
What I notice the most in terms of ‘cheap’ or Chinese vs. quality radios is the receive sensitivity. Would love to see you conduct a test like this in reverse, testing the receiver’s of the popular HT’s. I’ve really enjoyed these comparison videos! Mike - N7CCD
I was curious how the Yaesu stacked up. Love the real world testing. I am a Yaesu VHF/UHF fan.
Josh, you do a great job in your videos, but it would have been a more complete review if you also included some of the Baofengs (i.e. UV5R/F8HP). Your test setup is great, but unless all these are tested under the same conditions, it's impossible to determine how all these budget radios compare. I've owned a F8HP for several months now, and it would be nice to see how well it performs compared to the others. Thanks!
Personally, I bought 4 Yaesu FT-60 dual banders. For $150 you get a radio, a battery, and a drop-in charger. I have balance issues, and fell on a concrete sidewalk onto one of them, and the plastic was...cosmetically damaged, but the unit still worked great. These have been on the market for YEARS, and I can see why. Also, you can buy a AA battery pack for it that lets you transmit at FULL power. You're not supposed to use rechargeables in it, but if that's all you have...And I topped them with Diamond SRH77CA antennas. You can buy a cloning cable that lets you program one radio, then transfer all that data to all your other radios. For it's day, it is also reasonably water-resistant, but I did not push my luck on this. 73, KB5AVP
I really like my Yaesu FT-4X, but the transmit audio leaves something to be desired. Unless I really close talk it, the audio is low. I wish it had a TX audio adjustment.
Love the objective testing on SNR. Would be curious to see a frequency response curve for the speakers to make that part of the evaluation a bit more subjective. Would love to the the SNR numbers for other radios with similar conditions. How much of a difference does price make?!
For me it is the Ailunce HD1 by Retevis. Still a cheap radio but IP67, doing DMR and analog, fully programmable from the front and the audio is a beast! Also doing 8W on UHF and 10W on VHF. Great video and have a great day!
I feel like this is the way to go. With DMR, you get something the others wont provide.
Second vote for HD1.
Uh, we're talking sub $100 HTs on this episode.
@@g-whiz286 Which is fair but you aren't getting a much different radio. The question is if it's even worth it at that point. Unless you need a second radio of course.
I see the HD1 for around 170 usd which is doable for the cheap end and you are getting a DMR AND analog radio. I think it's fair to consider.
My HD1 has horrendous gain switching noise on receive. I don't remember this when I first got the radio so can only assume it's developed a fault. It's had very light use.
The nice thing I like about the Yaesu FT-4X is that you can very easily "MARS Mod" without having to whip out a soldering iron or use special software. Do to the same on the Alinco DJ-VX50, you need special software.
thank you, for those who know lol
I guess I'm the weirdo that prefers the feel of taller, thinner HTs in hand. The short, squat size of many newer HTs doesn't appeal to me. A UV-5R with extended battery is a great size, and the 878 isn't too bad. But nearly all of the current short, fat Yaesu HTs feel awkward to me, especially when using the thicker extended batteries.
Given they're usually within a few bucks of each other, I'd easily prefer the FT-65 over the FT-4X just for the size. But it also has a bigger battery, better display, and a more typical keypad, which makes it a big win to me.
Josh, love this series of videos. Great content, well done and very informative! Thanks and keep it up!
Hey, thanks for the video. I jumped from Motoxxx Talkxxx to Baofeng about 9 years ago. Some of your videos inspired me and today I received my first Japanese FT65… let’s play!
I just wish you had used the BarfWang to compare with the others...
I have 2 FT-4XRs purchased about a year ago, both made in Japan. I believe initially they were made in china, but the newer ones seem to be made in Japan. Very nice radios if one were inclined to input a certain code and run them as GMRS HTs... They really are a great small radio!
Alinco is a great radio that many hams overlook! Great to meet you at Huntsville!
love the content. Also love mid price range test. I have an alinco ht 20 yrs old still works
Alinco is an underappreciated brand. I have a DJ-G7 (two meter, 70 centimeter and 23 cm) I also had an Alinco HF radio, the DX-SR8T. It was a very solid but very basic 100 watt radio.
I bought four Retevis RT85 radios, which are identical to the TYT UV88. They've clear sound, very low spurious, full 5 watts, and two year warranty. A pair sells Amazon on for $59.99-$10.90 coupon; end price $49.99+ tax. IMHO, they're the best bang and you I didn't my bo funged.
i wish you would have included the uv-5r as a control!
I have a UV-5R. It has been a paperweight for several years since it won't turn on (soft switch is somehow screwed up--I've cleaned the contacts several times with no luck). If you know of a fix, please let me know!
I own a TYT UV88 and it is a great radio. plus the fact that you can buy battery packs that use usb c makes it a win for me. i have several expensive hts but the uv88 is my everyday carry. its cheap so dont care if it gets banged up and it charges via usb c. its a win win.
Great work Josh! Another excellent video.
You can hear the air band with the Alinco! A great plus feature!
As a modest-budget ham, I sincerely appreciate videos like this. Thank you, Josh. -KN6IRV | San Pedro
Very very helpful for when looking for a new hand held thanks josh
It would be interesting to see how the radios that you are testing deal with a strong local signal while they are receiving the test audio from your house. I've seen Baofeng's suffer from desense on 2m and not hear the repeater's output when another radio that was on the repeater's input (.600 away) was transmitting within 20-30 feet.
Baofeng I tested start to desense when it receive signal more than (-40dBm) within +/- 20 MHz. so not suited for outside antenna, but for rubber duck it probably just fine. AG6JU
I have the FT-4X, picked up from MTC with a bunch of other stuff, getting the price down to about $50. At that, it's an absolute beast. The QRZ-1 has also surprised me, allowing me to hit repeaters well above 5 miles away (in hilly, wooded country), good audio reports, great receive, and all on the rubber ducky.
The QRZ-1 looks like a uv88 to me.
@@HamRadioCrashCourse It's almost definitely a private label or redesign of the UV88. I'm thinking it's likely just a different label. If so, the UV88 is pretty incredible for $35.
Were you keying your home testing device with a VX-6r? The VX-6R was my first HT. Very rugged, water tight. Unfortunately, it was also not the use case I needed, so it partly funded my purchase of my FT3DR when I sold it. It worked for me.
Do you still have the QRZ-1? If so getting a side by side between it and the UV88 would be fun.
If not, no worries.
Great video man!
Love that little Yaesu.
Josh! Which one do you recommend I buy, Yaesu FT65R, or the Alinco? I want a robust walkie with good sensitivity and sound. I do not ask for more. One question, does the s-meter measure well "at the same level more or less as yaesu?". I wish the Alinco also had a good reliable s-meter. Please help me. I've been looking at comparisons for hours and I can't make it clear😮💨. 🙏 Thank you!
Excellent as Always..Hoping to see the HT Tests using counterpoise/Rat Tail.
Hey Josh, I noticed you're using the input to the 147.435 repeater (K6MWT) for testing. Nice. 👌
Negative.
@@HamRadioCrashCourse yes thats the input to 147.435 repeater 103.5 pl No way u dont know that nor about 146.415 🤡🤡🤡
Thanks for a great video Josh.
Would love to know what the numbers of a Baofeng UV5R are so we can see how much of a step up they are
I also was wondering how these radios compared to a Baofeng.. Maybe Josh can do a follow-up video showing the results of the same tames using a Baofeng from the exact same location.
Waiting for the UV5R comparison too!
Thanks for this, have been looking for a solid go-bag/backup handheld!
Uv88 is what I use for sats. Great and cheap.
Good video. I think what it really showed was that a $100. radio is not much better than a $30. radio. If you want to see a difference, you have to get closer to $200. Take for instance the Yaesu FT-60. At about $155. it offers a front end that is far superior to any $100. radio. Much, much faster scan speed, many more channel storage options, wider scan range and a little better audio. Much tougher and just higher overall quality. I have cheap radios and quality radios. The cheap radios are the ones I don't care about. If they get broken or lost, it's not a huge loss. I have a bunch of UV-5R's to hand out if necessary, not for daily use in most cases. My quality radios are the ones I use on a daily basis. I've grown to very much value the operation, options and better electronics they offer. I'm at the point that cheap radios only disappoint me and wonder why I left the quality radio at home. Life is too short to use cheap radios. Buy once, cry once. Plus, I won't bet my life on a Boafeng or other cheap radio. My FT-60 is like a Timex watch, it's been through hell and back for the last 11 years and keeps coming back for more. Takes a lickin' and keeps on ticking. It doesn't have to be a FT-60. There are many other quality radios, some with many more features. You will pay for these things, but the juice is worth the squeeze. Something to think about. New to the hobby ? Buy that low priced radio to see if Ham Radio is your cup of tea. If so, don't buy another cheap radio, buy quality. You'll be far ahead in the long run.
Just bought the Alinco. What is the signal stick sma needed for it? Great info,thanks.
Thank you for your information on the radios. Where & how can I get the antenna a long black wired looking antenna for the handheld radio? As you mentioned a link. Thanks Gerry
I know a lot of companies start to use Part 90 version of those similar designed radio for their commercial use. price of those Chinese made part 90 radio are significantly less compare to Japanese manufactures. US$30 to $50 stead of US$300 to $500. so the company can buy 10 radios for the price of 1. employees lose or drop , broke handheld radio always anyway. so cost is issue. I have difficulty convincing business owner who are buying 100 handheld that they should pay $300 x 100 = $30K, stead of $30 x 100 = $3000. $27k difference. AG6JU
Thank you for sharing this video
FT5DR vs TH-D72&74 vs ID-52 vs FT60 vs AT-D878UVII Plus, for receive only. Who has the best HT receiver?
Nice shirt 😉
Hi Josh,
I like how you are quantifying their output power by receiving their signal with the discone at home. Did you mention the distance the park is from home? You and the family stay safe. 73 WJ3U
Thank you great review!
Josh, I’m really looking forward to the wouxon cb ht antenna test. I’m an old cb’er from back in the day! (Early 90s lol)
Good info.
But it might be worth seeing if the SNR pecking order is sensitive to which of several antennas is used. None of these compromise antennas is going to be 50 ohm resistive. The manufacturers know this, and probably design for particular back off versus mismatch strategies. It would be good to throw a 50 ohm antenna into the mix, like one of the Ed Fong J-poles.
There may also be different strategies for keeping battery life up. They will probably all do better on external power, but how much.
And beyond apparent transmitted audio, there's possibly a difference in spectral purity (splatter, etc.).
And then there's adjacent and one off channel de-sense in the receivers.
Has the ARRL Lab evaluated all of these?
Just because I know that you're looking for extra work to do. ;^)
And viewers should keep in mind that different units of the same model may perform differently.
73, KE1G
Hi there, that's all fine and dandy (Go Jim Dandy Go) but how about the programming of each...I have 2 Baofeng UV5X3 and 1 Kenwood 74A and both work equally well surprisingly. Programming? The Baofeng...
What's the device you use to transmit after entering the DTMF code?
I'm surprised on the Yaesu SNR aspect. I have a two TYT radios I use as crossband repeaters (UV9800D Plus and UV8000D) and the SNR is acceptable except when transmitting with a UV5R through it. I was undecided on changing my backup EDC HT to the Yaesu FT4X and FT65R. Both have similar prices. Is the FT65R similiar in results to the FT4X?
Well Done Josh. Very objective and gives potential purchasers some real world data to base a decision on.
73s
WV7W
Holly cow! Nobody talks about S-meter. I got addicted to work over the satellites, and my first radio (Baofeng) haven't it. Then I made mistake and ordered Anytone AT-318UV. On Wimo page there is only picture with something resembling S-meter, but nothing is said in the operating manual. Now I see that with extra few dollars it is better to buy Yaesu FT4XE. Not a single youtuber mentioned that. Pointing antenna at the satellite by listening amount of noise, or better said lack of it - is not the best indicator where to point antenna actually. S-meter may help a little bit.
can you do a vid on the tati-cool antennas and test them. thanks
Do you use your signal stick antenna for your 878??
I wouldn't even "throw around" a cheap radio. Though I do admit that I would much less lament the loss or damage of a sub $100 radio compared to say a Yaesu 2DR, 3DR, or 5DR.
It would someday be nice to see a comparison of "workhorse" radios in the FT60 class. Are the workhorses really all that durable or are they just heavy?
As an aspiring ham I've mainly held off on my ticket because of the expense. So, a video like this is great.
@@tang3540 Which I might or might not apply for as I was licensed in the 90's for a time and let it lapse due to inactivity.
That was well done, I like when you do these types of vid, it helps me make good reasonable choices. Just asking, how come you did not include in your test the UV-5R and the BF-F8HP, just curious, because I have both and would have like to seen how they held up. Again, thank you for the time and energy that you put into your content, my family and I have learned so much from you. 73
I didn’t include it because I want to make more videos. 👍
@@HamRadioCrashCourse got it
Missed one, Josh. I have a Radioddity GA-510. Nice little easy to grok HT for travel, walk-about &c. Two batts, antoona, cable, CHIRP-able. $70. Easier to figure out than the two TYTs I’ve tried. Small & lightweight, too. 73 de W8IJN
Lol I didn’t “miss” it. I only have so much time and money to throw into these. Hopefully I’ll get it to it one day. 👍💸
@@HamRadioCrashCourse Capisco bene, amico. Yeah: There's only so much time in life ;-) And now there are more radios than you or I have time to fiddle with. Y'all stay sane. 73 de W8IJN
Love the shirt
Which Alinco handheld finished on top? The chart just said Alinco without the model number.
How does the Baofeng compare to these?
Where did you get that t shirt?
So what you are saying in the per video testing the UV5R made the others look bad... LOL...
Are there any low(er) cost HTs that are NOT SDR? I am so tired of horrible selectivity and a non-functional squelch that all of these SDR radios seem to have. I know Wouxun makes some superhetrodyne radios. Are any of their HTs superhet?
love that shirt
It would be interesting to see how those cheaper radios stack up against the high dollar radios like a ID-52 or Yaesu FT5D.
In time. 👍
This is a big question with a ton of variables but. What would be a real world possible distance between two handheld ham radios. To be clear my expected usage, I'd be using them in Alaska.
It depends on terrain, buildings and plants, trees
No ft-65r?
This is a great video to get people stepped up a little bit from entry level, thanks as always Josh! ALSO what's your son's fav Pokémon?
Whichever is the highest CP in the game it seems. The strongest they own :D
@@HamRadioCrashCourse Hahahah thats awesome 😂
Is it realistic to try to use a handheld for long range (2k miles) communication with some sort of directional antenna?
Nope. Handhelds are generally all line of sight at best. Often only effect a few miles.
Hi nice thanks I am not a handy guy but do have icom,s and a Yaesu vx-6 complicated, arlinco is on my DO NOT want list so is the Bofangs just do not like,Pieter
I have a receiving interference on open frequencies question
I have 4 different models (all Baofeng) VHF and UHF, when I'm in heavily wooded areas National Forest with no electronics around, I pick up annoying interference too high that the squelch doesn't block out.
Will a higher end radio, Yaesu, Icom or another stop having the interference problem?
I don't know what the interference is from just constant burst fast or slow every few seconds and nothing is around me for several miles.
The Yaesu FT-60 has one of the best front ends of any HT period. Try one. If it does not solve the problem, nothing will. Many hams use the FT-60 when working on mountain top repeater sites as they are one of the few radios that don't overload from all the RF at these sites.
One comment and one question. In doing your signal strength test for the multiple radios do you think it matters at all that you were sitting at a metal picnic table? Now my question… I am interested in buying a handheld ham radio Most likely not as a hobby but for emergency purposes. For instants,I’m out four wheeling by myself in the middle of the Pennsylvania wilds and get stuck. I do have a UV5R which strikes me as being woefully inadequate for being able to contact somebody in civilization. What sort of radio should I be looking for for that purpose? Does it even exist?
Re: your comment, since I apply all radios to the same environment I feel that variable isn’t worth worrying about.
To your question. It all depends on the range you want to communicate and budget. If you just want a solid upgrade to the baofeng, check out the Yaesu VX-6r
Yes price range is probably in that area… $2-400. Cheap is great but if it doesn’t get me out of a bind in the woods then it does me no good. My understanding is that handhelds generally don’t transmit beyond five watts? I guess then the question is which frequency would give me the greatest direct range if I’m not using a repeater? I say not using a repeater because I doubt I’ll have any of the repeater frequencies programmed in for wherever I am which will vary. So being able to directly communicate is the most important thing If that does make a difference is the Yaesu you recommended still the most appropriate? I guess another and more important question is am I possibly looking for something that can’t be achieved with a handheld? I know I could get a 50 W mobile unit that I could plug into a 12v socket with an external antenna but I’d prefer to have a handheld if they are capable of transmitting say 30 or 50 miles on their own? That might be a pipe dream … I just don’t know. Thanks again
What is your opinion of the yaesu FT-65 vs the yaesu FT-4x they're both 144/440 and about the same price point. I didn't notice a review of the FT-65 on your channel.
I prefer the ft-4x size.
@@HamRadioCrashCourse, thanks!
Do any of these have dual watch? That's been the main thing keeping me away from upgrading my Baofeng.
Both tyts do. Unsure on the Alinco, but the Yaesu has a weird home channel monitoring thing.
I just tested the Alinco DJ-VX50 from the video. It does dual watch.
What belt clip do you have on vx-6?
The stock one.
My vx50 was receiving better any my anytone 878uvii, it’s a great ht
Josh good video but you completely missed the elephant in the room. I'm assuming the Yaesu and Alinco radios have superheterodyne receivers and the Chinese radios have direct conversion. That is where the huge issue lies, both in weak signal reception as well as interference rejection. I love my Chinese radios, but frankly they all suck when it comes to pulling in weak analog signals. If you tested receiver sensitivity, I think there would be a couple of clear winners here! N9PDL
I don't think any of the radios in the test are superhet.
@@HamRadioCrashCourse My bad then. I guess even the big names have lowered their standards to SOC receivers.
Dose TYT UV 88 work in 36km?
Or Full resort؟
What frequencies specifically are you needing?
@@HamRadioCrashCourse We are an animal rescue team
We are far apart
If that the device's well worked that far
Ben has been so well behaved I think its time to take him fishing
Where do u get the glow in the dark antenna?
Signal Stuff Signal Stick.
@@HamRadioCrashCourse awesome thanks
But why you leave out the venerable FT-65?
I prefer the FT-4X and from what I understand they are the same radio. Just form factor being a thing.
@@HamRadioCrashCourse FT65 has bigger battery, more programmable keys, better display, IP54 water/dust resistance, and mil 18C/D/E shock resistance. FT4X has no water or shock rating. Guts may be similar but they are not the same radio.
Sureeeee. But if I am going that size, mind as well get the REAL venerable radio the FT-60 and get a WAY better receiver.
Signal stick link just takes me to their homepage, not to the product.???
They make a few antennas for HTs, I don’t know which one you need. So yes. Links to the homepage.
You ever get your signal stick cold? It's like a wet noodle.
Hey josh youre using 146.400 if you used a pl of 103.5 You wouldve been on 147.435 repeater Was just a goof tho Rightttttt say it like eliot offen rightttttttt 😅
(Not in the comparison) Everyone should own a Yaesu FT-60.
Nice pink phone there big guy.
First, it's a purple iPad.
Second, it's in a purple case.
Third, no one wants to steal it.
@@HamRadioCrashCourse 🤣
Alinco only genuine made in Japan
Thank you for your tests. I use to test my HTs in a different way: I look for the most distant Repeater where just the radios with the best sensitivity and selectivity can hear. The FT-4X didn't pass my tests and I guess NONE of the radios in this video will pass. A hint: when you look for a radio, avoid radios with "Direct-Conversion" receiver and look for "Superheterodyne". IMHO the best cost-benefit radio is the "QuanSheng TG-UV2Plus".
I'm probably going to become unpopular here but the FT-4X sounded like trash on transmit compared to the TYTs. I say this and I own Yaesu mobile and HT radios.