RadioRanked verdict
Baofeng
Baofeng BF-F8HP
A solid entry-level dual-band option for new operators or field backups. It offers necessary features and reliable performance without the high cost of premium units.
Decision helper
Is this radio right for you?
Yes, if you're…
- ✓New hams starting out
- ✓Budget-conscious field backups
- ✓Operators needing basic VHF/UHF
- ✓Technicians on a tight budget
Skip it, if you're…
- ✕Advanced digital packet users
- ✕Operators needing high TX power
- ✕Serious expedition radio work
Tradeoffs
The good and the bad
What we like
- Excellent value for the price point
- Full CHIRP compatibility for programming
- Improved 2100 mAh Li-Po battery
- Dual-band VHF/UHF coverage
- Includes GPS functionality
What we don't
- Claimed TX power may be overstated
- Entry-level build quality expected
- Requires external USB cable
Proprietary RR score
How we scored it
Scores combine specs, Amazon buyer sentiment, and our testing framework. How we score →
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8.00W
TX Power
2100mAh
Battery
128
Channels
286g
Weight
Extracted from the top buyer reviews we analysed
Themes from top buyer reviews
Affordability and Value
Reviewers praise its low cost relative to performance.
Ease of Programming
CHIRP compatibility makes setup straightforward.
Reliability and Function
Described as a good, reliable transceiver.
Battery Improvement
The larger battery is noted as an improvement.
Overview
The BF-F8HP sits squarely in the entry-level dual-band market, aimed at newly licensed Technicians and budget-conscious operators who need a programmable VHF/UHF FM handheld without spending serious money. It's also a reasonable shout as a beater radio for experienced hams who don't want to risk a primary rig in the field.
Transmit power tops out at a claimed 8W (closer to 7-8W measured in most independent tests), with three selectable levels covering roughly 1W, 4-5W, and high. Coverage spans VHF 136-174 MHz and UHF 400-520 MHz, and the 2100mAh Li-Po battery is a genuine improvement over earlier UV-5R variants. With 128 memory channels and full CHIRP compatibility, basic repeater programming is straightforward. The radio scores reasonably well for beginner-friendliness and delivers solid value at its price point, though its feature set is thin by modern standards.
No stated IP rating means treat waterproofing claims with caution in the field. At $45, the BF-F8HP makes sense as a first HT or a sacrificial spare; operators who need any digital modes, a verified environmental rating, or a reliable stock antenna should budget higher.
Specifications
| Price | $45.00 |
| TX Power (High) | 8.00W |
| TX Power (Med) | 4.00W |
| TX Power (Low) | 1.00W |
| Memory Channels | 128 |
| Weight | 286g |
| Battery | 2100 mAh |
| Display | Color LCD |
| RX Range | 136.0000–520.0000 MHz |
| TX Range | 136.0000–520.0000 MHz |
| FCC Authorization | Covers the electronics only (Part 15B) |
| FCC ID | 2AGNDF8HP |
| FCC Rule Parts | Part 15B |
| FCC Grant Date | 2020-11-25 |
| color | Black |
| unitCount | 1 |
| releaseDate | 2018-08-01T00:00:01Z |
| UPC | 701748708974 |
| Color | Black |
| Voltage | 7.4 Volts |
| Tuner Type | UHF, VHF |
| Model Number | BF-F8HP |
| Built-In Media | baofeng |
| Mfr Part Number | BF-F8HP |
| Compatible Devices | Two-way radios, headsets, earpieces, external antennas, and other devices operating on VHF (136-174 MHz) or UHF (400-520 MHz) frequencies, as well as accessories compatible with the UV-5R. |
| Additional Features | Only BaoFeng Tech is Authorized to Resell, Software and Downloads Available at: https://baofengtech.com/bf-f8hp |
| Battery Average Life | 18 Hours |
| Warranty Description | 1 year |
| Water Resistance Level | Waterproof |
| Item Dimensions D x W x H | 2"D x 2"W x 10.5"H |
| Global Trade Identification Number | 00701748708974 |
Key Features
- VHF: 136-174 MHz TX/RX; UHF: 400-520 MHz TX/RX, wide and narrowband selectable
- Three power levels: approximately 1W low, 4-5W mid, 7-8W high
- 2100mAh lithium polymer battery included; higher capacity than base UV-5R
- 128 memory channels; fully compatible with CHIRP for PC programming
- Tri-color display with user-configurable backlight color
- No verified IP rating; treat listed waterproofing claim with appropriate scepticism
- FM-only; no DMR, P25, or digital voice modes of any kind
Recommended Antenna Upgrades
A better antenna is the cheapest way to extend your range. These fit the SMA-Female jack on the Baofeng BF-F8HP.
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Baofeng BF-F8HP in Our Guides & Reviews
What Customers Say
Being part of the HAM community is fun. It is a practical skill as well. These things will work when other forms of communication won't work. It is nice to have and the science behind it is very intriguing to me. I'm 26 and I just got my license last month. Had I known ham radios were so affordable ...
I purchased this radio, and then purchased another almost two month's later. I have found it to be a good, reliable radio transceiver with pretty good function sets, as well as excellent frequency ranges for the various U S radio services bands. It has capability to receive all the Personal Radio Se...
There is virtually nothing that this radio cannot do, in terms of useful communication. It is well made and the handbook needs to be studied well before use. Accessories are easily available online and the range of the radios is very good. The frequency range is extensive and will hold the required ...