RadioRanked verdict
Baofeng
Baofeng UV-26
The UV-26 is a solid entry-level radio offering essential features like CHIRP compatibility and triband coverage. It provides reliable performance for new operators on a strict budget.
Decision helper
Is this radio right for you?
Yes, if you're…
- ✓New licensed amateur radio operators
- ✓Budget-conscious emergency preparedness use
- ✓Simplex and local repeater work
- ✓Operators needing VHF/UHF/1.25m coverage
Skip it, if you're…
- ✕Experienced hams needing top audio fidelity
- ✕Operators requiring advanced features
- ✕Users prioritizing premium build materials
Tradeoffs
The good and the bad
What we like
- CHIRP compatibility simplifies setup
- Triband coverage (VHF, UHF, 1.25m)
- Solid 10W output power
- Adequate 2500 mAh battery life
- High channel memory capacity
What we don't
- Small, hard-to-read menu display
- Potential initial setup frustration
- Audio clarity may trail premium units
Proprietary RR score
How we scored it
Scores combine specs, Amazon buyer sentiment, and our testing framework. How we score →
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10.00W
TX Power
2500mAh
Battery
999
Channels
Extracted from the top buyer reviews we analysed
Themes from top buyer reviews
Build quality
Users found the radio felt sturdy and well-constructed.
Audio performance
Audio clarity is generally good for the price point.
Usability and display
Some users reported the menu display was difficult to read.
Functionality and features
The radio offers excellent features for its price.
Overview
The UV-26 is aimed squarely at newly licensed operators who want to get on VHF, UHF, and 1.25m without committing serious money to the hobby. It sits comfortably alongside other budget Baofeng offerings but edges ahead with triband coverage and a generous 999-channel memory, which is more headroom than most beginners will ever fill.
At 10W output and CHIRP compatibility, the core functionality is solid for simplex work and hitting local repeaters. CHIRP support in particular matters here: it means you can avoid the notoriously fiddly front-panel programming and get channels loaded cleanly from a computer, which is a genuine time-saver for anyone standing up a new radio. The 2500mAh battery is adequate for a day of casual operating without reaching for the charger.
The UV-26 scores well on value and is about as beginner-friendly as handheld radios get, but its feature set is lean. If you need DMR, APRS, or anything beyond analog FM, look elsewhere. This is the right radio for a Technician building their first go-bag or wanting a beater HT for ARES nets.
Specifications
| Price | $28.21 |
| TX Power (High) | 10.00W |
| Memory Channels | 999 |
| Battery | 2500 mAh |
| Display | 1.77in TFT Color |
| RX Range | 136.0000–520.0000 MHz |
| TX Range | 136.0000–520.0000 MHz |
| FCC Authorization | Covers the electronics only (Part 15B) |
| FCC ID | 2AJGM-UV26 |
| FCC Rule Parts | Part 15B |
| FCC Grant Date | 2025-11-29 |
| color | UV26-10Watt-1Pack |
| unitCount | 2 |
| Color | UV26-10Watt-1Pack |
| Tuner Type | VHF/1.25M/UHF |
| Model Number | UV26 |
| Built-In Media | ①1X UV26 Ham Radio, ②1X 6.1" antenna, ③1X 15.12" 771 antenna, ④1X 10.63" 771 Air-band antenna, ⑤1X 2500mAh Battery, ⑥1X Type-C charger with cable, ⑦1X earpiece with mic, ⑧1X belt, ⑨1X hand strap, ⑩1X charging base station, 10WHTC, 2500mAh Battery, 10WHTC Charger, USB Cable |
| Mfr Part Number | UV26 |
| Compatible Devices | BAOFENG UV26 Ham Radios, other devices on the same frequency bands and channels, CHIRP, CPS, TIDRADIO wireless programmer, earpiece, belt, hand strap, charging base station |
| Additional Features | 771 Antenna, Air-band antenna, Superior grip, Enhanced design, Wider frequency band, 10W power, USB C charging, 1.77inch colour screen, Frequency copy |
| Battery Average Life | 52 Hours |
| Water Resistance Level | Water Resistant |
Key Features
- CHIRP-compatible via UV-17Pro or 5RM profile; supports TIDRADIO wireless programmer
- Triband coverage: VHF, UHF, and 1.25m (220 MHz) in a single HT
- 10W maximum TX output on supported frequencies
- 999 memory channels; ample capacity for regional repeater directories
- Three antennas included: 6.1-inch stub, 15.12-inch 771, and 10.63-inch 771 air-band
- Type-C charging with included base station; no proprietary charging cable required
- Water resistant; no IP rating published, so do not plan on immersion or heavy rain
Recommended Antenna Upgrades
A better antenna is the cheapest way to extend your range. These fit the SMA-Female jack on the Baofeng UV-26.
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What Customers Say
This was my first Baofeng radio and it works great and sounds really good. The PTT button is a good feel and solid. I was a little disappointed with the flashlight function but it's better than no light at all. I love the WX and FM radio stations. I would rate the audio tone and clarity an 8/10 com...
I was looking on amazon for a cheap Walkie/Radio that could be used for emergencies and I came across this one, It was around 25$ I ordered it, When I received it I could not believe how great it was built, meaning It felt like if I was to drop it on a hard surface it would not just break apart, It ...
For the price, this radio give a lot of features. I love that I can get on the 220 (1.25 meter) band as well as monitor the aircraft band.Hint when programming - CHIRP has four states for duplex. For frequencies you are not licensed to transmit on, make sure the duplex is set to blank - this disab...