BTech
BTECH UV-5X3
44Average
The tri-band HT that earns its keep on 1.25m, even if it doesn't impress much elsewhere on the spec sheet.
Value
57
Features
7
Beginner
58
Portability
50
VHFUHF1.25m
1500mAh
Battery
128
Channels
★★★★⯪4.4(2,166 reviews)
5 star
68%
4 star
18%
3 star
5%
2 star
3%
1 star
6%
Overview
The BTECH UV-5X3 is aimed squarely at Technician-class operators and newer hams who want access to the 222 MHz band without buying into a more expensive rig. It fills a genuine gap in the sub-$70 HT market, where tri-band coverage is rare and 1.25m activity is growing in some regions.
The headline capability here is the VHF/1.25m/UHF tri-band coverage, which is legitimately uncommon at this price point. The 128 memory channels are adequate for most local repeater setups, and the 1500mAh battery is serviceable for casual portable use. Feature scores are weak overall, reflecting the FM-only architecture: there is no DMR, no APRS, no digital modes of any kind.
At under $65, the value proposition is reasonable if 1.25m access is your specific motivation. If you are looking for a general-purpose HT with digital capability or a rugged build for field use, this radio will leave you wanting more. Buy it for the band coverage; look elsewhere for everything else.
Specifications
| Price | $64.89 |
| Memory Channels | 128 |
| Battery | 1500 mAh |
| FCC ID | 2AJGM-UV5X3 |
| Color | Black |
| Voltage | 5 Volts (DC) |
| Item Weight | 0.5 Pounds |
| Frequency Range | 220 mhz |
| Special Feature | Rechargable |
| Product Dimensions | 1.26"D x 2.28"W x 4.33"H |
| Water Resistance Level | Waterproof |
| UPC | 722589229732 |
| Tuner Type | Digital |
| Model Number | UV-5X3 |
| Built-In Media | Earpiece, battery, charger, UV-5X3, manual, 220 antenn, dual band antenna |
| Mfr Part Number | UV-5X3 |
| Waterproof Rating | IPX-" // The 'X' indicates that we do not have information about solid particle protection, and the second digit is not provided due to insufficient information about the level of water protection. |
| Compatible Devices | UV-5R and BF-F8HP accessories |
| Additional Features | Rechargable |
| Warranty Description | 1 Year through Baofeng Tech |
| Connectivity Protocol | Analog Tone Signaling |
| Item Dimensions D x W x H | 1.26"D x 2.28"W x 4.33"H |
Key Features
- Tri-band operation covers VHF (2m), 1.25m (222 MHz), and UHF (70cm)
- FM analog only; no DMR, D-STAR, or System Fusion support
- 128 programmable memory channels; CHIRP compatible for channel management
- Display Sync and selective frequency scanning included
- 1500mAh proprietary battery pack; charges via 5V DC input
- No published IP rating; treat water resistance claims with appropriate caution for field deployment
- Priced under $65, making it one of the few tri-band HTs accessible at entry-level budget
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What Customers Say
★★★★★A very nice little radio!
Although this radio may not have the best RF specs out there in terms of sensitivity, selectivity, and power output, it approaches ideal in many other aspects. First of all, it combines the three most popular VHF FM bands in one handy radio. Other manufafturers make radios like this at much higher p...
Timbalionguy·Oct 11, 2018·Verified Purchase
★★★★★If you aren't in to two-way radios, there IS a learning curve, but this is a top-notch product
If you love to be prepared, BUY one of these and learn to use it now. In a SHTF situation, cell service may be interrupted or non-existent. Having one of these radios for each of your family members is one way to ensure you can stay in touch during a disaster. Please read up on what the FCC "allows"...
SafeMoneyTrendsDOTKOM·Nov 16, 2023·Verified Purchase
★★★★☆A good, FCC approved, tri-band HT at a killer price
A very nice tri-band radio. It just recently was given full FCC clearance: FCC ID: 2AGND-5X3 Its very easy to program when you additionally purchase from Amazon the BTECH PC03 FTDI programming cable (well worth the price) It has a nice loud sound and works well. You can't beat the price for this uni...
Jeff Lesof·May 4, 2017·Verified Purchase