RadioRanked verdict
BTech
BTECH UV-5X3
The UV-5X3 offers excellent value for operators needing VHF, UHF, and 1.25m coverage without digital modes. It is a budget-friendly choice for local repeater access.
Decision helper
Is this radio right for you?
Yes, if you're…
- ✓Technician-class operators needing 1.25m
- ✓Casual portable local repeater use
- ✓Budget-conscious HT collectors
- ✓Operators prioritizing band coverage
Skip it, if you're…
- ✕Operators needing digital modes (DMR/APRS)
- ✕Advanced field operations requiring selectivity
- ✕Users expecting modern feature sets
Tradeoffs
The good and the bad
What we like
- Tri-band coverage at low price point
- 128 memory channels for repeaters
- Serviceable 1500mAh battery life
- FCC approved for local use
What we don't
- FM-only architecture limits modes
- No DMR or APRS digital support
- Antenna setup can be inconvenient
- RF specs are not industry leading
Proprietary RR score
How we scored it
Scores combine specs, Amazon buyer sentiment, and our testing framework. How we score →
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1500mAh
Battery
128
Channels
227g
Weight
Extracted from the top buyer reviews we analysed
Themes from top buyer reviews
Tri-band coverage value
Combining three popular bands is rare at this price.
Programming ease
Programming is straightforward with external cables.
RF performance noted
Some users noted limitations in RF sensitivity.
Disaster preparedness
Useful for staying connected when cell service fails.
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 | $44.89 |
| Memory Channels | 128 |
| Weight | 227g |
| Battery | 1500 mAh |
| FCC Authorization | Covers the electronics only (Part 15B) |
| FCC ID | 2AGND-5X3 |
| FCC Rule Parts | Part 15B |
| FCC Grant Date | 2017-05-03 |
| color | Black |
| unitCount | 1 |
| releaseDate | 2017-09-01T00:00:01Z |
| UPC | 722589229732 |
| Color | Black |
| Voltage | 5 Volts (DC) |
| Tuner Type | Digital |
| Model Number | UV-5X3 |
| Built-In Media | Earpiece, battery, charger, UV-5X3, manual, 220 antenn, dual band antenna |
| Frequency Range | 220 mhz |
| 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 |
| Water Resistance Level | Waterproof |
| 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
Recommended Antenna Upgrades
A better antenna is the cheapest way to extend your range. These fit the SMA-Female jack on the BTECH UV-5X3.
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What Customers Say
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...
Pro-220 MHz band-Display sync-Memory scan add/remove-Editable memory slots-VFO scan range-Included antennas MUCH better than most rubber ducksCon-Box has two antennas ( 144/440 and 220 ) instead of one tri-band antenna-Transmit limited to 5W, not 8W-Subtle clicking noise on receive-No AM broadcast r...
A very nice tri-band radio. It just recently was given full FCC clearance: FCC ID: 2AGND-5X3Its 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 u...