Baofeng UV-21R Dual Band Handheld Radio

Baofeng UV-21R Dual Band Handheld Radio — image 1
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83%
92%
Value for Money
88%
Battery Life
85%
Ease of Use
80%
Signal Reception
90%
Build Quality
87%
Water Resistance
65%
Range in Urban Areas
89%
VOX Hands-Free Functionality
83%
Channel Selection
91%
Portability
78%
Accessories Included
70%
Customer Support
More

Overview

The Baofeng UV-21R Dual Band Handheld Radio is a versatile communication tool designed for amateur radio enthusiasts and emergency preparedness. This model provides dual-band VHF/UHF support, offering a range of up to 5 miles in ideal conditions. Its compact design makes it easy to carry, while the IP54 water resistance ensures it can withstand harsh weather conditions, making it a reliable choice for outdoor use. With its straightforward controls and durable build, this walkie-talkie is suited for anyone seeking dependable communication in both recreational and emergency settings.

Features & Benefits

The UV-21R comes equipped with a Type-C rechargeable battery, allowing for flexible charging options on the go. It supports up to 999 channels, with privacy codes that help minimize interference during communication. The VOX hands-free feature is a major plus, enabling users to transmit without pressing the push-to-talk button, which is especially useful when multitasking. Additionally, the high-gain antenna enhances the radio's range and reception, ensuring clearer communication even in challenging environments. These features make this radio ideal for various communication needs.

Best For

This dual-band walkie-talkie is ideal for a wide range of users. It's particularly well-suited for outdoor enthusiasts, such as hikers, campers, and hunters who need reliable, long-range communication in remote areas. It's also a great choice for those focused on emergency preparedness, offering dependable communication during power outages or other critical situations. Amateur radio operators looking for an affordable yet feature-packed radio will also appreciate the portability and performance of this model, especially for short-distance operations.

User Feedback

Users generally praise the UV-21R's long battery life and user-friendly interface, which makes it a great option for both beginners and seasoned radio operators. Many highlight the strong signal reception, even in challenging environments, where other radios might struggle. However, some users note that its range can be somewhat limited in urban areas with heavy obstructions, such as tall buildings. Despite this, the radio’s robust build and excellent value for the price make it a popular choice among its users, especially for outdoor activities and emergency use.

#Two-Way Radios
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Pros

  • This device offers a reliable communication range of up to 5 miles in optimal conditions, making it ideal for outdoor activities.
  • The IP54 water resistance ensures that it performs well in rugged, wet environments, which is crucial for hiking and camping trips.
  • Type-C charging adds convenience, as it’s compatible with most modern charging cables, eliminating the need for proprietary adapters.
  • VOX hands-free operation allows users to communicate easily while multitasking, which is especially useful for emergency responders or outdoor enthusiasts.
  • With 999 channels and privacy codes, this device enables secure and interference-free communication, which is essential in crowded or emergency situations.
  • The high-gain antenna improves signal strength, providing better reception, especially in areas with challenging terrain.

Cons

  • The range can be limited in urban environments, particularly in areas with many obstructions like buildings and metal structures.
  • Some users report that the VOX feature is less responsive in noisy settings, affecting its usefulness in loud environments.
  • While compact, this radio may not be the most ergonomic option for long-term use, especially for users with larger hands.
  • Certain users mentioned that the user manual is not as clear as expected, requiring additional research or troubleshooting.
  • The battery life, though generally praised, can be inconsistent in extreme weather conditions, reducing its reliability in colder climates.
  • Some reviewers felt that the radio's transmission quality could be improved in densely populated areas with heavy radio traffic.

Ratings

After analyzing verified user reviews from multiple platforms and languages, we've compiled a comprehensive rating for this Baofeng UV-21R Dual Band Handheld Radio. The scores reflect authentic user experiences, carefully filtered to exclude spam, bot-driven, or incentivized feedback. Both strengths and pain points are represented, ensuring an accurate and balanced view of this product's performance across various use cases.

Value for Money
92%
Many users find this device offers excellent value for money, especially given its dual-band capabilities and solid build quality. The combination of affordability and functionality makes it a popular choice for both casual and serious users alike, especially when compared to more expensive models with similar features.
Some buyers feel that while it offers great value, certain features like the urban range and additional accessories could be improved. While the price is low, a few users mentioned that certain high-end radios might offer slightly better reception and battery longevity in more demanding environments.
Battery Life
88%
Users are generally pleased with the battery performance, noting that it lasts a long time, especially for casual use. The Type-C rechargeable battery is convenient for quick top-ups, making it a reliable companion for long trips or extended use in the field.
A few customers have mentioned that the battery drains quicker than expected in high-usage scenarios, especially with frequent transmissions or in colder climates. While adequate for general use, it might not meet the needs of those who require very long-lasting power for extended emergency communication.
Ease of Use
85%
Many users commend this radio for its straightforward interface and user-friendly controls. The inclusion of VOX (hands-free) functionality and a clear, intuitive display make it ideal for both beginners and experienced users, allowing seamless operation without complicated setups.
Some buyers pointed out that while the interface is easy to navigate, the lack of an advanced manual or detailed instructions can be frustrating for newcomers. Additionally, some felt that the button layout could be more intuitive for those with limited radio experience.
Signal Reception
80%
20%
Users are generally satisfied with the reception range in optimal conditions, especially in rural or open environments. The high-gain antenna helps in achieving decent signal strength, making it a reliable device for outdoor communication.
However, several users mentioned that the signal reception can be problematic in urban environments with a lot of obstructions. This is especially true for users who need consistent performance in cities with tall buildings or dense areas, where interference can reduce signal quality.
Build Quality
90%
This device is highly praised for its solid, rugged build, with many noting that it feels durable enough to handle outdoor conditions. The IP54 water resistance adds a layer of protection, making it a dependable choice for users who often use it in harsh or unpredictable weather.
Some users feel that while it is well-built, the plastic casing could be slightly more robust. There are a few reports of minor wear and tear on the exterior after prolonged use in tough conditions, especially for users with high expectations for long-term durability.
Water Resistance
87%
The IP54 water resistance rating is a significant advantage for those using this radio in wet or challenging environments. Users frequently mention its ability to withstand rain or splashes, making it an excellent choice for outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, and campers.
While the water resistance is appreciated, a few users were concerned about its ability to handle more extreme water exposure. Some noted that the device can still be prone to malfunction if submerged, though this is typical for most radios in the same class.
Range in Urban Areas
65%
35%
For users in rural or open areas, the communication range of up to 5 miles generally meets expectations. It offers good coverage where there are few obstructions, and it's noted for being reliable in outdoor adventures or emergencies.
In urban areas with buildings or heavy interference, the range tends to drop significantly. Users in cities have reported that the radio struggles to maintain clear communication over long distances, which could be a limitation for some who rely on consistent signal quality in urban environments.
VOX Hands-Free Functionality
89%
Many users appreciate the VOX hands-free operation, which adds a layer of convenience when multitasking or during long-term use. This feature makes it particularly useful for users who need to communicate while engaged in other activities, like hiking or operating machinery.
While useful, a few users felt the VOX feature could be more sensitive, and sometimes it doesn't activate as smoothly as expected. This can lead to minor frustrations, especially for those using the device in noisy environments where VOX activation is critical.
Channel Selection
83%
The inclusion of 999 channels with privacy codes is a standout feature, as it provides excellent flexibility and ensures interference-free communication. This makes it a great option for amateur radio operators who require multiple frequencies for various tasks or communication needs.
Despite the wide range of channels, some users found it difficult to navigate through them efficiently. The channel scanning feature could be improved for quicker access to preferred frequencies, which may slow down the setup time for those unfamiliar with radio settings.
Portability
91%
Its compact design and light weight make it easy to carry and store. This is especially appreciated by outdoor enthusiasts who need a portable, easy-to-pack communication tool during camping, hiking, or other travel activities.
While generally lightweight, some users feel that the device could be slightly more compact for better portability. The inclusion of additional accessories, such as a larger antenna, makes the radio bulkier than expected for some users looking for ultra-portable gear.
Accessories Included
78%
22%
Users generally appreciate the included accessories, such as the earpiece, belt clip, and Type-C cable. These add-ons provide immediate convenience and make it easier to use the radio right out of the box without needing to purchase extra accessories.
However, some users feel the accessories could be of higher quality, especially the earpiece. A few reports mention that the earpiece doesn't offer optimal sound quality or comfort, making it less useful for extended periods of use.
Customer Support
70%
30%
When users have contacted customer support, some report helpful and timely responses. This gives buyers confidence in knowing that support is available when needed.
However, several users expressed frustration with slow response times or unhelpful solutions from customer service. A few noted that troubleshooting information could be more detailed, which led to dissatisfaction with the overall support experience.

Suitable for:

The Baofeng UV-21R Dual Band Handheld Radio is an excellent choice for outdoor enthusiasts, such as hikers, campers, and hunters, who need reliable communication in remote areas. With its IP54 water resistance and a communication range of up to 5 miles, it excels in rugged environments. Additionally, its 999 channels with privacy codes make it a solid option for amateur radio operators and emergency preparedness users. The Type-C rechargeable battery and VOX hands-free feature also add to its convenience, making it ideal for users who require flexibility in charging and multitasking during outdoor adventures or emergencies.

Not suitable for:

However, this radio may not be the best fit for those who primarily use radios in urban areas. While it performs well in open environments, its range is limited in cities with heavy obstructions, leading to weaker signal reception. Additionally, some users have reported that the VOX feature is less responsive in noisy settings. Those looking for a radio that performs reliably in densely built-up areas or for long, continuous communications might find this device lacking in range and overall signal strength compared to higher-end models.

Specifications

  • Model: The model is the UV-21R, a dual-band handheld radio designed for both amateur and emergency communication.
  • Frequency Range: Supports VHF (136-174 MHz) and UHF (400-520 MHz) frequency bands for versatile communication.
  • Communication Range: Offers a communication range of up to 5 miles in ideal conditions.
  • Water Resistance: Has an IP54 water resistance rating, making it suitable for use in light rain and dusty environments.
  • Channels: Includes 999 available channels, offering a broad selection for communication.
  • Privacy Codes: Supports 50 CTCSS tones and 210 DCS codes to ensure secure, interference-free communication.
  • Antenna: Comes with a high-gain 15.35-inch antenna to enhance signal reception and extend range.
  • Battery: Equipped with a Type-C rechargeable battery, offering flexibility and convenience for charging.
  • VOX Function: The VOX feature enables hands-free operation, useful for multitasking without manually pressing buttons.
  • Display: Features a 1.77-inch TFT display for clear visual feedback and easy operation.
  • Dual Band: Supports dual-band functionality, allowing simultaneous monitoring of two channels.
  • Dual Watch: Supports dual-watch functionality, which allows users to monitor two frequencies at the same time.
  • Dual Reception: Dual reception capability allows this radio to receive signals on both VHF and UHF frequencies.
  • Emergency Alert: Includes an emergency alert feature for signaling distress in urgent situations.
  • Included Accessories: Comes with an earpiece, antenna, belt clip, and Type-C charging cable for added convenience.
  • Dimensions: The radio measures approximately 5.5 x 2.3 x 1.5 inches, making it compact and portable.
  • Weight: Weighs around 0.45 lbs, making it lightweight and easy to carry for long periods.
  • Power Output: Has a power output of up to 5W for effective communication over longer distances.
  • Microphone: The device is equipped with a built-in microphone, with an external microphone jack for additional options.

FAQ

To set up this radio, first charge the device using the included Type-C cable. Then, select the desired frequency using the VHF or UHF bands. You can program channels manually or use a PC interface for faster setup. Ensure the antenna is properly attached for optimal reception.

The Baofeng UV-21R offers a communication range of up to 5 miles under optimal conditions, such as clear line-of-sight and minimal interference. However, range may be reduced in urban areas or densely wooded environments with obstructions.

Yes, this device has an IP54 water resistance rating, meaning it can withstand light water splashes and dust exposure. It's ideal for outdoor use, such as hiking or camping, but it's not fully waterproof and should not be submerged in water.

Yes, the UV-21R features a Type-C rechargeable battery, so you can use any compatible Type-C USB cable to charge it. This adds convenience, as many modern devices use the same cable, allowing for easy recharging.

To use the VOX feature, simply enable it from the menu settings. Once activated, the radio will transmit automatically when it detects your voice. This is particularly useful for hands-free operation while multitasking or when you need to keep your hands free for other tasks.

The 999 channels provide a wide range of frequencies for communication. You can set up specific channels for private communication using CTCSS or DCS privacy codes to prevent interference from other users. These channels are useful for both general communication and emergency situations.

The UV-21R is built to be durable and can handle outdoor conditions thanks to its IP54 water resistance rating and sturdy design. It’s well-suited for outdoor enthusiasts, including hikers and campers, but should still be treated with care, as it is not designed for extreme impacts or heavy falls.

Yes, this radio is a great choice for emergency preparedness due to its long communication range, dual-band functionality, and weather-resistant design. The emergency alert feature is particularly useful in urgent situations, providing an added layer of security in case of natural disasters or other emergencies.

While this device performs well in open, rural environments, its range may be limited in urban areas with obstructions like buildings and dense structures. Users may experience reduced signal quality or range in cities with high interference.

The UV-21R comes with an earpiece, a high-gain antenna, a belt clip, and a Type-C charging cable. These accessories enhance the functionality and portability of the radio, ensuring you're ready for both communication and convenience on the go.