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Best Antenna for Baofeng UV-5R & Other Accessories

Disappointed with quality of your stock Baofeng antenna? Swap out that antenna for something better, it can make all the difference. Here are our candidates for the best antenna for Baofeng UV-5R radio.

Best Antenna for Baofeng UV-5R Radios Guide

The Baofeng UV-5R radio has a great reputation as an extremely compact and economical Dual Band UHF/VHF amateur radio, introduced first by Baofeng in 2012 with various cosmetic variants. Its transceiver has FM broadcast reception, the radio has 128 channels and a 12-hour battery life, and the radio itself provides great mobility at a low cost. It also supports dual watch and reception, with two-way amateur connections.

Why buy a new UV-5R antenna?

Despite its excellent portability, radio enthusiasts and users of this particular Baofeng model have consistently complained about the stock antenna which comes with the radio. Generally, the smaller the antenna size, the less efficient it is. It offers a poor handheld reception experience (even for contacts within less than 50 kilometers), does not pick up clear or strong bands, and emits low and unclear signals. In some cases, it performs noticeably worse than cheaper antennas.

However, it seems a pity to write off an otherwise well-performing radio because of its stock antenna, which luckily can easily be replaced with a higher performing option. As radio enthusiasts know, a radio cannot work at its full potential without the right antenna. An improved antenna for your Baofeng could improve your reception of signals and transmissions across long and short distances, and an antenna upgrade can also improve communication and make it clearer.

How we chose these antennas

Antennas come in all shapes, sizes, styles and brands, and what you choose will largely depend on what you want to use your radio for, while also aiming to maintain the portability and affordability which the Baofeng already offers. Also, it is worth noting that when choosing a new antenna, it does not necessarily need to be anything specific to your radio model, as long as you take into consideration the bands you wish to operate. You also need to watch out for the difference between male and female SMA connectors, although using an adapter is always an option.

When looking for the best aftermarket antenna for Baofeng UV-5r, we took several aspects of the products into consideration, including price and value, commercial availability, reception capabilities, size, and portability.

 

1. Nagoya NA-771

An inexpensive option, the Nagoya provides markedly improved performance with extended frequencies. Read more...

It is longer in length, reaching over 15 inches, which may make it difficult to use in a car, however. It will allow you to receive FM stations on your Baofeng, and will allow you to bring out the best of your radio. Because it is flexible and well-made, you can move around with it freely, without worrying about breaking it or damaging the connection. It provides excellent signal reports, and has an extended antenna cover to protect your radio SMA male base from the elements. It is most popular for camping, backpacking, and outdoor use. In our opinion, the Nagoya NA-771 is the best aftermarket antenna for Baofeng UV-5R radios. -BUY IT

2. Hypario 771

Thanks to its great price, this dual band Ham radio antenna is the perfect replacement for the Baofeng stock antenna, especially for the novice radio enthusiast, as it is one of the most compatible antennas to go with the Baofeng model. Read more...

Its length is slightly longer than the other cheaper models on this list, measuring in at 15 inches, but its impressive range and flexibility definitely make up for this. It can receive 396mm high grain dual bands and can be connected to the uv-5r with a SMA female connector. It can pick up repeaters from up to 30 miles away, and performs well in urban terrain. It is also compatible with other handheld radios such as the Kenwood range, though is particularly noted for its compatibility with Baofeng. They are known to increase rx and tx performance, are sturdy, fit perfectly with no gaps, and work well both indoors and outdoors. -BUY IT

3. Secuda NA-773

The Secuda is a strong favorite. As a dual-band extendable whip antenna, it is flexible, extremely portable, and works with a wide range of handheld radios. Read more...

In terms of specs, it receives 144 MHz VHF and 430 MHz UHF bands, has 10 watts of max power and approximately 2.15db of gain, allowing you to hit repeaters from up to 45 miles of range, across all terrains. You can use it either extended or retracted, and the length ranges from 4 to 14 inches. It also plugs in with the SMA female connector. It is known to work even as well as the standard aerial, and is a lot lighter than many other replacement antennas. However, it can be slightly fragile, especially around the base, so it might not be the ideal choice for field work. -BUY IT

 

4. Tram 1185

19 inches in length, with a 3-inch magnet mount, the antenna transmits 2 meter VHF and 70cm UHF, and can unscrew from the magnet. The amateur dual-band magnet antenna allows you to stay easily connected, and features a black finish. Read more...

You can record from your repeater from distances up to and above 50 miles, and it even works over hills and mountainous terrain. It is easy to assemble, although the DB gain is not very strong and you will need to use an adapter. However, the Tram is overall an excellent amateur dual band magnet antenna which serves as an adequate replacement for the Baofeng stock piece. It is a mobile antenna, so you can place it both in your car and on nearly any handheld radio. Its max power is 75 watts, and although it is a very affordable option, it works just as well as many of the more expensive options. It is also very durable, and is able to bear through rough weather. The Tram requires an SMA female to UHF female RF adapter, which can also be purchased on Amazon. It also comes with a cable and connector. -BUY IT

 

5. Diamond RH205 HT

Although it is a pricier choice, this antenna upgrade is definitely worth the upgrade. Its coverage ranges from 144 – 148 MHz, its max power is 50 watts, and the length starts at 9 inches and scales to 48 inches. Read more...

You will receive successful repeaters up to and over 70 miles. However, like any telescopic product, this antenna is not for the careless type as it can easily be broken. For the best care, collapse it from the bottom stage by stage, and remove it from your radio when not in use, if this is practical for you. It is too long to use if exploring in a car, however it will make a major difference once in use exploring outdoors. While it performs exceptionally well gains-wise, its length is off-putting for many users, and can cause stress on an average radio’s antenna connector. This Diamond antenna uses a BNC connector. It’s length also makes it difficult to keep the radio upright on a level surface when it is attached. -BUY IT

 

6. The ExpertPower

Measuring in at 7.5 inches, this dual-band antenna works perfectly with the Baofeng uv 5r as well as other handheld radios, offering high performance at a reasonable price. Read more...

It transmits on 136-174 MHz VHF and 400-470 MHz UHF bands, and its transmission power is a massive upgrade from the stock antenna. It performs well in urban settings, across high mileage, and around buildings and houses. You can connect it to your radio with a female SMA connector, and it provides more gain than most stock antennas. It is ideal for everyday use and is easy to carry, due to its flexible and lightweight design. It is definitely one of the most high-rated antennas on the market at the moment and will sit snugly at the bottom of your radio, leaving no gaps and protecting it from the elements. The cap at the end is made of plastic instead of rubber, what is found on most whip antennas. It promises to boost your Baofeng radio’s range and reception. It is especially useful for getting in and out of cars, because it is short enough to stay clear of the roof. It is also ideal for backpackers, as it fits neatly into compartments and bags without getting deformed. However, some radios other than the Baofeng cannot handle this level of SWR, so watch out and be careful not to blow out your radio! -BUY IT

Where can I find Baofeng chargers?

Whether or not you want to upgrade your UV-5R antenna, you should still consider grabbing a spare charger for your Baofeng radio. It is the ideal way to set down your radio and forget about it, knowing it is charging in its dock until you need it again.

Amazon tends to be the easiest place to find spare chargers, especially if you are looking for original chargers produced by Baofeng. These are also compatible with the: UV-5RA, UV-5RB, UV-5RC, UV-5RD, UV-5R, UV-5REPLUS, and more. -BUY IT!

There are also some third party options available:

Notice the special Baofeng car chargers, which can be incredibly useful for radio enthusiasts on the go.

Best Speaker Mic for Baofeng UV-5R

The QHM22 by Kenwood is the best speaker mic for Baofeng UV-5R radios. This speaker mic is the most affordable and durable in its class. It is compatible with all of the following radios and more:

Click for List of Compatible Radios

BaoFeng: BF-F8HP, UV-5R Series, BF-888S, UV-3R+, UV-82C, UV-82HP, UV-82 Series
BTECH: DMR-6X2, UV-5X3, GMRS-V1, MURS-V1
AnyTone: AT-D868UV
TYT: MD-380, TYT MD-390, TYT radios with Kenwood 2 Pin Standard
Arcshell: AR-5, AR-6
Retevis: H-777, RT-21
Radioddity: GD-77

We prefer it over the official Baofeng speaker mic, which has had numerous quality control issues. This speaker mic, on the other hand, is tried and tested with nearly all Baofeng radios and has thousands of proud owners. Law enforcement and medics everywhere love this speaker microphone, and for good reason!

Design & Features:

This two-way speaker mic is made with reinforced spiral cabling, so it will stand up to stretching, tension, and resist fraying for years.

It is also waterproof, so it can go with you into even the harshest conditions. Made with an impact resistant polyvinyl chloride shell, it can handle shocks, drops, and blasts with ease.

With an 8-way reinforced spring clip, you can attach it to your jacket, waist, lapel, shoulder strap, or anywhere else because of the degrees of freedom built into this stainless steel swivel clip.

Finally, men everywhere have praised this as the best speaker mic for Baofeng radios because of its incredible call quality. Even in high winds, trucks, and crowded areas, this speaker mic has impressive sound isolation leading to tremendous call quality. -BUY IT

Specifications:

  • Jack accepts 3.5mm listen-only earpiece (not included) and produces stereo output
  • Does not require separate power source
  • Weight: 4.8 Ounces
  • Material: PVC case, stainless steel clip
  • Pins: 2
  • Compatibility: any type 2 pin connector

Best Programming Cable for Baofeng UV-5R

The PC03 by BTECH is the best programming cable for Baofeng UV-5R radios. This programming cable is compatible with all FTDI Baofeng and Kenwood 2-pin radios, and should allow you to program your radio from a Windows, Mac, or Linux computer with the right drivers. In many cases, your computer will automatically install the right drivers after you plug this in.

Design & Features:

This is a genuine FTDI USB programming cable and has proven best for programming most Baofeng radios.

It does not present the usual compatibility issues that some of the knockoff brands have. This one simply works as you would expect. You will not need to back-date your drivers the way that cheap clone cables might force you to do.

If you run into any issues programming your Baofeng, just check out these resources for all your radio programming questions.  -BUY IT

Specifications:

Length: approximately 24-inches

Weight: 1.6 ounces

Compatibility: BaoFeng UV-5Rs, UV-82s, BF-F8HP, UV-5X3, UV-82HP and nearly all radios with 2-pin connectors

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