Are you trying to find handheld aviation radios among various brands on the market but aren’t sure where to begin? To assist you in finding the right one, we’ve put together a list of the 7 best to help you pick the perfect one!
We investigated and evaluated a number of the top-selling handheld aviation radios on the market in order to create our list of the best. Making a decision among the many options available is never simple. There are an infinite number of models available, each with a distinct price. And as you’ll find out, the best options aren’t usually the ones you imagine! This comparison is rich and relevant because of the numerous factors that were employed. You will find products featured in this ranking not only based on their pricing but also on their features and other customers reviews. To write this review, we completed 12 hours of research and did 29 handheld aviation radios tests. You won’t need to pick products at random any more. If you’re unsure of what to look for, browse our list and consult the buying guide!
An overview of our top picks
Table of contents
The best handheld aviation radios you can buy today
- Quick Access NOAA Weather
- Standard GA Headset Jacks and 3.5mm Headphone Jack
- Battery Pack Size is 4.5 inches long x 2.25 inches wide and 1 inch thick
- Easy-to-Read Oversized Screen with Large Keypad
- Automatic Noise Limiter
- Last Frequency Flip-Flop Button
- 6 Watts (PEP) Transmit Power
- 20 Scannable Memory Channels
- Includes a USB-A to USB-C Adapter Cable
- Backlit Screen and Keyboard
- LISTEN IN AND STAY INFORMED, this sophisticated scanner has 500 alpha-tagged channels in a convenient compact design with loads of features. Close Call RF capture technology instantly tunes to signals from nearby transmitters and the Do Not Disturb Mode prevents Close Call checks during a transmission.
- LISTEN TO OVER 40,000 FREQUENCIES, you can listen to both civilian and military bands, including Non-Digital Police, Ambulance, Fire, Weather, Marine, Aircraft, Railroad, Civil Air, Amateur radio services, and Racing events.
- SEARCH MORE EFFICIENTLY with 500 Alpha-Tagged Channels finding the channel you want to listen to is easy, with 500 channels divided into 10 storage banks. Organize your channels by department, location, area of interest, or any other way you prefer. Alpha Tagging lets you assign names to your channels, so you can keep track of who you are listening to.
- LIGHTWIEGHT PORTABLE DESIGN, take this Bearcat handheld radio scanner with you on the road, or on outings. It packs plenty of features, the orange backlight display is easy to read, even in low light conditions.
- GET STARTED LISTENING RIGHT AWAY with convenient Pre-sets for the most popular searches. Frequencies are preset in ten separate Non -Digital Police/Fire/Emergency, Ham, Marine, Railroad, Civil Air, Military Air, CB Radio, FRS/GMRS/MURS, and Racing search bands. This makes it easy to find channels that interest you.
- EXCELLENT HAND-HELD SCANNER (Please note: model BC125AT is NOT suitable for Trunking or Digital Radio system monitoring, (e.g. Project 25, DMR, NXDN). Some Police/Fire/Emergency/Public Safety Agencies in larger cities are switching over to DIGITAL Trunking systems. If you live in an area where Trunking or Digital Radio systems are used, you need to upgrade to a Uniden Digital model (“D” stands for Digital), such as models BCD436HP, BCD536HP, BCD996P2, BCD325P2, or HomePatrol-2.
- NOTE: The product does not have 2-way communication, is only a scanner for receiving radio transmissions
- Full keypad to input the channel or frequency directly
- Exclusive button for 121.5MHz emergency channel
- Side tone function to hear your own voice via a third party aviation headset (not included)
- BNC type antenna connector
- Li-ion Battery - BP-280
- Powerful ground-to-air communication: The Wouxun KG-S74A offers up to 6W PEP RF output power and a superheterodyne receiver for clear reception during flights.
- Extensive airband coverage: Supports 118-137 MHz AM frequencies and features 400 memory channels, NOAA weather channels, and 5 weather alert notifications.
- User-friendly design: Backlit LCD display and keypad, configurable keys, and built-in flashlight provide easy operation in various conditions.
- Long-lasting battery life: The 2000mAh lithium-ion battery pack offers up to 26 hours of use, with a battery save feature to maximize power during flights.
- USB-C charging: Charge your radio effortlessly using the built-in USB-C port for quick and convenient charging on the go.
- IP67 waterproof and durable: The KG-S74A's compact design is IP67 waterproof, ensuring reliable performance in various weather conditions.
- Tri-Band Flexibility for Licensed Amateur Operators: Unlock unparalleled versatility with the ability to operate across VHF, UHF, and the 1.25M band, offering broader communication options for licensed operators. With a powerful 8W output on VHF/UHF and 5W on 1.25M, the BF-F8HP PRO ensures you’re equipped for clear, reliable transmissions across multiple bands.
- Emergency Ready with NOAA Weather Radio and GPS: Stay ahead of the storm with built-in NOAA weather mode, keeping you informed of severe weather. Paired with GPS location sharing, you’re always prepared for any situation, whether in emergencies or outdoor adventures.
- Customizable Zone Management for Ultimate Control: Manage your communications with ease using customizable zone control, allowing you to organize up to 1000 channels across multiple zones. Dual independent zone control lets you monitor two zones simultaneously for ultimate flexibility.
- Aviation Reception: The BF-F8HP PRO provides aviation band monitoring with 108-136 MHz coverage, AM modulation, and 8.33 kHz channel spacing. Ideal for aviation enthusiasts this feature allows you to stay updated on airband communications (RX only) with crystal-clear reception.
- Firmware Updatable for Long-Term Value: Stay ahead of the game with firmware updates using the PC03 Programming Cable, ensuring your BF-F8HP PRO always has the latest features and performance enhancements. Unlike other distributors that push you to buy new radios for updates, we prioritize sustainability by reducing e-waste and designing a product built to last. Invest in a radio that grows with you, not against you.
- BTECH is proud to be in the USA, which allows you to have the best available local support for any issue that may arise. BTECH only engineers and develops radio products. This brand focus allows you to have the best available radios and accessories with the most features, with real USA warranty and support.
- Aviation Airband Transceiver NAV/COM with ILS and VOR Navigation
- Li-Ion Battery
- AA Battery Tray
- Comes with Antenna
- Comes with Headset Adapter
- Bluetooth version offers hands-free operation
- Full keypad to input the channel or frequency directly
- Exclusive button for 121.5MHz emergency channel
- Side tone function to hear your own voice via a third party aviation headset
- LCD backlight for night time operation
- 5W TX output
- 700 mW Audio Output
- 250 Memory Channels
- 8.33kHz Narrow Band compatible
- IPX5 Waterproof rating
- NAV/COM with ILS and VOR Navigation
- Aviation Airband
- AA Battery Tray only
- Comes with Headset Adapter
- NO Rechargeable Battery
- RA79 dual band ham radio; upgrade for 5R 3rd; 200 channels for secure calls; large LCD display; dual-band display; high/low power two modes; A/B band independent operation
- Triple band reception; RA79 walkie talkie can receive 2m and 70cm band information; greatly expands the user's communication range and flexibility; AM aviation reception function suitable for aviation enthusiasts
- Chrip support; VFO function; users can choose to manually set the frequency through the keyboard or use a PC to add new channels and settings
- 2 charging methods optional; the USB-C charging cable and charging base allow you to charge the RA79 conveniently outdoors or at home; the 1400mAh large capacity battery allows you to use it for longer when camping or hiking in the wild
- Wireless pairing;RA79 ham radio can easily copy the frequency of other walkie talkies; simplifying the operation steps, Channel capture, it is convenient to seek walkie talkies frequency through shortcut key F + 4;fast and efficient to find a channel for communication in emergency rescue
- Wireless Bluetooth Operation
- Integrated 66 Channel WAAS GPS Receiver
- 8.33 kHz Narrow Band Compatible
- Antenna
- Li-Ion Battery Pack (7.2V, 2200 mAh)
- [Easy to Use:] The radio boasts an intuitive design and a user-friendly interface, making it effortless to navigate and customize settings, even for beginners. Its large 1.77-inch LCD screen offers excellent resolution, ensuring clear visibility even on sunny days.
- [Broad Frequency Coverage:] The RT-470X offers extensive frequency coverage, supporting 8 receiving bands (including FM/AM) and 3 transmitting bands. 144-148/420-450Mhz ham radio band transmitting and receiving, 18-76Mhz VHF Receiver(FM), 108-136Mhz AM Receive, 136-660Mhz UHF/VHF Receiver, 840-999Mhz UHF Receiver
- [Flexible Programming Options:] The RT-470X features an internal programmable chip, compatible with traditional 2-pin interfaces and popular programming cables. Additionally, it supports CHIRP and CPS software programming, providing further flexibility and customization options.
- [Wireless Frequency Copy:] This feature enables the radio to copy frequencies and CTCSS/DCS tones from other radios, allowing immediate communication without the need for programming. It's particularly convenient for communicating with non-LCD models, provided they are within a 1-meter distance.
- [Dual PTT Button]: The RT-470X radio can be programmed for dual PTT transmission, where PTT1 transmits the UHF frequency in band 1, and PTT2 transmits the VHF frequency in band 2. This provides convenient operation without having to switch the main band.
- [Innovative Features:] The radio boasts advanced functionalities, including 8-band receiving, one-key frequency matching, local repeater import, DTMF function, flashlight, frog end tone, and a customizable 1.77-inch TFT color screen. Additionally, it features an SOS emergency alarm and VOX hand-free operation for enhanced convenience and safety.
- [Package Contents:]1x Radtel RT-470X Ham Radio,1x 2800mAh Type-C Battery, 1x 7.87-inch Dual Band 145/435 Antenna, 1x 39-inch USB-C Charger Cable, 1x Belt Clip with Metal Piece, 1x English User Manual,1x AC Power Adapter with USB Port (FCC ID: 2AZSA-RT470X)
- Airband Aviation
- NAV/COM/GPS
- Li-Ion Battery
- Alkaline Battery Tray
- Headset Adapter
- Excellent Features: FCC ID: 2ADQZGMRS1 with Part 15B and Part 95E. Tx Range (MHz): 462/467MHz, Rx Range (MHz): 136-520MHz. Beyond the basics of GMRS radio, the A36SE boasts a host of innovative features, including multi-band receiving bands (AM/FM reception), NOAA Weather alerts, Air Band, DTMF Lock, Roger Beep, 1.44 inch color screen, 512 Channels, etc
- One More Antenna Choice: Compared with traditional GMRS radio antennas, our A36SE is equipped with an additional 805 short antenna, which can get rid of all kinds of troubles caused by long antennas when you don't need to use ultra-long-distance communication, and at the same time provide clear reception and transmission
- Suitable for Team Work: The small and lightweight A36SE radio is a necessary tool for travel, survival, hiking, cycling, work, camping, fishing, marine, outdoor adventures, and emergency alarms
- Customer Service Support: If you encounter any problems while using Talkpod two way radio (not only A36SE), our professional technical team will always be ready to provide you with necessary assistance. Please don't hesitate to contact us via Amazon/email for a satisfactory solution
- All You Need Are Included: 1 X A36SE GMRS Radio Handheld/ 1 X 1500mAh Type-C Battery/ 1 X 805 Short Antenna/ 1 X 15.12inch 771 AM Antenna(120/300MHZ)/ 1 X Earpiece/ /1 X Desk Charger/ 1 X USB-C Charger & cable/ 1 X K-Port Cable/ 1 X Back Clip/ 1 X User Manual/ 1 X Lanyard
- Seamless Bluetooth Connectivity for Enhanced Control: Effortlessly sync your UV-PRO with the BTECH UV Programmer App on iOS and Android for text messaging, GPS sharing, and streamlined device management. Enjoy ultimate convenience and control, whether on the move or in the field.
- Emergency Ready with NOAA Weather Alerts and Built-In Compass: Be ready for any challenge with real-time NOAA weather alerts and an integrated compass for navigation. The UV-PRO is the ultimate tool for emergency preparedness, outdoor adventures, and everyday communication.
- Effortless Frequency Detection: With the UV-PRO’s Frequency Sync Rapid Scanning, you can quickly locate and lock onto nearby active frequencies. Whether you’re coordinating a team or scanning emergency channels, this feature ensures you’re always connected to the conversations that matter most.
- Complete Package for Easy Setup: Get started immediately with the UV-PRO Radio, a 2600mAh battery, antenna, belt clip, Type-C USB charging cable, screws and screwdriver, and a detailed user manual. Designed for reliability and convenience, the UV-PRO is your ultimate two-way radio solution.
- Rugged and Reliable: Engineered to withstand the toughest environments, the UV-PRO’s IP67 rating ensures it’s fully protected against dust and can survive immersion in water up to 1 meter deep for 30 minutes. Perfect for construction sites, outdoor adventures, or any situation where reliability is key.
- Stay Connected Worldwide: The UV-PRO’s Bluetooth compatibility allows you to connect to a global network of users through the BTECH UV Programmer App. Share channels, join network groups, and maintain communication with ease—no matter where you are.
- BTECH is proud to be in the USA, which allows you to have the best available local support for any issue that may arise. BTECH only engineers and develops radio products. This brand focus allows you to have the best available radios and accessories with the most features, with real USA warranty and support.
- Comm Only
- Li-Ion Battery
- Cigarette Lighter Adapter
- Alkaline Battery Tray
- Headset Adapter
- Soundtracker System – Dramatically improves the transmission and reception of CB radios by filtering through 90% of noise. This system reconfigures the transmission signal and allows it to be transferred more effectively through cluttered air waves.
- NOAA Weather & Emergency Radio - Be prepared and never surprised when it comes to changes on the road ahead. Get 24-hour updates on weather conditions, emergencies, and incoming hazards with the built-in NOAA Weather Radio Channel.
- Maximum Awareness - With the Dual Watch feature you can program your radio to monitor two pre-selected channels at once. Tune to the 1st channel you want to program. Press and hold the DW button until "DW" begins flashing on the display.
- Full Coverage - CB radios provide reliable communication which is not dependent on satellites and cellular networks. This CB Radio can access up to 40 CB radio channels and scan to find the one with the best signal with the touch of a button.
- 4W Power Output – Filter out background noise from traffic or engine with Cobra’s range of CB Radios. With the maximum power allowed by law, 4 Watts of Radio Frequency output power, as well as a heavy-duty microphone for loud, clear sound.
- Easy to Use – In the instance you are driving at dusk, dawn, or any other tough lighting condition, the illuminated multifunctional display allows you to see your radio clearly. The handheld design allows you to take radio with you wherever you go.
- Includes: Icom A25N Transceiver
- FA-B02AR antenna
- BP-288 Li-ion Battery Pack
- OPC-2379 headset adapter
- More
- LISTEN IN AND STAY INFORMED, this sophisticated scanner has 300 user-programable channels in a convenient compact design with loads of features. Close Call RF capture technology instantly tunes to signals from nearby transmitters and the Do Not Disturb Mode prevents Close Call checks during a transmission.
- LISTEN TO OVER 32,000 FREQUENCIES, you can listen to both civilian and military bands, including Non-Digital Police, Ambulance, Fire, NOAA Weather, Marine, Aircraft, Railroad, Civil Air, Amateur radio services, and Racing events.
- SEARCH MORE EFFICIENTLY with 300 Channels finding the channel you want to listen to is easy, with 300 channels divided into 10 storage banks. Organize your channels by department, location, area of interest, or any other way you prefer.
- LIGHTWIEGHT PORTABLE DESIGN, take this Bearcat handheld radio scanner with you on the road, or on outings. It packs plenty of features, the orange backlight display is easy to read, even in low light conditions.
- GET STARTED LISTENING RIGHT AWAY with convenient Pre-sets for the most popular searches. Frequencies are preset in ten separate Weather, Non -Digital Police/Fire/Emergency, Marine, Racing, Civil Air, HAM Radio, Railroad, CB radio, and Other.This makes it easy to find channels that interest you.
- EXCELLENT HAND-HELD SCANNER (Please note: model BC75XLT is NOT suitable for trunking or digital radio system monitoring, (e.g. Project 25, DMR, NXDN). Some Police/Fire/Emergency/Public Safety Agencies in larger cities are switching over to DIGITAL Trunking systems. If you live in an area where Trunking or Digital radio systems are used, you need to upgrade to a Uniden Digital model (“D” stands for Digital), such as models BCD436HP, BCD536HP, BCD996P2, BCD325P2, or HomePatrol-2.
- The BC75XLT operates on two AA batteries, (batteries are not included). Use either two AA Alkaline or AA rechargeable Ni-MH batteries. Before purchasing, please confirm whether the communication you want to receive is Digital or Analog. This product does not have 2-way communication, it is a scanner for receiving radio transmissions.
- 300 Channels: You can program up to 300 channels into the scanner's memory, 30 channels in each of 10 banks. Then, you can scan for transmissions on the stored channels
- Close Call RF Capture Technology: Close Call automatically detects and tunes to nearby transmissions, even if the frequency isn't programmed into a channel
- Runs on 2 AA alkaline or Simple USB charging allows you to recharge your scanner's batteries from a computer, or adapters for many wireless telephones
- Narrowband Compliant: Properly tunes to channels using the Narrowband modulation now required for business and public safety operation
- Ten Preprogrammed Service Search Bands: Easily search for frequencies typically used by Police, Fire/Emergency, Marine, Racing, Civil Air, Ham Radio, Railroad, CB Radio, Weather, and more
- Refer user manual below.
- ✅[Professional GMRS Radio with Upgrade Function] UV-5RM GMRS radio handheld upgrades from Baofeng UV-5R. Same as BAOFENG UV-5G Plus! It adds Copy Frequency, Multi-Band,stopwatch, power-on password management, DTMF, BCL, and TOT functions. Basic functions: 999 Channels, CTCSS and DCS codes, SOS Emergency, Scan, VOX Mode for Hands-Free, A/B band independent operation, dual display, dual standby, Auto Keypad Lock and so on. (FCC ID: 2AJGM-5GPLUS)--Supports CHIRP programming (select "UV-5G Plus" under -Rad-ioddity.), Suppots CPS(walkietalkiesoftware.com).
- ✅[Multi-band Capability] The UV5RM GMRS Radio offers an extensive frequency range, compatible with GMRS, UHF, VHF, FM, and AM reception. It features a large channel capacity of 969 and is compatible with GMRS repeaters. It's ideal for keeping in touch with family and friends at crowded events, coordinating with travel companions in another vehicle, chatting with neighbors, and communicating during activities like hiking, biking, and working
- ✅[1.9 Inch Large Display] Unlike the smaller screens on traditional Baofeng walkie-talkies such as the UV-5R, BF-F8HP, BF-H8HP Pro, and UV-82, the BF-UV5RM GMRS handheld radio boasts a bigger screen that displays the current output power and shows channel information in larger text, enhancing your visual experience
- ✅[One key frequency Match] Menu-15 Or function key-One touch frequency Search,Easily copy multiple walkie-talkie channels with UV5RM wireless duplicate frequency feature to ensure consistent and convenient team communications
- ✅[5 Watt Long-Range Talk] The 5RM GMRS with its real 5W power output and upgraded high gain 8" antenna, ensures long-range communication. Perfect for adventures across mountains, deserts, and forests. Or you can add a longer GMRS antenna for more complex use cases. Additionally, we have equipped you with an upgraded 11.2 inch long aviation band antenna, work on 120/300MHz，you can get better reception anytime, anywhere
- ✅[New feature-Stopwatch Timer and...]Effortlessly track time with precision and ease, making this stopwatch a must-have tool for any busy professional or sports enthusiast(Menu-44).POWER ON MSG---customize the ICOM according to users' preferences(Logo or voltage)(Menu 40).Compare with traditional baofeng walkie talkies, BF-UV5RM GMRS radio allows you to define visual and audible features such as Display Illumination Time, MR/Channel Mode Display Format, Power On Message, Power On password, Keypad Beep, Roger Beep, Voice Prompt, etc. to suit your usage habits!
- ✅[Support & Service] Please contact us via Amazon if you have any problems with your walkie-talkie.We offer a 30-day return and exchange policy and a 12-month service for your peace of mind
How to choose a good handheld aviation radios
Does the idea of finding a fantastic handheld aviation radios make you anxious? When it comes to purchasing this product, specifically when deciding which model to select, has your head been spinning between options? You are not alone if that is the case. We are aware of the pressure involved in the purchasing process!
Your presence here indicates that you are interested in handheld aviation radios. Before choosing which product would be the best for your needs after being inundated with information, locate a reliable source with genuine selections. You can get that information from a variety of sources, including buying guides and rating websites, word-of-mouth recommendations from friends and family, online discussion forums where users can share their own experiences, product reviews that can be found all over the internet, and YouTube channels. You can only get the right product through exhaustive analysis. But you realize that’s not always simple. In order to ease your concerns, we have taken the time to develop a list of the top handheld aviation radios products available right now. You might be wondering how we came up with the list. How was this buying guide developed?
First, we used our algorithms to gather as much reliable data as we could about these products. To verify all the data gathered, we used both artificial intelligence and a lot of algorithms.
Then, our experts used criteria that are recognized in the business to evaluate them according to their quality to price ratio, allowing us to choose the top handheld aviation radios on the market right now!
The selection of the goods is not arbitrary. Before creating a list, we take into account a number of factors. Below are some of the criteria discussed:
Brand Value: What happens if you choose a dubious brand just because it appears to be a good deal? So the likelihood of receiving a product with a short shelf life increases. That is due to the fact that well-known brands have a reputation to uphold, while others do not. Top handheld aviation radios brands strive to provide some distinctive traits that set them apart from the competition. So, hopefully one or more of the items on our list will be perfect for you.
Features: Useful features are all you need, not tons of them. We consider the important aspects and select the top handheld aviation radios based on those.
Specifications: Numbers always help you measure the quality of a product in a quantitative way. We try to find products with higher specifications, but with the right balance.
Quality: A product’s quality may always be quantified with the aid of numbers. We look for goods with better standards that strike the proper balance. The best quality product that gets highly appreciated and recommended by experienced users.
Customer ratings: Would it be accurate to suggest that the handheld aviation radios were used by hundreds of customers before you? Superior ratings indicate that many customers had better service.
Customer Reviews: Like ratings, provide you with accurate and reliable information about the product from genuine customers. Customer ratings are very important to all of us because they contain accurate and reliable information about the customer service we received from several hundred customers.
Seller Rank: This is very intriguing! Not only do you need a good handheld aviation radios, you also need a product with rising sales that is trendy. It accomplishes two goals. First, the expanding user base proves the quality of the product. Second, given that number, producers must be able to offer greater quality and after-sales support.
Value: You get what you pay for, they say, so consider the value. Cheap isn’t always good and expensive isn’t always bad. However, that does not imply that spending a lot of money on a product that is flashy but underwhelming is a good idea. Before adding them to the list, we make an effort to evaluate how much value you can get for your money from your handheld aviation radios.
Durability: Durability and reliability are closely related concepts. You will benefit from a strong and long-lasting handheld aviation radios for months and years to come.
Product availability: Products come and go, and new ones replace the old ones. Most likely, a few new features and required changes were made. What use is it to use a supposedly good product if the maker no longer supports it? We make an effort to highlight products that are current and offered by one or more trustworthy sellers, if not more.
Negative Reviews: Yes, we do take that into account as well! The goods with the majority of bad reviews are filtered out and disregarded when we choose the best-rated one on the market.
These are the standards by which we selected our handheld aviation radios. Do we end our process there? Hell no. The most crucial fact about us that you should be aware of is that we regularly update our website with current and pertinent information. We have one more layer of filtration since we place the greatest importance on reader satisfaction. Please let us know if any product included here is incorrect, irrelevant, subpar, or simply out of date. We always value your opinions, and we’ll work hard to make any necessary corrections to our list in response to them.
Why should you believe us?
There are now thousands of possibilities for these products on Amazon, but choosing the best one can be difficult and time-consuming. And what handheld aviation radios should you purchase in 2022?
This guide is the result of more than 10 years of experience in researching, testing and writing about many topics. Each member of our team is an authority in their area. We read every article we could find online and every consumer review on every retail website for seven hours. Additionally, we discovered a ton of websites that offered helpful resources, including buying tips and thorough information on handheld aviation radios.
