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--- vhf_uhf_beginners [2025/04/27 20:15] – formatting m7tox
+++ vhf_uhf_beginners [2025/04/27 20:42] (current) – m7tox
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 If you are an absolute beginner, there is something to be said for the humble 'Baofeng', a cheap 2m/70cm mobile. They can be somewhat divisive in the community because, if we're honest, they are a little bit naff. But for about £20, what were you expecting? They do have their place though, they're a great option for someone wanting to break into VHF/UHF and they're cheap enough that you could justify getting one before you get your license to have a listen and get a feel for things. (Listening to the amateur bands, in the UK at least, doesn't require you to be licensed.)
-The UV5R is the current model that is the most common but most of them have similar methods of operation, so if you've got a different one, it's likely quite similar to use.
+This is the first crossroads in your VHF journey, either:
+- You buy a cheap baofeng, or one of the similar chinese brands for about £20
+- You spend about £100 on a 'better' handheld
+Here is a comparison between a Baofeng UV5R and a Yaesu FT-70D (The author owns both of these, other brands and models are available but these demonstrate the different price points quite well:
+^ Baofeng UV5R             ^ Yaesu FT-50D            ^
+| ~£20    | ~£100     |
+| Sold 'as is', don't expect a warranty or much in the way of support from the manufacturer | A reputable brand, support is generally available   |
+| Both Recieve and transmit on 2m and 70cm ||
+| FM only   | FM and C4FM (A digital mode that's fairly common)   |
+| Construction is reasonable, does feel a bit cheaper, but it //is cheaper,// so...  | Well built, pretty rugged |
+| Can both be programmed with a data cable on your computer or via the handheld itself  ||
+| Both have a stock battery of: 1800mAh||
+| Doesn't have an S-meter on the screen| Has an S-meter on the screen|
+| Frequently reported to not receive as well as it transmits, signals are often quiet| Receives good audio reports, no complaints|
+| Can both transmit CTSS tones and work with an offset to access repeaters ||
+===== How to get started, or: 'My first Baofeng' =====