BAOFENGUV-17R Ham Radio Upgrade of baofeng UV-5R Long Range Two Way Radio Dual Band Walkie Talkie for Adults 2 Way Radio with 999 Channels USB Charger Earpiece Flashlight Battery(2 Pack)

If you're not careful you may end up a Ham Radio Enthusiast. That's what happened to me. Hundreds of dollars later I hardly ever use these radios anymore. But if you're looking for something to get you started, this is the way to go.

As a long time licensed ham radio operator it has been a given that Baofeng radios are not highly rated or considered. With this model, however, things are different. Upgrades like the color screen, 999 memories instead of 128, chargers that plug directly into the wall outlet instead of using a "wall wart", and improved waterproofing with the batteries that screw on add to both the value and usability. I have used the radios not only for repeater contacts, but simplex contacts as well where is where it is easy to see the performance. Additionally, they feel good in the hand. The only negatives which are not serious enough to knock off a star are the screwdriver, thoughtfully included since the batteries are screw on for water protection, is really too small and the screw heads are more like coin slots, and the dual antennas. There is a short dual band antenna and a longer tri-band antenna. I wish they would develop a shorter tri-band antenna for the convenience. Yes, the longer antenna improves performance as any ham knows, but the tradeoff is extra care required to keep from hitting things, particularly if carried on the belt. Again, I still rated this as five stars.

Good set of radios. Pretty noisy on the transmit though...

I own several Baofeng handheld models. These UV-17R are my favorite. This package came with 2 antennas for each radio. Mine came with 2 antennas as pictured in the add. There are 2 long tri-band antennas labeled "ABBREE 144/220/435" and 2 no-name short antennas that are clearly marked as "FM/136/400" (not 220). Reception is pretty good with both antennas. It doesn't come with the standard, rigid hard plastic antenna, which was fine with me.I like using 220, so that was more important than airband. I wanted to play around with airband, which this doesn't have, but I liked all the other features (and extra antennas) enough to keep them. These radios feel VERY solidly built.The USB-C charging is a major upgrade. I have not used the cradles because I have USB-C chargers laying around and it is just so convenient to just plug it in like any other USB-C device. The other thing I really like is the downward-facing LEDs. It makes total sense to be able to illuminate a map or document while you are holding and talking into your radio.I like the green color of the radios as well. The speaker behind the buttons sounds very good and doesn't take up a lot of space like the on on a typical UV5R. The upgraded, much larger screen is a good upgrade as well.FM Radio reception was very good. I picked up all of the expected local stations. The speaker is VERY loud. since it isn't stereo, the fidelity isn't incredible, but perfectly functional and clear for the intended purpose (which isn't music). NOAA channels worked well also. I didn't test the "waterproof" claim. They do have a gasket and screw-locking back cover. The cover on the USB port looks a little "iffy" water-wise. I don't plan on dropping it in a puddle to test it.SUMMARY:Great radios. Very asthetically pleasing (they look nice). Large, clear screen. They work well. USB-C charging is much better than the old way. Tri-band (if you're licensed for it) is a great option.ADVICE:if you want or NEED airband, look elsewhere. If you want solid, easy to read, loud, clear radios with multiple antennas, including one (at least labeled) tri-band, and USB-C charging right out of the box...this is a very good package.

We’ve been using different models of Baofeng radios for a while, and this UV-17R model has been an impressive upgrade in several areas. The new body style and screen face are sleek and look much improved compared to older models, and the reception is clear even across long distances. We appreciate the dual charging options—both Type-C USB and the base charger—since the USB-C port makes it easier to charge on the go, in the car, or with a power bank when outdoors.One downside, however, is that each radio comes with only one battery, and the advertised screwdriver wasn’t included, which made installing the belt clip a bit of a hassle. Nonetheless, these are minor issues compared to the solid build, clear sound quality, and long-range reception. For anyone looking for reliable radios with modernized features, these UV-17R radios are an excellent choice overall.

Great radios, easy to use, just in case.

More than worth the money! These are high quality, they are multi functional, and come with easy to understand instructions for programing and use. They are so similar to the ones we used in the Army but not as bulky.I definitely recommend these radios!

Little easier to use than previous. I like these because I can leave in car and truck and if stolen I’m not out much. Plus the battery can be charged with the same c type cord as my phone.Been using them a lot and they’re holding up. For the battery size it works well but wish they made a bigger battery.