The 10 Best Ham Radio Items on Amazon

If you’re a ham radio enthusiast, you know the importance of having the right equipment to enhance your communication experience. From reliable transceivers to essential accessories, the right tools can make a significant difference in your amateur radio adventures. In this blog, we’ve scoured Amazon to bring you the 10 best ham radio items available, each selected for their quality, functionality, and customer reviews. Whether you’re a seasoned operator or just starting out, these top picks are sure to elevate your ham radio setup to the next level.

#1 – Baofeng UV-5R

Great, low cost entry radio, especially for beginners.

This professional ham radio offers high, medium, and low power transmission options, with a maximum output of 8 watts. It features dual band, dual display, and dual standby capabilities, along with 128 storage channels, 50 CTCSS, and 104 CDCSS. Additional functionalities include an auto keypad lock, LED flashlight, and a large capacity 3800mAh battery, which comes with an extra 1800mAh battery, providing twice the standby time compared to the original. This ensures continuous communication without interruptions.

The package also includes high-quality headsets with K Port connectors, featuring a G-shape earpiece and a 360° rotatable earplug for a comfortable fit. The strong PTT button and durable iron clip offer convenience and longevity in various situations. The UV-5R walkie-talkie supports both CHIRP and keypad programming, making frequency adjustments easy. This versatile radio is perfect for a wide range of activities, including traveling, survival, hiking, cycling, work, camping, fishing, and hunting.

#2 – ARRL License Manual

Everything You Need to Get Your First Ham Radio License!

The ARRL Ham Radio License Manual will help you discover all the excitement of ham radio. It has easy-to-understand “bite-sized” sections to help you get started. From understanding the rules and regulations to selecting your equipment, setting up your first station, and making your first contact! Plus, it’s an excellent reference as you advance your interest in radio communications.

Filled with all the information you need to pass the Technician class exam, including:

Amateur Radio Rules and Activities
Radio and Signals Fundamentals
Electricity, Components, and Circuits
Propagation, Antennas, and Feed Lines
Amateur Radio Equipment
Communicating with Other Hams
Licensing Regulations
Operating Regulations
Electrical and Mechanical Safety

ARRL’s best-selling study guide features all the questions and answers, with detailed explanations, for examinations taken through June 30, 2026. Use it to study for the 35-question exam and there will be no surprises on exam day!

#3 –AnyTone AT-778UV II Mobile

The AT-778UV two-way mobile ham radio operates within the VHF (144MHz, 2M) and UHF (430MHz, 70CM) frequency ranges, offering power outputs of 25W, 15W, and 5W. Designed with drivers in mind, it combines sturdy housing with advanced and reliable functions, embodying a blend of innovation and practicality. Constructed from high-quality materials and equipped with a superior radiator for stable and durable performance, the radio features a 180-degree rotatable TFT LCD display and a full alloy body for effective heat dissipation.

To cater to various operational needs, the AT-778UV has thoughtfully arranged buttons for ease of use and allows for separate bandwidth settings for each channel, supporting wide (25K), middle (20K), and narrow (12.5K) bands. The package includes a range of standard accessories such as a transceiver, USB programming cable, microphone, mobile bracket, screws, DC power cable with fuse holder, non-slip mats, and a 10A 250V fuse.

#3 –AnyTone AT-D878UVII Plus

The New AnyTone AT-D878UVII PLUS Has APRS Receive and Transmit, so now you can receive other users APRS Transmissions

Need to extend your time, then another 3100mAh battery is perfect for you

Upgraded 500,000 Contact List instead of 200,000 on previous models so you can grow with the DMR community.

FREE AT-D878 course included on BridgeCom University with step-by-step video tutorials to get you on DMR and making contacts fast ($97 value).

Dual band UHF/VHF radio on DMR and analog so you can have one radio for anything on the tech bands.

#4 –Yaesu FT-891

The Yaesu FT-891 is a HF/50MHz all mode mobile transceiver with 100W of transmit power on SSB/CW/FM and 25W on AM, while drawing a maximum of 23A during transmit. The Yaesu FT891 has several features for ease of use including a large 1.6 inch main tuning dial with torque adjustment, a large dot matrix LCD display with quick spectrum scope, pop-up menu for quick and easy navigation, a multi-function knob, large transmit/receiver indicator and 3 programmable front panel function keys. The FT-891 is ruggedly built and enclosed in an ultra compact body that measures 6.1″ x 2.0″ x 8.6″ and only weighs 4.18lbs. Other features include a 32-bit IF DSP, 3 kHz roofing filter, USB connection, support for ATAS systems and a triple conversion with a 1st IF frequency of 69.450 Mhz (SSB, CW, AM). In the box with the Yaesu FT-891 you will find a MH-31A8J hand microphone, MMB-82 mobile mounting bracket, DC power cord w/fuse, a spare fuse, operating manual, safety guide and a warranty card. The Yaesu FT891 has a 3 year manufacturers warranty.

#5 –Xiegu X6100 HF Transceiver

The Xiegu X6100 is a high-performance SDR platform designed as a full mode-HF/50MHz transceiver with data communication support, ideal for both daily use and contests. It offers exceptional long-distance transmission capabilities and features typically found in desktop radios, such as call recording, variable bandwidth digital filters, and digital noise reduction, all integrated into one software package. The X6100 stands out with its 4-inch high-resolution color screen (800*480), powered by a quad-core mobile processor, 4G ROM, and 1G RAM, providing a crystal-clear display for easy access to essential information and precise control of all functions.

The X6100 also excels in connectivity, with two USB ports supporting HOST and DEVICE modes, external TF card expansion for channel or voice information storage, and multiple ports (ACC, 3.5mm-KEY, S/P, and IQ signal output) for connecting external sampling devices. Its portability is enhanced by a built-in rechargeable battery pack, high-performance internal automatic antenna tuner, microphone, and SWR scanner. With compact dimensions (7.1in x 2.0in x 3.4in) and a lightweight design (1.94lb), the X6100 is convenient to carry for outdoor activities. As the official provider of XIEGU products, the company offers an 18-month warranty, lifetime technical assistance, and readily available firmware updates on their official website, ensuring optimal performance and peace of mind.

#6 –Kenwood TS-890S

The TS-890S is an advanced HF transceiver designed to deliver exceptional performance under the most challenging conditions, making it a favorite among HF enthusiasts. Known for its impeccable audio performance, the TS-890S ensures reliable results with its cutting-edge technology. Key features include a high-speed independent band scope, RF ATT with multiple settings (OFF/6/12/18dB), and a noise reduction function. The transceiver boasts a 7-inch TFT color display and a heavy-duty design capable of enduring long hours of operation. Additionally, it includes a built-in high-speed automatic antenna tuner and supports encoding and decoding for CW, PSK, and RTTY.

The TS-890S offers practical conveniences like a 120-channel memory, three programmable function keys, and a screen capture capability. Remote operation is possible via a direct LAN connection, as detailed in the owner’s manual (KNS), and it supports multiple USB connections and an external display connector (DVI-I). The transceiver also features a KEYPAD jack that allows users to add up to eight external programmable function keys, enhancing its versatility and user-friendliness. This robust and feature-rich HF transceiver from KENWOOD is designed to meet the needs of dedicated HF operators, ensuring superior performance and ease of use.

#7 –Yaesu FTDX-10 HF Transceiver

The Yaesu FTDX10 is a high-performance HF/50MHz transceiver that incorporates advanced technology to deliver outstanding communication capabilities. It features a narrow-band SDR with a 250MHz high-resolution Direct Digital Synthesizer (DDS), ensuring superior signal clarity and reception. The transceiver offers 100 Watts of RF power, a 3 kHz roofing filter, and a high-quality TX/RX unit for excellent audio performance. Its large 5-inch full-color touch panel display provides intuitive control and easy access to functions, while the advanced 3D spectrum stream display allows for detailed signal analysis.

Additional features of the Yaesu FTDX10 include a built-in 15 kHz bandwidth bandpass filter, effective noise reduction capabilities, and a digital notch filter to eliminate unwanted signals. It supports CW, AM, FM, and digital modes, making it versatile for various communication needs. The transceiver also offers an efficient automatic antenna tuner, multiple USB ports for connectivity, and compatibility with external display monitors. With its robust design and comprehensive features, the Yaesu FTDX10 is an excellent choice for amateur radio enthusiasts seeking reliable and high-quality performance in their communications.

#8 –Samlex SEC-1235M Desktop 30A

This high efficiency UL-60950-1 approved AC-DC power converter provides a highly regulated output DC voltage of 13.8 Volts at 30 Amps with an AC input of 120 Volts, 60 Hz (230 Volts, 50 Hz possible by internal jumper setting). These advanced switch-mode DC power supplies were designed specifically for land mobile radio applications. The power supplies produce clean reliable power and are highly filtered to suppress RFI. The unit comes with front panel ammeter and voltmeter and a detachable power supply cord with NEMA 5-15P plug. Features include over-load, short-circuit, and over-temperature protection. The AC-DC power supply conforms to FCC Part 15(B), class B digital device.

#9 –Icom IC-705 HF/VHF/UHF

The Icom IC-705 is a compact, portable HF/VHF/UHF transceiver designed to meet the diverse needs of amateur radio enthusiasts. Covering HF, 50MHz, 144MHz, and 430MHz bands, it supports all modes, including SSB, CW, AM, FM, and D-STAR digital voice modes. The IC-705 is powered by advanced RF direct sampling technology for HF and 50MHz bands and IF sampling for 144MHz and 430MHz bands, ensuring excellent performance and signal clarity. Its large 4.3-inch color touch screen provides an intuitive interface for easy operation and control, while the built-in GPS and Bluetooth add versatility for field use and portable operations.

Additionally, the IC-705 features a built-in battery pack, making it ideal for outdoor and emergency communications. It includes a real-time spectrum scope and waterfall display, allowing users to monitor band conditions effectively. The transceiver supports D-STAR functions and terminal mode/access point mode, expanding its communication capabilities. With a lightweight design and comprehensive feature set, including an SD card slot for data storage and firmware updates, the Icom IC-705 is an exceptional choice for both home and portable amateur radio operations, offering robust performance and flexibility in a compact form factor.

#10 – Icom IC-7100 HF/50/144/440

The Icom IC-7100 is a versatile HF/VHF/UHF transceiver designed to cater to the varied needs of amateur radio operators. It covers HF, 50MHz, 70MHz, 144MHz, and 430MHz bands, supporting modes such as SSB, CW, AM, FM, and D-STAR digital voice. The IC-7100 is notable for its innovative touchscreen interface, which simplifies operation and enhances user experience. The large, angled display offers clear visibility and easy access to essential functions. Its RF direct sampling system ensures superior signal processing and reception quality, making it a reliable choice for both casual and serious operators.

In addition to its advanced features, the IC-7100 is equipped with a built-in antenna tuner, USB port for PC control, and an SD card slot for data storage and firmware updates. It also supports D-STAR DV mode, providing robust digital communication capabilities. The transceiver’s compact and modular design allows for flexible installation in various environments, from home stations to mobile setups. With its combination of high performance, user-friendly interface, and comprehensive feature set, the Icom IC-7100 stands out as a powerful and adaptable transceiver for a wide range of amateur radio activities.