BaoFeng UV-5R vs BF-F8HP Comparison: 12 Differences You Should Know before Buying

When it comes to picking the best portable HAM handie-talkie, you certainly have plenty of choices. BaoFeng has a varied range of transceivers to choose from. This wide choice can make comparing HTs tricky.

Two such hot selling ham radios in the market are BaoFeng UV-5R and BaoFeng BF-F8HP.

People often get confused about which one to buy. Remember, both of them are selling like hot cakes in the market. But we’re here to help you by giving you the ultimate article on BaoFeng BF-F8HP vs UV-5R comparison!

Did you Know? UV-5R is among BaoFeng’s earlier launches and has seen massive success since. With changing times and needs, the model was updated, and it has seen quite a few variants. BF-F8HP is the 3rd generation of UV-5R.

BaoFeng UV-5R Vs BF-F8HP: Comparison

Here is a quick overview of the differences between the BF-F8HP and UV-5R.

Specs	BaoFeng UV-5R	BaoFeng BF-F8HP
Overall Rating	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Performance	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Features	⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
User Interface	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Value for Money	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Release Date	2012 (1st Generation of UV-5R)	2014 (3rd Generation of UV-5R)
Frequency	136-174MHz/400-520MHz/65-108MHz	136-174MHz/400-520MHz/65-108MHz
Power Output	4W Output VHF Peak 4W Output UHF Peak	8W Output VHF Peak 7W Output UHF Peak
Power	1500mAh Capacity	2100mAh Capacity
Dimensions	8.00 x 4.00 x 5.00 inches	10.50 x 2.00 x 2.00 inches
Display	Tri-color	Tri-color
Power Settings	High/Low – 4/1 Watts	High/Med/Low – 8/4/1 Watts
Price	[amazon fields=”B00HX03AMA” value=”button” ]	[amazon fields=”B00HX03AMA” value=”button” ]

BaoFeng UV-5R – Best HT for Budget Buyers

We have already mentioned in our UV-5R Review that this BaoFeng unit, priced at under $30, seems to offers tremendous bang for the buck!

Granted, it is not the most capable transceiver out there, but it packs FM, UHF, and VHF abilities. It offers massive frequency coverage and holds a 128-memory channel capacity.

BaoFeng transceivers are known for their impressive battery life; UV-5R is no different! It is the perfect companion for outdoor camping and hiking trips. The battery easily lasts between 12-18 hours!

Besides, the adjustable power-setting mode can help conserve more battery.

Some of its other notable highlights include:

This portable HAM radio also supports CTCSS, DCS, and DTMF calling methods to keep your communications private.

If you fancy the idea of a compact HT that easily fits into the pocket, look no further than UV-5R. The package also includes a hand strap and belt clip for user’s

convenience.

Talking about outdoor usage, it is also necessary to mention UV-5R’s robust construction. Its durable casing helps it withstand rough usage, making the transceiver last longer than most Chinese devices.

The only downside to BaoFeng UV-5R I can think of is its poorly written user manual. For most novices, a well-written guide is a must. It helps them get accustomed to several keys and functions.

However, this factor should not discourage you from purchasing the transceiver. Thanks to BaoFeng’s large following, you can find tips, tricks, and tutorials online covering pretty much everything!

While the device is pretty reasonably-priced, if you’re looking for the ‘true’ HAM experience, you may need external accessories. Accessories like an external antenna, speaker, and battery packs may take the overall cost a bit higher.

Although, this investment sounds pretty economical to us, given BaoFeng’s reputation, product quality, performance, and durability!

BaoFeng BF-F8HP– Top Choice for Quality and Performance!

This UV-5R variant is a hyper-premium device for HAM enthusiasts. This transceiver, constructed with a new hardened shell, surprised us with its durability and outdoor performance.

It’s got double the power of UV-5R with additional power settings available. Moreover, the ample battery life gives you non-stop coverage at all times. At 5-watts (Medium), you can run the transceiver for 24 hours without worrying about it shutting off!

Let’s take a look at its killer specs, making it one of the most sought after handheld HAM radios:

For enhanced efficiency, BF-F8HP comes compatible with CHIRP to allow ease of programming. This new compatibility feature also enables you to configure the menu.

As with most Chinese Products, the user-manual isn’t as helpful. You will need to rely on online tutorials and guides to get started. Also, keep in mind that for long-range communication, an external antenna is advisable.

Overall, the hype surrounding BF-F8HP is very well-deserved. The update aimed to resolve issues previously experienced with UV-5R and its cosmetic variants. The current model boasts top-quality construction and enhanced key sensitivity. The audio has been improved, and so has the battery.

Conclusion

Why should one consider BF-F8HP when it operates on the same frequencies and features the same options as UV-5R? The two also use the same programming software, CHIRP.

So why then should one opt for F8HP over UV-5R?

Our priority is always to get the updated and latest version of everything. In the case of F8HP, it is based on a new generation of the chipset and boasts several advanced modifications.

However, if the advanced features aren’t of your concern, you can opt for UV-5R. You get just as clear and reliable communication at half the price. You can also get a longer battery life by running the device at the low power mode.

To get better results from UV-5R, you can replace the stock antenna and add external accessories rather than F8HP.

But, if you need better range and power, F8HP beats UV-5R any day! With an external antenna and F8HP’s high output, the change will be revolutionary.

That’s what we feel while comparing these two HTs from BaoFeng. Let us know what you guys think too if you own them.