Everyone starts somewhere — and this is where my ham radio journey began. I’ve picked up a few radios along the way, each one marking a step in the learning process. Here’s a look at my beginner ham radio setup, in the order I got them, with a little backstory and a simple breakdown of each radio’s features.
My Beginner Ham Radio Setup
Baofeng UV-21R
This was the first radio I bought on February 13, 2025. I was told it was an upgraded version of the UV-5R, and the color screen really caught my eye. I wasn’t licensed yet, but I used it to start listening to local repeaters to keep me motivated while I studied for my Technician license.
Key Features:
- Dual-band: 2m (VHF) and 70cm (UHF)
- Output power: ~5 watts
- Full-color screen with customizable display options
- Dual watch mode to monitor two frequencies
- USB-C charging
- CHIRP-compatible for easy programming
Baofeng UV-5R
I picked this up on February 15, 2025. It came as a two-pack, so I gave one to my dad for his birthday. He’s the one who encouraged me to finally get my license after I’d been on the fence for months. Giving him a radio was a fun way to thank him — and a subtle push to get him on the air too.
Key Features:
- Dual-band: 2m/70cm with ~5 watts output
- Dual watch and dual standby
- Basic keypad programming with support for repeater offsets
- Built-in flashlight and FM broadcast radio
- Works with CHIRP software
- Widely supported with tons of accessories available
TIDRADIO TD-H3 (GMRS)
On February 21, I was getting impatient waiting to take my Technician test and wanted to get on the air. So I bought this GMRS radio and got my GMRS license. Spoiler alert: I got mic-shy and never actually used it — but it still helped me feel one step closer to getting started.
Key Features:
- GMRS radio (There is a ham radio version available here)
- 22 standard + 8 repeater channels
- USB-C charging with a removable battery
- Bluetooth programming
- ~3–5 watts transmit power
- NOAA weather channel support and scanning
- Durable build, beginner-friendly interface
Explorer QRZ-1
I received my first callsign, KE2FFT, on February 27 — five days after passing my exam with the Great South Bay Amateur Radio Club. I jumped on the QRZ Jumpstart Program and got this radio. It’s become my go-to HT when I’m out and want something quick and reliable.
Key Features:
- Dual-band: 2m/70cm, ~5 watts power
- Comes as a full starter kit: antenna, charger, programming cable, and more
- Simple menu system with backlit display
- Built-in flashlight, VOX, and scanning
- Designed for new hams through QRZ
- CHIRP-compatible and easy to program for repeaters
Retevis RT95 (Mobile Rig)
By March 2, I had started joining nets on the East Coast Reflector, but I was usually mobile when they were happening. So I installed this mobile rig in my car, pairing it with a Nagoya NMO-72 (19.25”) antenna and a Diamond K400CNMO trunk mount. It’s made it much easier to stay connected while I’m on the road.
Key Features:
- Dual-band mobile transceiver: 2m/70cm
- 25W (UHF) / 20W (VHF) transmit power
- 200 memory channels
- Adjustable LCD display colors
- CHIRP-compatible with CTCSS/DCS support and dual watch
Each radio from my beginner ham radio setup tells part of the story of how I got started in ham radio. As I try out new gear and continue to learn, i’ll share any new additions to my collection. If you’re just getting started too, I hope this post gives you a solid starting point — and maybe a few ideas for your own lineup.
73!
– Daniel // W2DIY