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What’s the Most Popular Two-Way Radio in 2025

Two-way radios continue to be essential tools in construction, outdoor adventures, event management, and emergency services. But with so many brands and models available today, one question always comes up: What’s the most popular two-way radio right now?

In 2025, the most popular two-way radio is the Baofeng UV-5R—a powerful, budget-friendly radio with massive global adoption.

Let’s explore why it’s so popular and look at a few other top contenders.

🥇 Baofeng UV-5R: The Reigning Champ

The Baofeng UV-5R is easily the most widely used two-way radio across hobbyists, preppers, and even professionals on a budget. It’s known for:

  • Dual-band support (VHF 136–174 MHz and UHF 400–520 MHz)
  • FM radio functionality
  • High power output (up to 8W on some models)
  • Affordable price—usually under $40
  • Wide accessory availability

Baofeng UV-5R Two Way Radio Dual Band 144-148/420-450Mhz Walkie Talkie 1800mAh Li-ion Battery(Black)

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🔧 Why People Love It:

  • Very inexpensive for what it offers
  • Compatible with a wide range of antennas and accessories
  • Programmable via software like CHIRP
  • Great range for its size
  • Easy to modify and hack

⚠️ Downsides:

  • Not FCC Part 95 certified for GMRS/FRS
  • Requires a learning curve for programming
  • Quality control can vary

Despite some limitations, the UV-5R’s unbeatable price and versatility make it the go-to choice worldwide.

If you’re looking for something more plug-and-play and family-friendly, the Motorola Talkabout T802 is a top pick. It’s FRS/GMRS compliant, meaning it’s legal to use in the U.S. without a license (on FRS channels).

Motorola Solutions, Portable FRS, T802, Talkabout, Two-Way Radios Waterproof IP54 Walkie Talkie Emergency Preparedness, Rechargable, 22 Channel, 35 Mile, Black W/Blue, 2 Pack

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Key Features:

  • Bluetooth app support for off-grid messaging
  • NOAA weather alerts
  • 35-mile advertised range (real-world range is ~1–2 miles in urban settings)
  • Durable, IPX4 weather-resistant

Great for hiking, camping, or group outings.

🥉 Midland GXT1000VP4: Great for Outdoor Adventures

The Midland GXT1000VP4 is another best-seller, especially among hunters and outdoor workers. It’s more powerful than typical walkie-talkies and supports GMRS channels with up to 5W output (license required for GMRS use in the U.S.).

Midland GXT1000VP4 GMRS Two-Way Radio (50-Channel, Long Range, 142 Privacy Codes, SOS, NOAA, Rechargeable Nickle Battery, Black/Silver, 2-Pack)

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Highlights:

  • 50 channels, including NOAA weather scan
  • Waterproof (JIS4 rating)
  • Vibrate alert and SOS siren
  • Up to 36-mile range in optimal conditions

Ideal for use in remote environments where reliability matters.

Popularity can mean different things depending on the context:

Type of UserPopular ModelWhy
Ham OperatorsBaofeng UV-5RCheap, powerful, customizable
Outdoor EnthusiastsMotorola T802Weather alerts, GPS messaging
Construction/BusinessMotorola CLS1410Compact, license-free, durable
Emergency PreppersBaofeng BF-F8HP ProHigh power, long standby battery
Family UseMidland GXT1000VP4Simple, legal, kid-friendly

Motorola Solutions, Portable FRS, T802, Talkabout, Two-Way Radios Waterproof IP54 Walkie Talkie Emergency Preparedness, Rechargable, 22 Channel, 35 Mile, Black W/Blue, 2 Pack

💬 Final Thoughts

While the Baofeng UV-5R wins in terms of global popularity and affordability, the best radio depends on your use case. For family camping trips, a Motorola Talkabout might be ideal. For licensed GMRS communication, Midland radios shine.

So before choosing, think about:

  • Where you’ll use it
  • How far you need it to reach
  • Whether you want a license-free option
  • Durability and weather resistance

BAOFENG BF-F8HP PRO 10 W Tri-Band Two-Way Radio – UV-5R 7th Gen, 1000 Channels, GPS & NOAA Weather, Aviation/VHF/UHF/1.25 m Scanner, IP54 Rugged, USB-C Rechargeable Battery