To make things a bit easier for those who don’t want to sift through a lot of information and just want a quick non-technical impression this will be a quick one. It’s not the best radio I own, but it’s far from the worst. I would definitely buy another.
Overall Impression
The Baofeng UV-21 stands out as a well-rounded and reliable handheld transceiver. Its dual-band capability and extensive memory capacity make it suitable for a wide range of users, from amateur radio operators to those needing a versatile communication device for outdoor activities. While there are a few areas where the radio could improve, such as the complexity of the menu navigation and screen visibility in bright sunlight, the UV-21R offers great value for its price.
Whether you are new to radio communication or just looking for an adventure radio, the Baofeng UV-21 provides a solid mix of performance, functionality, and durability, making it a worthy choice for your communication needs.
Pros
Standard Power Output: With a maximum transmit power of 5 watts on VHF and 3.5 watts on UHF it provides strong signal strength for reliable communication.- Large Memory Capacity: It comes with 999 memory channels, allowing users to store many frequencies for quick access.
- Clear LCD Display: The high-resolution color LCD screen is easy to read and navigate, even in low light conditions.
Versatile Charging Options: The radio supports USB-C charging, making it convenient to charge using various devices like power banks, laptops, or car chargers.- Waterproof Design: The UV-21 has an IP54 waterproof rating, making it suitable for use in various weather conditions.
- Good Receiver Sensitivity: It boasts excellent receiver sensitivity and audio quality, ensuring clear reception of signals.
- Affordability: The UV-21 is one of the most budget-friendly two-way radios on the market, making it accessible to a wide range of users.
- Dual Band Operation: It can operate on both the VHF (136-174 MHz) and UHF (400-480 MHz) bands, allowing you to access different frequencies and communication channels.
Cons
Single Antenna: The radio comes with only one antenna, which may limit its performance on certain bands.- Size and Weight: The UV-21 is slightly larger and heavier compared to some other Baofeng models, which might not be ideal for everyone. I enjoy the larger size, which is becoming the norm for newer radios.
Display Visibility: The screen can be difficult to see in bright sunlight, which might be a drawback in outdoor settings. This is a common issue with color display screens.- Menu Complexity: Some people find that there is a learning curve navigating the menu system, I haven’t noticed it but it’s a point worth noting.