Ham Radio Comparison: Best Options for Preppers

Introduction to Ham Radio for Emergency Preparedness

Amateur radio, commonly known as ham radio, represents one of the most reliable forms of emergency communication available to preppers and emergency preparedness enthusiasts. Unlike cell phones and internet-based communication systems that depend on vulnerable infrastructure, ham radios can operate independently, allowing direct communication between operators across varying distances—from local neighborhoods to around the world.

This capability becomes invaluable during disasters when conventional communication networks fail. However, with hundreds of radio models available across different price points and capability levels, choosing the right equipment can be overwhelming. This guide will help you navigate the options and select the ham radio equipment that best suits your emergency preparedness needs.

Important Note on Licensing

Operating ham radio equipment legally requires an FCC license in the United States. The entry-level Technician license requires passing a 35-question exam covering basic regulations, operating practices, and technical concepts. While you can purchase ham radio equipment without a license, transmitting without one is illegal and can result in significant fines. We strongly recommend obtaining at least a Technician license before operating any ham radio equipment.

Types of Ham Radios for Emergency Preparedness

Ham radios fall into three main categories, each with distinct advantages for emergency scenarios:

1. Handheld Transceivers (HTs)

Often called "walkie-talkies" or "handhelds," these portable radios are the most accessible entry point into ham radio.

Advantages: Portable, self-contained with battery power, easy to pack in emergency kits, simple operation
Limitations: Limited range (typically 1-5 miles with stock antenna), lower power output (usually 5 watts or less), shorter battery life
Best For: Local communications, personal emergency kits, evacuation scenarios, and as backup radios

2. Mobile Transceivers

Designed for vehicle installation but can be adapted for home use with a power supply.

Advantages: Higher power output (25-75 watts), better range than handhelds, more features, can operate from vehicle power or external batteries
Limitations: Requires external antenna and power source, less portable than handhelds
Best For: Vehicle-based communications, temporary base stations, bug-out vehicles, moderate-range communications

3. Base Stations

Full-featured, high-power radios designed for fixed locations.

Advantages: Maximum power output (100+ watts), comprehensive features, excellent receiver sensitivity, capable of long-distance communication
Limitations: Requires significant power supply, larger antennas, not portable, higher cost, steeper learning curve
Best For: Home communications center, long-distance emergency communications, serving as a hub for community emergency networks

Key Features to Consider for Emergency Preparedness

When evaluating ham radios for emergency use, these features deserve special attention:

Power Options

During emergencies, grid power may be unavailable for extended periods.

Battery Types: Lithium-ion offers the best power-to-weight ratio, while alkaline batteries provide universal availability
Battery Life: Look for radios with efficient power management and battery-saving features
Alternative Power: Ability to operate from multiple power sources (internal batteries, external batteries, solar, vehicle power)

Frequency Coverage

Different frequencies serve different purposes in emergency communications.

VHF/UHF (2m/70cm): Most common for local emergency communications through repeaters or direct contact
HF Bands: Capable of long-distance communication without infrastructure, valuable for regional or national emergencies
Multiple Band Coverage: Radios that cover more bands offer greater versatility

Durability and Weather Resistance

Emergency conditions often involve harsh environments.

Water Resistance: Look for IPX ratings that indicate protection from rain and splashes
Impact Resistance: Ruggedized construction for field use
Temperature Range: Ability to operate in extreme heat or cold

Ease of Use

During emergencies, simplicity becomes crucial.

Intuitive Interface: Clear displays and logical menu systems
Programmability: Ability to pre-program channels for quick access
Emergency Features: One-touch access to emergency frequencies or functions

Top Ham Radio Recommendations by Category

Based on our testing and research, here are our top recommendations for different emergency preparedness scenarios:

Best Handheld Ham Radios

Model	Power	Bands	Key Features	Best For	Price Range	Rating
Yaesu FT-60R	5W	2m/70cm	Exceptional build quality, excellent receiver, simple operation, NOAA weather alerts	Reliable everyday carry and emergency use	$150-180	4.8/5
Kenwood TH-D74A	5W	2m/70cm/1.25m	D-STAR digital, APRS, GPS, Bluetooth, color display, wide-band receiver	Advanced users needing digital capabilities	$450-550	4.7/5
Baofeng UV-5R	4W	2m/70cm	Extremely affordable, widely available, decent performance for price	Budget option, backup radio, or multiple radio needs	$25-35	3.5/5
Icom IC-T10	5W	2m/70cm	IP67 waterproof, MIL-STD-810 rugged, simple interface, excellent audio	Harsh environments and outdoor emergency use	$200-250	4.6/5

Best Mobile Ham Radios

Model	Power	Bands	Key Features	Best For	Price Range	Rating
Yaesu FTM-300DR	50W	2m/70cm	Dual-band simultaneous operation, C4FM digital, APRS, GPS, Bluetooth	Advanced mobile communications with digital capabilities	$400-450	4.7/5
Icom IC-2730A	50W	2m/70cm	True dual-band operation, simple interface, excellent audio, durable build	Reliable analog mobile communications	$300-350	4.6/5
Kenwood TM-V71A	50W	2m/70cm	True dual-band operation, EchoLink compatible, 1000 memory channels	Feature-rich mobile operations	$350-400	4.5/5
Anytone AT-778UV	25W	2m/70cm	Compact size, affordable, decent performance, simple operation	Budget-friendly mobile operations	$100-130	4.0/5

Best Base Station Ham Radios

Model	Power	Bands	Key Features	Best For	Price Range	Rating
Yaesu FT-991A	100W HF/6m, 50W VHF/UHF	HF/6m/2m/70cm	All-in-one HF/VHF/UHF, touchscreen, C4FM digital, built-in tuner	Complete emergency communications center	$1200-1300	4.8/5
Icom IC-7300	100W	HF/6m	SDR architecture, touchscreen, excellent receiver, USB connection	HF communications with modern features	$1100-1200	4.9/5
Kenwood TS-590SG	100W	HF/6m	Exceptional receiver, built-in tuner, robust construction	Reliable HF communications	$1000-1100	4.7/5
Xiegu G90	20W	HF/6m	Compact, affordable, built-in tuner, detachable control head	Budget HF operations, portable HF	$450-500	4.3/5

Essential Accessories for Emergency Ham Radio

A radio alone isn't enough for effective emergency communications. Consider these critical accessories:

Antennas

The single most important factor in radio performance is the antenna system.

For Handhelds: Signal Stick, Diamond SRH-770, Nagoya NA-771 (significant improvement over stock antennas)
For Mobile: Comet SBB-5, Diamond NR-770HA, Larsen NMO 2/70
For Base: Diamond X-50A, Comet GP-3, or simple dipoles for HF
Portable Options: Roll-up J-poles, portable yagis, and wire antennas for field deployment

Power Solutions

Reliable power is critical during grid-down scenarios.

Extra Batteries: Multiple batteries for handhelds
Battery Packs: LiFePO4 batteries offer excellent power density and cycle life
Solar Charging: Portable solar panels with appropriate controllers
Power Adapters: Devices that allow radios to use alternative power sources

Programming and Documentation

Being prepared means having information ready when needed.

Programming Cables: For computer programming of channels and settings
Frequency Lists: Local repeaters, emergency frequencies, and other important channels
Field Reference Cards: Laminated cards with essential operating procedures
Manuals: Physical copies of radio manuals (don't rely on online access)

Building a Layered Ham Radio Emergency Communication System

For comprehensive emergency preparedness, consider building a system with multiple capabilities:

Basic Level ($100-200)

Entry-level handheld like the Baofeng UV-5R or similar
Upgraded antenna
Extra battery pack
Programming cable and software
Local repeater directory

Intermediate Level ($500-700)

Quality handheld like the Yaesu FT-60R
Mobile radio for home/vehicle use
Various antennas for different scenarios
Power adapters and battery options
Basic emergency power system (battery bank, solar)

Advanced Level ($1500+)

All-band, all-mode transceiver like the Yaesu FT-991A
Quality handheld as backup
Multiple antenna systems for different bands and scenarios
Comprehensive emergency power system
Digital mode capabilities (packet, APRS, Winlink)

Conclusion

Ham radio remains one of the most resilient and versatile communication options for emergency preparedness. By selecting appropriate equipment based on your specific needs, budget, and skill level, you can build a communication capability that will function when other systems fail.

Remember that equipment is only part of the equation—knowledge and practice are equally important. Obtain your license, join local amateur radio clubs, participate in emergency exercises, and regularly use your equipment to build proficiency. The combination of quality equipment and operator skill creates a truly reliable emergency communication system.

Whether you start with a simple handheld or invest in a comprehensive station, any step toward ham radio preparedness significantly enhances your resilience during emergencies.