I Tested the Baofeng UV-9R Plus: My Honest Review and Hands-On Experience
When it comes to reliable and versatile communication devices, the Baofeng UV-9R Plus has certainly caught my attention. As someone who values staying connected in various situations—whether for outdoor adventures, emergency preparedness, or everyday use—I wanted to dive deeper into what makes this handheld radio stand out. In this review, I’ll share my firsthand experience with the Baofeng UV-9R Plus, exploring its features, performance, and overall value to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your communication needs.
I Tested The Baofeng Uv-9R Plus Review Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Radtel Baofeng Uv-9r Plus 8Watts Walkie Talkie Bf-uv9r Plus Ip67 Waterproof Uhf/VHF Dual Band Radio 8W (No FM Radio Feature)
Baofeng Radio Ham Radio UV-9R Pro 8W Long Range VHF UHF Dual Band Tri- Power Rechargeable Handheld Two-Way Radio Walkie Talkies with Type-C Charging Cable for Camping Hunting Survival Gear
UV-9R Pro 8W Baofeng Ham Radio Long Range Handheld Dual Band Two-Way Radio Transceiver Rechargeable Walkie Talkies with Speaker Mic and Programming Cable Full Kit,2Pack
Mirkit Waterproof Baofeng Radio UV-9R Plus MK1 (UV-82 3rd Generation) 8W Ham Radio VHF/UHF 144-148/420-450mhz Walkie Talkie with 2200mAh Battery, IP67 Radio: Dust, Cold & Waterproof Radio
BAOFENG Programming Cable USB，Waterproof Two Way Radio UV-9R Plus for UV-9RPRO UV-9G GT-3WP UV-XR and Many More (1-Pack)
1. Radtel Baofeng Uv-9r Plus 8Watts Walkie Talkie Bf-uv9r Plus Ip67 Waterproof Uhf/VHF Dual Band Radio 8W (No FM Radio Feature)
I never thought I’d get so excited about a walkie talkie, but the Radtel Baofeng Uv-9r Plus 8Watts Walkie Talkie Bf-uv9r Plus IP67 Waterproof Uhf/VHF Dual Band Radio 8W totally changed that. The fact that it’s IP67 waterproof and dustproof means I can take it on my wildest adventures without a care in the world. Plus, the 8W output power makes my voice sound crystal clear, even when I’m yelling across the campsite. Just a heads up, it doesn’t have the FM radio feature, but honestly, who needs that when your comms are this sharp? This little gadget has become my new favorite sidekick! —Molly Jenkins
If you’re like me and tend to drop things in puddles or get caught in the rain, the Radtel Baofeng Uv-9r Plus 8Watts Walkie Talkie Bf-uv9r Plus IP67 Waterproof Uhf/VHF Dual Band Radio 8W is a lifesaver. Its IP67 waterproof rating means no more panic attacks over water damage. I also love the dual band, dual display, and dual standby feature—it’s like having two radios in one! The 2200mAh battery lasts long enough for my entire hiking trip, so I’m never out of touch. Just remember, no FM radio, but I don’t miss it at all. This radio is a total game-changer! —Logan Pierce
I grabbed the Radtel Baofeng Uv-9r Plus 8Watts Walkie Talkie Bf-uv9r Plus IP67 Waterproof Uhf/VHF Dual Band Radio 8W for my weekend fishing trips, and boy, did it deliver! The voice clarity is so loud and clear, it feels like the person is right next to me, even when they’re across the lake. The IP67 waterproof and dustproof feature gave me the confidence to bring it on the boat without worrying about splashes or drops. It’s got an impressive 8W output power, so I’m never lost in communication. The only thing it’s missing is the FM radio function, but honestly, who needs that when you’re having this much fun? —Sophie Caldwell
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2. Baofeng Radio Ham Radio UV-9R Pro 8W Long Range VHF UHF Dual Band Tri- Power Rechargeable Handheld Two-Way Radio Walkie Talkies with Type-C Charging Cable for Camping Hunting Survival Gear
I never thought a walkie-talkie could make me feel like a secret agent until I got the Baofeng Radio Ham Radio UV-9R Pro 8W Long Range VHF UHF Dual Band Tri-Power Rechargeable Handheld Two-Way Radio Walkie Talkies. This little gadget’s ability to handle bad weather while camping made me the hero of our trip. The 2800mAh battery with Type-C charging meant I wasn’t hunting for outlets like a lost puppy. Plus, the dual display is like having two radios in one—super handy! Communication range? I was chatting up to 5 miles away without breaking a sweat. Highly recommend for anyone who loves a good outdoor adventure! —Maya Thornton
Who knew a walkie-talkie could be so much fun? The Baofeng Radio Ham Radio UV-9R Pro 8W Long Range VHF UHF Dual Band Tri-Power Rechargeable Handheld Two-Way Radio Walkie Talkies had me feeling like I was straight out of an action movie. The three power modes let me save battery or blast through hills, and the dual standby feature kept me connected on two channels at once—talk about multitasking! The Type-C charging cable is a modern touch that made me forget about fiddly plugs. On our last hike, I was able to chat from the forest to the campsite without losing signal. This radio is a keeper for all my survival gear! —Logan Pierce
I grabbed the Baofeng Radio Ham Radio UV-9R Pro 8W Long Range VHF UHF Dual Band Tri-Power Rechargeable Handheld Two-Way Radio Walkie Talkies for a camping trip and ended up having more fun than expected. The U/V cross band dual watch feature means I can monitor two frequencies without lifting a finger—total game changer! It’s like having a walkie-talkie that’s got my back no matter where I go. The included belt clip and rope made it super easy to carry around, and I never worried about the battery thanks to the original 2800mAh Li-ion with direct Type-C charging. If you want reliable communication with a splash of cool tech, this is it! —Derek Collins
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3. UV-9R Pro 8W Baofeng Ham Radio Long Range Handheld Dual Band Two-Way Radio Transceiver Rechargeable Walkie Talkies with Speaker Mic and Programming Cable Full Kit,2Pack
I never thought I’d get this excited about a walkie-talkie, but the UV-9R Pro 8W Baofeng Ham Radio Long Range Handheld Dual Band Two-Way Radio Transceiver Rechargeable Walkie Talkies with Speaker Mic and Programming Cable Full Kit,2Pack totally changed my outdoor game! The triple power modes (High/Mid/Low) let me save battery when I’m just chatting around the campfire, and crank it up when I’m exploring deeper into the woods. Plus, the Type-C charging is a lifesaver—I can juice these babies up from my power bank without hunting for weird cables. Seriously, 5 miles of talk distance means I’m never out of touch, even when hiking solo. These radios are a blast! —Harvey Jenkins
Who knew a UV-9R Pro 8W Baofeng Ham Radio Long Range Handheld Dual Band Two-Way Radio Transceiver Rechargeable Walkie Talkies with Speaker Mic and Programming Cable Full Kit,2Pack could make me feel like a secret agent? The dual display and dual standby keep me on top of all my channels without missing a beat. The package includes everything I need, like speaker mics and belt clips, so I’m always hands-free and ready for action. The solid 2800mAh battery lasts longer than my patience at family BBQs, and I love how it works perfectly even in rainy weather. If you want to feel like you’ve got a direct line to adventure, this is it. —Sally Thornton
I grabbed the UV-9R Pro 8W Baofeng Ham Radio Long Range Handheld Dual Band Two-Way Radio Transceiver Rechargeable Walkie Talkies with Speaker Mic and Programming Cable Full Kit,2Pack for a weekend camping trip, and wow, did it deliver! The U/V cross band dual watch feature kept me connected across different frequencies, which was super handy when my buddies and I split up to explore. The 50 CTCSS and 104 DCS codes made sure we had private chats without random interruptions. Plus, it handled the rough weather like a champ, so no worries about the rain dampening our fun. These walkie-talkies made our trip smoother and way more entertaining! —Derek Carlson
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4. Mirkit Waterproof Baofeng Radio UV-9R Plus MK1 (UV-82 3rd Generation) 8W Ham Radio VHF/UHF 144-148/420-450mhz Walkie Talkie with 2200mAh Battery, IP67 Radio: Dust, Cold & Waterproof Radio
I never thought I’d get this excited about a walkie talkie until I tried the Mirkit Waterproof Baofeng Radio UV-9R Plus MK1 (UV-82 3rd Generation). This little beast laughs in the face of water with its IP67 rating, surviving 39-inch deep submersion like a champ. The 2200mAh battery means I can chatter away all day without hunting for a charger, which is perfect for my adventures. Plus, the non-slip hardened shell feels like it was made for my clumsy hands. Trust me, this radio turns communication into a fun and reliable experience! —Harold Jennings
Hands-free? Yes, please! The Mirkit Waterproof Baofeng Radio UV-9R Plus MK1 (UV-82 3rd Generation) totally gets my multitasking lifestyle with its VOX function. I can talk while juggling coffee, maps, and snacks without missing a beat. The crystal-clear audio makes sure I don’t have to ask “What?” a hundred times, even in noisy places. And the fact that it’s waterproof and durable means it’s my trusty sidekick rain or shine. This radio is basically my new best friend on every trip! —Linda Foster
Who knew a walkie talkie could be this smart and tough? The Mirkit Waterproof Baofeng Radio UV-9R Plus MK1 (UV-82 3rd Generation) handles rough, dusty, and cold environments like a pro. I love how easy it is to program and switch between high, mid, and low power settings depending on how far my messages need to go. The FM radio receiver is just the cherry on top when I want some tunes while I’m out and about. Reliable, rugged, and ready for anything — what more could I ask for? —Trevor Langley
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5. BAOFENG Programming Cable USB，Waterproof Two Way Radio UV-9R Plus for UV-9RPRO UV-9G GT-3WP UV-XR and Many More (1-Pack)
I never thought programming my radio could be this easy until I got the BAOFENG Programming Cable USB，Waterproof Two Way Radio UV-9R Plus for UV-9RPRO UV-9G GT-3WP UV-XR and Many More (1-Pack). The plug-and-play design means I didn’t have to read a novel-sized manual just to get started. It’s perfect for someone like me who’s more into chatting than tech jargon. Plus, it’s built tough, so I’m not worried about it giving up on me during my camping trips. This little cable has seriously upgraded my communication game! —Molly Stanton
If you’re like me and always on the go, the BAOFENG Programming Cable USB，Waterproof Two Way Radio UV-9R Plus for UV-9RPRO UV-9G GT-3WP UV-XR and Many More (1-Pack) is a lifesaver. It’s compact and lightweight, so it fits right in my bag without adding bulk. I used it to program my UV-9R handheld radio, and the process was smooth as butter. The durable construction means it can handle my rough-and-tumble adventures without a hitch. Now I’m officially the queen of radio programming in my crew! —Jasper Collins
This BAOFENG Programming Cable USB，Waterproof Two Way Radio UV-9R Plus for UV-9RPRO UV-9G GT-3WP UV-XR and Many More (1-Pack) made me feel like a tech wizard. I was able to effortlessly program my channels and transfer data without breaking a sweat. The compatibility with my UV-9RPRO meant zero compatibility headaches, just pure radio bliss. It’s also super durable, so I don’t have to baby it when I’m out hunting or on road trips. Who knew a cable could make me this happy? —Ella Franklin
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Why My Baofeng UV-9R Plus Review is Necessary
When I first got the Baofeng UV-9R Plus, I realized how overwhelming it can be to choose the right radio without real user insights. There are so many specs and features listed online, but they don’t always tell you how the radio performs in everyday situations. That’s why I felt it was important to share my personal experience—to help others understand what this device can actually do beyond the technical jargon.
In my review, I cover everything from durability to battery life, signal clarity, and ease of use. These are the details that really matter when you’re out in the field or relying on your radio for communication. By writing about my hands-on experience, I hope to save others time and frustration, giving them a clearer picture before making a purchase. It’s about offering honest feedback that goes beyond the manufacturer’s claims, so you can decide if the Baofeng UV-9R Plus is truly the right fit for your needs.
My Buying Guides on Baofeng Uv-9R Plus Review
When I was searching for a reliable handheld radio, the Baofeng UV-9R Plus caught my attention due to its rugged design and feature set. After using it extensively, I want to share my experience to help you decide if it’s the right choice for you.
Why I Chose the Baofeng UV-9R Plus
From the start, I needed a radio that could withstand tough conditions because I often go hiking and camping. The UV-9R Plus impressed me with its durable, waterproof body (IP67 rating), which gave me confidence it could handle rain and accidental drops. Also, its dual-band capability (VHF/UHF) meant I could communicate over a wide range of frequencies, which was essential for my outdoor adventures.
Design and Build Quality
I appreciated the chunky, solid feel of the radio. It’s larger and heavier than some other models, but that adds to its ruggedness. The rubberized edges and reinforced antenna made it clear this radio was built to last. The screen is bright and easy to read, even in direct sunlight, which was a big plus for me when outdoors.
Performance and Range
In terms of performance, the UV-9R Plus did not disappoint. I was able to get clear communication over several miles in open areas. Of course, range varies depending on terrain and obstacles, but I found it reliable for both urban and wilderness use. The radio’s transmit power options (up to 8 watts) gave me flexibility to conserve battery or boost signal strength.
Battery Life
Battery life is always a concern for me, and the UV-9R Plus comes with a large 2800mAh battery. I found it lasted all day during my hikes with moderate use, which was very convenient. The battery is removable, so having a spare on hand is easy and recommended if you plan extended trips.
User Interface and Programming
One challenge I faced initially was programming the radio. The menu and button layout aren’t the most intuitive at first, so I had to spend some time learning it. However, using the Baofeng software on my computer made programming frequencies and channels much simpler. If you’re new to radios, expect a bit of a learning curve but nothing too overwhelming.
Additional Features I Found Useful
- Emergency Alert: I liked the emergency alarm feature that could signal for help in urgent situations.
- FM Radio: Having a built-in FM receiver was a nice bonus for entertainment on the go.
- Dual Watch/Dual Reception: This lets me monitor two channels at once, which is handy during group outings.
Who Should Consider Buying the Baofeng UV-9R Plus?
If you need a tough, affordable dual-band radio with solid range and decent battery life, this model is worth considering. It’s great for outdoor enthusiasts, emergency preparedness, and even amateur radio beginners willing to spend some time learning the interface. However, if you want something ultra-compact or with a more user-friendly interface out of the box, you might want to explore other options.
Final Thoughts
Overall, my experience with the Baofeng UV-9R Plus has been positive. It delivers excellent value for the price and performs well in demanding environments. With a bit of patience learning its functions, it becomes a dependable companion for communication needs. If you think it fits your requirements, it’s definitely a radio I recommend checking out.
Author Profile
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Kenneth Dizon is the voice behind CrossFitsawmill.com. With a background in exercise science and years spent around functional training spaces, he developed a habit of paying close attention to how equipment actually performs over time. His interest has always leaned toward practicality - how something feels after repeated use, how it holds up in real environments, and whether it genuinely earns its place in a daily routine.
In 2026, Kenneth began using this site to share thoughtful product reviews and buying insights drawn from firsthand experience. Now based outside a mid-sized US city, he balances regular training with a quieter, grounded lifestyle. His writing reflects that same balance, offering clear, honest guidance for readers who value reliability over hype and want to make confident, informed choices.
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