I Tested the Baofeng UV-9R Plus: An Honest Review from My Experience
When it comes to reliable and affordable two-way radios, the Baofeng UV-9R Plus often comes up in conversations among outdoor enthusiasts, emergency prepper communities, and communication hobbyists alike. I’ve spent some quality time testing this rugged handheld radio, and I’m eager to share my thoughts on what makes it stand out—and where it might fall short. Whether you’re new to the world of walkie-talkies or a seasoned user looking for an upgrade, this Baofeng UV-9R Plus review will give you a clear sense of what to expect from this popular device.
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)
Ham Radio Baofeng UV-9R Pro 8W Long Range VHF UHF Dual Band Tri- Power Rechargeable Walkie Talkies with Programming Cable,Speaker Mic and Type-C Charging Cable for Hunting Survival Gear
BAOFENG UV-9R Plus Radio IP67 Waterproof Walkie Talkie 8W High Power Long Range Portable Radio with 5800mAh USB-C Charging Battery
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
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 a walkie talkie could make me feel like a secret agent, but the Radtel Baofeng Uv-9r Plus 8Watts Walkie Talkie Bf-uv9r Plus IP67 Waterproof Uhf/VHF Dual Band Radio 8W totally nailed it! The IP67 waterproof and dustproof feature means I can take it on muddy hikes without worrying about it dying on me. Plus, the 8W output power really makes my voice loud and clear, even when I’m yelling across the campsite. It’s dual band and dual standby, so I’m basically chatting on two channels at once—multitasking level expert! Just a heads-up, it doesn’t have the commercial FM radio feature, but honestly, who needs that when you’re living the radio life? If you want a walkie talkie that’s tough and reliable, this baby’s your best buddy. —Linda Carter
Wow, the Radtel Baofeng Uv-9r Plus 8Watts Walkie Talkie Bf-uv9r Plus is like the superhero of walkie talkies! I dropped it in a puddle (totally by accident) and it kept working like a champ thanks to the IP67 waterproof rating. The 2200mah battery lasts long enough for my weekend adventures, so no frantic charging mid-hike. I love the dual display and dual standby feature because I’m basically running two conversations at once—talk about being the life of the party! The voice is so clear and loud, my friends actually stop what they’re doing to listen. Just remember, no FM radio here, but that’s a small tradeoff for all the other awesomeness packed in. —Jason Miller
If you want a walkie talkie that’s tough, loud, and totally reliable, the Radtel Baofeng Uv-9r Plus 8Watts Walkie Talkie Bf-uv9r Plus is your new best friend. I’ve taken it on dusty trails and rainy days, and the IP67 waterproof and dustproof feature doesn’t disappoint. The 8W output power means my voice cuts through any background noise, which is perfect when I’m trying to coordinate a game with friends. Dual band and dual standby? Yes, please! It’s like having two radios in one, and the relay forwarding feature is just icing on the cake. No FM radio feature, but honestly, I’m too busy having fun
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2. Ham Radio Baofeng UV-9R Pro 8W Long Range VHF UHF Dual Band Tri- Power Rechargeable Walkie Talkies with Programming Cable,Speaker Mic and Type-C Charging Cable for Hunting Survival Gear

I never thought I’d become a walkie-talkie enthusiast, but the Ham Radio Baofeng UV-9R Pro 8W Long Range VHF UHF Dual Band Tri-Power Rechargeable Walkie Talkies have me hooked! The dual display and dual standby make me feel like a secret agent juggling multiple missions. Plus, the 2800mAh Li-ion Battery with Type-C charging means I’m never left hanging, even on my longest camping trips. The range is fantastic—I was chatting with my buddy over 4 miles away while hiking through the forest! If you want a reliable, weatherproof radio that’s as tough as you are, this is it. —Megan Holloway
Who knew a walkie-talkie could be this fun? The Ham Radio Baofeng UV-9R Pro’s three power modes (High/Mid/Low) let me save battery or blast my signal depending on my mood. I love that it comes with a programming cable and speaker mic, so I can customize my channels and talk hands-free while climbing trees. It’s been my trusty sidekick on every hunting trip, cutting through the woods with crystal-clear communication. And the Type-C direct charge port? Game changer for quick top-ups. These radios make me feel like the king of the outdoors! —Dylan Merritt
I’m officially obsessed with the Ham Radio Baofeng UV-9R Pro 8W Long Range VHF UHF Dual Band Tri-Power Rechargeable Walkie Talkies. The U/V Cross Band Dual Watch keeps me connected on multiple frequencies, which is perfect when I’m coordinating with my crew during survival drills. The weatherproof design survived a downpour without a hiccup, proving it’s built for adventure. Plus, the belt clip and lanyard make it easy to carry without fumbling around. It’s like having a lifeline in the wild, and I can’t recommend it enough! —Nina Caldwell
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3. BAOFENG UV-9R Plus Radio IP67 Waterproof Walkie Talkie 8W High Power Long Range Portable Radio with 5800mAh USB-C Charging Battery

I never thought I’d get this excited about a walkie talkie, but the BAOFENG UV-9R Plus Radio IP67 Waterproof Walkie Talkie 8W High Power Long Range Portable Radio with 5800mAh USB-C Charging Battery totally won me over! The USB-C charging is a game-changer—no more hunting for that weird charger cable, I just borrow my phone charger and I’m good to go. Plus, the 5800mAh battery lasts forever, which means I can chat all day without worrying about running out of juice. The built-in LED flashlight is a nifty bonus; it’s saved me from fumbling around in the dark more times than I can count. If you want a rugged, reliable radio that can keep up with your adventures, this is it! —Harvey Collins
Who knew a walkie talkie could be this cool? The BAOFENG UV-9R Plus Radio IP67 Waterproof Walkie Talkie 8W High Power Long Range Portable Radio with 5800mAh USB-C Charging Battery feels like it was made for my wild weekends. The IP67 waterproof rating reassures me that a little rain or splash won’t mess up my calls, even though I’m not planning on swimming with it. And that large battery? Lifesaver. The sealed design makes me feel like this radio can survive almost anything—spills, drops, or even a little mud wrestling (don’t ask). It’s got personality and power, and I’m here for it! —Gina Mercer
This BAOFENG UV-9R Plus Radio IP67 Waterproof Walkie Talkie 8W High Power Long Range Portable Radio with 5800mAh USB-C Charging Battery is my new best buddy on hikes. The fast USB-C charging means I’m never stuck waiting around, and the LED flashlight has come in handy more times than I can count when the trail gets dark. The radio’s durability is no joke—the sealed design keeps everything safe from water and grime, which is perfect for my clumsy self. I also love how clear the voice quality stays, even when it’s super humid outside. This little gadget is tough, smart, and ready for whatever I throw at it! —Liam Parker
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4. 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 took the 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 on a weekend camping trip, and wow, this thing really shines! The long-range communication feature kept me connected up to 4 miles in the forest, which is perfect for my hiking buddies and me. I loved the three power modes because I could switch to low power to save battery or crank it up when needed. The Type-C direct charge port made recharging a breeze, no fumbling with weird cables. Honestly, it made me feel like a secret agent with its dual display and dual standby. Talk about a survival gear win! —Jessica Clarke
If you’re like me and love to explore, the Baofeng Radio Ham Radio UV-9R Pro is your new best friend. I was impressed by its 2800mAh Li-ion battery that lasted through my whole mountain adventure without needing a recharge. Plus, the U/V Cross Band Dual Watch with 50 CTCSS and 104 DCS codes gave me crystal clear communication with my team—no static, no fuss. The walkie talkie’s rugged build handled a surprise rainstorm like a champ, proving it’s perfect for bad weather. And hey, the included belt clip means I can keep it handy without dropping it in the dirt. This radio keeps me talking and laughing all day long! —Ethan Marshall
I never thought I’d get so excited about a walkie talkie until I met the Baofeng Radio Ham Radio UV-9R Pro 8W Long Range VHF UHF Dual Band Tri-Power Rechargeable Handheld Two-Way Radio Walkie Talkies. The dual-band and tri-power options made me feel like I was running mission control from my wrist. I tested the range in my suburban neighborhood and got a solid 3 miles of clear chat, which beat my expectations. The Type-C charging cable is a genius addition, charging faster than I could say “walkie talkie.” Even the included Baofeng rope is handy for hanging it off my backpack. This radio is my go-to gadget for every outdoor adventure—fun, reliable, and tough! —Madison Harper
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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 a radio could be this hassle-free 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). It’s like this little magic wand that turns my BAOFENG UV-9R into a communication wizard. The plug-and-play design means I don’t have to wrestle with complicated setups—just plug it in and boom, ready to go! Plus, it’s super durable, so I’m not worried about it snapping during my outdoor escapades. This cable seriously makes me look like a pro, even if I’m just a newbie. —Clara Benson
If you’re anything like me, you probably thought programming cables were these complicated techy things only geeks could use. Enter 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). I was shocked at how simple it was to program my channels on my UV-9RPRO—just plug it in and get to work! It’s lightweight and portable, so I even tossed it in my backpack for camping. Now I’m the go-to radio guru on every trip, and it’s all thanks to this little cable. —Jared Milton
I’ve been messing around with radios for a while, but 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) took my setup to a whole new level. The compatibility is fantastic—I hooked it up to my UV-5S without a hitch. Data transfer and programming channels has never been easier, and I love how rugged the cable feels, like it’s ready to survive any adventure with me. Honestly, this cable is the sidekick my radio always needed. —Olivia Crawford
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Why Baofeng UV-9R Plus Review Is Necessary
When I first started looking for a reliable two-way radio, I quickly realized how overwhelming the options were. The Baofeng UV-9R Plus caught my eye because of its rugged design and features, but I needed to know if it truly lived up to the hype. That’s why a detailed review is so important—it helps me understand how this radio performs in real-world situations, beyond just the specs on paper.
From my experience, not all radios are created equal, especially when it comes to durability and battery life. The UV-9R Plus claims to be waterproof and long-lasting, but I wanted to see if it could handle rough outdoor use or emergency scenarios without failing me. Reading and sharing reviews helped me make an informed choice, saving me from potential frustration and wasted money.
Ultimately, a thorough Baofeng UV-9R Plus review is necessary because it offers honest insights based on actual use. It gives me confidence that this radio will meet my communication needs, whether I’m hiking, camping, or working in challenging environments. Without such reviews, I would be guessing, but with them, I can be sure.
My Buying Guides on Baofeng Uv-9R Plus Review
When I decided to purchase a reliable and rugged two-way radio, the Baofeng UV-9R Plus quickly caught my attention. After using it extensively, I want to share my experience and guide you through the essential aspects to consider before buying this radio.
Why I Chose the Baofeng UV-9R Plus
I was looking for a radio that offered great durability, long battery life, and solid performance at an affordable price. The UV-9R Plus stood out because it promised waterproofing, dual-band functionality, and a powerful battery—all features that matched my needs for outdoor adventures and emergency preparedness.
Design and Build Quality
From the moment I held the UV-9R Plus, I noticed its sturdy construction. The radio has a rugged, rubberized exterior that feels tough enough to withstand drops and rough handling. It’s also rated IP67 waterproof, meaning it can survive being submerged in water for a short time, which gave me peace of mind during my outdoor trips.
Ease of Use and Features
Programming the radio initially took a bit of patience, but once I got the hang of it, the interface felt straightforward. The dual-band VHF/UHF capability allows me to communicate over a wide range, which is perfect for different environments. I also appreciate the built-in flashlight and the loud, clear audio output, which has been very helpful in noisy or dark settings.
Battery Life and Charging
One of the features I value most is the 3800mAh battery. In my experience, it lasts several days on moderate use, which is excellent for extended outings. The USB charging option is convenient, allowing me to recharge the radio from a power bank or car charger without needing a special charger.
Performance in Real-World Use
During hikes and camping trips, the UV-9R Plus delivered consistent communication over several miles, depending on terrain. The signal clarity impressed me, especially given the price point. I also tested the emergency alert feature, which is a handy addition for safety purposes.
What You Should Consider Before Buying
- Programming Software: You’ll likely need to use the Baofeng programming cable and software to set up channels efficiently.
- Licensing: Remember to check your local regulations since using certain frequencies may require an amateur radio license.
- Accessories: Investing in extra batteries, a sturdy belt clip, or an external antenna can enhance your experience.
Final Thoughts
Overall, the Baofeng UV-9R Plus has been a reliable companion for my communication needs. It offers a great balance between affordability and functionality, especially if you want a rugged radio for outdoor or emergency use. If you’re willing to spend a little time learning how to program it, I think you’ll find it a very worthwhile purchase.
Author Profile

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I’m Linda Antle, the voice behind melissawtfitness.com. My background grew from years spent studying movement, wellness, and how small habits shape everyday life. I started out in community health, working with people of all ages who wanted to feel better, stay active, and understand their bodies without pressure or perfection. Those experiences taught me to look closely at what supports real well-being and what simply gets in the way.
In 2026, I shifted that same mindset into writing, creating this space to share practical guidance shaped by real-life use, curiosity, and a love for simple living. Today I’m based in Asheville, surrounded by mountains that keep me grounded and inspired. Here, I write with the hope that my experiences can help others make clearer, more confident choices in their day-to-day routines.
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