Dual band mobile ham radio uses differs from those of the portable ham radio and ham base stations radios.
While you are driving your car in the road and if you need to be connected with the driver of the vehicle in front or on other sides; best dual band mobile ham radio can help you to talk easily in an emergency situation.
In this dual band ham radio article, we have discussed in detail 10 different dual band mobile ham radios from different renowned manufactures of the worlds to help you to find the perfect one for you which should be completely connected to the users of car, truck, bus and other types of vehicles.
In order to buy a good quality mobile ham radio for car, the owner or the driver of the vehicle must know some technical aspect and use about it. There are lots of ham radio models in the market available, but to choose the perfect one is tricky.
Top 5 Recommended Dual Band Mobile Radio Links:
- TYT TH-7900 – Editor’s Choice Dual Band Mobile Radio
- Kenwood TM-V71A – Top Rated Mobile Ham Transceiver
- Kenwood TM-D710G – Dual-Band Mobile Ham Radio
- AnyTone AT-778UV – Budget Friendly Mobile Ham Radio
- BTECH MINI UV-25X2 – Mobile Ham Radio Transceiver
In this post we have shown the quality of material used in sets, their durability and the techniques of use in all situations. So if you go through all these instructions you can easily select the proper dual band amateur radio to buy.
Quick View of Top 5 Dual-Band Mobile Ham Radios:
| Rank | Details | Output | Weight | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 |  TYT TH-7900 | 50W | 2.2 lb. | Check on Amazon |
| #2 |  Kenwood TM-V71A | 50W | 3.3 lb. | Check on Amazon |
| #3 |  Kenwood TM-D710G | 50W | 2.6 lb. | Check on Amazon |
| #4 |  AnyTone AT-778UV | 25/15/5W | 2.7 lb. | Check on Amazon |
| #5 |  BTECH UV-25X2 | 25/10W | 2.3 lb. | Check on Amazon |
10 Best dual band mobile ham radios in 2023
#1 TYT TH-7900: Editor’s Choice Dual Band Mobile Radio
In TYT TH-7900 radio provides 800-809 memory channels. What’s more? You can configure every channel independently without any difficulties.
Also, if you have this radio, you can use it at any hour of the night because the keypad is clear to see due to the backlit feature available.
While some of the radios are complex to program, you will not have any issues programming this one. Why? It is stress-free to program. However, in some cases, you may need to have an optional cable to accomplish the programming task effectively.
This dual band ham radio, while within 2 meters, transmits VHF at the range of 136 to 174 MHZ. As for the UHF, it transmits at the range of 400 to 480 MHZ within 70cm. You can use this radio as a cross-band repeater if you wish. Also, since it is a dual bander, it has two separate sides. That is A and B.
It can, therefore, control the left and right bands independently, yet very efficiently without causing interference to signals. In addition, it has the potential of V+U concurrent reception and operation of V+U full-duplex.
In addition, the reception has the ability to receive both FM and AM wide bands. That happens on 134 to 174 MHz, 108 to 180 MHz as well as 350 to 520 MHz.
Pros
- Configuration of channels can be done independently.
- It can be used as a cross band repeater.
- Has the potential of receiving the FM and AM.
- Over 800 channels available.
- Beep sounds of the buttons are audile.
- Can transmit and receive UHF and VHF.
- Hand microphone available.
- It is easily programmable.
- Keypad has some backlit.
- No much skill needed to do programming.
- At times, you may need to buy programming cables separately.
#2 Kenwood TM-V71A: Top Rated Dual Band Mobile Transceiver
Kenwood TM-V71A is a power performance dual band radio. It has 3 stage power levels that you can choose from. They include 5 Watts, 10 Watts and 50 Watts on both bands. The radio display, which is quite large, shows the status of each function and can be set to green or amber.
The logical radio features volume and squelch for both band A and B. Moreover, users can easily change the front panel orientation. Regardless of how and where you install this mobile ham radio; you can easily flip the front panel to any position.
One great feature of this radio is that it possesses 1000 memory channels. More so, each of these channels are capable of storing 6 alphanumeric characters. Additionally, this radio possesses another vital feature, which is the ability to give weather alert.
In addition, Kenwood ham radio has 10 dedicated Echolink memory channels along with Echo-link sysop (System Operator) mode operation. The rear panel of this ham radio has 2 audio outputs and one 239 UHF type antenna jack.
Also, this amateur radio comes with one hand microphone (MC-59). It has an up and down button and a DTMF function (Dual Tone Multi-Function). Again, the whole package of this dual band mobile ham radio contains one DC power cable, mounting brackets for the front panel, a body unit and a microphone hanger.
Now, when talking of the bands, band A features 118-524 MHz RX frequency. Band B, on the other hand, features 136-524 MHz. Also, it features 144-148 MHz TZ frequency and 430-450 MHz.
Not only that, but this dual radio also features a compact device. When using this radio, you need to have a direct power connection of 13.8V. This device is light. Thus, it is an ideal mobile ham radio.
Pros
- Very high power output.
- It features an Echolink memory.
- Features amber and green backlights.
- Has a compact design.
- This radio is durable.
- Has a high power output.
- Sometimes the body tends to overheat.
#3 Kenwood TM-D710G: High Quality Dual-Band Amateur Mobile Radio
If you have been looking for the high quality dual band mobile ham radio, Kenwood TM-D710G won’t disappoint.
What that means is that the radio can operate under UHF+UHF, VHF+VHF and VHF+UHF very effectively.
Again, it doesn’t matter whether you are using the Ultra High Frequency (UHF) or the Very High Frequency (VHF); you can use 5 Watts, 10 or even 50. Plus, there are many memory channels. One thousand multifunction channels, to be precise.
To help you know more about this radio, we shall give detais about the Kenwood TM-d710g so that you can decide if to buy it or not. The radio has advanced features that make it an excellent choice for most people. For example, it has a clock and a date function.
In addition, there is the NOAA weather alert feature that enables you to know how the weather is; thus, keeping you safe wherever you are.
Also, you can set the screen to green or amber color depending on your preferences. This radio comes with a manual guide to help you use it with ease. Other things include direct power cable, a mounting bracket, a hand microphone, a panel cable as well as a panel bracket.
Though the radio has no settings on its menu to help control the APRS sound carrier, it is possible to use the volume adjustment knob.
- Programming buttons available.
- RF Power output is high.
- There are buttons available for the selection of power.
- Lockout of busy channels available.
- Has a 3.5 mm port speaker and a cooling fan.
- Memory channels are programmable.
- Dual-band operation is possible.
- Impossible to silence the carrier sound (APRS) using the settings on the menu.
- Due to its quality, its price may be unaffordable to some
#4 AnyTone AT-778UV: Editor’s Choice Dual Band Mobile Radio
If you wish to buy a dual band ham radio that is within an affordable price, the AnyTone AT-778 model can be the perfect choice for you. Why?
You see, this AnyTone AT-778 comes with a dual band VHF/UHF mobile transceiver that has a 3 output power settings. That is; 5W, 15W and 25W. This power setting reduces power loss since you can use any available options to select the setting that won’t consume lots of power.
On the other hand, it is equipped with LCD color display. In addition, you can easily rotate the TFT (Thin Film Transistor) LCD display up to 180 degrees. This dual band radio has a frequency range of VHF 136-174 MHZ and UHF 400-480 MHZ.
The good thing is that the user manual is easily downloadable. Additionally, the programming software is also accessible from the AnyTone website.
Moreover, this radio possesses CTCSS and DCS encoding and decoding features. Further, you have the privilege to make a single call, a selective call, a group call or all calls depending on your needs.
This radio also possesses self-define function pressing keys (p1, p2, p3, p4, p5, p6), display main channel TX/RX status.
The up key increases frequency as well as the channel number. The down key, on other hand, decreases the frequencies as well as the channel number. Users push the PTT key to talk and transmit signal.
When the TX/RX indicators show a red light, they are transmitting signals. Otherwise, they will light green when receiving signals. To unlock; push the lock button upwards, but when you want to lock, push it downwards.
Pros
- Three selectable output power.
- LCD is rotatable up to 180 degree.
- CTSS/DCS features included.
- Single and all call possible.
- Simple operation.
- It is durable.
- The user interface is complex.
#5 BTECH UV-25X2: Dual Band Mini Mobile Ham Radio
This BTECH UV-25X2 model has a unique design. It also features a display mode and offers dual synchronization. In addition, the microphones offer audio-gain settings. Further, it has an extended range frequency of up to 520 MHZ.
This dual band mobile ham offers automatic powering off, memory channel editing, automatic and variable frequency scanning as well as privacy mode randomization.
Also, it offers low and high output power setting. That is, 10W and 25W, respectively. Again, it offers a commercial radio frequency range of 65-108 MHZ, VHF 136-174 MHZ (transmission and reception) and UHF 400-520 MHZ (transmission and reception).
Users can easily select both wide band and narrow band without any trouble. The accessories recommended for this transceiver unit are pair UV-25X2 along with Nagoya mount bracket. This helps to mount and install the antenna easily.
To use a computer to program, you only need to have a PC04 FTDI cable with you. However, this ham radio has one quad receiver. Nonetheless, with the 144 MHz or 430 MHz, the device operates as a multiple radios.
Some users vote for this radio saying it is a top quality dual band mobile ham radio because they can use it for simultaneous UHF or VHF operation. All they need to do is configure it.
Not only that, but these users also loved the fact that they can reduce the road and background noise by reducing the microphone gain. In addition, this radio comes with a DC cable that measures 6-feet, a mounting bracket, a microphone speaker and a BTECH set.
Additionally, users can scan for 3 or 4 channels per second. Hence, minimize the chances of missing calls. Plus, users can easily change the channel parameters such as power and tone. Furthermore, it is easy to scan.
Pros
- Microphone audio gain is possible
- Memory channel can be edited.
- High and low output power setting.
- FTDI cable is available for easy programming.
- It is sturdy and durable.
- When the unit is off, it draws current.
#6 Icom IC-2730A Dual Band Mobile Radio
The Icom IC-2730A dual band mobile radio is very popular to the most people. Several things attribute to this. For instant; the availability of control knobs allows you to adjust the volume as well as tune to any channel fast and with much ease.
This is a useful feature for those driving, while still trying to adjust their radio settings.
More so, the screen is larger than the previous modes by up to 1.5 times. In addition, the names of the channels are large enough to see clearly even as you drive. Again, the backlight is white; thus, giving you a high contrast.
Plus, most people consider this radio as an ideal mobile ham radio because they can use the Bluetooth to control and program the radio without any wires.
Not only that, but there are also 1052 memory channels on this radio. The output, on the other hand, can be 15 watts, 5 watts or 50 watts. With this radio, you can receive UHF-UHF or VHF-UHF simultaneously. In fact, you can as well receive the VHF-VHF simultaneously.
There is an inbuilt, 104 DTCS tones as well as 50 CTCSS; which have split-tone functions. It is also crucial to mention that it has an MBA-4 optional combination bracket.
But that is not all. To offer ease of adjustment of the swivel and tilting, the radio features MBA-5 bracket controller plus MBF-1 suction mounting cup base, which is optional.
Pros
- Can use Bluetooth to program.
- Offers an option to attach the controller to the main unit.
- Ability to receive simultaneous frequencies.
- Easy to tilt a well as swivel.
- Microphone jacks available on both the unit and the controller.
- There is no mounting option on this radio.
- Some people opt for a higher speaker than the available
#7 Yaesu FTM-3200DR Mobile Ham Transceiver
This Yaesu FTM-3200DR mobile ham radio comes with a very high output power, which is 65 watts. In addition, it is compact in construction. The Yaesu FTM-3200DR features a front panel that is crystal clear. On the other hand, the speaker gives a sound output of 3W.
Also, the LED is multi-colored. Again, it is bright so that the user does not strain to see. The LED light also acts as indicators of the current status of the transceiver.
In this mobile transceiver, the large multicolor status indicator shows transmitting status by lighting green color, while receiving status is always a blue color. Again, there are 220 memory channels. These channels have Alpha-Numeric characters.
The Ayesu FTM-300 also has high stability, which amounts to +-2.5ppm. Plus, it alerts users of severe weather. Nonetheless, as a user, you also need to have several accessories such as direct power code and a USB cable. However, new users also need a safety manual as well as an operating manual.
This model is considered a top-rated dual band mobile ham radio that is suitable for people who want to communicate with relatives and friends that are afar off.
This tool features GM (Group Monitoring) functionality, which automatically checks whether the members are registered in a group and whether they are in a communication range. The transmitting frequency ranges from 144-148 MHZ and the receiving frequency, on the other hand, ranges from 136-174 MHZ.
Output power of this transceiver can be 65W, 30W and 5W. Microphone impedance, on the other hand, is 2k Ohms. However, the antenna impedance is 50 ohms. The operating temperature ranges from -4 degree (F) to + 140 degrees (F).
Pros
- Has a high power output.
- Features AMS function for recognition signal.
- CTCSS/DCS feature included.
- Allows the application of the illuminated microphone.
- Both safety and operation manual available.
- The fan noise may be annoying.
#8 Juentai JT-6188 Two Way Ham Radio
The Juentai JT-6188 dual band ham transceiver offers you the most reliable, clear and excellent radio communication. This dual band ham radio has an ergonomic design and perceiving user control.
This mobile car transceiver has 2 frequency bands. That is; VHF-136-174 MHZ and UHF-400-480MHZ. Regardless of the condition of the weather, this radio remains to be one of the most reliable mobile ham radio transceivers.
Additionally, Juentai JT-6188 offers multi-function activity to the users. On the other hand, it is cost-effective. It is powerfully designed with VHF 25W and UHF 20W. Again, it features scrambler functionality, which offers conversation privacy.
The special features like 2 tone, 5 tone, the CTCSS and DCS encoding /decoding along with auto lock, alarm functionality, have all been incorporated in this product. The remote stun and kill functionalities are included in this device.
This dual band ham radio has 3 selective power levels that help users to manage power usage. Thus, avoid misuse of power. Also, with this device, there are DTMF dual tone multi frequency, keypad locks and scan modes.
VOX (Voice Operated Transmission) is an electronic sound sensor along with voice pressure expansion. Both of these features are available in this radio. Again, there is a provision for 200 memory channels programming in this tool. This mobile radio unit has PTT (Push to Talk) and FM radio functions.
Also, this ham radio is compact in construction, sturdy and most durable. It, however, comes with a limited warranty from the manufacturer. Nonetheless, it comes with a user manual guide. The whole package list for this transceiver includes one radio, one keypad microphone, one DC power cable, hardware and a mounting bracket set.
Pros
- The frequency range is 136-174 and 400-480MHZ.
- High power output.
- FM radio functionality available and features PTT.
- It’s a dual band 2-way radio.
- Auto-lock system is available.
- Though not always, it overheats.
#9 QYT KT-8900D: Two-Way Dual Band Car Radio
This dual band radio is an upgraded version of the previous QTY KT-8900. It comes with a compact construction that is durable and of top quality. It has a 2 power output levels which are 25W and 20W. These power levels use VHF and UHF, respectively.
The dual band of this ham radio has a frequency range of VHF 136-174 MH and UHF 400-480 MHZ. It also has a bigger LCD screen that has a quad standby functionality of 136-174 MHZ, 400-480 MHZ, 220-260MHZ and 350-390 MHZ.
The other special features for this mobile ham radio are the ability to encode and decode. It also features DTMF, 2 tone, 5 tone and push to talk. However, it is good to know that different manufacturers from different countries use different tone formats. That is either 2 or 5 tone.
This dual band is a rock-solid transceiver with no much bells and whistle.
On the other hand, this device provides clear sound and great fidelity. Again, it has an auto power connector to an outlet and a cigar lighter. The other important features are frequency stability +-2.5 ppm and an operating temperature of -20-+60 degrees centigrade.
This radio is, however, very light as it weighs 448g. Talking of its dimensions, it measures 10.6 by 6.1 by 2.5 inches. QYT KT-8900D comes with a power cable, microphone, a mounting bracket, a universal serial bus (USB) cable and a hardware set.
Nevertheless, this radio doesn’t function as a Quadstandby. However, you can use it if you want by using a Quadband antenna. The good thing is that the antenna is easy to install.
Pros
- It is upgraded; thus, better quality
- Output power is high.
- It is light.
- Easy to install
- Both DCS and CTCSS feature included.
- PTT and FM radio functionalities available.
- Not so powerful when compared to some other dual radios.
#10 Yaesu FT-7900R Mobile Ham Radio
Nowadays Yaesu FT-7900R is popular to ham users who love to use dual band mobile ham radio. On the other hand, its great features are irresistible. Moreover, it is one of our top choices, which you can consider for use in your car.
This portable ham radio offers a power of 50 watts on 144 MHZ. While on 430 MHZ, it offers 40 Watts. For most users, this is one oof the best dual band mobile ham radio to go for since it has a simple design. On the other hand, users love the fact that it performs well when transmitting and receiving signals.
In addition, users can choose where to use the radio since they can comfortably use it in their businesses, AM aircraft, organizations and the like.
This is possible because of the fact that it can use various frequencies. For example, users can use either 108-520 MHz or 700-999 MhZ.
Furthermore, it is possible to have a one-touch recall. This is because the front panel has 5 keys which users can make use of. Again, it’s stress-free to choose the operating bands. Users choose the bands by using the synthesizer steps. In addition, this radio has a clear LCD backlight.
This dual band mobile transceiver, too, allows over 1000 memory channels. These channels have the potential of storing 6 alpha numeric characters. On the other hand, there are 20 available memory channels.
In this FT-7900R transceiver, there is a distinctive memory bank from which you can recall any of the ten NOAA weather frequencies. However, users ought to know that this radio station has a severe weather alert notification and an alarm for emergency broadcast.
With such features as this, we recommend Yaesu model as one of the perfect dual band ham radio.
Pros
- Features a power output of 50 Watts.
- Hyper memory register available.
- Amateur communication with AM aircraft.
- Excellent LCD visibility.
- NOAA weather notification.
- Sometime may overheat.
- The price is high hence may not favor some buyers.
How a Dual Band Ham Radio Works?
❖ Amateur radio
One good thing about the dual band radio is that they offer communication on long ranges. That means that users can use it to communicate with friends, scientists, families, amateur radio fans, engineers, as well as travelers. Not only that, but you can also use it for emergency communication.
❖ Frequencies
With the electromagnetic spectrum, a dual band radio enhances a VHF (Very High Frequency) communication. Also, it allows UHF (Ultra High Frequency).
Nonetheless, the VHF varies from 144 Mhz TO ABOUT 148 Mhz. It is crucial to note that the Very High Frequency may also be referred to as a 2-meter band. On the other hand, the Ultra High Frequency may also be referred to as the 70-centimeter band. This, however, ranges from 420 MHz to 450 MHz.
❖ Transmission and reception
With the dual band ham radio, you can receive using the other band, as you transmit using the other. On the other hand, you can use the same band to receive as well as transmit. That’s not all. See, you can also use two different frequencies to transmit as well as receive signals on the same band.
Buying Guide to choose the perfect Dual Band Mobile Ham Radio
In the present market, there are many dual band ham radio models available. Worst still is that they look similar but work differently according to their abilities. On the other hand, you should remember that there are portable, mobile and base station ham radios.
However, it has been noted that the dual band ham radio transceiver often gives better service than the portable handheld ham radio. This is because they are capable of handling more output power than the portable ones since the battery can be charged using the car; thus, cover a longer distance.
As a buyer, however, it makes lots of sense to know a few things that you need to look out for when purchasing a dual band ham radio.
The features should include:
- Capacity to transmit and receive a strong signal.
- The capability of intermodulation rejection and Brilliant cross-modulation.
- Memory channels programming and editing facility.
- Digital frequency modulation and radio broadcasting facility.
- Three-stage output power selection: High, medium and low.
- Multi-function scanning facility.
- Keypad locking facility.
- Dual mode reception availability.
- Easy editing of memory channels without programming.
Most common things you are to take care of:
- Repeaters use in VHF and UHF bands.
- For HF band use HF SSB phone.
- Low cost involvement.
- Ruggedness and simplicity.
- Both installation and uninstalling are an easy job.
You should keep in mind, however, that the mobile transceiver along with other components; needs the installation of the antenna, which should be done on the front cabin of the vehicle. Nonetheless, if it is a single contiguous unit; it can easily be installed on the seat or storage compartment.
Now, since the engine is located in the car bonnet, let the power lead of this mobile dual band radio be at the engine. On the other hand, the co-axial cable should go to the antenna base which is on the outside of the vehicle.
The correct installation of dual band mobile radio depends on proper planning and proper selection of the area you will have the antenna and the unit.
If, however, it seems too much difficult for you to set up the unit, you may consider hiring a professional. In fact, you might take advantage of that opportunity to learn how to go about the installation process professionally.
Nonetheless, nowadays, there are many blogs over the internet that you can access to learn some installation tips and techniques. You may consider checking them out instead of hiring someone.
Technical specifications of dual band mobile ham radio
☛ Frequency Range: 136-174 MHZ (RX and TX), 400-480 MHZ (Rx and TX).
☛ Memory channel capacity: 200-1000.
☛ Channel spacing: maximum 8 numbers
☛ Mode of emission: F1, F2, F3
☛ Frequency stability: +-5 ppm
☛ Antenna impedance: 50 ohms
☛ Weight of the set: about 2lbs
Things to consider to choose the best dual band mobile ham radio
✱ Durability
This comes first. This is because even if you would have a high-frequency range but a poor quality, it would definitely mean that you will have to buy another dual ham radio soon. That may definitely inconvenience you.
To avoid that, buy a dual band radio that is made of a high-quality material. In a nutshell, a good transceiver should be long lasting. It should also have a compact design.
✱ Price
Now, telling you to go for an expensive dual ham radio doesn’t make sense because not everyone can afford that amount. On the other hand, going for the cheap ones is not the right thing to do.
You would rather have all the cash needed to have the right dual band radio that can favor you depending on your needs. On the other hand, if you have a good budget, avoid going for the cheap ones. You will end up buying another one soon after that.
One thing you need to know is that dual ham radios that have a high price have great features that guarantee you long life as well as great services. However, that is not always the case.
✱ Frequency Range
The fact is; different transceivers have different frequency ranges. It, therefore, depends on what you want. On the other hand, it is crucial to note that if you want a dual radio that can perform a variety of functions as well as one that is flexible, you need to go for a high-frequency range.
This will not only make it possible to communicate efficiently with other drivers on the road, but also family members as well as friends who are far.
✱ Available Features
Every model of dual band has special features that make it unique. Such features, as we have mentioned previously includes the ability of the device to receive and transmit signals, keypad locking and unlocking capability and multifunctioning scanning feature.
In addition, such features such as the ability to show levels of power outputs, digital frequency modulations and dual mode reception should be available. Nonetheless, you should be guided by your requirements. That is, the radio should cater to the needs you are buying it for.
✱ Easy operation
Well, it doesn’t make sense to buy a dual band radio that you can’t use with ease. Regardless of its features and price, you should be able to operate it without trouble. Nonetheless, every one of us has an issue with operating a new device-that’s true.
Nevertheless, that does not mean that you should have trouble using it all the time even after a pro has showed you how to operate it or after referring to the user manual.
That would be a receipt for lots of inconveniences which is not worth dealing with. You may also consider buying one that you can control with your PC to make it easy to operate and use.
In addition, such a transceiver helps you to communicate even when there’s no internet connection. Also, such dual ham radios are good because even beginners use them without trouble.
✱ Ease to find the programming cable and other hardware
Sometimes, it is good to buy something with the future in mind. This is what we mean. Consider how easy it is to access the replacement parts, in case the dual band mobile radio needs some repair.
On the other hand, you should also seek to know how easy it is to get the USB programming cable in case you lose yours. Failure to consider these minor factors such as ease of availability of the USB cable and other minor parts; might cause you to buy another product while the other one is still in good use.
On the other hand, consider how fast it is to get help with repair in case of any fault. This article should help you maintain your radio in good condition for as long as possible. However, as a new buyer, it is good to know how a dual band works.
Conclusion
When you intend to buy the best dual band mobile ham radio, you should consider at least the quality, features, durability and ability to operate the mobile ham radio transceiver. Additionally, the price of the unit should also be a prime factor.
In respect to the price, we recommend that you buy at least the ones with a medium or high price. Avoid, buying those dual bands radios that have a low price tag.
Thanks to these information, which will help you to decide on the perfect dual band to go for. Also, by reading them, you will acquire knowledge on the right technical specification to go for. Not only that, but you’ll also know the right features and functionalities to look out for before you make any payment.
So, make good use of this study guide along with user manual so that you won’t have any troubles with the product later.
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